How to give best man speeches that will be remembered for years

Does the prospect of being asked to give best man speeches leave you feeling honored, or shaking with fear? Perhaps you experienced both these feelings when you were asked by the groom to be his best man, but there is no need to worry, as giving best man speeches is a breeze once you know how.

The first thing to remember is that although there may be many guests, they are there to enjoy themselves. Since they want to enjoy themselves you life is made considerably easier, as they'll laugh at your jokes however bad they may really be. But with a little bit of planning you won't give feeble jokes and your audience will love you - and there aren't too many times in your life that you'll have a captive audience laughing with you. Add the fact that many of them will have had a glass or two during the meal means that you are in a real winning position. Once you know this you'll realise that it all comes down to planning.

When you first start to plan your speech, think about what you know about the groom. You must know a fair bit as he's supposed to be one of your best friends, so think back over the years; how did you meet, what do you have in common, what do you love about him; and what do you hate? Also think about the guests and what they are likely to expect. Part of a successful best man speech is delivering on their expectations.

Whatever you do, don't go over the top. You don't want to embarrass anyone - apart from the groom, and that should only be mild - and you certainly don't want to give the bride any reason to head straight for the the divorce court.

Once you have decided on a funny story write it down. Think about embelishing it if necessary, as nobody said that you have to give the absolute truth. Once you have the funny section, you then need to write an introduction and conclusion. These can be funny if necessary and depending on the wedding you may have to go through some formalities, such as thanking the bride and groom on behalf of the bridemaids. I usually like to start with a one liner to get the audience in the mood and to help me relax with a laugh, and it is expected that you compliment the bride on her appearance on the day.

Once you have the speech written down, go through it a few times. We all write differently to how we speak, and so you'll find some of it awkward, but this is your opportunity to change things so they sound more natural. Once you're happy, it is time to forget the speech. Make some notes to remind you what to say and on the day use these to give your speech - don't read it, speak it!

By following these tips you'll identify a humorous story that will form the body of your best man speech, write an effective introduction and conclusion, and know how to be prepared so you are relaxed on the day. The whole process only need take a coupld of hours and when it all comes together and people complement you after your speech you'll feel on top of the world.

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