How To Write an Epic Best Man Speech

Congratulations on being chosen as the best man! This is a significant honor that reflects the deep bond and trust the couple has in you. Feeling a bit overwhelmed by the task ahead? Have no fear – we're here to guide you through crafting a remarkable speech that will leave a lasting impression on everyone in attendance.

As the best man, your role goes beyond just standing by the groom's side. You're entrusted with important responsibilities such as organizing the bachelor party and, of course, delivering a heartfelt speech during the wedding festivities. While your main focus should be on celebrating the groom, it's essential to also convey love and appreciation for both partners and the unity they share.

Who is Traditionally the Best Man?

‍
Traditionally, the best man is a close friend or family member of the groom. They are chosen for their close relationship with the groom and their ability to support him throughout the wedding process.

If you are the brother of the groom, we highly recommend this guide!

What is Expected of a Best Man and What are His Responsibilities?

‍
The best man has various responsibilities leading up to and during the wedding. These may include helping to plan the bachelor party, assisting the groom with wedding preparations, and offering emotional support throughout the process. On the wedding day, the best man's duties may include holding the rings, giving a speech, and ensuring the groom's needs are met.

Is it Customary for the Best Man to Give a Speech?

‍
Yes, it is customary for the best man to give a speech during the wedding reception. It's an opportunity to honor the groom, celebrate the couple's love, and offer well-wishes for their future together. Some couples prefer to have less speeches during the reception and more during the welcome or rehearsal dinner, so it's important to confirm when you're speaking.

If you are collaborating with the Maid of Honor or another wedding party member on your toast, check out this guide.

How Long Should a Speech be at a Wedding for a Best Man?

A best man speech at a wedding is typically around 3-5 minutes in length. It's important to keep it concise and engaging, capturing the attention of the audience while still conveying your heartfelt sentiments.

Related: 3 Questions Every Best Man Should Ask The Couple Before Writing Their Speech

Does the Best Man Give the Speech First?

Traditionally, the best man's speech was often given after the father of the bride and any other speeches or toasts that precede it. There are no rules, and so oftentimes the couple will choose their preferred speech order based on how they want the flow of the night to go. It's often one of the highlight speeches of the evening, offering a chance to celebrate the groom and the newlywed couple.

What Do You Say in a Best Man Speech? Modern Template and Examples

Your Best Man speech should be memorable, touching, and with just the right amount of humor. Here's how to craft a speech that balances all these elements effectively:

1. Opening Remarks

The opening of your speech sets the tone. Choose a style that matches your personality and your relationship with the groom:

• Formal Opening:
  • "Good evening, everyone. It's an honor to stand here today as [Groom’s Name]'s Best Man. I'm thrilled to share a few words about a man who exemplifies loyalty and integrity."
• Humorous Opening:
  • "I always knew [Groom’s Name] would do something famous enough to get everyone he knows into one room. I just thought it would be on the news, not walking down the aisle!"
• Heartfelt Opening:
  • "From childhood adventures to adult misadventures, I’ve had the privilege of knowing [Groom’s Name] through it all. Tonight, I’m honored to talk about my lifelong friend on his big day."

2. Personal Stories

Choosing the right stories is crucial. They should highlight the groom’s character and give insights into your relationship:

• Adventure Story:
  • "Remember the fishing trip where [Groom’s Name] managed to catch his own jacket and fall overboard? That day, he showed us all how to laugh at ourselves and make the best of any situation—qualities that make him the incredible person he is today."
• Supportive Story:
  • "During my toughest times, it was [Groom’s Name] who stood by me, offering not just his support but his strength. His unwavering loyalty and compassion are what [Partner’s Name] will soon come to know not just on sunny days but especially during the storms."

3. Acknowledging the Partner

Welcoming the partner and acknowledging their relationship enriches the speech:

• Warm Welcome:
  • "[Partner’s Name], you have brought such immense happiness and peace into [Groom’s Name]'s life. Your partnership is a testament to the power of love and mutual respect."

4. Concluding Thoughts and Toast

End on a high note with a toast that looks to the couple’s future:

• Inspirational Conclusion:
  • "To [Groom’s Name] and [Partner’s Name], may your journey together be filled with endless joy and adventure. May you face every challenge with the same courage and love that brought you here today. Let's raise our glasses to the newlyweds, to love, laughter, and happily ever after!"

Additional Tips

• Handling Nerves:
  • Remember, the guests are friendly faces, all there to celebrate. They’re rooting for you!
• Using Humor Wisely:
  • Humor is a great tool but use it wisely. Ensure it’s inclusive and won’t embarrass the couple or the guests.

Best Man Speech Example

‍

Be Sure to Practice Your Best Man Speech

‍
Before the big day arrives, be sure to practice your speech thoroughly. This will not only help you feel more confident and comfortable delivering it but also allow you to make any necessary revisions or adjustments. When the wedding day finally arrives, speak from the heart and take in the moment. With these tips in mind, you'll be well-prepared to deliver a heartfelt and polished best man speech that the couple will cherish for years to come.

To incorporate all of these tips and write a great Best Man speech without the stress, check out Provenance's Toast Builder. The Toast Builder tool is designed to assist you in crafting an unforgettable speech tailored to the couple's special day.

‍

How long should a Best Man speech be?

• Answer: The ideal length for a Best Man speech is usually between 3-5 minutes. This allows you to share a few meaningful stories and insights without losing the attention of your audience.

What should I include in my Best Man speech?

• Answer: A good Best Man speech should include a warm introduction, personal anecdotes about your relationship with the groom, thoughtful comments about his partnership, and your good wishes for the couple's future. Conclude with a toast to the newlyweds.

How do I start my Best Man speech?

• Answer: Begin with a greeting to the guests and a brief introduction of yourself if necessary. A light joke, a thank you to the hosts (typically the parents of the bride and groom), or a heartfelt expression about how honored you feel to be part of the wedding can be effective.

Can I use humor in my Best Man speech?

• Answer: Absolutely, but use it wisely. Ensure your humor is appropriate for all guests and doesn’t embarrass the couple or other guests. Self-deprecating humor or light-hearted anecdotes about your friendship with the groom are generally safe bets.

How do I end my Best Man speech?

• Answer: Conclude your speech on a positive note with heartfelt congratulations to the newlyweds and a toast. Invite the guests to raise their glasses and offer a simple, sincere wish for the couple’s happiness, love, and future together.

What should I avoid saying in a Best Man speech?

• Answer: Avoid topics that could be embarrassing or too private, such as ex-relationships, inappropriate incidents, or anything that casts the groom or his partner in a negative light. Also, steer clear of inside jokes that most guests won’t understand.

How can I overcome nerves before delivering my Best Man speech?

• Answer: Practice your speech several times before the wedding day to build confidence. Familiarity with your content can significantly reduce anxiety. At the event, take deep breaths, remember that the audience is supportive, and focus on speaking to the groom rather than the entire room.

‍

‍