Cheers to You and Your New Bride, Dude!
Ok Fellas, it's time to take a look at what just might be one of the most time honored traditions of brotherhood, the Best Man's Speech. This is your chance for fame...or infamy depending on what you say.
Nervous yet? Don't be. We'll start at the beginning and take a look at just what makes the perfect Best Man's Speech. Let's roll!
When you finally get your cue to take center stage the reception will be in full swing, grab the mic give it a few taps and ask for everyone's attention. Flash a quick smile, compose yourself and wait for the room to settle down. Here we go...start off by introducing yourself, of course. Say something simple like, "I'm Jack Daniel, Matt's best man and lifelong partner in crime".
Then if you want to be a bit witty, (and don't we all) throw in a little joke or a humorous quote about marriage. Remember, to keep your witticism clean and appropriate nothing TOO funny if you know what I mean! When the laughter dies down then it's time to launch into the main body of your speech.
The first order of business is to thank the hosts of this blessed event, usually her parents but if the bride and groom are shelling out their own cash then a simple "We're all delighted to be here today at this blessed event," will do. Though you might want to, you can't thank anyone for the open bar until the end of your speech, when you can actually take advantage of it! (FYI -Giving the Best Man speech while hammered, NOT a good plan)
Getting down to the meat of the speech. It's always a good idea to plan what you want to say before you actually have the mic in your hand (note cards are always useful here). Take your time, speak clearly and work your way through your spiel in a sort of natural conversational-like manner. You don't want to sound like your trying to spit it all out as fast as possible, take it easy and shoot for the middle ground.
Throw in a funny story about the groom drop some knowledge on love and marriage. And if you know both of them well, then share the story on how they met. Most of all, speak from the heart and you can't go wrong.
Wrap it up with a traditional cheers, salud or blessing. Raise your glass in congratulations and drink in honor of the new couple! In the end, as long as you can manage to get a few kind words out about the new couple everyone will think you are the best thing since sliced bread...or maybe not...but at least you know they know you are the BEST MAN!!!
And now you can go hit the open bar! Get your drink on!!
