For the groom, the speech is probably the least nerve-wracking part of his big day - but that's not to say making a speech isn't an extremely difficult task. And for the best man, and the father of the bride there can be a minefield of touchy subjects and many people to offend!
With the focus of family and friends firmly fixed on the speechmaker, it is important that the chosen words are apt, the delivery clear and entertaining, and the approach light-hearted. The dinner-time speeches should be an amusing interlude, and a chance for the people who know the bride and groom best to share their memories and anecdotes with the guests.
Even for those who take naturally to public speaking, talking in front of an audience of familiar faces can be a daunting task. Here are some tips and hints to ensure the speeches make your big day even more memorable - for only the right reasonsÂ…
If you are organising the wedding, check that those entrusted with the task of making a speech have prepared and rehearsed what they are going to say. Try to co-ordinate the speeches to avoid repetition
Be inspired! Think of what the bride and groom are like, both as indiviuals and together. Everyone has their quirks, embarrassing stories or funny memories. Incorporate these into your speech. Keep it good-humoured though - use your judgement on what stories to tell, and don't set out to hurt or upset anyone - you won't be popular!
Prepare! Write out your speech and then shorten it to keywords and main themes and write them on notecards. That way you have something to refer to if your mind goes blank.
Practise! Rehearse in front of the mirror, or family and friends to get helpful tips on what you are doing wrong.
Visit the room where the speeches will be made so that you're familiar with it.
Be prepared for hecklers - there's always someone with their tupenny's worth to add to the proceedings
Speak slowly, loudly and clearly. Project your voice and take your time to avoid becoming flustered
Remember the official duties of each speech-maker - the father of the bride makes a toast to the bride and groom, the bridegroom toasts the bridesmaids, and the best man thanks the bridegroom for his kind words on behalf of the bridesmaids.
If you're using a toastmaster, make sure the speech-makers know that they'll be introduced.
Make sure the greetings cards, which are normally read out by the best man or, if there are a lot of them, the best man and the bridegroom as a double act, are prepared during the meal so that the delivery of the best wishes messages seem as seamless as the delivery of the speeches. Do read out any funny personal messages in the cards, but not the printed verses, unless you want to bore your audience.
For the groom, the speech is probably the least nerve-wracking part of his big day - but that's not to say making a speech isn't an extremely difficult task. And for the best man, and the father of the bride there can be a minefield of touchy subjects and many people to offend! 
With the focus of family and friends firmly fixed on the speechmaker, it is important that the chosen words are apt, the delivery clear and entertaining, and the approach light-hearted. The dinner-time speeches should be an amusing interlude, and a chance for the people who know the bride and groom best to share their memories and anecdotes with the guests. 
