How to give a great wedding toast
A toast is a short speech that ends with everyone raising a glass. Whether you're a sibling, cousin or old friend, the formula is the same: who you are, one true story, one wish for the couple, glasses up.
Keep it short
Two to three minutes — around 250 to 400 words. Short toasts are the ones people quote later.
A four-line structure
- Who you are and how you know them.
- A specific memory or observation about the couple.
- What you hope for them.
- "Please raise your glasses…" and their names.
Good closing lines
- "To a lifetime of [the thing they love doing together]."
- "To the two people who make everyone around them better."
- "To Alex and Sam — may your home always be as loud and full as it is tonight."
Example opening
Hi everyone — I'm Tom, Jamie's brother. Growing up, Jamie was the one who always had a plan, a backup plan, and a spreadsheet. Then she met Chris, who has never made a plan in his life, and somehow it works perfectly…
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Write my speechFrequently asked questions
What's the difference between a toast and a speech?
A toast is shorter and always ends with raising a glass. A speech can be longer and more formal.
Do I need permission to give a toast?
Yes — check with the couple or the planner. Surprise toasts can throw off the schedule.