Here’s How to Give a Legendary ‘Best Man’ Speech: Structure, Outline, Samples

As The Best Man in a wedding, you have a lot of responsibility. Not only do you need to plan the bachelor party for the groom, but you need to give the most important speech of the wedding: The Best Man Speech.

Here’s how to give an amazing Best Man Speech and what to avoid.

Best Man Speech Outline

• Write the best opening line
• Say your thanks to other speakers
• Congratulate the newly weds
• Compliment the bride
• Crack some jokes to the groom
• Say some famous quote, poem or lyrics of a song
• Suggest a toast to everyone

Write it Down

It’s okay to memorize, but in this special event anything can happen…. take note of some random thoughts and important details so you won’t miss out a thing to share about the newly weds. Use a small note cards.

Stay Sober

In almost every occasion we want to enjoy and have the best time of our life and since you will be talking in front of hundreds of guest, alcohol may help take the nervousness but make sure you’re not sloppy drunk when you give your speech, you might say things you will regret later on.

Avoid Inside Jokes

It may be funny but maybe on you and your friend can relate to it and that’s a no no. Make sure to keep your speech engaging to get people’s attention. And if you want to share something funny, make jokes about the groom, not the bride.

Don’t Mumble

Enunciate the words loud and clear, Know your audience so that you can deliver your speech better, use words appropriately and speak confidently.

Keep it short

Not too lengthy but with substance. They might have heard enough already after the maid of honor, the father of the bride and some friends have spoken, and their  eyes are probably on the cake already. Try to use simple words and prepare a 3-5 minute speech not to bore the visitors.

Say a word of Gratitude

Start by thanking the parents of both the bride and groom for raising two such lovely people. Offer a toast and mention other people who made that special day more special because of their presence.

Avoid Negativity

Don’t talk about previous relationships, drugs and alcohol, and negativity about marriage in general. It might trigger questions and confusions to those who will hear it. Keep your speech light yet memorable that will let people leave the place smiling.

Practice

I know you already have your small note card and you think you got everything under control. But if you are not used to speaking in front of an audience, it is always helpful if you practice with a smaller group, say it out loud or record on your phone and have a taste of how it’s going to be like. An opinion from a friend will help.

Closing

In a random speech, how to end it may sometimes be a problem. Always remember to end on a positive note, positive tone, happy and energetic. A wish for the newly weds maybe or  a toast for a fruitful year will do. Ending your speech with a quote is also an advantage.

Remember to be yourself

Don’t speak to impress. After all it is not your special day. Use this article as your guide. Let all good words come out naturally, it will sound more sincere, personal and say it from your heart. If all else fails, just look at your friend’s bride and tell her “Isn’t she the prettiest bride?” then the crowd cheers, step down, relax and enjoy the rest of the celebration.

Best Man Speech Outline

• Write the best opening line
• Say your thanks to other speakers
• Congratulate the newly weds
• Compliment the bride
• Crack some jokes to the groom
• Say some famous quote, poem or lyrics of a song
• Suggest a toast to everyone

What To Avoid

Saying your speeches as the best-man may require more things for you to consider before actually saying it. Here are some of the things that you should avoid in giving your speech on the day of the wedding.

• Bad lights about marriage
• Previous girlfriends or boyfriends
• Ex-wife or Ex-husband
• Vices such as alcohol, smoke, etc
• Adult green jokes

One aspect we didn’t mention above, but it equally as important is what to wear to the wedding in the event you haven’t all picked out your rent-a-tux from Men’s Wearhouse.