How to write your groom's speech
The groom's speech has a simple job: thank people properly, and tell everyone — and your new spouse — why you married them. The thank-yous are the frame; the bit about your partner is the picture.
Who to thank
- Guests, especially those who travelled.
- Both sets of parents — by name, and for something specific.
- Anyone who paid for or helped organise the day.
- The wedding party (and the best man, who's about to roast you).
Keep the list tight. Thank groups together where you can; a two-minute list of names is where groom speeches lose momentum.
The heart of it: your partner
Tell one story — how you met, the moment you knew, or something small they do that nobody else notices. Then say, directly to them, what they mean to you. Plain words work best: "You make me braver."
Length and order
Three to five minutes. Traditionally the groom speaks after the father of the bride and before the best man, so end by handing over to the next speaker.
Example opening
Thank you, Richard — and thank you all for being here. I'm told a groom's speech should start with thank-yous, and I have a lot of them, so bear with me.
The first time I met Anna, she corrected my pronunciation of "quinoa" and then stole half my chips. I've been hopelessly outmatched ever since…
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Write my speechFrequently asked questions
Should the groom make jokes?
A couple of light, self-deprecating jokes work well. Save the roasting for the best man.
Do the bride and groom give a joint speech?
Many couples do. Split the thank-yous and each say a few words about the other.