how do you write a stepfather of the bride speech

How to Give a Father of the Bride Speech (That Isn’t Boring!)

Heartwarming and humorous father of the bride ice breaker speech for a memorable wedding reception. Learn to deliver those touching moments.

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Your daughter’s significant other has popped the question, and the thing that strikes fear in your heart isn’t the cost of the wedding but the father of the bride speech you’re expected to give at the wedding reception. It’s got to be endearing and heartfelt, with a dash of humor, all without putting the guests to sleep. 

Read on for how to craft a speech that will keep your wedding guests engaged with funny one-liners, emotional quotes, and do’s and don’ts.

What are Father of the Bride Speech Icebreakers?

Father of the bride speech icebreakers is the introductory remarks the father of the bride uses to toast to his daughter and her new spouse during the wedding reception. These icebreakers can include jokes, quotes, or other phrases to hook the audience and warm them up.

The speech can be a wonderful gift to the happy couple. A good speech is a memorable one (for all the right reasons), humorous, engaging, and may even evoke a few tears.

Special Note: If you are teasing your daughter in your speech or with a one-liner below, be sure to run it by her, so she is comfortable with it.

The 35 Best Father of the Bride Jokes, Quotes, and Icebreakers

Before putting pen to paper on your speech outline, check out these jokes, quotes, and icebreakers and find one or several that you’d like to incorporate or modify for your daughter’s special event. After all, who can resist a dad joke? Done well, it will result in laughter and put everyone at ease.

• Good evening, I’m [your name]. I hope you know who I am, but if you don’t, I’m offended.
• I prepared a hilarious wedding speech… but as I’ve learned over my 35 years of marriage, a happy wife makes a happy life, so I’m reading this one instead.
• Although we love [bride] very much, we definitely won’t miss her singing in the shower every morning. Good luck, [Groom/Partner]!
• [Bride] told me not to have a drink before the speech, so I apologize if I seem in a rush to get to the end!
• I want to pause and truly enjoy this moment. After all, it’s the only five minutes that [Bride] couldn’t plan and has no control over!
• Welcome everyone to my daughter’s wedding. No matter what papers she signed today, I hope I’ll always be the most important man in her life.
• Hello all, I’m [name]. I hope you know who I am, but if you don’t, congratulations for sneaking into such an expensive meal unnoticed.
• Never ever discount the idea of marriage. Sure, someone might tell you that marriage is just a piece of paper. Well, so is money, and what’s more life-affirming than cold, hard cash?
• [Bride] is funny, intelligent, kind, and good-looking, and you can clearly see where she gets all of those traits…
• Today is a momentous occasion– you’re about to witness the first and last time anyone ever trusts me to make a speech.
• In every marriage, it sometimes pays to be a little deaf.
• Thank you all for coming. It wouldn’t be the same without you, although it would be much cheaper.
• Love may be blind, but marriage is a real eye-opener.
• Today is a big day, and we all feel quite emotional. Trust me. I’m crying over the emotion and not the final bill.
• I love being married; I do. It’s so great to find that one special person that you want to annoy for the rest of your life.
• Agatha Christie once said, “An archaeologist is the best husband a woman can have; the older she gets, the more interested he is in her.” May you always dig my daughter.
• [Groom/Partner], here’s a tip for a blissful future. Remember that marriage is a union in which one person is always right, and the other is you.
• Giving my daughter away was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do. As you know, I’m not a generous person!
• Husbands and wives are irritating. But without them, who would we blame for misplacing our socks?
• It’s been said that marriage is like wine. It keeps improving with age, so long as you put a cork in it!
•  [Groom/Partner], never criticize my daughter’s choices. Remember, you were one of them, after all!
• I’m sure we can all agree that today has been a fantastic, elegant event. I’m sorry to have to end that now with my speech.
• I married for love, but the obvious side benefit of having someone around to find my glasses cannot be ignored.
• [Bride] has always been generous. From the moment she could speak, she’d happily give her opinion to everyone.
• My daughter begged me not to embarrass her. So, that’s the end of my speech. Have a great evening!
• A wedding anniversary is a celebration of love, trust, partnership, tolerance, and tenacity. The order varies for any given year.
• Before you marry a person, you should first make them use a computer with slow internet to see who they really are.
• Honey, I just checked your Facebook page and noticed you hadn’t updated your name. Does that mean you’re keeping mine?
• It’s not uncommon to feel somewhat intimidated by the duties of the father of the bride. Thankfully, I’ve felt pretty relaxed because my wife’s so organized—from the suit rental, (check), to making sure I trimmed my beard, (check), to my speech. So, sweetie, can you give me my speech now?
• It’s been said that women subconsciously choose a husband that is the opposite of their fathers. But I just heard my wife describing our new son-in-law as funny, generous, and strong.
• This beautiful meal this evening is charged on a cost-per-head basis. So, I’d like to thank the following people for not coming…
• While I am confident of [Groom] ‘s qualities as a husband, I’m still not sure about him as a son-in-law. The jury is still out. Will he come over every weekend, or will I still have to mow the lawn and wash the car myself?
• Weddings are a marvelous excuse for a celebration, and today is no exception. It’s lovely to celebrate [Bride] and [Groom/Partner] along with the grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and a few others I recognize.
• I’m sure we all agree that [Bride] looks stunning today in her gorgeous white gown. And [Groom/Partner], well, what can we say about him in that dapper suit? It reminds me of the tale about a little girl who, attending a wedding for the first time, asked her mother why the bride was wearing white. The mother told her white was the color of happiness, and today was the happiest day of her life. The girl thought for a moment, then asked, “So why does the man wear black?”
• I’d like to wrap up by saying that we are so delighted to welcome into our family two very kind people not yet mentioned, but without whom [Groom/Partner] wouldn’t be here. No, I don’t mean the best man and the Uber driver, but [Groom/Partner] ‘s parents, who have already become dear friends.

Father Of The Bride Speech Template

A killer father of the bride speech has five components—a great intro, remarks about the bride, comments about the groom (or partner), advice about marriage, and a fabulous toast. Clink! Congratulations, you’ve done it!

Nail the intro

Welcome the guests and let them know how thrilled you are to have them there to celebrate this union.

Rather than “Hello, I’m Bob, and I’m Julia’s father,” try something like this: “Good evening, our lovely bride Julia calls me Dad—to my face, at least, but you can call me Bob. Joan and I, along with Derek’s parents, are so pleased you have made the journey to be here, regardless of whether it’s simply to see Derek in a suit or for a fabulous free meal. Welcome.”

Starting this way eases you into public speaking and sets the tone for the rest of the speech. Learn more great tips about How to Start a Speech . 

Watch our video below to learn how to start a speech and the best (and worst) speech openers:

Gush about the bride

Now is the place to pull in a few funny and poignant memories of your daughter. As one of the people who has known her the longest, you get to share some insights about her and her impact on your life.

Talk about how you felt when she was born, the first time a boy looked at her, or the day she got her first job. Mention what she does that makes you proud now and any relevant stories about her as an adult.

Also, take a moment to recognize your wife’s role in raising your daughter to be the beautiful woman she has become. Share a common trait you love about both of them. Tie your daughter’s spouse into the story by remarking about how you hope they will cherish this trait as much as you do.

• [Groom/Partner], I know [Bride] will be an amazing wife to you—loving, committed, and adventurous. And I know that because she’s learned from the best, her mother, who is still making me smile after 40 years.
• Despite having 29 years to prepare for this day, I am speechless at how she glows with the love you share and how much it reminds me of her mother, with whom I’ve shared this same, deep love for 35 years.
• [Bride], when you and I shared that moment earlier, right before I walked you down the aisle—know that it is a moment I will cherish forever. 

Special Note: Try to avoid using basic adjectives like sweet, nice, or lovely. Instead, use stories. Check out more tips on this in our How to Give an Awesome Toast article .

Talk about her spouse kindly.

After you gush about your daughter, you want to mention her new spouse. Welcoming them is an integral part of melding them into your family.

Feel free to incorporate some humor here as well. Talk about the first time you met him, how he changed your daughter’s life, a funny story about how they met, your early impressions of him, or how nervous he was when he sought your blessing.

• No amount of preparation can ever leave you feeling ready to give your daughter away, but if I had to choose a person to hand her to, I would choose you every time.
• [Groom/Partner], welcome to our family. Over the time we’ve known you, we’ve come to think of you as the son we never asked for.
• Of all the amazing qualities you possess [Groom/Partner], my favorite is that you make my daughter shine.
• It’s now when I’m supposed to officially welcome [Groom/Partner] into our family, but the truth is you’ve been a part of this family since the day we met you.

As with your daughter, don’t say anything that would be too awkward, uncomfortable, or embarrassing. This person may be the parent of your future grandchild!

Mention the partner’s parents and how happy you are to have them joining your family and you, theirs. Thank them for sharing the big day and congratulate them on the fine job they did raising their daughter’s new spouse.

Offer advice on marriage

Once you’ve acknowledged your daughter, her partner, and the families, it’s time to share a piece of advice. This can be done in several ways, depending on your situation.

If you’ve had a long marriage, find an inspirational nugget you can share about the journey, acknowledging the wonderful and challenging times. Pass on a piece of advice you were given at your wedding or a secret to your successful marriage.

• May your love be modern enough to adjust as times change and old-fashioned enough to last forever.
• [Bride] and [Groom/Partner], your life together is just starting, and it will take many turns along the way. You will have glory days and those you’ll prefer to forget. However, you will have all you need if you have each other.
• We don’t know what your future holds. But, whatever happens, and wherever you go, your mother and I know you’ll always have each other’s love, and you’ll always have ours.
• [Bride and Groom/Partner], as you enter this new phase of your journey, it’s worth bearing in mind that neither of you will ever be perfect, but you can be perfect together.

If you’ve never been married or have had ugly divorces, look for wisdom from others or a funny quote about what not to do (without criticizing anyone.)

• One piece of advice I wish I would have listened to and now want to pass on to you is: “Whenever you’re wrong, admit it. Whenever you’re right, shut up.”
• I polled my friends who have been married for over ten years, and they all agreed that the key to a successful marriage is…
• Your great-grandparents were married for 67 years. They said the secret to their success was loving peace more than being right.
• Always remember the most important three words for a successful marriage: “You were right.”

Nail the toast

A strong toast wraps the speech up like a beautiful bow on the gift. Make sure your guests know exactly what you want them to do. Otherwise, your speech may fall like a deflated balloon.

• They say it’s not a miracle that two people are different, but it is a miracle that they can live together so happily. Live miraculously, our dear newlyweds!
• Rumor has it that in a perfect family, the wife does not pay attention to where the money comes from, and the husband does not notice where it is going. May you live perfectly!
• May the two of you be poor in misfortune and rich in blessings. Here is to a beautiful wedding day and an even more amazing marriage.
• Today, we wish you happiness. May the Lord protect you from the storm and bad weather, bad people, pain and illness, and hardships. May God grant you a lot of passion, ardor, and love. And a lot of happiness!
• May your troubles be few and your blessings many.
• Your wedding day will come and go, but may your love forever grow. May the love and happiness you feel today shine through the years.
• Wishing you joy, love, and happiness on your wedding day and as you begin your new life together. Thank you for letting us share on this joyful day.
• May your marriage always bring glory to God, joy to one another, and blessings to your family for many generations to come. May love and laughter fill your hearts and your home for all the days of your lives. May you face every challenge hand-in-hand and side-by-side, knowing that with God’s grace, you’ll conquer all obstacles together. May the world forever be a better place because the two of you fell in love.

For more amazing tips on giving an incredible wedding toast or speech, read our advanced guide. 

What to Say in a Father of the Bride Speech (Dos and Don’ts)

• Ask for help. Before you even think about writing your first draft, it helps to brainstorm with a few key people. Ask your wife, the bride’s mother, her siblings, or close family friends to reminisce about your daughter. Look through photo albums to be reminded of the key moments or hilarious stories you may have forgotten.
• Incorporate humor. Find a humorous quote even if you’re not naturally known for your sense of humor . Laughter is always a great way to bring people together.
• Evaluate your adjectives. Nearly every father would say their daughter is beautiful, amazing, and kind, but what sets your daughter apart? Think about what makes her unique and show the audience why she is kind or beautiful.
• Seek your daughter’s input. Ask your daughter if there’s anyone special she would like you to mention. She may not think to say it, but she will appreciate that you asked and the time and thought you’re putting into your speech.
• Create bullet points . Most people don’t relish speaking in front of a bunch of people, particularly on a momentous occasion. Creating notecards of bullet points can help you feel more comfortable.
• Speak from the heart rather than reading from a script. The more fluid and off-the-cuff you can be, the better.
• Practice. Practice. Practice. This is not a time to wing it! Professional speakers know that the secret to a successful speech is to be comfortable with the material. The same is true with father of the bride speeches and toasts. Give your speech in front of your wife or good friend. Practice it in front of the mirror until you are really confident.

If you’re one of the nearly 30 percent of Americans who is “afraid or very afraid” of public speaking, dive into the research-backed public speaking tips to have the confidence you need on this special day.

• Ramble. As the father of the bride, you’ll likely have 3-10 minutes for your speech. Practice your stories to ensure you can tell them succinctly in that time frame, noting that it’s easy to ramble when you’re nervous.
• Forget to smile ! This is, after all, a wonderful day, and you want your face to reflect the joy you are feeling.
• Forget to introduce your wife. She has been a part of your daughter’s story and has likely put a lot of work into this day as well. Appreciate that effort and tell her that you love her as much today as you did on your wedding day.
• Embarrass your daughter (or her spouse!) Stick to stories that are meaningful and humorous without being embarrassing to her or her new spouse. If you’re unsure, ask her about including the story.
• Mention any exes . There is almost no reason that the exes’ names should be stated during this event celebrating new love.
• Be generic. Instead of saying, “Julia is my oldest daughter” or “I am the father of the bride,” try this: “The first time I saw her face, I knew I could never fall out of love, wrinkles and all. Holding her in that hospital room, just after she was born….”
• Make the speech about you. Remember, this day is about your daughter and the person she loves. When reviewing your speech, look for places where you use “I” or “me” and where you say “she” or “her” or your daughter’s name. If it’s more about you and less about her, revise it to make your daughter the focus. This day is all about her.
• Curse. Just don’t do it. Even if there aren’t children on the guest list, a conservative Aunt Betty or another guest may be offended.
• Forget your glass. At the end of your speech, you will want to have a glass for your toast. If you have an opportunity to practice holding it while you deliver your remarks, it will feel more natural when the big day arrives.

Remember Your Body Language

Finally, don’t forget your nonverbal body language. Here are 3 tips from How to Give an Awesome Toast: Advanced Strategies for Speeches .

• Claim the stage. Confident body language is about taking up space  Plant both feet (don’t stand like you have to go pee), roll your shoulders back (don’t look like a turtle), and keep your torso un-blocked  (See the next point—you should be using your hands, not hiding them!)
• Can you embellish your stories with hand gestures, reenactments, or voices? The audience loves this. There is no such thing as too corny in a toast.
• When you make a joke, laugh with the audience. Smile when you get on stage or say sweet things about the toastee. It will warm you up and help with your nerves.

Best Father of the Bride Speech Examples

YouTube is an excellent source of inspiration for touching and funny reception speeches.

If you’re more of a man of action than words, check out this father’s “speech.” One of the most unique and creative online.

This father sure knows how to start the audience off laughing. Thankfully, the bride is laughing, too.

This beautiful video hits all the highlights of a touching and memorable speech from a father to a daughter. Get out your tissues.

Don’t miss this classic Saturday Night Live interpretation of the father of the Bride movie.  

Make Great Conversation

After you’re done with your speech, what next? You’ll likely have time to converse with everyone at the event. This is where your interpersonal skills can truly shine! Take your conversations to the next level by learning how to make great conversation—and make boring, awkward conversations a thing of the past.

Crack The Code on Facial Expressions

The human face is constantly sending signals, and we use it to understand the person’s intentions when we speak to them. In Decode, we dive deep into these microexpressions to teach you how to instantly pick up on them and understand the meaning behind what is said to you. Don’t spend another day living in the dark.

Key Takeaways

• Honor your daughter and her spouse. This is their special day, and you want to make it memorable and emotional for all the right reasons.
• Take this seriously. A lot of time, money, and effort has gone into this celebration. Your daughter will appreciate the sentiment and energy you spend crafting the father of the bride speech.
• Authenticity takes the day. While you may be afraid of becoming too emotional or not delivering the speech perfectly, your daughter wants you to be the dad she loves and will be grateful for the kind words, humor, and wisdom you offer as she enters her marriage.
• Enjoy the celebration. A wedding day is a big event for the whole family. Take time to appreciate the gifts you have in them, and step back to reflect on the impact.

Get more great wedding tips with our insightful guide for the best man ‘s speech.

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• Who Gives a Speech at a Wedding Reception? How to Write a Wedding Toast Tips for the Father of the Bride Speech How to Write a Best Man Toast Advice for the Maid of Honor Speech What to Know About a Newlywed Toast Public Speaking Experts' Wedding Speech Tips 60 Quotes to Use for Your Wedding Toast

How to Write and Deliver a Perfect Father-of-the-Bride Speech

We're taking the guesswork out of this important moment.

Photo by Tanya Menoni

In This Article

The father-of-the-bride speech is one of the most anticipated toasts of any wedding reception . If you're a dad, you've likely looked forward to (or maybe dreaded) giving this speech for a very long time. Now that the moment is growing closer, it's important to sit down and write a toast that not only you're proud of, but that the happy couple will remember for a lifetime. While it might seem difficult to find the right words to express the endless love you have for your daughter and your excitement for her life with her new spouse, it's those very emotions that are often the star of the show. Feel free to let those feelings flow through your speech—you'll likely see most of the guests grab their tissues.

With that said, even the most eloquent dads can struggle with getting those words down on paper. To get you started, we created an easy guide to follow when you're sitting down to frame your thoughts into a full-fledged speech. We've compiled some top-notch tips for writing that sure-to-be epic father-of-the-bride speech, plus a list of brainstorming ideas to jump-start the creative process.

Read on for advice on how to write and deliver your father-of-the-bride speech—the most memorable toast of the day.

Father-of-the-Bride Speech Template

Here's a general outline for writing a father-of-the-bride speech that’ll have everyone reaching for tissues.

Welcome the guests.

Typically, the parents of the couple are the first to speak at either the rehearsal dinner or the wedding reception. If you're the first toast-maker of the night, this would be the time to welcome all of the guests to the reception or whichever event you are delivering the speech at. You can do this welcome speech with your partner, on your own, or followed by your child's fiancé's parents. Of course, feel free to skip this step if you're not the first speech and the guests have already been welcomed.

Give thanks.

Since you have the mic, don't forget to express gratitude. Be sure to thank your friends and family for coming to the wedding, and the parents of your daughter's new spouse for anything and everything that they did.

Pepper in some fond memories.

Nothing gets the waterworks started like some heartfelt anecdotes from the bride's lifetime through the eyes of their beloved dad. Choose some especially warm memories from her childhood that always stick out in your mind or some funny (not embarrassing) trials from adolescence. If one of those special memories includes their significant other, definitely be sure to share that with the guests.

Share your pride.

As the father of the bride , you're entitled to be a very proud papa. Mention some especially big moments of pride for you and how much you cherish your daughter's achievements. Don't confuse this with an excuse to spout off their résumé, though. Only pick a couple of standout highlights that really speak to their character.

Remember that half the guests in attendance probably won't know your daughter all that well, so this is an excellent time to low-key introduce them to their best qualities and character traits.

Talk about the present.

Try not to live completely in the past, Dad! Discuss notable things that are occurring presently, on this momentous day as it's unfolding. While everyone is experiencing the events from their own perspective, your special POV provides a unique lens on the significance of the occasion.

Acknowledge your daughter's new spouse.

While you have so much to say about the bride, remember to mention and acknowledge their new spouse , too. Take this time to welcome them into your family and share what it means to you. You can also share some anecdotes of their relationship and what stood out to you most.

Tell your daughter you love them.

That's your baby right there, and this is the moment to tell them just how much they mean to you. Express how much you love and cherish your daughter. Remind them of how you've treasured your relationship together and how you think that relationship may be evolving or staying exactly the same.

Look to the future.

You've covered the past and present, now move on to the next chapter and speak about the shared future of the newlyweds. While you can always get creative with the flow of the speech, breaking things down in a classic chronological order is always easy for the guests to follow.

Add some parting wisdom.

Whether it's a piece of marriage advice or just your most heartfelt wishes for the newlyweds, include some sage wisdom for the happy couple. This is pinnacle dad-talk time, so be sure to really relish the moment. Just don't forget that there are other people present, and it's not just you and your daughter.

Father-of-the-Bride Speech Tips

Okay, Dad! Now that you have a general idea of what to include, take note of these essential tips for writing and giving the best father-of-the-bride speech anyone has ever heard.

Consider a theme.

Having an overarching theme from the get-go will set a tone for the speech as a whole. This should make it easier for you to succinctly organize your thoughts and choose relevant examples to showcase. Utilizing this type of framework will result in cohesive and meaningful content that will come across as inspired and have the audience hanging on every word.

Keep it short.

Though you've been waiting for this day to come for many years, try to keep your toast short and sweet. The ideal length is about five or six minutes with the three-minute mark being your lowest threshold for a proper speech. There may be a lot you want to say, and if that's the case, consider writing some of those heartfelt sentiments down beforehand and giving it to your daughter in a card to read privately the morning of the wedding.

Don't be too embarrassing.

Skip the stories that may make your daughter cringe or those memories that they wish you would just forget already. Remember, the speech is a toast and not a roast. Keep in mind that along with their newly minted spouse, a whole new family of in-laws and possibly even a few work colleagues will be present. So, if there's something you're on the fence about saying, consider if you would think the information appropriate for your in-laws and colleagues to learn about you.

Skip ex mentions.

If you have an urge to call out how terrible some ex-boyfriends or girlfriends were in the past, skip that little tidbit and keep it to yourself. There's never any good that can come from name-dropping old lovers at your daughter's wedding, no matter how much you really disliked old what's-their-name. Stick to positive anecdotes and memories that showcase your daughter's good side, not mistakes.

Don't push for laughs.

Oftentimes, you'll get laughs when you're not trying hard for them. Don't feel like you have to color your toast with joke line after joke line—it may come off as forced, especially if you're not normally the jokester in the bunch. The most important person in the room, your daughter, will definitely know if you're not being yourself, and all they really need is their dad—not a comedian.

Embrace your emotions.

It's an absolute given that this is an emotional day for you, so don't feel the need to act stoic and put up a façade. Stay genuine and admit to how difficult it is to let your child go. These admissions make for a touching moment, and we guarantee there won't be a dry eye left in the room. And we mean you, too, pops. Today is the day when it's perfectly okay to shed a tear or two.

Practice, practice, practice.

And then practice some more. It's important that you attempt to memorize your speech, and at the very least, have everything written down and a general idea of what you want to say. If memorizing the whole speech is a little too difficult to do in such a short amount of time, be sure to practice it enough beforehand so that you can make eye contact with the couple and the other guests.

Get Brainstorming!

If you're still drawing a blank, here are some questions to ask yourself to start brainstorming.

• Who is speaking directly before or after me? (You may want to introduce the next speaker or reference whoever spoke previously.)
• What emotions do I experience when I think of letting my daughter go?
• What do I wish for their marriage and life together, and how can I prepare them for that?
• Is there anything I would like to say to their in-laws or newly acquired family?
• Is there something in the order of events that the audience needs to know, prepare for, or be aware of? (Your role can also assume that of master of ceremonies, so be mindful of the flow of upcoming events and if you need to alert the guests.)

Traditionally, the father of the bride gives the first speech at a wedding. But, of course, couples can choose any order they want speeches to take place in. 

If the mother of the bride is speaking directly after the father of the bride, they may choose to stand next to their significant other during the speech. In other cases, the father will be standing alone with the bride's mother being at her seat. 

Whatever you do, don't feel stressed out by the idea of giving a speech. Keep it short, speak from the heart, and don't embarrass the couple (okay, don't embarrass them too much) and you'll be well on your way to the perfect toast.

A Guide to Wedding Reception Toasts

• Who Gives a Speech at a Wedding Reception?
• How to Write a Wedding Toast
• currently on Tips for the Father of the Bride Speech
• How to Write a Best Man Toast
• Advice for the Maid of Honor Speech
• What to Know About a Newlywed Toast
• Public Speaking Experts' Wedding Speech Tips
• 60 Quotes to Use for Your Wedding Toast

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• How to Write an Unforgettable Newlywed Reception Toast
• Everything to Know About Your Groom Speech: Tips, Advice, and Examples
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Father of The Bride Speech: The Ultimate Guide

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Traditionally the father of the bride is the first to speak at a wedding and so unless you’re a seasoned speech giver, it can feel like a daunting task.

Add to that the fact that alongside walking your daughter down the aisle it’ll probably be one of the proudest moments of your life and suddenly writing this special speech seems almost impossible.

Just how do you sum up your feelings in a few hundred words?

The good news is that father of the bride speeches are meant to be heart-warming and full of emotion, so no-one is expecting you to give a performance to rival a stand-up comedian. That said, no-one wants to sit in awkward silence while the father regales countless stories of the bride as a baby.

It’s important to get the tone and content of this much-anticipated wedding speech exactly right to ensure both your daughter and all the guests find it entertaining, uplifting, touching, and most importantly not at all embarrassing!

If you’ve got no idea where to start when it comes to writing a fantastic father of the bride speech, we’ve got some top tips and dos and don’ts to help you put pen to paper and create a standout wedding speech that your daughter will never forget.

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Father Of The Bride Speech Template

While you’ll want your wedding speech to be completely unique, it can help to follow a tried and tested template when you start to write and then let the original ideas start to flow from there…

1. Introduce Yourself

Introduce yourself and welcome all the guests to the special day (ask the bride for any special mentions she might want to include here like friends who have traveled from overseas).

2. Talk About The Bride

Talk about how proud you are of her achievements etc. and also provide funny (but not embarrassing) anecdotes about her as a little girl that are relevant to who she is today.

3. Pay Tribute To The Woman She Has Become

Talk about her job or anything she does that makes you proud now as well as any relevant stories about her as an adult.

4. Talk About How The Bride Met Her New Spouse

Make sure to include any funny stories from when you first met him or her. For example, is he/she normally full of bravado but was nervous as hell asking you if he/she could marry your daughter? Talk about the groom (or other bride) and their family and how happy you are to have them join your family.

5. Give Some Advice On Marriage

Best not to do this if you’ve been divorced 4 times, although you could joke about this in your speech, or just give some general advice about life. Perhaps you were told something on your wedding day that you’ve always remembered and want to pass on.

6. Raise A Toast To The Happy Couple

Try and make this as personalised as possible and unique to the couple. You could just toast their happy marriage or come up with a list of a few specific wishes that you want the guests to toast to.

What Should A Father Of The Bride Speech Include?

A traditional father of the bride speech includes a few key elements such as welcoming the guests, anecdotes and compliments about your daughter, a welcome to your new son-in-law or daughter-in-law, words of advice and a toast to the new couple.

How Do You End The Father Of The Bride Speech?

It always works well to end a father of the bride speech with a few words of wisdom for the newly married couple, followed by a strong heartfelt toast that you invite all the guests to take part in.

The Dos And Don’ts Of A Good Father Of The Bride Speech

1. ask for help.

Before you even think about writing your first draft, it can really help to have a brainstorm with a few key people.

Ask the bride’s mother, any siblings, or really close family to come together to reminisce about the bride, as they may remember some absolutely hilarious or key stories that you’ve forgotten.

You can go back and forth to this family group while writing too for extra details and clarification on facts, plus it’ll help you feel a lot less pressure than you would if you were going solo.

2. Focus On A Good Introduction

As you’re opening the speeches section of the wedding, it’s important not to just go straight into your speech at 100mph and instead to introduce yourself. While most people in the room will know who you are, there may be a few who don’t.

Plus, it’s a nice easy way to confidently ease yourself into public speaking. Try not to sound too robotic by just saying your name and that you’re the bride’s dad! Think of a more heartfelt way to say you’re her father.

You can also really quickly put wedding guests at ease by making them laugh. It doesn’t have to be a silly gag or a hilarious joke, but just something cute and quirky about the bride or perhaps an observation about the day that can really help get the ball rolling.

3. Don’t Spend Ages Thanking People

The father of the groom speech is not the time to go through everyone that needs thanking – this often happens during the groom’s speech and you can be sure that if you go down this route that you’ll massively wrong-foot the groom and make his speech rather difficult to deliver without major repetition.

Confine your thanks to a general one – simply thank everyone for coming to the wedding and watching the proudest moment of your life as your daughter gets married.

4. Use Clever Quotes

If it feels suitable for your speech, you can use famous quotes to get your point across and provide a bit of pace to the delivery. Some fathers like to open with a quote from someone famous and use it as a way to introduce an overarching theme that’ll carry on through the speech.

If you’re known for being a showman or a bit of a character, a dramatically delivered quote can get the guests laughing straightway. If not, find a quote that sums up exactly how you feel about the bride and use it instead of your own words if you can’t quite get the sentiment right.

5. Don’t Embarrass Your Daughter

There’s a fine line between a funny and sweet anecdote and one that’ll make your guests cringe.

You don’t want to make anyone, especially the bride, feel uncomfortable, so stick to stories that are heartfelt and meaningful rather than too graphic. No one needs to hear that she wet the bed until she was 11!

You can still take the mickey out of her though, but in a much more charming way.

Choose stories that are relevant to who she is today. Perhaps she was obsessed with animals from the moment she could talk and brought all manner of horrible bugs into your house – now she’s a vet it all makes sense.

Maybe she was the clumsiest little girl you’ve ever known so it’s incredible that she’s now a successful dancer.

Perhaps she had a crazy imagination that got her into all sorts of trouble (insert funny anecdotes here), but she’s now managed to harness it into a successful career as a novelist.

6. Make Your Speech Different

When talking about your daughter and how much you love her it’s important to avoid clichés and words that could apply to any bride.

We’re talking about “beautiful”, “amazing”, “kind” etc.

Think about what makes her who she is and celebrate these traits.

Remember no-one is perfect, and just because it’s her wedding day doesn’t mean you have to make her sound like the ideal woman. The guests want to hear about all the good bits as well as the slightly less so, as it’s much more real and will represent the person they know and love.

7. Don’t Mention Any Exes

This is a key one that shouldn’t be broken – DO NOT mention any exes. No-one wants to remember a time when the happy couple weren’t together or imagine the bride with another partner so just don’t go there, even if there’s a funny anecdote! It’s the quickest way to alienate the new in law to the family.

8. Spend Time Talking About Her New Husband Or Wife

On the other hand, not mentioning your new son-in-law or daughter-in-law in your wedding speech is almost as bad as the groom forgetting to mention his new wife in his wedding speech. While the father of the bride speech is predominantly about your daughter, you have to dedicate at least a sentence or two to her chosen partner.

Make sure to say how happy you are that the bride met their partner and how much happiness he/she clearly brings into her life.

You can talk about what your impressions were the first time you met him/her and how your relationship has grown or include funny stories about the early years of their relationship.

9. Mention The Bride’s Mother And New In-Laws

It’s important not to single-handedly take credit for your amazing daughter in your speech (unless of course, you raised her all alone).

Spend time talking about any good traits she has inherited from her mother and how special their relationship is. Even if you’re divorced from her mother, a line or two acknowledging her part in your child’s life will be very well appreciated.

10. Impart Some Wisdom For The Newlyweds

Once you’ve run out of anecdotes and have said all the beautiful words about how you feel, it’s time to impart some advice.

This can go one of two ways.

Perhaps you’ve had a successful and long marriage and therefore you can draw inspiration from both the wonderful and hard times to pass on some key bits of advice. If you’re known for being a bit hapless when it comes to marriages and relationships you can make this section funny and tell the couple not to do anything you did!

If this is the case you can also always ask other successfully married couples from within the guests for their advice before the big day and then impart this. Your daughter will appreciate the effort you’ve gone to, to ensure that you had something meaningful to pass on to her at such a huge stage in her life.

11. Don’t Make The Speech About You

Remember this speech is meant to be about your daughter and the person she is marrying today.

If once you’ve written the speech and are reading through it and you find yourself repeatedly saying “I” or “me” more than “she” or “her”, then chances are you’ve made the speech too much about you.

Yes, the anecdotes are your stories to tell, but they should focus on your daughter and why they are relevant to who she is today rather than how they made you feel or how they impacted you.

12. End With A Toast

As the first speechmaker, you can’t just tail off.

A strong end is key to the overall success of the speech and helps draw a line under your words and the start of the next speech.

So, make sure you have a really good finishing sentence, followed by a clear call to the guests to stand and toast. You need to make sure the guests know exactly what you want them to do otherwise you’ll end up with a half-hearted end with some standing up and some not and a mish-mash of words. Clearly state the words you want them to toast with and invite the guests to stand to ensure a resounding toast!

Now all that’s left to do is practise reading out your father of the bride speech, in a confident – and slow – manner and make sure you smile while doing it.

It can also be a really good idea to ask your wife or partner to read through the draft speech too. Just to make sure you’ve remembered the anecdotes properly (we’re all prone to the odd embellishment!) and also to check that you’re not veering off into embarrassing territory.

Father Of The Bride Speech Examples

Take some inspiration from fathers who have been there, done that and got the t-shirt with these brilliant father of the bride speech examples from real weddings.

Heartfelt father of the bride speech

A heartfelt speech is always a winner and this father  covers all the main points in a meaningful and heartwarming manner.

Father of the bride speech full of funny anecdotes

The extract from this hilarious speech shows how to weave anecdotes into your speech while also ensuring it focusses on your daughter and not you.

Alternative father of the bride speech

If you want to wow guests and your daughter consider pulling something alternative and wow-factor out the bag like this funny and entertaining video speech .

Emotional father of the bride speech

Emotional speeches don’t have to be embarrassing to watch. This father delivered a perfectly eloquent speech that focuses on the emotion and real meaning of the day.

Funny poem father of the bride

This father manages to keep the guests’ laughing and involved with his witty speech delivered in poem format .

Short but sweet father of the bride speech

This speech is only a few minutes long, but the father of the bride covers the two most important points – talking about his daughter and complimenting his new son-in-law.

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A Memorable Father-Of-The Bride Speech: Tips, Tricks, And Examples

We know you’re nervous about making a father-of-the-bride speech at your little girl’s wedding. We won’t mince words here. You should be. 

This is why you’re probably furiously Googling “father of the bride speech examples,” so someone will tell you what to say. 

Make it funny, but short. Make it moving, but not too personal. 

Your job is to make everyone laugh and cry tears of joy. As the head honcho of your household (ok, second to your wife), it falls on your head to get it right, or you’ll ruin everything. 

All of that is hooey, of course, but you probably feel that way all the same. 

We want to help, so we’ve put together a father-of-the-bride speech outline to help you decide what to say and remember when to say it. 

Step Four: Practice

Simple father of the bride speech template, step one: know the rules and etiquette.

Before you get to writing, there are some basic speech rules and etiquette you should consider to avoid disaster and embarrassment. 

• Do Your Homework

Call in the cavalry. There are no rules that say your speech can’t be a collaborative effort. If you’re unsure what to talk about, ask those who know her best for stories and anecdotes. 

Find out who’s invited that you may not know so well. It helps to keep in mind who your audience will be. 

• Watch Your Time

Seven. Minutes. That’s the maximum time a father-of-the-bride speech ought to last. Anything more prolonged, and you’ll lose them. If you can, aim for six. 

• No Cliches, Find Ways To Be Unique

Talk about the qualities your daughter has that set her apart. Of course she’s brilliant and talented and beautiful. Anyone who knows her knows that. 

Avoid a resume-like list of her career or education, unless you can link that to a funny story or something that pertains to her new husband.

• Avoid Talking About Money, Religion, Or Politics

Just like at dinner parties (because let’s face it, that’s kind of what a wedding reception is), the rule is to avoid talking politics, religion, or money. 

Of course, it’s entirely appropriate to thank God and, by all means, prayers up. But use good judgment and keep it PC. 

• Keep It Clean

We probably don’t have to mention it, but we will anyway. Nothing will suck the air out of the room like a tasteless joke or inappropriate anecdote from Dad. Gross. 

• Aim For Funny, But Avoid Inside Jokes

Yes, you want to be funny, that’s a given. Remember, you are the master of the Dad Joke. Work it. Just avoid inside jokes, it may alienate some of the guests. 

• Don’t Get Too Emotional, Keep It Light

Just like you want to make ’em laugh, making your audience tear up is gratifying, too. But make sure you don’t go overboard and make it awkward. 

• Keep Your Family Strife Out Of It

It’s unbelievable how often people give speeches like this and veer off onto a tangent about family quarrels. 

If you and your daughter’s mother are no longer together and aren’t on the best of terms, keep it out of the speech. If you and her mother’s new significant other don’t get along, now is not the time. 

If someone’s not speaking to Aunt Tilly or the bride’s cousin ruined another family wedding by getting drunk and hitting on the groom’s mother: Do. Not. Make it a thing. 

Seems like common sense, but people are mysterious creatures.

Step Two: Brainstorm

Crafting an unforgettable father of the bride speech requires a bit of preparation, and the most important part of that preparation is brainstorming your ideas and outlining your speech. Here are some tips to get you started:

• Find your Voice

Every father has a unique personality and relationship with his daughter. While it can be tempting to emulate speeches found online, it is essential to infuse your own authentic voice and personal anecdotes into your address.

• Think of personal anecdotes

Reflect on your relationship with both the bride and groom, and write down any memories, jokes, or stories that you think would be relevant or entertaining.

• Consider the structure of your speech

Your speech should have an introduction, a body, and a conclusion. The introduction should capture the audience’s attention and set the tone for the rest of your speech. The body should be divided into several sections, each highlighting a different aspect of your relationship with the bride and groom. The conclusion should tie everything together and leave a lasting impression..

Step Three: Make An Outline

OK, with etiquette out of the way (but not out of mind), it’s time to get down to the nitty-gritty — the fun part! When you make your outline, by all means, write it all on cue cards and use them. Whatever you need to keep focused.

• Opening Line/Introduce Yourself 

Every good speech needs an opener, but it doesn’t have to be stand-up material. A quick introduction and welcoming the guests will do nicely. 

• Thank Your Wife, The Groom’s Parents, The Officiant, etc.

This is another part you can get through quickly. It’ll be tempting to spend a lot of time on this one, but keep in mind that you can thank everyone more thoroughly and one-on-one throughout the reception. 

Unless there’s something particular you feel the need to say, a quick thanks will do. 

• Share A Story Or Two and Don’t Forget The Groom

The moment everyone’s been waiting for: dad making fun of his daughter and her new husband. Gently, of course.

Seriously, though, this is the time to be funny. Mention the first time you met your new son-in-law and what you thought of him (if it’s not seriously negative). Talk about funny things from her childhood, as long as they’re not mortifyingly embarrassing.

The material for this part is rich, mine it. 

• Impart Some Fatherly Wisdom

So you’ve made them laugh, now make them say “awwwww.”

Pass on what you’ve learned about life, love, and happiness – things that worked for you, and maybe things that didn’t work so well if you can keep it light. 

If there’s a deceased family member that your daughter was particularly fond of, now is an excellent time to hand down any wisdom they imparted to you. 

• Raise A Toast 

The toast can stay short and sweet, all you have to do now is invite everyone to raise a glass to the newlywed’s happiness. Done and done. 

When it comes to giving a memorable father of the bride speech, practice is key. You don’t want to be reading from a script or stumble over your words on such an important occasion. Here are some tips to help you practice and deliver your speech with confidence:

• Write out your speech

Before you begin to practice, make sure that you have a draft of your speech. It does not have to be perfect at this stage, but it should have all the key points that you want to make. Writing out your speech will help you organize your thoughts and ensure that you have covered all the necessary elements.

• Practice in front of a mirror

Practicing in front of a mirror allows you to see your facial expressions and gestures. It also helps you to work on your eye contact and body language, which are important when delivering a speech.

• Record yourself

Another way to practice is to record yourself giving the speech. This allows you to listen to your tone of voice, pacing, and areas that need improvement.

• Get feedback

Ask a trusted friend or family member to listen to your speech and give you feedback. They can offer suggestions on delivery, pacing, and content.

• Practice in the wedding venue

If possible, practice your speech in the actual wedding venue. This will give you a sense of the acoustics and how your voice will carry. It also helps you visualize the setting, which can help calm nerves and build confidence.

Remember, the more you practice, the more comfortable and confident you will be when delivering your father of the bride speech. Trust in yourself and your message, and enjoy the moment.

Father-Of-The-Bride Speech Examples 

If this whole speech thing has been on your mind (obviously it has. otherwise, you wouldn’t be reading this), you’ll probably want an example or two for how to do it like a boss. 

Prepare to get educated…

BEST Father-of-the-Bride Speech. Ever. (According to the person who uploaded the Youtube video)

We love the way he includes the groom the whole way through, and his toast is perfect.

You’ll notice this guy incorporates money and religion in his speech and manages to make it not at all awkward, but fabulous. Shows how bendable the rules can be if you’re on your game…

Heartwarming Father-of-the-Bride Speech (Get Out the Hankie!)

This father offers up a funny and heartwarming speech, along with a few props that take this speech to another level.

Hilarious Father-of-the-Bride Speech That Includes the Groom’s Family 

He’s included the groom’s family in this speech in the best way ever. Not to mention the hilarity of his son-in-law story! We’re dyin’ over here!

Some Parting Advice

The speeches are arguably the best part of the reception, next to the open bar and dancing. Ahem.

Although it may feel like it, no one expects the world from the father-of-the-bride when he toasts the happy couple. 

It’s your job to be sincere, remind everyone of what makes your daughter so wonderful, and tell the room why you’re thrilled to gain a son-in-law. 

Do that, and the rest will fall into place. Next thing you know you’ll be grabbing a martini, loosening your tie and breathing a sigh of relief that you nailed that speech. Now to nail those dance moves you’ve been practicing!

Despite her dreamy wedding blogger lifestyle, Meredith's day job is running ClassicVeils.com and a full-time mom to an active toddler. If she could, Meredith would spend her days taking cruises, helping animals in need, and watching Big Brother!

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Elena & Daniel: husband and wife team behind Love and Lavender. Read Our Story

Father of the Bride Speech Examples and Templates

by Ryan Hart | Updated on September 21, 2023 | Post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

When it comes to a wedding, one of the most anticipated speeches is the father of the bride’s.

It’s a moment for the father to express his love and pride for his daughter, offer advice and well wishes for the newlyweds, and thank everyone for being a part of this special day.

But for many fathers, the idea of giving a speech can be intimidating . You want to make sure you come across as confident, clear, and knowledgeable, but where do you start?

Brainstorming and planning ahead can help you organize your thoughts and ensure you hit all the key elements. From there, you can start writing and incorporating techniques to make your speech stand out.

What should you say in a Father of the Bride speech?

When it comes to delivering a memorable father of the bride speech, there are several key elements that you should incorporate. These elements will help you to create a speech that is heartfelt, emotional, and memorable for all the right reasons.

Introduce Yourself

Firstly, it’s important to introduce yourself and welcome the guests . This will help to set the tone for your speech and make everyone feel at ease. You can also take this opportunity to thank the guests for coming and for their support.

Share a Short Story

Next, it’s time to share stories and memories about your daughter. This is the perfect opportunity to reminisce about happy times and to highlight the qualities that make your daughter so special. You can also use this time to welcome your new son-in-law or daughter-in-law and to express your happiness for the happy couple.

Offer Words of Wisdom

It’s also important to offer some words of wisdom and marriage advice. This can be done in a concise and meaningful way, and can include quotes or anecdotes that have special meaning to you and your family. You can also share your hopes and wishes for the future of the couple.

End with a Toast

Of course, no father of the bride speech would be complete without a toast. Raise a toast to the happy couple and their future together, and share your pride and joy in their union. You can also take this opportunity to thank the maid of honor and the master of ceremonies for their contributions to the wedding.

Examples and Templates

When it comes to writing your father of the bride speech, having some examples and templates to draw inspiration from can be incredibly helpful. Here are a few resources to get you started:

"Ladies and gentlemen, I stand here as a proud father to [DAUGHTER'S NAME] . It feels like just yesterday that she was [SHARE A MEMORABLE CHILDHOOD EXPERIENCE] . Today, I can hardly believe she's marrying [GROOM'S NAME] , a man who [POSITIVE TRAIT OR ANECDOTE ABOUT GROOM] . As I raise my glass, I want to thank everyone for being here to celebrate this special day with us. To the happy couple, may your future be filled with love and joy."

"When [DAUGHTER'S NAME] was little, we used to [A SHARED ACTIVITY OR STORY] . Now as I watch her with [GROOM'S NAME] , I see a similar bond of [SHARED QUALITY] . I could not be happier for them. So here's to my beautiful daughter and her wonderful new husband. May your love continue to grow stronger with each passing day. Cheers!"

"As a father, you dream of the day your little girl finds someone who [VALUES OR QUALITIES YOU HOPED FOR] . Today, [DAUGHTER'S NAME] married [GROOM'S NAME] , a man who embodies all of these qualities. To my daughter and her new husband, I wish you a lifetime of happiness and love. May your marriage be as strong and beautiful as the love you share today."

"They say a father is his daughter's first love. Well, [DAUGHTER'S NAME] was my first true love. Seeing her today with [GROOM'S NAME] , I know she's found her [TERM OF ENDEARMENT: e.g. forever love, true match] . As I look at my daughter and her new husband, I am filled with pride and joy. Here's to a lifetime of love, laughter, and happiness. Cheers!"

"Raising [DAUGHTER'S NAME] has been my life's greatest joy. She's [POSITIVE QUALITIES OR TRAITS] . Today, as she marries [GROOM'S NAME] , I see those qualities reflected back at her, and it fills my heart with joy. To the newlyweds, may your love for each other only grow stronger with each passing year. Here's to a lifetime of happiness and joy together."

"I always knew [DAUGHTER'S NAME] would grow up to be [QUALITY, ACHIEVEMENT, OR TRAIT] . I am proud to say that [GROOM'S NAME] is the kind of man who values that about her. As a father, there is no greater joy than seeing my daughter so happy. To my daughter and her new husband, may your love for each other never fade. Cheers!"

"There are many moments in a father's life that he cherishes, but this moment, seeing [DAUGHTER'S NAME] marrying a man who is [POSITIVE TRAITS OF GROOM] , is truly special. To my beautiful daughter and her handsome husband, may your love story be filled with adventure, laughter, and endless joy. Congratulations and cheers to a lifetime of happiness together."

"As [DAUGHTER'S NAME] 's father, I've seen her grow and accomplish so much. Her marriage to [GROOM'S NAME] , a man who [COMPLIMENT ABOUT GROOM] , is another proud moment in a long list. As I raise my glass, I want to thank my daughter and her new husband for giving me the greatest gift of all - the gift of seeing my little girl so happy. Here's to a lifetime of love and joy together."

" [DAUGHTER'S NAME] has always been the [ADJECTIVE: e.g. light, star] of our family. Today, as she joins hands with [GROOM'S NAME] , I know she has found her perfect [COMPLEMENT TO PREVIOUS ADJECTIVE: e.g., beacon, constellation] . To my daughter and her new husband, may your love for each other be as strong and unbreakable as the bond between a father and his daughter. Cheers to a lifetime of happiness together."

" [DAUGHTER'S NAME] , from your first steps, to this walk down the aisle, I've had the privilege of being there. Now, as you step into a new journey with [GROOM'S NAME] , a man who [POSITIVE TRAIT OR QUALITY OF GROOM] , I know you will make beautiful memories together. As I look at my daughter and her new husband, I am filled with hope and happiness for their future together. To the happy couple, may your marriage be blessed with love, joy, and endless happiness. Cheers!"

Understanding the Role

As the father of the bride, you have a special role to play in your daughter’s wedding. Your speech is one of the most anticipated and memorable moments of the wedding reception, and it’s an opportunity to express your love and pride for your daughter and your new son-in-law.

Your speech should be heartfelt, sincere, and personal. It’s a chance to share your thoughts and feelings about your daughter, her new spouse, and their future together. Your words should be chosen carefully to reflect the love and support you have for the couple.

Remember that your speech is not just about your daughter, but also about your family. It’s a time to acknowledge and thank the guests who have come to celebrate this special occasion with you and your family. You should also take a moment to welcome your new son-in-law into the family and express your happiness at having him as part of your family.

When preparing your speech, it’s important to keep in mind the overall tone of the wedding. Is it a formal, traditional affair, or a more casual, relaxed event? Your speech should fit the tone of the wedding and reflect the personality of the couple.

Finally, don’t forget to practice your speech before the big day. This will help you feel more confident and ensure that you deliver your message clearly and effectively. With a little preparation and a lot of love, your father of the bride speech is sure to be a highlight of the wedding reception.

Brainstorming and Planning

Before you start writing a father of the bride speech, it’s important to take some time to brainstorm and plan. This will help you structure your speech and make sure you include all the important elements. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Step 1: Gather Ideas

The first step in planning your father of the bride speech is to gather ideas. Think about your daughter and her relationship with her new spouse. What are some of their shared interests? What are some of your favorite memories with your daughter? What advice do you want to give the newlyweds?

Write down all your ideas on a piece of paper or in a document. Don’t worry about organizing them yet, just get everything down.

Step 2: Organize Your Ideas

Once you have a list of ideas, it’s time to organize them. Look for common themes or topics that you want to cover in your speech. For example, you might want to talk about your daughter’s childhood, her relationship with her new spouse, and your hopes for their future together.

Create an outline for your speech, with each idea or topic as a separate section. This will help you stay organized and make sure you cover everything you want to say.

Step 3: Write Your Speech

With your ideas organized and your outline in place, it’s time to start writing your speech. Use your outline as a guide, and fill in the details for each section.

Remember to keep your speech concise and focused. Aim for a length of around five minutes, and avoid rambling or going off on tangents.

Step 4: Practice Your Speech

Once you’ve written your speech, it’s important to practice it. Stand in front of a mirror and read your speech out loud. This will help you get comfortable with the material and make sure you’re speaking clearly.

You might also want to practice in front of a friend or family member. Ask for their feedback and make any necessary adjustments to your speech.

Step 5: Deliver Your Speech

On the day of the wedding, take a deep breath and deliver your speech with confidence. Remember to speak slowly and clearly, and make eye contact with the audience.

End your speech with a heartfelt congratulations to the newlyweds, and a toast to their future together.

Writing Tips and Techniques

When it comes to writing a father of the bride speech, there are a few helpful tips and techniques that can make the process easier and ensure that your speech is a success. Here are some pointers to keep in mind:

• Be yourself: The most important thing to remember when writing your speech is to be yourself. Don’t try to be someone you’re not or use language that doesn’t feel natural to you. Speak from the heart and let your personality shine through.
• Practice public speaking: If you’re not used to speaking in public, it’s a good idea to practice beforehand. You can do this by rehearsing your speech in front of a mirror or recording yourself and watching it back. This will help you build confidence and get used to the sound of your own voice.
• Know your audience: When writing your speech, it’s important to keep your audience in mind. Think about who will be listening to your speech and what they might be expecting to hear. Tailor your speech to your audience and try to make it relevant and engaging for them.
• Keep it concise: While you might have a lot to say, it’s important to keep your speech concise and to the point. Aim for a speech that is around five minutes long, as this will keep your audience engaged without dragging on too long.
• Use humor: A little bit of humor can go a long way in a father of the bride speech. Try to include some lighthearted jokes or anecdotes that will make your audience smile and help to break the ice.

Practicing the Speech

Now that you have written your father of the bride speech, it’s time to start practicing. Practicing your speech will help you deliver it confidently and avoid any last-minute jitters. Here are some tips to help you practice your speech effectively:

• Practice in front of a mirror: Practicing in front of a mirror will help you see your facial expressions and body language. This will help you identify any nervous habits or gestures that you might want to avoid.
• Practice with a timer: Timing is crucial when it comes to delivering a speech. Practice your speech with a timer to ensure that you are not going over the allotted time. This will also help you pace yourself and avoid rushing through your speech.
• Practice in front of a friend or family member: Practicing in front of a friend or family member will help you get feedback on your speech. They can also help you identify any areas that need improvement.
• Record yourself: Recording yourself while practicing your speech will help you identify any areas that need improvement. You can also listen to your speech to get a feel for your pacing and tone.

Remember, practice makes perfect. The more you practice your speech, the more confident you will be when it’s time to deliver it. So, take the time to practice your speech and you’ll be sure to deliver a memorable speech that your daughter and her new spouse will cherish forever.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should the father of the bride say in his speech.

As the father of the bride, your speech should be heartfelt and sincere. You should start by welcoming the guests and thanking them for coming to celebrate this special day with your family. Then, you can share some personal anecdotes about your daughter and her relationship with the groom. You can also express your love and pride for your daughter and offer some words of wisdom for the newlyweds.

How long should a father of the bride speech be?

Your speech should be long enough to cover everything you want to say, but not so long that it becomes boring or tedious. A good rule of thumb is to keep your speech between 5-7 minutes. This will give you enough time to say what you want to say without losing the attention of your audience.

What should a dad say to his daughter on her wedding day?

As a father, your daughter’s wedding day is a very emotional and special day for you. You should take this opportunity to express your love and pride for your daughter. You can tell her how much she means to you and how proud you are of the person she has become. You can also offer some words of advice and encouragement for her future with her new spouse.

Is it OK to read the father of the bride speech?

Yes, it is perfectly acceptable to read your speech from a written copy. In fact, it may even be preferable if you are nervous or worried about forgetting what you want to say. However, it is important to practice your speech beforehand so that you can deliver it with confidence and emotion.

Ryan Hart is a certified relationship coach and writer. His mission is to help make connections between people better, stronger, more meaningful, and longer lasting using technology.

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How to Write a Father of the Bride Speech + 3 Examples

Fathers of the bride have more to do than just hand over the ring at a wedding – they also get to give one of the most significant speeches of their lives.

Giving a father of the bride speech is an incredible honor and a great way to show your appreciation for your daughter on her special day. However, knowing how to write this important speech can be tricky, and the occasion can also be filled with nerves, as the father talks to the microphone in front of a crowd to deliver their speech.

But don’t worry – we’re here to help! This post will provide you with easy tips on how to craft an unforgettable father of the bride speech that will bring joy and tears from everyone in attendance.

Using our tips and examples, you’ll be able to craft an address that expresses your love for your daughter on her special day through celebration, humor and warmth.

Introduction to the role of the father of the bride

As the father of the bride, you have a special role to play on your daughter’s big day.

Not only are you responsible for walking your daughter down the aisle and giving her away, but you also have the opportunity to deliver a heartfelt and memorable speech at the wedding reception.

You may also want to share personal anecdotes or memories, and offer words of wisdom or advice for the happy couple.

Tips for writing a memorable and heartfelt speech

Start by brainstorming your main points.

What do you want to say to your daughter and son-in-law on their big day? What messages do you want to convey to your guests? It might be helpful to jot down some ideas on paper before you start organizing your speech.

Make it personal

Your speech is a chance to share your own memories and experiences with your daughter and the rest of the wedding party.

Keep it concise

A good rule of thumb is to aim for a speech that’s about 5-7 minutes long. This will give you enough time to say what you need to say without boring your guests (or making them check their phones).

Practice, practice, practice!

And don’t forget to keep a glass of water handy – it’ll help to calm your nerves and keep your throat lubricated.

Structuring your speech: a step-by-step guide

Alright, so you’ve brainstormed your main points and practiced your speech a million times. Now it’s time to put it all together and give the most epic father of the bride speech ever.

Begin with a greeting. Start off by greeting the guests and thanking them for coming to celebrate your daughter’s special day. You might also want to thank the groom’s parents for raising such an amazing son.

You could even throw in a little humor here by making a self-deprecating joke about how you’re not sure how you ended up with such an amazing daughter.

Share your memories. This is the perfect opportunity to share some personal anecdotes or special memories that you’ve shared with your daughter over the years. Make everyone laugh (or cry) with a funny or heartwarming story.

You might want to give the groom a little ribbing here by talking about how lucky he is to be marrying into such an amazing family.

Father of the Bride Speech Examples

Example 1: a traditional and emotional father of the bride speech.

I stand before you today as the proud and emotional father of the beautiful bride. My daughter [bride’s name] has grown into an amazing young woman and it brings me immense joy to give her away to the love of her life, [groom’s name].

When [groom’s name] entered our lives, I knew immediately he was the perfect match for my daughter. He is loving, caring, and adores [bride’s name] with all his heart. I have no doubt that he will make a wonderful husband and support [bride’s name] in all her endeavors.

Example 2: A lighthearted and humorous speech

Hello everyone,

[Groom’s name], you are one lucky guy. Not only do you get to marry the love of your life, but you also get to join our crazy family. Just be prepared for late night game nights and impromptu dance parties. You’ll fit right in, I have no doubt.

Example 3: A personalized and sentimental speech

Dear friends and family,

[Bride’s name], from the moment you were born, you have brought so much love and joy into my life. I am so proud of the person you have become and am grateful to be a part of this special day. Watching you grow into the amazing woman you are today has been one of the greatest joys of my life.

One of my favorite memories with [bride’s name] is the summer we spent traveling through Europe together. It was a wonderful opportunity for us to bond and make lasting memories. We visited so many incredible places, but my favorite was the week we spent in Italy. The food, the culture, the history – it was all just incredible. And while we may have gotten lost a few times and had to navigate some difficult language barriers, it was all worth it to spend that quality time with my daughter.

[Groom’s name], I know you and [bride’s name] will create many more special memories together in the years to come. I am confident you will always be there for each other, through the good times and the bad. You are the perfect match for each other and I am so excited to see what the future holds for you both.

So let’s raise a glass to the happy couple. [Bride’s name] and [groom’s name], may your love continue to grow and thrive as you embark on this new journey together. I love you both with all my heart.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i make my speech memorable.

A: The key to a memorable speech is to be yourself and let your love and pride for your daughter shine through in your words.

Consider including personal anecdotes or special memories that you’ve shared with your daughter over the years. This will help to make your speech more meaningful and memorable.

Incorporating a little bit of humor can also go a long way in making your speech stand out.

What should I avoid in my speech?

A: First and foremost, try to avoid using any offensive language or telling inappropriate jokes. This is a family-friendly occasion, after all!

Finally, try to avoid getting too long-winded or going off on tangents. It’s important to stay focused and on-topic to keep your speech engaging and enjoyable for your listeners.

Keep these things in mind and you’ll be well on your way to delivering a smooth and memorable speech.

When does the father of the bride give his speech?

Conclusion: keys to a successful father of the bride speech.

The father of the bride speech is a special and important moment on your daughter’s big day. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this post, and taking inspiration from the examples provided, you can craft a heartfelt and memorable speech that will be remembered for years to come.

Rosie Liliy

Hey there, lovely couples and fellow wedding fanatics! I’m Rosie, the managing editor at Magical Day Weddings, and I’m here to make your wedding planning journey a blast! As a lifelong lover of weddings, I’ve dabbled in everything from DIY decor to event planning. I believe that every love story deserves to be told in a way that captures its essence. From heartwarming vows to tear-jerking speeches, I’m here to help you create unforgettable memories on your journey to “I do!”

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In This Article

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Tips For Writing Great Father Of The Bride Speeches + Examples

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In this article about the father of the bride’s speech, we delve into the poignant moment of the wedding ceremony where a father expresses pride in his daughter and joy in the creation of a new family. The father’s speech is not only a moment of pride but also a significant expression of emotions as his daughter embarks on a new chapter, contributing to the formation of a family filled with love and happiness.

So, here are some tips for preparing your speech . Check out father of the bride speeches examples and tips below.

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How To Write Brilliant Father Of The Bride Speeches

Introduce yourself and welcome guests.

The first thing you want to do is introduce yourself. You can start with a joke if you want, but keep it short and clean!

Next, you want to formally welcome your guests including family members, friends, and other esteemed guests, including the groom’s parents and officiant. Thank them for coming and sharing in this important occasion.

Share Heart-Warming Stories From Bride’s Childhood

Endearing stories about the bride are the heart and soul of the father of the bride’s speech. You are one of the few people who has known her for her entire life so undoubtedly you have quite a few tender moments you could share. Also, you could talk about how you felt the day the bride was born and how she changed your life for the better.

Include some funny and touching moments from her childhood and teenage years. Tell her how proud of the woman she is today. Mention how you are happy that she found the love of her life (mention her husband here). Also, remember that her best friend may cover some of the same stories in her maid of honor speech so you may want to compare notes with her.

“Ladies and gentlemen, today, as I stand here with a heart full of joy and a touch of nostalgia, I can’t help but reminisce about the beautiful journey my daughter has had. From the moment she took her first steps to the day she walked into the arms of her soulmate, every step has been a testament to the incredible person she is.

I remember the day she was born, a bundle of joy that filled our lives with laughter and love. Her childhood was adorned with countless funny and touching moments—her infectious laughter, her determination, and even the occasional mischief that always managed to put a smile on our faces.

As she blossomed into the incredible woman she is today, finding her love in [husband’s name], my heart swells with pride. To witness the love that has grown between them is truly magical. So here’s to the little girl who changed my life for the better and to the remarkable woman she has become. Cheers to love, laughter, and a lifetime of happiness for [bride’s name] and [husband’s name].”

Talk About Your Son-in-Law

Next to talking about your daughter, speaking about your son-in-law is the most important part of your father-of-the-bride speech. Be sure to tell him how you feel about him and how much he means to your family.

You can incorporate some humor as well but try to keep it heart-warming. You could talk about the first time you met him, or how he has improved your daughter’s life. Lovingly and sincerely welcome him to your family.

“Ladies and gentlemen, if I may take a moment to express my sentiments about the remarkable man who now holds a special place in our family – my son-in-law, [son-in-law’s name]. From the first time we met, I could sense something extraordinary about him. Maybe it was the way he made my daughter laugh, or the kindness that radiated from him.

[son-in-law’s name], you’ve not only won my daughter’s heart but the hearts of our entire family. Your presence has brought an added layer of joy and completeness to our lives. I still remember the first time I saw you together, and I knew then that you were someone truly special.

So, with a heart full of gratitude and warmth, I want to officially welcome you to our family. May your journey with [bride’s name] be filled with love, laughter, and an abundance of cherished moments. Here’s to the wonderful man who has enriched our lives. Cheers!”

Add A Funny Story About Couple

At this point, you could include a funny story about the couple. Remember to keep it clean, and nothing too embarrassing. Making the newlywed’s blush and giggle is one thing. You don’t want to humiliate them or make them uncomfortable on their wedding day.

Funny anecdotes will keep the guests engaged in your father-of-the-bride speech. Perhaps you have a humorous story about the first time she brought him over for dinner. Or maybe something funny from the wedding preparations. Keep it light and appropriate.

“Ladies and gentlemen, let me share a little tale about our lovely couple that brings a smile to my face. It was the first time [son-in-law’s name] came over for dinner, and let’s just say, we had a slight kitchen mishap. I attempted to impress him with my culinary skills, and, well, the smoke detectors were equally impressed.

As the kitchen filled with a not-so-subtle haze, [bride’s name] and [son-in-law’s name] exchanged glances, and I thought, ‘Well, this is one way to make a lasting impression.’ Little did we know, that incident became a cherished story in our family, reminding us that laughter truly is the best seasoning.

Add A Few Words About Groom’s Parents

You should always include something about the groom’s parents in your speech. They are now part of your family, as you are part of theirs. You will be spending time with them during the holidays, birthdays and other joint family events. And you could even share in the blessing of future grandchildren.

Thank them for sharing in the big day and becoming part of your family, as well as any part they took in the wedding. Congratulate them on the fine job they did raising their son and how happy you are to welcome them all to your family.

“As we celebrate the union of [bride’s name] and [son-in-law’s name], it’s a joyous occasion not only for our family but for [son-in-law’s name]’s family as well. I want to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to [son-in-law’s mother’s name] and [son-in-law’s father’s name], who have warmly welcomed us into their lives.

Today marks the beginning of a shared journey, not just for [bride’s name] and [son-in-law’s name], but for our families joining together. To [son-in-law’s mother’s name] and [son-in-law’s father’s name], thank you for your kindness, love, and for the integral role you played in creating the wonderful person who now stands by my daughter’s side.

As we move forward, I look forward to the shared celebrations, the laughter, and the many beautiful moments that our families will create together. Here’s to the start of a new chapter for all of us.”

Talk About Your Own Love Story With Bride’s Mother

Do not neglect to introduce your wife, the bride’s mother. Share a brief story about how you met and your lives together. Tell her that you love her as much today as you did on your wedding day.

Thank her for her part in raising your daughter to be the beautiful woman she is today. Perhaps share a story of how much your daughter is like her mother. Spend a moment or two doting on your wife and then tie it to your daughter and her new husband.

“Ladies and gentlemen, amidst the celebration of [bride’s name] and [son-in-law’s name], I want to share a glimpse of the enduring love that anchors our family. A heartfelt thank you to my wonderful wife, [wife’s name], who has been my companion in this remarkable journey. From our ‘I do’ to the shared joys, she remains my constant. [wife’s name], your grace and strength have shaped [bride’s name] into the remarkable woman she is today. As we witness the next chapter unfold with [bride’s name] and [son-in-law’s name], I’m reminded of the beautiful love story that started with us. Cheers to enduring love!”

Finish With A Toast

In keeping with tradition, your father of the bride’s speech should end with a toast. Ask everyone to stand with me and raise their glasses to the happy couple on their wedding day.

The toast itself does not have to belong. In fact, it should not be longer than the speech itself. Just say a few short sentences congratulating the bride and groom and wishing them a happy life together. Use some examples of father-of-the-bride wedding toasts :

• Example 1: “Please stand with me and raise your glass to toast the happy couple. (Bride’s name) has been the light of my life for the past 25 years and today I hand her over to (groom’s name). I know he will love and cherish her every bit as much as I do a toast to a happy and healthy life full of endless love and laughter!”
• Example 2: “Please join me in a toast to _____ and _______. (Groom’s name), you have become like a son to me, and I am entrusting (bride’s name) to you. Cherish every moment you have together. Let us all wish the happy couple a lifetime of joy!”
• Example 3: “Please raise your glass to the newlyweds. When (bride’s name) was only 13 years old she told me that she wanted to marry (groom’s name). I watched them grow from happy and carefree teenagers to happy, loving and caring adults. Let’s offer a toast to many years of wedded bliss!”
• Example 4: “When (groom) first showed up at my front door, I never imagined he would be the one to steal my baby’s heart. But here we are today, and I couldn’t be happier for them. Let’s raise our glass to the (bride and groom) and wish them many years of happiness!”
• Example 5: “Please join my wife and I as we raise our glasses to the beautiful, kind, and loving couple. We welcome you to our family, and we look forward to many years of holiday dinners, family vacations, and late-night phone calls. Cheers to ___ and ___!”

Father Of The Bride Speeches: Examples And Template

Father of the bride speeches can be difficult to write, because it’s an emotional time for a father, and there is so much you might want to include in your speech However, with a few tips, you should be able to put down a beautiful speech that expresses your emotions perfectly, one that your daughter will be proud of.

Best Father Of The Bride Speeches

When preparing your speech, speak from your heart and be genuine. Don’t worry about trying to be funny or overly sentimental. Keep it concise, but meaningful. And don’t forget to practice beforehand so that you can deliver your words with confidence and ease. Your daughter will appreciate your heartfelt words, and you’ll create a memory that will last a lifetime.

“Good evening, everyone. For those who don’t know me, I’m the father of the bride. Today, I’m overflowing with emotions as I stand here to give this speech. I am incredibly proud of my daughter, and I couldn’t be happier that she has found such a wonderful partner in [groom’s name]. From the moment I met him, I knew he was the one for her. His kind heart and warm smile captured our hearts, and we welcome him with open arms into our family. My advice to the newlyweds is to always communicate, be honest with each other, and most importantly, never forget why you fell in love with each other. To my daughter, you will always be my little girl, and I will always be here to support and love you. So, let’s raise a glass to the newlyweds, wishing you a lifetime of love and happiness.”

Heartfelt Father Of The Bride Speech

Giving heartfelt and emotional father-of-the-bride speeches can really take it out of you. But, if you find the right words, and you aren’t afraid to let your emotions show, you should do well. “I am Allen, Scarlet’s father, as most of you know. This is my proudest and happiest moment, watching her today and being able to reflect on all the years I watched her grow up. She was the most beautiful baby, and I’m lucky to have been able to be with her and guide her as she grew into the magnificent woman that she is today. She captured my heart then, and she still holds it now, my beautiful girl, my sunshine. I will always be fortunate to be called your father. And as I watch her get married today, to such a wonderful young man, I can say that my happiness is full. I can’t say that I give the most brilliant father of the bride speeches as I have never had to give one, but I can say this with all confidence. The two of you are about to begin a long journey. One that will be filled with all the love and happiness I have seen between you both, and more. And while on this journey, know that I and your mother will be there on the sidelines, ready to assist with anything that you need to succeed. May you always be true to each other, and may you always be kind to each other. May you share in all of the burdens all of the joys and all the happiness that this world has in store for you both. I ask you all to join me in raising a toast to my beautiful daughter and her amazing husband. I wish them a long and happy life together. Love you both to the moon and back.”

Funny Father Of The Bride Speech

If humor comes naturally to you, then giving the funny father-of-the-bride speeches would be your forte. And, if you need some inspiration, here is a sample that could be helpful.

“Hello everyone, I’m the proud father of this lady right here, Sasha, and the spanking new father-in-law of the handsome man beside her, David. And I would have to say, if any of these names sound strange to you, then you are probably at the wrong wedding.

It was a little difficult writing my speech for today because at first, my wife recommended that I do not say anything embarrassing or stupid, and then late she suggested that I just be myself. Well, that’s hard and not confusing at all.

I must say that I have always looked forward to the day that someone would step forward and take Sasha and all her endless demands far away from me and my bank account. And I am so happy David, that you had the courage to do so, good man. In fact, although I question his tastes in football teams, I have never questioned his loyalty to my daughter, and my bank account agrees.

From the first day that I met David and his shiny new braces, I knew that any man who could care for his teeth like that, without shame, would be able to care for my daughter no matter the consequences. I have to admit that we’re all glad he’s present here today minus those dentures.

My advice to you both today is love and laughter. Although marriage is as serious as a mortgage and should be taken as seriously, just be sure to have fun. Life will bring its ups and downs, but as long as you remember to laugh at each other and with each other through it all, you will succeed.

I give you Sasha and David, the bride and groom.”

Short Father Of the Bride Speech

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While writing father of the bride speeches may not be a walk in the park, with the right sample father of the bride speeches to guide you, you are sure to succeed. Make your daughter proud on the most special day of her life.

“Just like childbirth, marriage marks a new beginning. One that we are overjoyed to witness in our family. From the day you captured my heart as a newborn, to today when I walked you down the aisle, I have never stopped feeling grateful that you call me Papa. I hope that I have always lived up to your expectations, just as your husband will as you begin this journey together.

I am happy for the union of these two families as the [Bride] and [Groom] begin a brand new family of their own. And I am proud that my daughter has grown into this amazing woman and that she met a man who is just as amazing. I love you son. This is my wish that you build your lives together and enjoy a relationship like no other.

I offer you my warmest wishes and congratulations on this beautiful and joyous day. Please join me as we raise our glasses to the bride and groom. May your lives be filled with love and laughter always.”

Here is an example of a father of the bride speech to help you with your preparations for your wedding speech .

Things To Avoid In Father of The Bride Speech

If you have ever given a best man speech , you might have some idea as to where to start. However, there are some differences to take heed to the following advice.

• Avoid inappropriate jokes or stories: Stay away from anything that could embarrass or offend the couple or guests.
• Steer clear of excessive personal anecdotes: Focus on the couple rather than sharing too many personal stories unrelated to their special day.
• Don’t make it too long: Keep your speech concise to maintain interest and prevent it from becoming tedious.
• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption: Maintain clarity and composure by limiting alcohol intake before delivering your speech.
• Don’t overshadow the groom: Ensure the speech is balanced, acknowledging the groom’s role and expressing warm sentiments toward him.
• Avoid controversial or sensitive topics: Steer clear of divisive subjects that could create discomfort or tension among guests.

Wedding Speech vs. Wedding Toast: What’s the Difference?

A wedding toast is a statement of good wishes to the couple that often ends with the raising of glasses, clinking, and drinking. It usually comes at the end of a speech but can also stand independently. A speech is often longer than a toast and often tells a story.

Is it OK to read the father of the bride speech?

It is okay to read the father of the bride speech. No one is required to get a certificate in public speaking before giving wedding speeches, so it’s fine to have notes as long as you have at least practiced beforehand.

How long should the father of the bride speech be?

Typically, the speech itself should be around 5 minutes.

What Should A Father Of The Bride Speech Include?

A father of the bride speech should include a warm welcome, anecdotes about the bride, words of wisdom, a heartfelt blessing for the couple, and a memorable toast. It should express love, pride, and best wishes for the newlyweds.

Keep these tips for writing a father of the bride speeches when you are composing your own speech. Take the time to practice in front of your wife, a friend or even a camera. Just speak from the heart and you will be fine!

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Father of the Bride Speech Guide with Examples

As a father, it’s an emotional moment when your daughter is getting married and there are sure to be tons of wonderful, funny, and sentimental experiences that you may want to include in your “Father of the Bride” speech. 

It is the moment at most weddings that guests know to grab some tissues because it’s almost impossible not to have a few tears. As her wedding day grows closer, you should sit down and write a speech that you are proud of and that your daughter will cherish forever. 

While it might seem impossible to find the perfect words that express your feelings, it’s absolutely those emotions that are often the star of the show. Delivering a great father of the bride speech can be nerve-racking, following some basic toast rules should help ease the nerves. Check out these fantastic speeches for Dads.

What Makes A Good “Father Of The Bride” Speech?

The father of the bride toast typically kicks off all of the wedding speeches . And since you’re the first, you’re going to want it to be engaging so that you can captivate the crowd’s attention. The key to writing a good or great father of the bride speech is to just speak from the heart. 

Of course, you should put some thought into it beforehand and have it written down so that you don’t forget any essential parts. But your real memories and raw emotions are what need to be shared. 

Tips On What To Include In Your Father Of The Bride Speech

• Introduce Yourself (a no-brainer, we know, but the nerves may make you forget too)
• Thank Your Spouse, Groom’s Parents, Officiant & Other Vendors
• Praise Your Daughter
• Share A Story & Don’t Forget To Include The Groom.
• Add-In Some Fatherly Wisdom
• Thank The Guests For Their Attendance
• Add Some Humor But Avoid Inside Jokes
• Don’t Get “Too” Emotional.
• Congratulate the Couple
• Raise The First Toast

To help you get your creative juices flowing, we pulled together a collection of wedding speeches for the father of the bride that we like. These are sure to help you write a flawless, kick-ass father of the bride toast. 

Father of the Bride Wedding Speech Examples

Pride and happiness.

“As I look at my daughter, the bride, I can’t help but reflect on all the years I was lucky enough to watch her grow and become the beautiful woman she is today. She captured my heart on the day she was born, and I became more and more in awe of her as the years passed by. She’s my little girl, my princess, and my ray of sunlight, and no matter what her age, she’ll always be those things to me.

But today, as I watch her marry a wonderful man, I’m filled with pride and am confident that she and (Groom) are about to embark on a beautiful journey filled with the love and happiness that can only come as man and wife. May the two of you always treat each other with love, compassion, and kindness.

I ask you to join me today in congratulating the bride and groom and wishing them all the best for a long and happy life together.”

Greatest Father of the Bride Speech With Incredible Introduction

This is an example of the most hyped introduction of the Father of the Bride and an incredible speech filled with humor, love, and raw emotions. And this dad even wants the groom to take the bride’s last name. 

A Father’s Love

“Hi, I’m (Father’s Name), (Bride’s) father. I have been waiting for this moment for twenty-five years, and I must say that it is one of the most difficult things I have ever had to do. Although it is overwhelming to give your daughter away, it is so satisfying to know that she is marrying one of the greatest men I’ve ever met. If I had to choose someone for her to be with, I would not pick anyone else.

(Bride) has always been the type of person to find a good quality in everyone. Even when she was a little girl, she had such a large amount of compassion that it blew me away. From the time she was old enough to go to school, (Bride) made friends with every single person in her class. It didn’t matter if one child was not popular or if the other was too quiet; she found the best in every student that year. It surprised me that she was so sensitive yet made people feel like they had known her for years.

Since she has always had that quality, I was not surprised when she went into nursing. She thrived off of the fact that she could help people and save their lives. From that moment, she worked more for other people than herself. I always wished she would find a husband so she could do more for herself. Luckily, I introduced (Groom) to (Bride) when he started working for my company. I wanted someone who was just as warm-hearted as her but still had a great work ethic and a sense of determination. Even though (Bride) was appalled at the fact that I, her father, set her up on a date, I think she can thank me for it now. After all, I am the perfect matchmaker!

(Bride), although I have been cringing at the thought of letting you go, I could not be happier for my little girl. I have watched you go through school, around the clock internships, boyfriends, and breakups, and now I know that it was all worth it. I only wish the best for the both of you, and I know that you will have a beautiful marriage that will never once waiver.

(Groom), I am confident that you will take care of my daughter. You have been a dear friend and co-worker of mine for years now, and since day one, my impression of you has not once changed. Thank you for treating my daughter like gold. I know in my heart that you will be the perfect match, regardless of what happens later in life.

For this reason, I would like to make a toast. (Bride and Groom), may the future bring you happiness, wisdom, and children so I can be a grandfather! But in all seriousness, I give you my wholehearted blessing, and I know you two will last a lifetime. I am so happy that this day has finally come.

Congratulations (Bride and Groom)!”

Father Of The Bride Speech Hilariously Roasting The Groom

We love this father of the bride speech. A little roast for the groom and some heartfelt memories and sentiments for the couple. 

Prince Charming

“I raise my glass to toast my daughter (Bride’s name). She’s dreamed of this day since she was a young girl, and now her dream has come true, complete with her very own Prince Charming. (Bride & Groom), I wish you much love and happiness in your new life together.”

Loving Memories

“As I look at this beautiful woman before me in the lovely wedding gown, I can’t help but reflect on the girl she was and the woman she has become. She became “Daddy’s Girl” on the day she was born and has always been a princess to me. All through her life, she has brought joy to her mother and me, and while not every day has been perfect, the love I feel for her has been.

And today, she has joined hands with a wonderful young man, and in addition to the sparkle I have always seen in her eyes, today I see love and joy there beyond anything I have seen thus far. She and [Groom] today have completed each other as they become a new family unit.

Please join me today in wishing [Bride] and [Groom] every happiness possible and long and joyful life together as husband and wife.”

Inspirational

“Marriages, like births, mark a new beginning. The day I drove home from the hospital after [Bride] was born was a new beginning for me. To be the father of a daughter seemed a bit overwhelming, but anticipation for her life and for our relationship helped me overcome my fears and work hard to be a father worthy of such a daughter.

Today, we stand at another new beginning as [Bride] and [Groom] start a brand new family. Like me, they are probably filled with a feeling of being a little overwhelmed at it all, but those feelings will melt away in large part as they anticipate their new life together and as they build a relationship that will stand the test of time.”

Be true to each other always; share your joys and your burdens; love much and laugh much; be each other’s best friend. Always speak well of one another, even in private. And when things don’t go well, forgive as often as it is required. Married life is an adventure, and you embark today on that adventure together. Even though you are individuals, your covenant today makes the couple more important than either of you separately.

One day, if you are fortunate as I have been, you will stand in awe of a new life entering your family. That will be another beginning, filled with apprehension and anticipation. Bring to that relationship the same level of love and commitment you do to your marriage, and you will find joy beyond compare.

So today, your friends and family surround you as you begin something new and marvelous. Remember your promises, keep them with all your heart, and you will have that sense of joy and wonder that exceeds all you have heretofore known. With all my heart, I offer you my congratulations and warmest wishes as you begin the latest adventure life has to offer.”

A Humorous Touch

‘This is an important day for me… as I resuscitate my bank account and hand over Sarah’s spending habits to someone else.’

‘The good thing about weddings is that, as father-of-the-bride, you can show everyone how generous you are. I wanted to give you all an itemized bill so that you could see for yourselves how much these flowers cost, but Angela told me that it was not the done thing… as she slid into her astronomically-priced hat!’

‘Seriously, I have looked forward to this day for years. Sarah makes a stunning bride, John is a good man, and I wish them every happiness for the future. If they are even half as happy as my wife and I, then they will be very happy indeed.’

‘Marriage is an important commitment, so much so that you need a mortgage to pay for it! But it takes more than that. It needs patience and compromise, and I should know – I’ve been patiently compromising for years!’

‘Bob’s just looked at his watch, which is the signal that he needs a drink, so, ladies and gentlemen, please be upstanding. I give you… the bride and groom.’

A Gift from God

“A toast to my daughter. She was a gift from God, and I will always be grateful to have been given the honor of being her father. May God continue to bless her and her new husband and grant them safety, love, and happiness all the days of their lives.”

Father of the Bride Speech Examples

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(*Of course, if you’re looking for more than ‘advice’, check out all the different ways the Speechy team can help you write & deliver a great speech. Or check out our new AI-powered team member, SpeechyAI .)

Lessons from our speech examples

• Length  – no more than 1,300 words
• Structure  – Don’t begin with the thank-yous, start with the stories and hook in your audience
• Resist Googled-gags, cliches, and platitudes – focus on good storytelling
• Pepper the speech with humour throughout
• Remember to thank the mother of the bride and your new in-laws
• Have the sentimental summary towards the end of your speech

Ultimately though, every speech should be unique and tailored to the individual speaker’s style.

For obvious reasons, we cannot share the full range of speeches we write for our clients but these are generic (and made-up) speeches to give you an idea of a good structure.

Your speech may be more sentimental, shorter, or poetic. Crucially, it needs to be more YOU!

Father of the Bride Speech Example 1 – Fergus

NB – This speech was created by SpeechyAI using the Speechy writing principles.

Greetings and Welcome

Hello everyone and welcome! For those of you who don’t know me, I’m Fergus, Sarah’s father… and as her number one fan, I’ve been elected to take on the role of chief speech-giver today. Now, I know what you’re all thinking… An accountant giving a speech, likely to be riveting, right? Well, you’re in luck because today I’ve swapped my calculator for a microphone, brought my best dad jokes, and learned some words that have nothing to do with pensions, taxes, or annual returns. Let’s hope it all adds up! Now my job today is an important one – it’s to share some amazing stories about a pretty remarkable young woman. So get comfortable, look around at the lovely faces here today, and let’s get ready for a glimpse into the extraordinary life of my daughter, Sarah.

Tribute to the Bride

From the start, she refused to be anything except punctual and tidy, traits that were a stark contrast to her brother, Liam! She loved science – fuelled by exploding objects in the garden with her mother, Nicola – and she bore a childhood dream to be a scientist. An accountant would have been a more practical ambition but alas, I digress!

My friends, Sarah was born an old soul. Back then, most children would spend hours running around or making a mess, while Sarah indulged in more… well, let’s call her interests the “early retirement” type. I’m talking chunky history books, the game of chess, and not to forget, her fondness for an early bed. Some might say well-behaved, I say she was training us for our golden years prematurely.

Today, she has an amazing career with GCHQ, though to be honest, I have no idea what she actually does there! And in her limited spare time – Sarah has a tendency to pack her schedule tighter than my tax return spreadsheet – she enjoys yoga, abseiling, choir singing, vaping when stressed (something only accountants should be doing!), and failing spectacularly at cooking poached eggs.

For Sarah, life has never been about competing, it’s always been about knowledge, compassion and how to figure out a metal detector. Trust me, nothing bonds a family like huddling together around a rusty beer can from the ’70s and treating it like buried treasure. This was our lives for many winters.

I’ve always seen so much of myself in Sarah. We share a musical talent, even if age has cruelly taken some of mine away! But, she also inherited her mother’s determination, intelligence, and gusto, qualities that made her unstoppable from the get-go.

Of course, nobody’s perfect, and Sarah was not an exception. Her greatest failing? Sporting abilities. School sports day boiled down to, for Sarah, strong determination versus the reality of eggs dropping off spoons and finish lines always seeming too far away. Her heart was committed but her feet got the message too late. Forgive me for laughing, I was just too proud of her for always being the best sport, even if she wasn’t always the best at sports!

Tribute to the Bride’s Partner

Now, let’s turn our attention to the other person who makes Sarah’s life interesting, Ethan. When Sarah introduced us to Ethan, we knew she had found someone special. Not only did he dress better than me, he was also impeccably well-mannered! Although he’s outdoorsy, sings like a bird, and suspiciously avoids a gym…he seems almost too brilliant. Look at him, people, smug in his tweed jacket. He even has that proper British essential, a Whippet! What’s not to admire?

Sarah and Ethan are so clearly well suited; both intelligent and caring, loving nothing more than chatting about world politics and an intense round of board games. The only difference is, Sarah loves a good Zumba workout and Ethan… well, doesn’t. At all. But, I will say, Ethan, my advice to you is this: keep up with Sarah. She’s like a whirlwind of energy wrapped in the latest running gear.

Tributes to Others and the Dearly Departed

Today has already been a wonderful one, but it’s on days like these that we most miss those who are absent, especially Sarah’s Grandpa, Ivor. He was a special man who had a deep bond with Sarah. Grandpa Ivor loved a good crossword and would have been so stoked to see Ethan and Sarah tying the knot. So, please join me in a toast to absent friends and dearly departed.

On this special day, I want to express my gratitude to some key people who raised these wonderful kids. First, I must shine a light on Nicola, Sarah’s mother. Her creativity, wit, and spirit formed an unbreakable bond with both Sarah and Liam, and for that, I’m eternally grateful. Second, to Jennifer and Ross Wise, for raising such a gentleman in Ethan. Lastly, a special shoutout to all of Ethan’s family who made the long journey down from Aberdeen.

Sentimental Conclusion and Toast

Sarah, you bring pride and joy to my life. I know you and Ethan are going to build a beautiful future together. In the words of your younger self, I hope that your life together is “organized, tidy, and always punctual!” I would now like to ask everyone to raise their glasses, to Sarah and Ethan, may they always find happiness, peace, and love in their shared journey.

To Sarah and Ethan

Father of the Bride Speech Example 2- Aaron, same-sex wedding speech

Good evening everyone. For those of you who may not know me, I’m Aaron, owner of a dusty hard hat and a construction business, but also holder of a more prestigious title today, The Father of the Bride. Now, I’ve built many things in my time, but no project has been as wonderfully challenging and consistently over budget as our beautiful Kayla.

I am delighted to see so many familiar faces here, helping us mark this special day. You all mean a lot to both Kayla and Hannah, so for just one day, pretend to enjoy my speech!

Tribute to the Bride – Kayla

Kayla somersaulted into the world back in August ’97 and has never sat still since. By five, she’d already acquired the nickname, Bendy-boo, due to her remarkable ability to… well, bend. It was like she’d been born without bones. A walking, talking strand of spaghetti – and not the al dente sort.

Whether she was eating, doing her homework, or watching TV – she’d still be doing cartwheels over the sofa, backflips over the coffee table, or using the breakfast bench to perfect her bridges.  Quite frankly, she was exhausting. And not just physically, but mentality too.

Hell, she could talk. And not just to me, but to everyone . Whenever we left the house, she’d dive headfirst into in-depth conversations with neighbourhood strangers or older ladies on park benches. By the age of five, she seemed to know everyone in town. Delivery drivers stopped knocking on our door, in case young Kayla answered and held them hostage with her chat.

But, despite her fearsome reputation, Kayla was always a very caring child. You won’t be surprised to hear, she was environmentally conscious from a young age. She fixed things rather than throwing them out. She buried her goldfish, rather than flushing him down the toilet. And she’d spend an hour every week sorting through our garbage, making sure it was ready to be recycled. And then gathering the family to try to expose who had put some hard molded plastics in the plastic container. (put a hand up guiltily) It was always me who had to confess.

Kayla has always been a force of nature and her love for adventure and her commitment to a sustainable life make me very proud. Fuelled by mischief, occasional reckless courage, and a solid diet of burgers and chicken wings, she’s lived her life with passion and determination.

As her dad, watching Kayla was like a spectator sport. There have been countless falls, impressive stunts, and even some hair-raising injuries but Kayla has acquired them all with a smile on her face. What do they say in the Netherlands? If your child hasn’t broken a bone by the time they’re 18, then you have failed as a parent. Well, myself and Michelle obviously excelled ourselves as Kayla broke three bones and fractured a couple too. And all before she was 13.  

Kayla’s teenage years weren’t without its speed bumps and potholes, and she was adamant she wanted a motorbike. I remember we put our foot down on that one, and in protest, she ran away from home. Half a mile down the road to her Grandma and Pops. You see, as much as Kayla is an adventurer, she’s a homebird too.

I couldn’t have been prouder when Kayla graduated and almost immediately, started work as an environmental scientist for one of the world’s best eco-charities. She gets to travel a lot with work, but she’s never away for too long. And while other dads can say their daughters have changed their lives, I can say my daughter has changed the world !   

Tribute to the Bride’s Partner – Hannah

Knowing how unique my daughter is, I could never quite imagine a partner who could match her. Who could keep up with all her conversation points? Who could stand back and smile as she abseils down the highest open-air building ascent in the world? Who could eat her spicey chilli without thinking she’s trying to kill you?

Well that woman, was Hannah. An equally unique and incredible woman.

They met at their work’s summer party where they discovered an equal passion for a free bar! Hannah, you know, is more serene than our daredevil; she typically prefers the safety of solid ground and a good book while Kayla goes about her wild escapades. But, their shared love for the outdoors and commitment to a sustainable life is undeniably evident.

Hannah, you’ve brought peace and grounding into Kayla’s whirlwind. And Kayla, you’ve managed to bring out that glorious hint of mischievousness in Hannah. Hannah, you add a measure of calm to Kayla’s chaos, and for that, I will always be grateful.

Tributes to Others, and the Dearly Departed

As we celebrate today, it would be remiss not to mention the extraordinary role Michelle, Kayla’s mum, played. We’ve been running the good-cop, bad-cop game for years, and somehow, Kayla still adores us both. My warm thanks also goes to my current wife, Tia, for embracing Kayla and giving her someone else to torment in our beautiful, blended family.

Now, there are some much-loved faces absent today – one being Hannah’s Dad, Robert. Judging by the remarkable woman his daughter has become, he surely would have been ecstatic on this day. So, please raise your glass with me to absent friends and those we dearly miss.

Sentimental Conclusion & Toast

As we move towards the end, let me tell you that walking my Bendy-Boo down the aisle has been an honour, and seeing her find her soulmate, a pure joy. Hannah, welcome to our nutty family.

Finally, let’s toast to a blessed marriage filled with somersaults, spicy sauces, and cocktails drunk with sustainable straws. May your shared adventures be as beautiful and vibrant as the both of you.

Raise your glasses please, to Kayla and Hannah.

Father of the Bride Speech Example 3 – Stepfather Alex

Good evening, everyone, and thank you for joining us here at the stunning Signet Library, a location ornate enough to match Sophia’s carefully curated handbag collection.

I’m Alex, Sophia’s significantly less stylish stepdad. I have the privilege of sharing a few words about the first half of this dynamic duo – the High Priestess of Excel Spreadsheets herself, Sophia. Buckle in, folks, this is a woman who, even as a child, made her teddy bears follow a strict seating plan.

Tribute to the Bride – Sophia

Today has been an emotional day. At various points, I think I’ve been more nervous than I’ve ever been and more proud than I’ve ever been. Walking you down the aisle Sophia was a dream – you look so beautiful today and I could see from Alex’s face that he felt the overwhelming pride in you that I do.  I’ve spoken to a number of your friends and family while writing this speech and I think the warmth and the love that I’ve felt today is a great reflection on how people feel about you as a couple. You bring us all joy and always leave a smile on our faces – even when you’re bossing us about, Sophia!  

When I first met Sophia, I was struck by her energetic spirit and her affinity for dictating the rules of Snakes and Ladders. As a five-year-old, her charisma was off the charts, a harbinger of the assertive, vibrant woman she would grow into. Brothers and sisters, parents and friends, I can confidently say life has never been dull since our paths crossed.

I have many magical memories of Sophia. And strangely, several of them involve drinking together… (raise your glass, eyebrow raise)

The first one is probably the finest drink I’ve ever had. This wasn’t a glass of wine or a beautiful scotch. This was a cup of tea, served in a tiny pink plastic cup. If I’m honest, the drink didn’t even exist, as it was at her teddy bear’s picnic.

I remember it was probably a month after I’d moved in with the girl and I came home from work and was invited over to join in the tea party.

On my best behaviour, I sat on the tiny little chair and Sophia served me a cup of tea, with a drop of milk and several slices of pizza. Sadly all invisible and rather tasteless. Still, I sat there, happily slurping away and chatting nonsense for a good thirty minutes before walking away and realizing it was the best restaurant I’d been to in ages.

On a more significant level, I also recognized how much I loved having two beautiful children suddenly in my life. That tea party was, perhaps, the first pang of true love that I felt for the girls; a feeling that has only multiplied over the years.

The next drink I’d like to tell you about is the champagne we shared after Sophia’s graduation, a wonderful day that will live on in my memory as one of life’s highlights.

Of course, it was no surprise to any of us that Sophia would choose to be a teacher. She’s a rules-loving force of nature, and her skills as an inspirational teacher reverberate beyond her classroom’s confines. Over the years, she’s shown impressive dedication to improving not only herself but those around her. And let that be a warning to you Ross!

I still remember the time she tried to give me a haircut. She was 19 – so I trusted her – but I looked like I’d been styled by an out of control toddler. Pam couldn’t stop laughing. But I was too scared to utter much more than a ‘lovely’ in the mirror before running away to the barbers.

Next, another drink I’ve enjoyed with Sophia; a lukewarm, overpriced beer in a plastic cup. I think it was about £7, it tasted awful but it was pure joy and attending a Kylie concert together will forever be one of my favourite memories. Just picture it, yours truly with a gaggle of youngsters, belting out “Spinning Around,” unashamedly out-singing everyone. Shameful? Yes. But brilliant nevertheless.

The final drink I’d like to honour is this one (raise glass). My future toast to the happy couple. Me and Pam couldn’t have imagined anyone more suited to our girl than Ross.

Tribute to the Bride’s Partner – Ross

Their meeting in the gym now seems almost symbolic. Sophia, a woman who consistently approaches life with all guns blazing, paired with Ross, a light-hearted charmer with a golf swing as mighty as his heart. Unlike Sophia’s gym membership, her relationship with Ross quickly escalated, proving that sometimes love found in the most unexpected places.

At this point, I’d like to also offer a special thank you to my beautiful wife, Pamela – who I met when she was lost and I knew the way. If you’ll allow an old man a moment of sentimentality, she means the absolute world to me. She’s been my wife, my friend, and my partner in crime for over two decades now and she hasn’t moaned once. She has been a wonderful mother to Sophia and Anna, and someone I not only care for but have always looked up to. So, Pamela, thank you for everything. (raise glass) We did it!

To Ross’s parents, Rebecca and Marcus. Firstly: welcome to the family! And also, I’d like to offer a quick thank you for bringing up such a caring, and altruistic son. Parenthood is never easy, but from the first time I met Ross, I could tell you’ve done a top job.

Sentimental Summary & Toast

Finally, Sophia, as you step into this new chapter, my heart swells with relentless pride.

So, folks, grab your glasses and get on your feet. Let’s raise a toast to an extraordinary couple, my stepdaughter Sophia, and her husband Ross. May your life together be as thrilling as a Kylie concert and as caring as a five-year-old girl serving invisible tea to her teddies.

To Sophia and Ross.

Further advice

If you are looking for further help please read our father of the bride speech advice , stepfather of the bride speech advice , South Asian FOB advice and advice on writing the speech when you don’t like the groom ! We have also written father of the bride jokes , rhyming FOB speeches and advice on structure .

Our services

If you want more than to read advice, please download father of the bride speech template or stepfather of bride template . We have also built SpeechyAI who is like your most intelligent, creative friend and can help you write the speech. Have a look at the examples of father of the bride speeches created by SpeechyAI . Using this tool, you will have a speech in an hour or two. Job done!

You can find all our father of the bride speech services here .

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Our advice has been quoted everywhere from  The New York Times  to  Grazia  and from Forbes to The Observer . Our founder has also featured on the  BBC Sounds’ Best Men podcast with Jason Manford and written ‘ The Modern Couple’s Guide to Wedding Speeches’ , published by Little, Brown.

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Effortless Wedding Speeches

3 Easy Steps To The Perfect Father Of The Bride Speech

The time has finally arrived. You’re baby-girl is on her way to get married and you now need to sit down and compile a unique, supportive and yet moving Father of the bride speech.

How fast has time flown by…

When she was born and first placed into your hands, she was your most prized accomplishment. You looked after, protected her and guided her to the best of your abilities- through thick and thin.

You watched over her social life and ensured that any boys hanging around knew about you! Perhaps you weren’t easily impressed by who she initially brought home.

You’ve shielded her from boys which looked like they had impure intentions- after all, as her father, you could see these things clearer than she ever could.

But now she has found the perfect guy for her. He loves her so much that he will give his life for her- just as you probably would.

And, she has said yes to a new chapter in her life, and sometimes letting go may affect what you would really want to say.

So, how do you put together the perfect father of the bride speech that is heart warming, flows well and maybe injects a little humor too?

Don’t worry- we will show you exactly how and help you craft the best speech!

How To Begin Your Father Of The Bride Speech

Step 1: introduction to your father of bride speech.

Beginning is actually the easiest part. In fact, if you’ve listened to a couple of father of the bride speeches before, you’ll notice they generally follow this same trend…

Just a simple greeting to start- maybe a one-liner funny line or a nice welcoming quote about weddings in general.

But this is the part about getting the nerves and emotions out of the way for you. So where do you begin? A shot (if you will) and a deep breath and you’re best smile can muster.

Then, it would be nice to start with words of gratitude and say it aloud. A strong suggestion to begin with “I would like to thank everyone for”. It is inclusive, and sends a positive note to all in the room. You start with thanks as your closing later will be covering something else…

Step 2: 3  Steps For The Body Of Your Father Of The Bride Speech

So, let’s go through the steps that you will need to cover that will make up the majority of your speech.

List down memories that highlight your love for your daughter.

This needs to ring clear as a bell. Write it down so you can rank and choose later. But you don’t want to cover them all, just choose one or two that is really close to both your hearts and one you feel everyone else will also appreciate.

List down qualities your daughter has valued in her adult life, this will guide you in further clarifying which memories to use

Once you have the list too you’ll know which memory or two links best to the qualities of your daughter that you’d like to highlight.

It’ll allow you to take this moment to show how much you value her and how proud you are of her.

How well do you know the groom and his family? Getting a good backgrounder will be very useful now.

This is important as it will allow you to connect with the groom’s side of the family too. It will give you the chance to show that you recognize them and welcome them as your families unite through this union. (Wow that sounded almost medieval prince & princesses)

If you don’t know a whole lot about the grooms family, be sure to get in contact with your daughter to find out. Don’t be lazy and skip this! This family will become a big part of your life after the big day passes.

Knowing these steps above as accurately as possible will provide you with a clear direction on how to create the body of your speech and whether you need to present yourself as a more formal Father of the Bride

Critical Things To Remember/Avoid From The Perfect Father Of The Bride Speech…

Now that you’ve had some tips on how to start it off, it is very important to avoid the following.

• Crass and coarse humor. Even in an intimate family gathering . You are the father of the bride (I’ll keep saying it), and the smart money says bet on mild humor in these situations.
• In cases where there is a bad breakup in the family history, do not go there.
• This is your daughter’s wedding and it is a happy day. Keep the subject matter positive
• Being sensitive to these will prevent you from making a speech that may embarrass any of the parties present
• Check your notes on the guest list.

Multi-cultural? Multi denominational?

If so, review your references to make sure none of the guests are offended

• Don’t give in to the thought of “winging” a part of the speech.

Complete it, and stick to it. It will help you keep control if some untoward thing happens during the wedding or when you are in the middle of the speech.

It is critical to come across with your message, and that your message is clear. You love your daughter, and wish her all the happiness in the world.

And she will surely remember this special day for her for a long time, and will definitely keep close to heart what you have to say to her on this day… So make it a fond memory for her, one that she will be proud of and thankful for.

Step 3: Finding the Right Way to Conclude Your Speech

For this speech and for that day, you have to come out as who you exactly were in your daughter’s life.

You most likely were the Wall and the Moat, the Bear, the Dragon, the owner of unbelievably large hands and arms that can toss a person to the sky and catch with ease.

You had been Merlin, Arthur, Kal-El, Galahad, Dragon slayer, and sometimes a tea party guest.

Now you are giving her hand away, and a strong positive speech ensures that everyone present understands that.

• Work the end of the speech as a welcome to the start of a new adventure for your daughter and the notes you have about your son in law will help you make it an inclusive one.
• A lot of Father of the Bride speeches fail in this area, focusing only on the daughter as she is better known
• Making it something that covers the couple will send a very strong message of support
• Tell your daughter one more time that you love her, and by extension, you’ve gained a son.
• As you started with words of gratitude, close with a request for support for the newly wedded couple. Ask for a round of applause or clinking of glasses for the guests to show their agreement.

The points above should allow you to craft a strong and positively worded speech one that fits the occasion where a great Dad consents to the man her daughter has agreed to wed. Good luck and have fun writing your father of the bride speech.

Want To Guarantee An Amazing Speech For Your Little Girls Big Day?

If you want to ensure that you absolutely ‘nail’ your speech and really impress all those in attendance, I recommend that you check out the follow resource to help further:

(Note: When you click the link, you’ll need to select “Father Of The Bride” for the appropriate resource.)

The Wedding Secret Magazine

Tips and advice for planning your big day

• Great British Summer Weddings at Heritage Parks 14/05/2024
• We love Titchwell Manor’s rebrand! 12/05/2022

How to Give a Perfect Father of the Bride Speech

Dads, it’s the article you’ve been waiting for! Your little girl is getting married and, as tradition dictates, she’ll be looking to you at the reception to give a Father of the Bride speech worthy of your love for her and which will contribute to the overall success of her big day. So, no pressure.

We know it’s hard. You’ll inevitably feel a lot of emotions after giving your daughter away at the altar. And, if you’re not au fait with public speaking, it’s probably difficult for you to imagine what it will feel like to get up and have to speak in front of a room full of people.

Expert advice on how to put together a loving and funny (and not embarrassing) Father of the Bride speech

In the traditional line-up of wedding speeches, yours will come first and will be the warm-up for the others. Therefore, it’s important you help your fellow speech givers.

To help you write the perfect Father of the Bride speech, we’ve compiled a helpful list of things to mention. We’ve spoken to some speechwriting pros to give you expert advice to remember when toasting your daughter and new son-in-law.

The Structure

Introduce yourself.

Most people in the room may know who you are, especially if you walked the bride down the aisle. Therefore, don’t make your introduction too robotic. If you say something like, “Hi, everyone, I’m Robert, and I’m Anna’s dad,” you will sound like you’re in an AA meeting. Make it conversational and be friendly.

Don’t start with a joke, though, says Robin of  The Wedding Speech Guru :

“The first line needs to be said with confidence and it could be anything, but I advise people against coming up with a gag is because it devalues the rest of the speech. For a Father of the Bride speech to be successful, it needs to be authentic.”

Welcome everyone

This will likely be done by all the speakers after you, but that shouldn’t stop you from saying it as well. In fact, especially if you and the bride’s mother are the hosts, yours might be the most important welcome.

It’s important to your daughter that everyone in attendance is there, and it should be to you as well! So take a brief moment to welcome them and to thank them for coming along. Many Fathers of the Bride thank those from furthest afield, for example guests who have flown in from Australia. Decide how you want to welcome everyone.

Your daughter

Today is about her, and your speech should be about her, too. Don’t be afraid to roast her (a little bit), especially if she made you pay for the wedding! But, believe it or not, no one wants to hear stories about her running around naked as a kid. There’s a fine line between making light fun of her and embarrassing her.

“I’ve seen it before,” says Adam of  Adaptable Speechwriting , “and what a dad may find funny can sometimes rub people up the wrong way and is not worth the risk.” Robin agrees, and even goes on to say that, “Anything that might embarrass her is strictly off-limits.”

Make gentle jabs at her teenage years or her poor taste in music when she was younger. But, if there’s one thing that all of the speechwriters we interviewed agree on, it’s this: do not mention ex-boyfriends.

Your son-in-law

Your Father of the Bride speech is the ideal moment to formally welcome your daughter’s new husband to the family. And, perhaps more importantly, it’s the time to put aside any negative feelings you may have about him.

If you two have a good relationship, some light joking here may be appropriate. If not, then take advice from Eddie of  Custom Speechwriting . “Wedding toasts should be truthful but they don’t need to tell all of the truth,” Eddie says. “The Father of the Bride in this situation should focus on the positive aspects of the new son-in-law; if that’s challenging, he should ask his daughter what she sees in him and what he does to make her happy. Use those reasons to talk about why they will be a great couple.”

Your daughter has just married this man, therefore let bygones be bygones and accept he is part of your family.

The bride’s mother and your new in-laws

Whether or not you and the Mother of the Bride are still together, taking the time to acknowledge her and the hand she had in raising your daughter is gracious and goes a long way. You may also wish to thank her for the part she played in organising the wedding.

When it comes to acknowledging the groom’s parents, think short and sweet, especially if you don’t know them very well. “Sometimes it’s just best to acknowledge the fact they don’t know each other too well, it can also be an opportunity to say something warming towards them and get some form of a relationship going,” says Adam (Adaptable Speechwriting). Use this as an opportunity to start building bridges.

Wisdom for the newlyweds

As you are typically the oldest of the traditional speakers, it’s up to you to impart some wisdom and marital advice. This could be a good opportunity for a joke at the expense of your other half (if you’re confident it’ll go down well). But, above all, keep it appropriate!

Moreover, remember not to get too intense. This isn’t The Godfather and you’re not Don Corleone.

Finish up with a toast to the newlyweds and to their happiness. Keep it simple and loving. This should be the easiest part of your Father of the Bride speech! Be genuine.

Yours is the first of the speeches, so, as important as your speech is, keep it short. The guests will know that yours is just the first speech of several so might get fidgety. This is especially true if speeches come before the wedding breakfast! Brevity is bound to earn you praise, so try to stick to around 5-7 minutes. Time yourself beforehand just to make sure.

You’re not a stand-up comedian

And even if you are, this isn’t the time for a set. Cracking jokes is a great way to loosen up your audience and to put everyone in a good mood, but don’t let that pressure you into being funny. Nobody wants to hear a string of bad dad jokes.

Eddie from Custom Speechwriting adds: “Light-hearted jokes are fine and are welcome in wedding toasts… However, keep in mind that everyone in your audience is an amateur videographer with the aid of their smartphones. Make sure that you are willing to have anything you say recorded and uploaded to YouTube for the near eternity of the internet.”

What to do if you get emotional

We understand that the day will take its toll on you emotionally. However, blubbing your way through your speech might make your daughter worry that she’s made a mistake! Instead, we recommend that you practice your speech.

Robin (The Wedding Speech Guru) is in firm agreement here: “Make sure you say your speech out loud 10-15 times,” he advises. “Just reading it through isn’t good enough. Create prompt cards or print the speech, but in a way that’s visually memorable so if you’ve gone through it a lot, you should know it almost by heart and you can just glance at it and remember it.”

This isn’t about you

Your daughter and her new husband are the stars of the show today. Make your Father of the Bride speech about them; praise them, make little jabs at them, and wish them well. Do those things and you can’t go too wrong.

And if you get nervous…

 “My absolute number one rule is breathing techniques,” says Adam (Adaptable Speechwriting). “Take a deep breath between points…It feels about four times as long when you’re stood there than what the audience will feel so take your time it won’t be noticed.”

“Make sure you have a glass of champagne to toast with and a glass of water in front of you,” Robin (The Wedding Speech Guru) advises nervous speakers. “In advance of the speech, make sure you talk to as many guests as possible…It means that the people you’re talking to have a vested interest in the success of your speech and it’s much less scary if you’re looking out at faces you know. Lastly, smile!”

Finally, if you remember nothing else, try to at least remember your last line. Remembering your intended last line will stop you from awkwardly tailing off and works as a mental chequered flag that you’ll be able to jump to in case you really blank. It’s a handy tip that all professional speakers use.

Finally, we hope that, after reading this, you are feeling more confident now about your speech. We have helpful advice for the Best Man and Groom , too. Good luck!

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Father of the Bride Speech Examples

Looking for speech examples? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!

Reviewing a few concrete examples to see what other people have done is a great way to get a few ideas for your own speech.

However, try to avoid the temptation to borrow ideas wholesale because you never know how many other people will have done exactly the same thing.

Wedding guests look forward to the speeches and nothing disappoint them more than feeling your speech is just a collection of familiar lines borrowed from other speeches.

But with that warning in place, let’s jump in.

Icebreaker Examples

It’s important to have a strong opening to your Father of the Bride speech since it gets people’s attention and sets the right tone for an enjoyable speech.

You don’t have to lead with humour, although that is usually very effective, but try to avoid well-worn jokes that some people may have heard before.

The best icebreaker will be specific to the occasion and a gently humorous opener that’s personal to you will almost always be better than a stock line taken from a list of wedding speech jokes you found online.

That said, here are some quick examples to get your creative juices flowing:

“I’m David, Melanie’s proud dad and Simon’s brand new father-in-law. And if none of those names are familiar to you, there’s a good chance you’re at the wrong wedding."

"The last time I stood up in front of a crowd with a microphone in my hand I was belting out a drunken version of ‘I Will Survive’. But the less said about my Groom speech the better."

"I struggled a bit with writing my speech because my daughter and my wife gave me completely opposite advice. Beccy said I shouldn’t say anything stupid, smutty or embarrassing. While Carole said I should just be myself!”

After the icebreaker it’s time to start your speech proper. On the big day make sure you pause for any laughter and start with confidence and poise.

Examples of Bride and Groom Toasts

When it comes to raising a toast to the Bride and Groom, you don’t need to be particularly creative with your choice of words. Your aim is simply to clearly signpost the end of your speech and prompt the guests to raise their glasses.

Here are some simple ways to raise a toast:

“Finally, it’s my great pleasure to invite you all to stand and raise your glasses in a toast to our wonderful Bride and Groom!"

"Ladies and gentlemen, will you please be upstanding and join me in a toast to the happy couple, Beccy and Simon, the Bride and Groom."

"Right, it’s time for me to stop talking and you lot to start drinking. So please raise your glasses and let’s toast Mrs and Mr Simpson, the Bride and Groom!"

"Before I hand over to my brand new son-in-law Simon, aka the Groom, please grab your glasses, get on your feet and let’s toast the happy couple.”

Once you’ve made your toast, it’s time to sit, turn your attention to the Groom and let him take over the reins with his own speech.

Complete Father of the Bride Speech Examples

To give you some quick inspiration, here’s a  warm and witty Father of the Bride speech  I wrote for an imaginary couple, Sarah and Scott.

If you’re in the market for a very short “blink and you’ll miss it” Father of the Bride speech, the Confetti website has an  example .

If you’re hungry for more examples, the Hitched website also has a handy database of  sample speeches  uploaded by its readers.

Now Go Write an Original Speech of Your Own

Armed with a few strong examples, you should now be in a good place to start working on your own speech.

Just remember that the best speech will always be one that only you could have written, rich with authentic detail.

So be inspired by these examples, but don’t copy them. Your daughter deserves better than a patchwork speech made from other people’s efforts.

Want my Free Resource Pack?

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Mastering the Mother of the Bride Speech: Ultimate Guide for 2024

Mother of the bride.

June 17, 2024

Headline-making CEO, Author, Podcaster, Speaker, Educator, Determinista & the Sidekick who always brings a sizzling slice of pizza.

Hey, i'm jen glantz.

As a mother, watching your daughter get married is a moment filled with joy, pride, and a whirlwind of emotions. One of the most cherished traditions is delivering the mother of the bride speech . It’s your chance to share stories, express love, and offer blessings to the happy couple.

Crafting the perfect speech can be daunting, but fear not! This comprehensive guide is here to help you every step of the way. From brainstorming ideas to delivering with confidence, we’ve got you covered. Let’s get started!

QUICK RESOURCES:

• Mother of the Bride Speechwriting Help:  We turn your stories into a memorable and well-written Father of the Bride Speech.
• Speech Delivery Prep :  Get personalized feedback and coaching on how to deliver your Father of the Bride Speech without nerves,  ummms,  or mid-sentence brain fog.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

• Start with brainstorming memories and structuring your thoughts.
• Practice regularly to build confidence and manage emotions.
• Balance humor and sentiment for a memorable speech.
• Use personal anecdotes and heartfelt messages.
• Incorporate gratitude and well-wishes for the couple.
• Prepare for challenges and have a support system in place.

Writing the Perfect Mother of the Bride Speech

Writing the perfect mother of the bride speech  involves several steps, from brainstorming ideas to refining the final draft. Let’s go through the process step by step to ensure your speech is impactful and memorable.

Brainstorming Ideas

The first step in writing your speech is to brainstorm ideas . Think about the memories and stories you want to share. Reflect on your daughter’s childhood, her relationship with her partner, and any significant moments that showcase her personality.

According to a survey by The Knot , 78% of mothers include childhood anecdotes in their speeches.

Reflecting on Childhood Memories

Consider moments from your daughter’s childhood that highlight her unique traits. Was she adventurous, kind-hearted, or a natural leader? These anecdotes will add a personal touch to your speech.

Her Relationship with the Groom

Think about the first time you met the groom. What were your initial impressions? How has their relationship grown over time? Sharing your perspective on their love story will add depth to your mother of the bride speech.

Family and Friends

Incorporate stories that involve family interactions and friendships. These moments can highlight the bride’s character and the support system around her.

According to a study by WeddingWire , 62% of mothers mention their daughter’s close friends in their speeches.

Creating an Outline

An outline helps organize your thoughts and ensures your wedding speech for mother of the bride flows logically. Start with a warm welcome and thank everyone for being there. Follow with personal stories, and conclude with a heartfelt toast.

Introduction

Begin with a warm welcome to the guests. Thank them for being part of this special day. It’s a good idea to introduce yourself and your relationship to the bride.

According to a survey by Brides , 91% of mothers start their speeches with a warm welcome and introduction.

The body of your mother of the bride wedding speech is where you’ll share your stories and express your feelings. Include anecdotes from your brainstorming session and tie them to the bride’s current life and her relationship with her partner.

End with a heartfelt message and a toast to the newlyweds. Express your hopes and wishes for their future together.

Writing the Draft

With your outline ready, start writing your draft. Don’t worry about making it perfect on the first try. Focus on getting all your thoughts down on paper.

Personal Touches

Add personal anecdotes and emotions to make your speech unique. These personal touches will resonate with your audience and make your mother of the bride speech example s memorable.

Humor and Sentiment

Balance humor with heartfelt sentiments to keep the audience engaged. Light-hearted moments can lighten the mood, while emotional stories will add depth.

According to a report by WeddingForward , 76% of guests prefer speeches that strike a balance between humor and sentiment.

Refining the Speech

Once you’ve written your draft, it’s time to refine it. Edit for clarity and impact, ensuring your best mother of the bride speech is concise and engaging.

Editing for Clarity

Ensure your speech is clear and easy to follow. Remove any jargon or overly complex sentences. Aim for a conversational tone.

Practicing Delivery

Practice your speech multiple times to gain confidence. Familiarize yourself with the content, so you can deliver it smoothly on the big day.

According to a survey by Toastmasters , 85% of successful speakers practice their speeches at least 10 times before the event.

Delivering the Speech Confidently

Delivering your best mother of the bride speeches confidently is crucial. Here are some tips to help

you manage nerves and engage your audience.

Building Confidence

Confidence is key to delivering a speech that resonates with the audience. Practice regularly and use visualization techniques to prepare yourself.

Practice Regularly

Rehearse your speech multiple times to become familiar with the content. The more you practice, the more confident you will feel.

According to Forbes , practicing regularly is one of the top ways to prepare for a successful presentation.

Visualization Techniques

Visualize yourself delivering the mother of the bride speech successfully. Imagine the positive reactions from the audience to build your confidence.

A study by NCBI found that visualization techniques can significantly improve public speaking performance.

Engaging the Audience

Engage your audience to keep their attention and make your speech memorable. Use eye contact and positive body language.

Eye Contact

Make eye contact with the audience to connect with them personally. It shows confidence and helps you engage with your listeners.

Body Language

Use positive body language to convey confidence and warmth. Stand straight, use open gestures, and smile to create a welcoming presence.

According to SkillsYouNeed , 93% of communication is non-verbal, making body language crucial in public speaking.

Managing Emotions

It’s natural to feel emotional during your wedding speeches mother of the bride. Here are some techniques to help you manage your emotions and stay composed.

Breathing Techniques

Use deep breathing techniques to stay calm and composed. Take deep breaths before and during your speech to manage any overwhelming emotions.

Pause and Reflect

If you feel overwhelmed, take a moment to pause and collect your thoughts. It’s okay to take a breath and continue when you’re ready.

According to The Muse , pausing and taking a breath can help you regain composure during a presentation.

Incorporating Key Elements for Impact

Certain elements can make your mother of the bride speech more impactful and memorable. Let’s explore how to incorporate humor, sentiment, and gratitude effectively.

Adding humor can lighten the mood and engage your audience. Use appropriate jokes and personal stories to make your speech enjoyable.

Appropriate Jokes

Ensure your jokes are relevant and appropriate for the audience. Avoid any humor that may be offensive or misunderstood. For example, you could share a funny story about your daughter’s childhood or a humorous moment during the wedding planning process.

Personal Stories

Use funny personal anecdotes that everyone can relate to. These stories will make your speech more engaging and memorable. A study by Harvard Business Review found that humorous stories are more effective in capturing attention and persuading audiences.

Expressing heartfelt sentiments adds depth to your speech. Speak from the heart about your love for your daughter and your hopes for her future.

Expressing Love

Speak from the heart about your love for your daughter. Share specific moments that illustrate your deep bond and affection. Highlighting the importance of expressing love and admiration in speeches can make them more meaningful.

Offering Blessings

Offer your blessings and best wishes for the couple’s future. This adds a positive and hopeful note to your speech. According to a survey by WeddingBee, 87% of guests appreciated speeches that included well-wishes for the couple.

Expressing gratitude is a key component of any wedding speech. Thank the guests for attending and acknowledge those who helped make the wedding possible.

Thanking Guests

Thank the guests for being part of this special day. Their presence and support mean a lot to the couple and their families. Emphasizing the importance of expressing gratitude to guests in speeches can make them feel appreciated and valued.

Acknowledging Helpers

Acknowledge those who helped make the wedding possible. This includes the wedding party, family members, and any vendors or organizers. According to Southern Living, 63% of mothers take the time to thank wedding helpers in their speeches.

Practical Tips and Advice for Success

Practical tips can help you write and deliver a successful mother of the bride speech. From managing timing to content tips, here’s everything you need to know.

Timing is crucial to ensure your speech fits within the schedule. Aim for a duration of 3-5 minutes and pace your speech to maintain clarity.

Keep your speech between 3-5 minutes to maintain engagement. A concise speech is more likely to hold the audience’s attention. According to HuffPost, the ideal length for a mother of the bride speech is 3-5 minutes.

Pace your speech to ensure clarity and avoid rushing. Speak slowly and clearly, allowing time for the audience to absorb your words. A study by Scientific American found that proper pacing significantly improves speech comprehension and engagement.

Content Tips

Content is key to a memorable speech. Avoid clichés, use meaningful quotes, and keep your speech personal and unique.

Avoiding Clichés

Avoid clichés to keep your speech unique and personal. Focus on specific stories and genuine expressions rather than generic phrases. Avoiding clichés can make your speech more authentic and relatable.

Using Quotes

Incorporate meaningful quotes to add depth to your speech. Choose quotes that resonate with you and the couple’s journey. According to WeddingWire, 67% of guests enjoyed speeches that included relevant and meaningful quotes.

Delivery Tips

Effective delivery can make your speech more impactful. Use voice modulation, positive body language, and practice your delivery regularly.

Voice Modulation

Use voice modulation to emphasize key points and keep the audience engaged. Vary your tone and pitch to add interest to your speech. Testimonials often emphasize the importance of varying tone and pitch in speeches.

Positive body language can convey confidence and warmth. Stand straight, use open gestures, and smile to create a welcoming presence. According to SkillsYouNeed, effective body language is crucial for engaging and persuading your audience.

Examples and Templates for Inspiration

Having examples and templates can provide inspiration and a starting point for your own speech. Here are some examples and templates to get you started.

Example Speeches

Reviewing sample speeches can give you an idea of how to structure and what to include in your own speech. Here are a few examples to inspire you.

Heartfelt Speech Example

“Your wedding day is said to be the happiest of your life, and while it was very happy indeed, it couldn’t compare to the moment our daughter came into the world. You have brought me such joy and happiness (and a few sleepless nights!) but I couldn’t be more proud of the beautiful, smart, strong woman you’ve grown into today.”

According to a study by Psychology Today, personal stories are more effective in creating emotional connections than generic statements.

Humorous Speech Example

“Thank you all for coming. I’m a strong mom, I have a strong daughter, and after this, I know I will need a strong drink.”

A report by Psychological Science highlights that humor can be a powerful tool in public speaking, helping to build rapport and engage audiences.

Speech Templates

Templates can help you format your speech and ensure you cover all essential elements. Here are some templates to guide you.

Basic Template

• Introduction: Welcome guests and thank them for coming.
• Body: Share personal anecdotes and express your feelings.
• Conclusion: Offer well-wishes and propose a toast.

Detailed Template

• Greeting: “Ladies and gentlemen, I am [Your Name], mother of the beautiful bride.”
• Story: Share a cherished memory or funny anecdote about your daughter.
• Acknowledgment: Welcome the groom and his family.
• Advice: Offer wisdom and advice for the newlyweds.
• Toast: “To [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], may your love continue to grow and flourish for many years to come!”

25 Mother of the Bride Speech Examples

These 25 mother of the bride speeches showcase a wide range of tones, lengths, and styles, from emotional and heartfelt to humorous and playful. Each speech is tailored to celebrate the unique love story of the bride and groom, while also expressing the mother’s pride, love, and support for her daughter on this special day.

1. The Emotional and Heartfelt Speech

Today, as I watch my beautiful daughter walk down the aisle, I am filled with an overwhelming sense of love and pride. [Bride’s name], you have grown into an incredible woman, and I am so grateful to have been a part of your journey. [Groom’s name], I couldn’t have asked for a better partner for my daughter. Your love and support have been a constant source of joy in her life. As you embark on this new chapter together, know that you have my unwavering love and support. May your marriage be filled with laughter, love, and endless happiness.

2. The Short and Sweet Speech

[Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name], your love story is one for the ages. As I look at you both today, I see two hearts that have found their perfect match. May your love continue to grow stronger with each passing day, and may your marriage be a beautiful testament to the power of true love. Congratulations, and welcome to the family, [Groom’s name]!

3. The Humorous Speech

Well, [Bride’s name], I always knew this day would come. I just didn’t expect it to be with someone who shares your love for terrible puns and obscure sci-fi references. [Groom’s name], you’ve passed the test. In all seriousness, though, I couldn’t be happier for you both. Your love is a reminder that even in a world full of chaos, true happiness can be found. Just remember, marriage is like a deck of cards. In the beginning, all you need is two hearts and a diamond. By the end, you’ll wish you had a club and a spade!

4. The Sentimental Speech

From the moment you were born, [Bride’s name], I knew you were destined for great things. Watching you grow into the beautiful, kind-hearted woman you are today has been the greatest joy of my life. And now, seeing you find your soulmate in [Groom’s name], I know that your happiness is complete. Your love story is a beautiful reminder that true love does exist, and I am so grateful to have witnessed it firsthand. May your marriage be a never-ending source of love, laughter, and joy.

5. The Lighthearted Speech

[Bride’s name], I always knew you had impeccable taste, but I must say, you’ve outdone yourself with [Groom’s name]. Not only is he handsome and charming, but he also knows how to make a mean lasagna. I think we can all agree that’s the true test of a good husband. In all seriousness, though, I am so thrilled to welcome [Groom’s name] into our family. Your love is a beautiful reminder that sometimes, the best things in life are worth waiting for. Cheers to a lifetime of love and happiness!

6. The Nostalgic Speech

As I look at my beautiful daughter today, I can’t help but think back to all the moments that led us here. From your first steps to your first heartbreak, I have been there for it all. And now, seeing you find your forever partner in [Groom’s name], I know that all those moments were leading up to this one. Your love story is a beautiful reminder that life is full of surprises, and sometimes, the best ones are worth waiting for. May your marriage be filled with all the love, laughter, and joy that you both deserve.

7. The Poetic Speech

Love is a force that moves mountains, a light that guides us through the darkest of times, and a bond that can never be broken. [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name], your love is a testament to the power of this force. As you stand here today, ready to embark on this new chapter together, know that you have the love and support of all those around you. May your love be the anchor that keeps you grounded, the compass that guides you through life’s journey, and the light that illuminates your path. Congratulations, and may your marriage be a beautiful adventure.

8. The Grateful Speech

[Groom’s name], I want to take a moment to thank you. Thank you for loving my daughter so completely, for being her rock through life’s ups and downs, and for showing her what true partnership looks like. I have watched your love story unfold, and I am so grateful to have gained a son in the process. [Bride’s name], my beautiful girl, I am so proud of the woman you have become. Your love and compassion know no bounds, and I know that you will be an incredible wife. May your marriage be a beautiful reflection of the love you share.

9. The Playful Speech

[Bride’s name], I always knew you would find your prince charming. I just didn’t expect him to come with a collection of comic books and a love for bad 80s music. [Groom’s name], welcome to the family. I hope you’re ready for a lifetime of dad jokes and impromptu dance parties. In all seriousness, though, I couldn’t be happier for you both. Your love is a reminder that sometimes, the best things in life come in unexpected packages. May your marriage be filled with laughter, love, and plenty of comic book references.

10. The Encouraging Speech

[Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name], as you start this new chapter in your lives, I want to offer you some advice. Always remember to be each other’s biggest cheerleaders. Celebrate each other’s successes, support each other through challenges, and never stop believing in the power of your love. Marriage is not always easy, but with communication, patience, and a whole lot of love, you can overcome anything. I am so proud of the individuals you have become, and I know that together, you will achieve great things. Congratulations, and may your love story be one for the ages.

11. The Emotional Rollercoaster Speech

Today is a day of mixed emotions for me. On one hand, I am filled with an overwhelming sense of joy and pride as I watch my beautiful daughter marry the love of her life. On the other hand, I am faced with the bittersweet realization that my little girl is all grown up. [Bride’s name], you have been the light of my life since the day you were born. Watching you grow into the incredible woman you are today has been the greatest privilege of my life. And now, seeing you find your soulmate in [Groom’s name], I know that your happiness is complete. [Groom’s name], I want to thank you for loving my daughter so deeply and for being the partner she deserves. May your love be the foundation on which you build a lifetime of happiness together.

12. The Philosophical Speech

Love is a curious thing. It has the power to heal, to inspire, and to transform. It is the force that moves us forward, even in the face of adversity. [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name], your love is a testament to the transformative power of this force. Through your love, you have created a bond that is unbreakable, a partnership that is built on trust, respect, and unwavering devotion. As you embark on this new chapter together, remember that love is not just a feeling, but a choice. Choose to love each other every day, even when it’s hard. Choose to be each other’s rock, each other’s safe haven. And choose to never take for granted the incredible gift that is your love. Congratulations, and may your love story be one that inspires us all.

13. The Funny and Heartwarming Speech

Well, [Bride’s name], I always knew this day would come. I just didn’t expect it to be with someone who shares your love for terrible reality TV and pineapple on pizza. [Groom’s name], you truly are a brave man. But in all seriousness, I couldn’t be happier for you both. Your love is a reminder that sometimes, the best things in life come in the most unexpected packages. [Groom’s name], I want to thank you for loving my daughter so completely and for being the partner she deserves. I know that with you by her side, she can conquer anything. [Bride’s name], my beautiful girl, I am so proud of the woman you have become. Your kindness, your compassion, and your unwavering spirit are an inspiration to us all. May your marriage be filled with laughter, love, and plenty of pineapple pizza.

14. The Short and Sassy Speech

Well, it looks like my job here is done. [Bride’s name], you’ve finally found someone who loves you almost as much as I do. [Groom’s name], welcome to the family. I hope you’re ready for a lifetime of unsolicited advice and embarrassing childhood stories. But in all seriousness, I am so thrilled for you both. Your love is a beautiful thing to witness, and I know that together, you can tackle anything. Congratulations, and don’t forget to call your mother!

15. The Trip Down Memory Lane Speech

[Bride’s name], from the moment you were born, I knew you were special. I remember holding you in my arms for the first time, marveling at the perfect little being I had created. As you grew, I watched in awe as you tackled each new challenge with grace and determination. From your first steps to your first day of school, I was there for it all. And now, seeing you find your soulmate in [Groom’s name], I know that all those moments were leading up to this one. [Groom’s name], I want to thank you for loving my daughter so deeply and for being the partner she deserves. I know that with you by her side, she can conquer anything. May your love story be one that stands the test of time, and may your marriage be filled with all the love, laughter, and joy that you both deserve.

16. The Poetic and Sentimental Speech

Love is a force that knows no bounds, a light that guides us through the darkest of times, and a bond that can never be broken. [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name], your love is a testament to the power of this force. As you stand here today, ready to embark on this new chapter together, know that you have the love and support of all those around you. [Bride’s name], my beautiful daughter, I have watched you grow into an incredible woman, and I am so proud of the person you have become. Your kindness, your compassion, and your unwavering spirit are an inspiration to us all. [Groom’s name], I want to thank you for loving my daughter so completely and for being the partner she deserves. May your love be the anchor that keeps you grounded, the compass that guides you through life’s journey, and the light that illuminates your path. Congratulations, and may your marriage be a beautiful reflection of the love you share.

17. The Tearjerker Speech

[Bride’s name], my sweet girl, I have been dreading this day since the moment you were born. Not because I don’t want you to find love and happiness, but because I knew that one day, I would have to let you go. As I watch you stand here today, ready to start this new chapter with [Groom’s name], I am filled with an overwhelming sense of pride and joy. You have grown into an incredible woman, and I know that you will be an amazing wife. [Groom’s name], I want to thank you for loving my daughter so deeply and for being the partner she deserves. I know that with you by her side, she can conquer anything. As you embark on this new journey together, know that you have my unwavering love and support. May your marriage be filled with all the love, laughter, and joy that you both deserve.

18. The Short and Sweet Sentimental Speech

[Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name], your love story is one for the ages. As I look at you both today, I see two hearts that have found their perfect match, two souls that were meant to be together. May your love continue to grow stronger with each passing day, and may your marriage be a beautiful testament to the power of true love. Congratulations, and welcome to the family, [Groom’s name]!

19. The Humorous and Heartfelt Speech

Well, [Bride’s name], I always knew you had impeccable taste, but I must say, you’ve outdone yourself with [Groom’s name]. Not only is he handsome and charming, but he also laughs at all of my jokes, which is a true sign of a good husband. [Groom’s name], welcome to the family. I hope you’re ready for a lifetime of unsolicited advice and embarrassing childhood stories. But in all seriousness, I couldn’t be happier for you both. Your love is a beautiful reminder that sometimes, the best things in life are worth waiting for. [Bride’s name], my beautiful daughter, I am so proud of the woman you have become. Your kindness, your compassion, and your unwavering spirit are an inspiration to us all. May your marriage be filled with laughter, love, and plenty of good jokes.

20. The Nostalgic and Sentimental Speech

As I look at my beautiful daughter today, I can’t help but think back to all the moments that led us here. From your first steps to your first heartbreak, I have been there for it all. And now, seeing you find your forever partner in [Groom’s name], I know that all those moments were leading up to this one. [Bride’s name], you have been the light of my life since the day you were born. Watching you grow into the incredible woman you are today has been the greatest privilege of my life. [Groom’s name], I want to thank you for loving my daughter so completely and for being the partner she deserves. I know that with you by her side, she can conquer anything. May your love story be one that stands the test of time, and may your marriage be filled with all the love, laughter, and joy that you both deserve.

21. The Grateful and Encouraging Speech

[Groom’s name], I want to take a moment to thank you. Thank you for loving my daughter so completely, for being her rock through life’s ups and downs, and for showing her what true partnership looks like. I have watched your love story unfold, and I am so grateful to have gained a son in the process. [Bride’s name], my beautiful girl, I am so proud of the woman you have become. Your love and compassion know no bounds, and I know that you will be an incredible wife. As you start this new chapter in your lives, remember to always be each other’s biggest cheerleaders. Celebrate each other’s successes, support each other through challenges, and never stop believing in the power of your love. May your marriage be a beautiful reflection of the love you share.

22. The Emotional and Poetic Speech

Love is a force that moves mountains, a light that guides us through the darkest of times, and a bond that can never be broken. [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name], your love is a testament to the power of this force. As I watch you stand here today, ready to embark on this new chapter together, I am filled with an overwhelming sense of joy and pride. [Bride’s name], you have been the light of my life since the day you were born. Watching you grow into the incredible woman you are today has been the greatest privilege of my life. [Groom’s name], I want to thank you for loving my daughter so completely and for being the partner she deserves. May your love be the anchor that keeps you grounded, the compass that guides you through life’s journey, and the light that illuminates your path. Congratulations, and may your marriage be a beautiful adventure.

23. The Funny and Grateful Speech

Well, [Bride’s name], I always knew you would find your prince charming. I just didn’t expect him to come with a love for bad puns and a collection of ugly sweaters. [Groom’s name], welcome to the family. I hope you’re ready for a lifetime of family gatherings filled with too much food and not enough personal space. But in all seriousness, I am so grateful for you. Thank you for loving my daughter so completely and for being the partner she deserves. [Bride’s name], my beautiful girl, I am so proud of the woman you have become. Your kindness, your compassion, and your unwavering spirit are an inspiration to us all. May your marriage be filled with laughter, love, and plenty of ugly sweaters.

24. The Short and Sassy Humorous Speech

Well, it looks like my job here is done. [Bride’s name], you’ve finally found someone who can put up with your weird quirks and obsession with reality TV. [Groom’s name], welcome to the family. I hope you’re ready for a lifetime of unsolicited advice and embarrassing dance moves at family gatherings. But in all seriousness, I couldn’t be happier for you both. Your love is a beautiful thing to witness, and I know that together, you can tackle anything. Just remember, if you ever need a break from each other, my couch is always available. Congratulations, and don’t forget to thank me in your speech!

25. The Heartfelt and Encouraging Speech

[Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name], as I look at you both today, I am filled with an overwhelming sense of love and pride. Your love story is one that has inspired us all, and I know that your marriage will be a beautiful testament to the power of true love. [Bride’s name], my beautiful daughter, I have watched you grow into an incredible woman, and I am so proud of the person you have become. Your kindness, your compassion, and your unwavering spirit are an inspiration to us all. [Groom’s name], I want to thank you for loving my daughter so completely and for being the partner she deserves. As you embark on this new journey together, remember that love is not just a feeling, but a choice. Choose to love each other every day, even when it’s hard. Choose to be each other’s rock, each other’s safe haven. And choose to never take for granted the incredible gift that is your love. May your marriage be filled with all the love, laughter, and joy that you both deserve. Congratulations, and welcome to the family, [Groom’s name]!

Incorporating Personal Touches

Personal touches make your speech unique and memorable. Here’s how to incorporate anecdotes, emotions, and heartfelt messages into your speech.

Sharing Anecdotes

Anecdotes bring your speech to life and make it more relatable. Share stories from your daughter’s childhood, significant moments, and her relationship with her partner.

Childhood Stories

Consider moments from your daughter’s childhood that highlight her unique traits. These stories will add a personal touch and resonate with the audience. Many testimonials emphasize the impact of childhood stories in wedding speeches.

Special Moments

Recount special moments you’ve shared with your daughter, such as holidays, milestones, or adventures. These memories will make your speech more heartfelt and personal. According to a survey by The Knot, 82% of guests said they enjoyed speeches that included personal stories and anecdotes.

Expressing Emotions

Authenticity is key to a touching and memorable speech. Speak from the heart about your love for your daughter and your hopes for her future.

Love and Pride

Speak from the heart about your love for your daughter. Share specific moments that illustrate your deep bond and affection. Expressing love and admiration in speeches can make them more impactful.

Gratitude and Blessings

Show gratitude to those who have supported your daughter and offer blessings for her future. This adds a positive and hopeful note to your speech. According to WeddingForward, 71% of guests appreciated speeches that included expressions of gratitude and well-wishes.

Dealing with Challenges and Overcoming Nerves

Challenges like nervousness and emotional overwhelm are common but manageable. Here are some tips to help you overcome these challenges and deliver a smooth speech.

Overcoming Nervousness

Nervousness can be managed with preparation and practice. Here are some tips to help you stay calm and composed.

Preparation Tips

Prepare thoroughly by practicing your speech and familiarizing yourself with the venue. The more prepared you are, the more confident you will feel. Additional tips on preparing for public speaking to overcome nerves can be found online.

Relaxation Techniques

Use relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and visualization to stay calm. These techniques can help you manage any overwhelming emotions.

Handling Emotions

It’s natural to feel emotional during your speech. Here are some techniques to help you manage your emotions and stay composed.

Pause and Compose

If you feel overwhelmed, take a moment to pause and collect your thoughts. It’s okay to take a breath and continue when you’re ready. Additional techniques to help manage nerves and stay composed can be found online.

Support System

Lean on family and friends for support and encouragement. Having a support system can help you feel more confident and prepared.

Final Thoughts and Additional Resources

As you prepare for your mother of the bride speech, remember that authenticity and genuine emotion are key. Take the time to practice, and don’t hesitate to seek support if you need it. Here are some additional resources to help you along the way.

Quick Recap

Let’s recap the key takeaways from this guide:

Final Thoughts

Delivering a mother of the bride speech is a heartfelt and memorable moment. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can create a speech that will be cherished for years to come. Remember, Bridesmaid for Hire is here to help you every step of the way. If you need any additional support or guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out.

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I started Bridesmaid for Hire 10-years-ago after being a bridesmaid for lots of friends. I’m a nonfiction author and content creator who lives in Brooklyn with Goofy (the dog), Gemma (the baby), and Adam (the husband). I love to share: advice & tips, secrets with strangers, and pizza. I eat a lot of pizza.

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