Everything to Know About Writing an Unforgettable Wedding Welcome Speech
- Sarah is the Entertainment & Celebrity Editor for The Knot, with special focuses on pop culture and celebrity wedding news.
- Before joining The Knot Worldwide, Sarah was a contributing writer for Bravo at NBC Universal.
- Sarah has a degree in journalism and resides in New York City.
Throughout your wedding day, plenty of loved ones will raise a glass and give a toast in your honor. Wedding speeches are common at both the ceremony and the reception, and they're often given by family members, best friends, and bridesmaids and groomsmen—but that doesn't mean you can't get in on the fun too. Couple speeches, especially wedding welcome speeches, are becoming popular additions to the toasting lineup . Even if public speaking isn't your favorite thing in the world, you might feel inclined to say a few words to the loved ones who've chosen to celebrate your special day with you. After all, when else will you have your nearest and dearest all together in one room?
If you're thinking of making a wedding welcome speech, you're in the right place. To help you craft a toast that'll go down in history, we've created the ultimate wedding welcome speech guide right here.
In this article:
Is a Wedding Welcome Speech Necessary?
Who does the wedding welcome speech, when should you give a wedding welcome speech, the best wedding welcome speech writing tips.
When you think of wedding toasts, a few classic variations come to mind: The maid of honor speech , the best man speech , the father of the bride speech , and the groom's parent speeches are most common. But beyond that, some couples may plan to include several other nontraditional toasts as well (like a groom's speech , a bride's speech , a mother of the bride speech , speeches from your kids , or speeches from your siblings ).
With so many potential speakers, you might wonder if a wedding welcome speech is necessary. Here's the short answer: It's up to you! It's your wedding day, so you have the power to decide who speaks and when. (But, in our unbiased opinion, we think that a welcome speech would be a great addition to your wedding day timeline .)
Once you've decided to have a wedding welcome speech, you'll have to choose who's going to give it. The newlyweds are an obvious choice—it is your day, after all, and guests will love hearing directly from you and your S.O. But if public speaking makes you nervous (or there's a gifted orator among your wedding party), there are a number of other options.
If you envision having a welcome speech for your wedding ceremony, your officiant or a close family member would be great choices. Or, if you want to kick off the reception with a wedding welcome speech, you could ask your parents to take the floor. No matter who you tap to lead the toast, be sure to give them plenty of planning time to search for wedding welcome speech samples and inspiration.
Find all the vendors you need
When you've confirmed who's going to give the wedding welcome speech, work with your planner or day-of coordinator to incorporate it into your wedding day timeline . For those that want to have a welcome speech for the wedding ceremony, you might block off a few minutes once you and your S.O. are both at the altar before you begin your wedding vows.
Alternatively, you may prefer to make your welcome speech at the beginning of the wedding reception, after you've made your entrance and before you take the floor for the first dance . You could even have your parents give a welcome toast once guests are seated before dinner is served.
In fact, your wedding welcome speech doesn't even have to take place on the big day itself. You and your S.O. could plan to give a kickoff toast at the rehearsal dinner or happy hour party before the wedding. Ultimately, when you should give your wedding welcome speech is up to your preference. Just be sure you have ample time carved into the itinerary to get your moment with the mic.
Whether you're a to-be-wed planning your own wedding welcome speech or you're a guest tapped by a couple for this prestigious role, you might be in search of toasting inspo. As self-proclaimed wedding speech writing experts , we're sharing exactly how to write a welcome toast that'll engage the crowd and set the tone for the rest of the party.
Lead Into it With a Song
Music plays an integral role throughout the wedding day, and it serves as a seamless way to transition into a speech. To avoid having unnecessary patches of awkward silence, work with the DJ or live band to work the wedding welcome speech into the musical timeline. Perhaps you want the wedding processional song to fade into instrumental background noise for a welcome speech at the beginning of the ceremony. Or, if the welcome toast is happening later in the day, have the person presiding over the music fade the reception entrance song so the speaker can have their moment. No matter what you choose, having a great song lead into the welcome speech is a good way to grab guests' attention—just lower the volume once the speaker begins so everyone can hear. (Need music ideas? Check out our all-time favorite wedding songs right here .)
Speak from the Heart
Instead of starting off your wedding welcome toast with something predictable, like, "We're gathered here today..." toss the expectations and speak from your heart. The best part about giving a toast at your own wedding is that there are no rules to follow. You and your S.O. could create a custom song mashup (like you've seen in so many maid of honor speeches), you could take turns sharing the mic, or you could even riff off each other if you have a shared sense of natural comedic timing and feel comfortable in the spotlight. What matters most isn't necessarily what you say, but rather that it feels genuine and honest. (If you're looking for great wedding speech examples , find our favorites here .)
Thank Your Guests for Attending
This is the most important element of the wedding welcome speech. While there aren't too many parameters to follow, it is crucial to thank your guests for celebrating this important day with you. You can go on to elaborate as much as you want to about what their presence means to you, but don't forget to express your thanks at some point throughout the speech.
Keep it Short and Sweet
As with all wedding toasts, salutations should be kept to a time limit—especially if you have multiple people lined up to take the stage (or the dance floor). Generally, reception speeches should be kept to two-and-a-half to three minutes maximum. Of course, since you're the newlyweds, you could always extend your time slot if you'd like. (Your wedding, your rules, after all.) In general, though, the same timing guidelines should be followed if you plan on having someone else make the welcome speech at the wedding ceremony, like your parents or your officiant.
To keep your wedding guests engaged the entire time, a three-minute speech will hit the sweet spot. It gives speakers the perfect amount of time to welcome guests, thank everyone for attending, share a personal anecdote or two, and get everyone hyped up for an evening of celebration.
How to Begin a Wedding Speech: 20 Speech Introductions
Got to give a speech but don't know where to begin? Our wedding speech introduction examples will help you get started
Love them or hate them, the speeches are central to any wedding reception, but it can be nerve-wracking if you're the one standing up to say a few words. Whether you're the bride , groom , father of the bride , best man or maid of honour , we've got you covered with tips to help you begin your wedding speech , including some introduction examples, so you can start strong and feel confident.
"Getting the introduction right is key because it sets the tone for the whole speech," explains wedding wordsmith and professional speechwriter Amerdeep Sanghera of Lovingly Penned . "You don't want guests thinking, 'Oh no, not another speech'. Instead, you want to see those smiles spread. So the introduction is pretty much the most important part of the whole thing."
Sounds stressful, right? Well, don't panic. From funny opening lines to general tips on how to get started, scroll on to make sure your speech is talked about for all the right reasons…
How to Start Your Wedding Speech
Knowing how to start your wedding speech - whether it's a traditional wedding speech or if you're going for a more modern take - can be challenging, but we've asked the experts for tips and ideas on how to beginning a wedding speech.
1. Introduce Yourself
It doesn't matter if you're the father of the bride, the maid of honour, the best man – even the groom – it’s always polite to introduce yourself. Smile as you do so and make a bit of a joke if you feel tense, or reference how important the day is if you don’t feel like joking:
- “Hi, I’m [BRIDE/GROOM’S NAME] – you should probably all know who I am, and if you don’t, well done for sneaking in unnoticed.”
- “Hi, I’m [BEST MAN’S NAME], but you can call me by my full name: [BEST-MAN’S-NAME-WOULD-YOU-LIKE-A-DRINK].”
- “Hello, I’m [FATHER OF THE BRIDE’S NAME] and I’m so delighted to welcome you all here on this beautiful day.”
Don’t go overboard with a long-winded introduction about yourself – a line or two about who you are and your role in the day will be enough.
To grab the audience's attention, be confident and keep it simple. If in doubt, start with the thank-yous. If you’re the best man, it’s fine to start with a joke (check out some of our tried and tested best man jokes to inspire you) but remember, this isn't a stand-up routine and you should always add how honoured you are to be part of the day.
2. Make Eye Contact
Pick a few reassuring faces in the crowd and pitch your speech to them – but don’t focus just on one person. Aim for a couple of different locations around the room so the whole audience feels engaged. "A simple way to do this early on is to ask people to give the couple a round of applause," adds Amerdeep.
If the idea of making eye contact is too much, pick inanimate objects to focus on but mix them up.
3. Have Notes to Hand
Don’t think you need to know your whole speech off by heart – you’ll feel more confident if you have your notes to hand and no one will judge you for it. If you don’t want it to feel too scripted, simply give yourself cue cards to work from.
4. Don’t Drink Too Much
Don’t try and drown your nerves before you stand up. You might not remember your performance, but everyone else will (for a long time). Consider a one-drink limit before you begin your speech and save the celebratory fizz for after you’ve completed it – slur free!
5. Consider Hiring a Pro
If you're really stumped on how to begin your wedding speech, a professional speechwriter will help you gather your thoughts and anecdotes and put them into a coherent structure to get you started.
Speech Introduction Examples
Here are a few more ways to introduce your speech, no matter what role you’re playing in the wedding day – just tweak it to suit you and your speech.
Bride and/or Groom or Newlyweds
- “We would like to welcome all of you here today to celebrate and thank you for choosing to spend the day with us."
- "Hello everyone! I hope you're having a wonderful day so far."
- "On behalf of me and my new [WIFE/HUSBAND/SPOUSE], I'd like to thank you all for coming today!"
- "Hi everyone - hopefully you all know who I am, otherwise you might be at the wrong wedding..."
- "If you don't know me, allow me to introduce myself - I'm the luckiest person in the world!"
Father of the Bride or Groom
- “Friends and family of [NAME] and [NAME], thank you for being here today to celebrate their marriage.”
- “The highest happiness on earth is the happiness of marriage.”
- “Today, promises have become permanent and friends have become family.”
- “Thank you for joining us today on such a wonderful occasion.”
- "What an honour I have, to give a speech today on my child's wedding day."
Maid of Honour or Bridesmaid Speech Introduction Examples
Mark Horton Photos
- “Welcome to the most important day in the lives of [NAME] and [NAME].”
- “Today is a celebration and we are here to celebrate with [NAME] and [NAME].”
- “Love has brought [NAME] and [NAME] and everyone in this room together today.”
Amerdeep also recommends: "Hello, beautiful people! I can't help but feel like I'm on stage at the Oscars, standing here. Sadly, there's no red carpet or golden statue for me, but I do have the privilege of celebrating two incredible people and their love story tonight."
Hitched Editor Zoe Burke chose to go for humour when it came to starting her maid of honour speech. "I was the first one speaking and I knew I needed a laugh quickly to help with my nerves, so I said 'Well, I've had the chance to wear a beautiful dress, carry a gorgeous bouquet and walk down the aisle without any of the financial pressure or stress of planning a wedding, so thank you!'
"It can be trickier figuring out how to start a wedding speech if you're not one of the traditional speech givers, but adding in some humour always helps!"
You can see more maid of honour speech examples here.
- “My name is [BEST MAN] and it’s an honour to be here today as [GROOM]’s best man.”
- “Hi, I’m [NAME] and it’s time for me to do this speech I scribbled down about an hour before the ceremony started.”
- “I must admit, I’m not accustomed to public speaking. Up until I was asked to give this speech I thought a toastmaster was a kind of kitchen appliance!”
- “Before I begin, I must admit that [NAME] and [NAME] have asked that I remove anything resembling innuendo from this speech – I’ve promised if I come across anything even slightly risqué, I’ll whip it out immediately.”
"Another favourite of mine is, 'Alright, let's kick off this party! But before we hit the dance floor, let me share a few stories about our fearless groom and his journey to this moment…'" adds Amerdeep.
If you’re still worrying about your wedding speech, don’t miss our guide on how to deal with wedding speech nerves .
Related Hitched articles
- Speech Writter
- Best Man Speech Generator
- Try for Free
The Ultimate Guide to Writing a Memorable Marriage Welcome Speech
Weddings are one of the most cherished events in a person’s life, a time filled with love, joy, and celebration. A crucial part of this celebration is crafting the best wedding welcome speech, a moment where heartfelt words can set the tone for the entire day. Whether you’re the newlywed, a close family member, or a dear friend, delivering a memorable wedding welcome speech can leave a lasting impression on all the guests. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about crafting and delivering a speech that will resonate with your audience and make your wedding day even more special.
Understanding the Importance of a Wedding Welcome Speech
What is a wedding welcome speech.
A wedding welcome speech is a formal or informal address delivered during a wedding celebration. It’s an opportunity for someone close to the couple—be it a family member, friend, or even the couple themselves—to express their emotions, share fond memories, offer congratulations, and give their blessings to the newlyweds. This speech serves as a warm, heartfelt introduction to the wedding day, setting the stage for the festivities to come. Whether it’s light-hearted or deeply sentimental, the welcome speech is a beautiful way to kick off your nuptials with a toast that honors the love and commitment of the couple.
Is a Wedding Welcome Speech Necessary?
While a wedding welcome speech is not strictly necessary, it offers a wonderful opportunity to personalize your wedding celebration and make your guests feel truly special. This speech allows you to express your heartfelt gratitude to your loved ones, share in the joy of the occasion, and set a warm, inviting tone for the rest of the festivities. Although it’s not a requirement, a well-crafted wedding welcome speech can significantly enhance the atmosphere of your wedding, creating a lasting impression on your guests and making the day even more memorable.
The Impact of a Well-Delivered Welcome Speech on Your Wedding Reception
A well-crafted wedding welcome speech has the power to shape the entire atmosphere of your wedding reception. It expresses gratitude to the guests, shares in the collective joy, and creates an inclusive environment that makes everyone feel like they’re a part of something truly special. The right words can evoke laughter, tears, and applause, making your wedding a day to remember. A great welcome speech can turn a good wedding into an unforgettable one by setting a positive, celebratory tone that resonates throughout the event, ultimately delivering a memorable speech.
Preparing to Write Your Wedding Welcome Speech
Who does the wedding welcome speech.
Traditionally, the newlyweds themselves may choose to give the wedding welcome speech, but they are not the only ones who can do so. Parents, close family members, the officiant, or a beloved friend might also be great choices to take on this role. The key is to select someone who is comfortable with public speaking and who can articulate the emotions of the day with sincerity and warmth. Members of the wedding party can also deliver the speech, adding a personal touch that makes the occasion even more memorable for the guests.
When Should You Give a Wedding Welcome Speech?
The timing of the wedding welcome speech is flexible, depending on the structure of your wedding day. It can be given at the beginning of the ceremony, during the reception, or even at the rehearsal dinner. Each moment offers a unique opportunity to set the tone, whether it’s introducing the ceremony with a few heartfelt words or kicking off the reception with a lively toast. Whichever you choose, be sure to allocate a few minutes for this important moment in your wedding day timeline.
Know Your Audience
Understanding your audience is crucial when crafting your wedding welcome speech. Gauge the mood of the wedding and tailor your speech to fit the atmosphere. For a more formal wedding, a speech with elegant language and sentimental reflections might be appropriate. In contrast, for a casual, relaxed wedding, you might opt for a more humorous and light-hearted approach. Be sure to acknowledge both sides of the family and mutual friends, creating a sense of unity among the guests.
Crafting a Memorable Wedding Speech
Structuring your speech.
Structuring your wedding welcome speech is crucial to ensure it flows smoothly and effectively conveys your message. Here’s a suggested outline to help you get started:
Introduction : Begin with a warm welcome, introduce yourself, and explain your relationship to the couple. This sets the stage and helps the audience understand your perspective.
Express Gratitude : Thank your guests for attending and express your gratitude for their love and support. This acknowledgment makes everyone feel appreciated and included.
Share a Personal Story : Share a brief, personal anecdote that highlights the couple’s relationship and your connection to them. This adds a personal touch and makes your speech more engaging.
Welcome and Toast : Welcome your guests to the celebration and raise a toast to the happy couple. This formalizes the welcome and sets a celebratory tone.
Conclusion : End with a heartfelt message, a few words of wisdom, or a final toast to the newlyweds. This leaves a lasting impression and wraps up your speech on a positive note.
Weaving Personal Stories and Humor
Adding personal anecdotes and humor to your speech can create a deep connection with your audience. Reflect on moments that define the couple’s relationship—perhaps a funny incident or a touching memory that showcases their bond. A well-placed light-hearted joke can ease any nerves and set a relaxed, enjoyable tone. These personal touches make your speech not just memorable but meaningful, resonating with the couple and guests alike. Conclude your speech by transitioning to the dance floor, setting an energetic tone for the festivities to follow.
Acknowledgments: Whom to Thank
In any wedding speech , acknowledging those who helped make the day possible is essential. Take a moment to express gratitude to the parents, wedding planners, and anyone who played a significant role in the wedding preparations. A heartfelt thank you will not go unnoticed and adds an element of grace and humility to your speech.
Key Elements of a Heartfelt Toast
A wedding toast should encapsulate the essence of the couple’s journey together. Focus on themes of love, commitment, and the future they are building together. Your words should reflect the deep connection they share and offer your best wishes for their life ahead. Whether your toast is emotional, humorous, or a mix of both, it should leave a lasting impression that echoes throughout the celebration.
Writing Tips for a Memorable Welcome Speech
Step 1: let the crowd know you.
When starting your wedding welcome speech, it’s essential to introduce yourself and establish your connection to the couple. This helps your guests understand your perspective and makes your speech more relatable. Here are a few tips to help you introduce yourself:
Start with a Warm Welcome : Begin by greeting your guests warmly and thanking them for being part of such a wonderful occasion.
Brief Introduction : Introduce yourself and explain your relationship to the couple, e.g., “I’m the bride’s father” or “I’m the groom’s best friend.”
Share a Personal Anecdote : Share a brief story or a funny opening line that highlights your connection to the couple. This not only breaks the ice but also sets a personal and engaging tone for your speech.
Step 2: Plan in Advance
Planning your wedding welcome speech in advance is crucial to ensure it’s well-structured, engaging, and effectively conveys your message. Here are a few tips to help you plan your speech:
Brainstorm Ideas : Start by brainstorming ideas, personal anecdotes, and stories that highlight the couple’s relationship. Think about moments that showcase their love and commitment.
Create an Outline : Use the suggested structure to create an outline for your speech. This will help you stay on track and ensure your speech flows smoothly.
Practice Your Speech : Practice your speech several times to become comfortable with the content and delivery. This will help you feel more confident and ensure a natural, engaging presentation.
Lead Into it With a Song
One creative way to transition into your wedding welcome speech is by using music. The DJ or live band can help by playing a meaningful song that resonates with the couple or the moment. This approach not only grabs the guests’ attention but also sets a harmonious tone that seamlessly blends into your speech.
Speak from the Heart
Above all, your wedding welcome speech should come from the heart. Write with sincerity and honesty, letting your genuine emotions guide your words. Keep it short and sweet—aim for a speech that engages the crowd without overstaying its welcome. Your goal is to create a warm, inclusive atmosphere that makes everyone feel part of this special occasion.
Thank Your Guests for Attending
Expressing gratitude to your guests is perhaps the most important element of the wedding welcome speech. These are the people who have come to celebrate your love and commitment, so acknowledging their presence with heartfelt thanks is essential. Make sure your gratitude is sincere, and keep it concise to maintain the flow of your speech.
Keep it Short and Sweet
A wedding welcome speech should be concise—ideally between two and three minutes. This time frame is long enough to convey your message without losing the audience’s attention. Remember, the goal is to engage the crowd and set the tone for the rest of the celebration, so brevity is key.
Delivering Your Wedding Welcome Speech with Confidence
How to deliver a wedding welcome speech.
There’s no single formula for delivering a perfect wedding welcome speech, but there are some universal tips to help you along the way. Start with a funny or engaging remark to capture the audience’s attention. Sharing personal experiences or offering advice makes the speech more relatable and engaging, ensuring it resonates with everyone present.
Practice Your Delivery
Practice is essential to delivering a smooth, confident speech. Familiarize yourself with your speech, but don’t stress about memorizing it word for word. Instead, focus on the flow and key points, allowing your delivery to feel natural and sincere. Remember, it’s the sentiment behind your words that truly matters.
Stay Calm and Confident
Public speaking can be nerve-wracking, especially at such a significant event. Take deep breaths to calm your nerves before you start speaking. Focus on speaking slowly and clearly, and make eye contact with the audience to create a connection. Remember, everyone is there to support you and share in your joy.
End with a Toast
Conclude your speech by inviting everyone to join you in a toast. Raise your glass to the happy couple, offering well-wishes for their future together. This final gesture brings your speech to a heartfelt close and sets the stage for the rest of the celebration.
Overcoming Nerves and Managing Your Time
Managing your time: tips for a smooth delivery.
Planning is key to ensuring your speech flows smoothly and fits within the allotted time. Keep your speech concise, avoiding unnecessary tangents or filler words that could dilute your message. Practice multiple times before the wedding to become comfortable with both the content and delivery.
Overcoming Nerves: Delivering Your Speech with Confidence
It’s natural to feel nervous before delivering a speech, but there are ways to manage these nerves. Avoid overindulging in alcohol beforehand, as this can impair your delivery. Instead, consider a one-drink limit before your speech, saving the celebratory drinks for after you’ve successfully completed your toast. The goal is to deliver a great speech, not to get drunk.
Making Your Wedding Welcome Speech Unforgettable
Making it your own: tips for personalization.
Making your wedding welcome speech personal and unique is essential to creating a memorable and impactful speech. Here are a few tips to help you personalize your speech:
Incorporate Personal Anecdotes : Share personal stories and anecdotes that highlight the couple’s relationship and your connection to them. These stories add depth and make your speech more relatable.
Use Humor and Wit : Don’t be afraid to use humor and wit to make your speech engaging and entertaining. A well-placed joke or funny story can lighten the mood and make your speech more memorable.
Add a Personal Touch : Include a special message, a quote, or a poem that resonates with the couple. This adds a unique element to your speech and makes it more meaningful.
Use Your Own Voice : Write and deliver your speech in your own voice and style. This authenticity will shine through and make your speech more sincere and impactful.
By following these tips and incorporating your own personal touches, you can create a wedding welcome speech that is heartfelt, memorable, and truly reflective of the joyous occasion.
How Can I Make My Wedding Welcome Speech Memorable?
To make your speech truly memorable, focus on being sincere, adding humor, and including personal stories that highlight the couple’s relationship. Incorporating quotes, poems, or songs can add depth and resonance to your words, making your speech stand out. End with a meaningful toast or a special message to the couple, leaving a lasting impression on everyone present. Aim to deliver the best wedding welcome speech by engaging the audience and setting a celebratory tone.
What Topics Should I Avoid in a Wedding Welcome Speech?
While it’s important to be sincere and heartfelt, certain topics are best left out of a wedding welcome speech. Avoid controversial subjects, inappropriate jokes, references to ex-relationships, or anything that might embarrass the couple or guests. Keep your speech light-hearted, positive, and focused on the joy and love of the occasion.
Sample Wedding Speeches and Examples
Sample wedding welcome speech.
“Good evening everyone, and welcome! For those of you who don’t know me, I’m [Your Name], [your relationship to the couple]. I’m honored to stand here today to celebrate [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name] as they begin this incredible journey together.
I’ve had the privilege of watching their relationship grow over the years, and it’s clear to anyone who knows them that they are truly meant to be. [Insert a short, personal anecdote that highlights the couple’s bond].
Today, we’re here to celebrate love—love that is patient, kind, and unwavering. [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], may your marriage be filled with all the joys and blessings that life has to offer.
Thank you all for being here to share in this special day. Now, if you would all join me in raising a glass—here’s to a lifetime of love, laughter, and happiness for [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]. Cheers!”
Wedding Welcome Speech Examples
Whether you’re looking for a traditional, modern, or humorous approach, there are countless examples of wedding welcome speeches to inspire you. These samples can provide a starting point, helping you to craft a speech that feels true to your relationship with the couple and the tone of the wedding.
Final Tips and Reminders
Additional tips for a wedding welcome speech.
Be genuine and speak from the heart.
Keep it concise, aiming for a speech that is between 5-7 minutes long.
Balance humor and emotion to keep the audience engaged.
Practice your speech multiple times to become comfortable with the content and delivery.
What is the Purpose of a Wedding Welcome Speech?
The purpose of a wedding welcome speech is to celebrate the couple, express love, and share memories, adding a personal touch to the wedding ceremony. It’s an opportunity to set the tone for the day, creating a warm, joyful atmosphere that makes the wedding truly unforgettable.
Final Thoughts on Writing a Memorable Wedding Welcome Speech
Crafting a personalized wedding welcome speech is a beautiful opportunity to express your joy, gratitude, and love for the couple. By focusing on heartfelt content, practicing your delivery, and following these guidelines, you can create a moment that resonates with your guests and makes your wedding day even more special. Don’t miss the chance to make your wedding truly unforgettable—let your words be the first step toward a day filled with love and happiness.
WeddSpeech Team
How to Begin a Wedding Speech: Great Opening Lines
Handy one-liners to get your speech off to an amazing start.
If you've read our post on how to make a great wedding speech , you'll know that it's really important to start strong! Well, here we're showing you how to do exactly that, with a list of the best wedding speech opening lines . The beauty of this list is that it works for any kind of wedding speech, whether you're the bride, groom, best man, bridesmaid, father-of-the-bride, or even the flower girl or the groom's granny!
We've made sure to include lots of different options so there's something to suit every style of speech, whether you want to keep it simple, bring the audience to tears, or give them a giggle with a joke . Some of our wedding speech opening lines can be customised, too, to help you make your speech even more personal. So, let's dive in!
Our Favourite Wedding Speech Opening Lines
To help you find what you're looking for, we've split our sample opening lines into three categories; simple and sincere opening lines, funny opening lines and opening lines with quotes from famous people.
Note: (name) can indicate yourself, the bride/groom, the couple as a whole, or another member of the wedding party.
Wedding Speech Opening Lines: Simple and Sincere Opening Lines
"Good evening, ladies and gentlemen, and thank you (name) for the kind introduction."
"Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. As (name's friend/relative), I'm delighted to welcome you all here tonight."
"Thank you so much, (name), for such a wonderful introduction. I only hope I can live up to your kind words!"
"Hello everyone. I hope you're all having a great night so far."
"Hello, I'm (name) and, for those of you who don't already know me, I'm (relation to couple)."
"Hi everybody, I'm (name), and I'm here to talk a little bit about my good friend (name)."
"Hi everyone, I'm (name), and I'm going to talk a little bit about (name). When I was writing this speech, I asked myself how I could sum up (X) years of friendship, laughter and adventures in one speech, and I decided that I can't. We'd be here all night."
"Hello everybody and welcome. I think we can all agree that it's been a wonderful day so far. (Couple names), you should be really proud of the amazing day you've put together. We're all very lucky to be a part of it."
"Hello everyone. I hope you're all having a great night so far. My life changed completely on (date, year), when (name) came into my life, and it changes again today, as they embark on their latest adventure with (name)."
"Hi everybody. Thank you for the warm welcome. Mark Twain once said that 'there are only two types of speakers in the world. 1. The nervous and 2. Liars.' I'm definitely in the former category, so I hope you'll forgive me if I'm a little bit shaky this evening."
Wedding Speech Opening Lines: Funny Opening Lines to Make Guests LOL
"Hi everyone, I'm (name), and before any of you ask, yes I am single."
"Hi everyone, I'm (name), and I'll be your speaker for the next 95 minutes."
"Hi everybody. If you don't know who I am... well, you're probably at the wrong wedding! But stick around, we need extra people for the conga line."
"Hi everyone. You're probably wondering why I gathered you here today. I've got a once-in-a-lifetime investment opportunity that I know you're going to - sorry, wrong speech!"
"Hello everyone! Thank you all for being here on such an exciting night. Yes, the rumours are true, I will be debuting some new choreography on the dance floor this evening. But in the mean time, I suppose I should talk a little bit about (couple names)."
"Hello, and welcome. You may know me as (name's friend/relative), but tonight, I go by the title, (name), Lord of the Dance."
"Hi everyone. Just in case you don't already know, I'm (name) and I'm the best man. There are some really successful, good-looking, charming men in the room tonight, but now that it's written on the ceremony program in black and white, it's official - I am the best."
"Hi everyone, I'm (name), and I'd like to begin my speech with a quote from the great Seamus Heaney/Maya Angelou/Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr./Mother Teresa... but unfortunately I left my speech in my other jacket. So you'll have to make do with me!"
“Hi everyone. If I could just say a few words … I’d be a better public speaker! That gag was actually stolen from Homer Simpson, which should give you an idea of the caliber of speech you can expect from me tonight.”
"Hi everyone, and welcome. Webster's dictionary describes a wedding as, 'The process of removing weeds from one's garden'. That's a Homer Simpson quote, which should give you an idea of the caliber of speech you can expect from me tonight.”
"Hello everyone, I'm (name.) According to most studies, people’s number one fear is public speaking. Number two is death. Death is number two. Does that sound right?"
"Hi everyone. When I was preparing this speech, (name) gave me a list of topics that were strictly off-limits, so I'd like to start with those."
"Hi everyone. I'm (name). Anyone who knows me knows that I'm (name)'s biggest fan. So much so, that I was actually quite hurt when I learned that I wasn't going to be involved in the first dance!"
"Hi everyone. I just want to take a few minutes to talk about my good friend (name). I first met (name) when we were 13, and since then, I've always looked up to him. He was, after all, the only 6ft 2' student at (school name)!"
"Good evening everyone. To our English speakers, I'd like to say welcome, we're delighted that you could be with us today to celebrate the marriage of (couple names). To our (other language) speakers, I'd like to say (use Google Translate or ask a native speaker to translate, 'My llama is very handsome. I hope my translation is correct.')"
Wedding Speech Opening Lines: Beginning with a Quote
"Hi everyone. I'd like to begin my speech with a quote from Dr. James Dobson, who said, 'Don't marry the person you think you can live with; marry only the individual you think you can't live without.' "
"Hi everyone. I'd like to begin my speech with a quote from Franz Schubert, who said, 'Happy is the man who finds a true friend, and far happier is he who finds that true friend in his wife.' "
"Hi everyone. I'd like to begin my speech with a quote from The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who said, 'There is no more lovely, friendly, and charming relationship, communion, or company than a good marriage.' "
"Hi everyone. I'd like to begin my speech with a quote from Franklin P. Jones, who said, 'Love doesn't make the world go 'round; love is what makes the ride worthwhile.' "
"Hi everyone, I'm (name.) I hope you're all having a wonderful day so far. When I got married to my partner (name), somebody told me, 'Don't just be husband and wife, be president of each other's fan clubs,' and I'd like to pass on that same advice to (couple)."
"Hello everyone. I'd like to begin with a quote from Mignon McLaughlin, who said, 'A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person.' Over the past (x) years, I've had the pleasure of watching (name) fall in love with (name) over and over again."
Click herefor a handy checklist of people to thank in your wedding speech , plus how to keep the speeches from being too long !
Image credits
Adam and grace, via one fab day, see more in:.
You might also like...
Wedding Reception Welcome Speech Guide
Setting the tone for a wedding reception is crucial in ensuring that the guests feel welcomed and engaged. One of the key elements in achieving this is delivering a well-crafted welcome speech. In this guide, we will explore the importance of a welcome speech, provide tips on how to create an engaging one, and offer a comprehensive outline to ensure you cover all the essential aspects.
Why is a Welcome Speech Important?
A welcome speech serves as an introduction to the wedding reception and allows the couple to express gratitude to their guests for attending the celebration. It sets the stage for the entire event, creating an atmosphere of warmth, appreciation, and excitement.
Opening Remarks
In your opening remarks, it’s essential to convey your appreciation for the presence of your guests. Let them know that their attendance means a lot to you and that you are honored to have them share in this special day. Additionally, acknowledge the significance of the event, highlighting the importance of love, commitment, and the joining of families.
You can also take this opportunity to briefly mention the couple’s journey, like how they met, their experiences together, or any unique aspects of their relationship. This personal touch helps build a connection with the audience and sets a positive tone for the rest of the speech.
Warm Welcome to the Guests
To create a welcoming atmosphere, express your gratitude for the effort your guests have made to attend the wedding. Acknowledge that the celebration would not be the same without their presence. Let them know how much their support means to you and your spouse-to-be. Make them feel valued for their roles in your lives and for sharing in this joyous occasion.
Introducing the Couple
Take a few moments to introduce the couple to the guests. Share a brief background of both individuals, including their names, where they come from, and any significant details about their lives. You can also provide a glimpse into their love story, such as when and how they fell in love, their shared interests, or their shared dreams for the future.
Describe their personalities and values, mentioning qualities that make each of them special and unique. This helps the audience understand and connect with the couple on a deeper level. Paint a picture of their relationship and what it means to witness their love on this beautiful day.
Acknowledging and Thanking Family Members
Recognizing and expressing gratitude to family members is an essential part of any welcome speech. Start by acknowledging parents and grandparents, recognizing their unconditional love and support. Express heartfelt appreciation for their guidance throughout your lives and in the wedding planning process.
Don’t forget to mention siblings and other close relatives who have played a significant role in your journey. Let them know how much their presence means to you and how grateful you are for their love and support.
Acknowledging and Thanking the Bridal Party
Your bridal party members are not just friends, but individuals who have stood by you during the planning process and throughout your lives. Introduce and thank your maid of honor and best man, highlighting their special relationships with you. Recognize the bridesmaids and groomsmen, expressing gratitude for their support, time, and effort in making your wedding day extra special.
Expressing Gratitude to Vendors and Service Providers
While the focus is often on the couple and their guests, it’s essential to recognize the hard work and dedication of the vendors and service providers involved in making the wedding reception a success. Take a moment to thank the event planner for their organizational skills and attention to detail.
Express appreciation to the catering team and venue staff for their excellent service. Acknowledge the photographer, florist, and other vendors, recognizing the beauty and memories they have helped create on this special day.
Sharing Anecdotes or Humorous Stories
Lighten the mood by sharing anecdotes or humorous stories about the couple. These can be lighthearted incidents that showcase their personalities or experiences that brought laughter to your lives. Engage the audience with your stories and encourage laughter and enjoyment throughout the speech.
Expressing Hopes and Wishes for the Future
Offer words of wisdom and advice to the couple as they embark on their journey together. Share your hopes and wishes for their future, emphasizing the importance of communication, compromise, and unwavering support. Encourage guests to provide their love and guidance as the couple navigates through life’s ups and downs.
Wish the couple a lifetime of happiness, love, and fulfillment. Share in their joy and excitement as you envision the wonderful adventures that lie ahead for them as a married couple.
Closing Remarks and Toast
Summarize the speech by reiterating your gratitude to the guests for their presence and support. Raise a toast to the couple’s happiness and future, inviting the audience to join in a celebratory cheer. Include a memorable closing line that leaves a lasting impression on the guests, reinforcing the love and joy felt throughout the reception.
End the welcome speech on a positive and uplifting note, encouraging guests to enjoy the wedding reception to the fullest. Remind them to embrace the love and happiness that fills the room and to create beautiful memories that will be cherished for a lifetime. Thank them once again for being part of this special day and for making it truly memorable.
A seasoned scribe, I'm passionate about elevating everyday speeches into memorable moments.
Master the Art of Delivering an Unforgettable Wedding Welcome Speech
Crafting the perfect speech can be overwhelming, but with Wedding Cheers, it doesn't have to be. We're dedicated to streamlining the speech writing process, ensuring most of our customers receive a first draft in under ten minutes. How do we achieve this? By segmenting speeches into manageable chunks, allowing you to infuse your personal touch and ideas. Once you've provided your insights, our advanced AI takes over, seamlessly weaving together a captivating speech. Whether you aim to evoke laughter, sentiment, or inspiration, Wedding Cheers ensures your audience remains engaged from start to finish.
Writing a best man speech can be a daunting task, but fear not! We've outlined some essential byte-sized "Bits" to help you compose a memorable toast. Follow these steps, and you'll have the audience laughing, crying, and cheering by the end.
Begin your speech by welcoming the guests and expressing your gratitude.
1 . Setting the Tone
An encouraging, positive greeting sets the atmosphere for the rest of the speech.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, thank you all for being here today..."
2 . Acknowledgment
Recognize the effort people have made to be part of the wedding.
"We appreciate the long distances traveled by some to join us at this occasion..."
3 . Gratitude
Expressing thanks at the onset makes guests feel valued and appreciated.
"We are deeply grateful for your presence and participation..."
Introduction
Introduce yourself and define your relationship to the bridal couple.
1 . Establish Identity
State who you are to familiarize yourself with the audience.
"For those who don't me, I am John, the groom's older brother..."
2 . Define Relationship
How you are connected to the couple gives context to your speech.
"As a close friend of both the groom and bride for over a decade..."
3 . Relevance
Highlighting your bond lends more personal touch and authenticity to your speech.
"Having seen their relationship blossom from friendship to something more..."
Expression of Joy
Depict your happiness for the newlyweds and their journey ahead.
1 . Celebration
Convey your excitement for the union.
"This is a joyous occasion as we celebrate the love between..."
2 . Sentiment
Raw expressions of emotion make your speech more heartfelt.
"I couldn't be any happier to see these two amazing people tie the knot..."
3 . Authenticity
Expressing your genuine feelings enhances the sincerity of your speech.
"Seeing them together, I genuinely feel they are perfect for each other..."
Storytelling
Share anecdotes about the couple to engage the audience.
1 . Relevant Anecdotes
Choose a story that is relevant to the couple.
"I remember the time when both of them got lost in a theme park, only to realize that they enjoy each other's company..."
2 . Captivation
Opting to share a funny or endearing story can captivate your audience.
"Their hilarious attempt at cooking their first Thanksgiving turkey, still brings tears of laughter to my eyes..."
3 . Shared Memories
Recalling memories resonates with mutual friends in the audience and creates an emotional impact.
"To our college buddies here, who can forget the time when..."
Description of Couple
Highlight the couple's qualities and their growth in their relationship
1 . Admirable Qualities
Speak about distinct qualities or achievements of bride and groom that speak to their character.
"Our groom here, as most of us know, is a talented guitarist. And the bride, a compassionate veterinarian..."
2 . Complement
Mentioning how the couple compliments each other signifies their bond.
"Where one is impulsive, the other is calm and pragmatic, striking a perfect balance in their lives.."
Sharing how the couple has grown gives a sense of their journey.
"Over the years, I've seen them transform, taking the highs and lows in stride, building an unshakeable bond..."
Advice & Blessings
Impart advice on love and marriage and give your wishes for their future.
Your life's lessons can prove to be valuable advice for the couple.
"In my experience, communication is key in any relationship..."
2 . Personal Anecdotes
Personalizing advice by tying it to an anecdote makes it relatable.
"When I had a disagreement with my wife early in our marriage, I learnt the importance of patience..."
3 . Blessings
Endeavor to finish your advice on a positive note by offering blessings.
"May you always find joy in each other, as you face whatever life throws your way..."
Conclude your speech by offering a toast to the bride and groom.
1 . Indication
Make it clear that the speech is nearing its end and prepare the crowd for the toast.
"As my speech comes to a close, please raise your glasses..."
2 . Raise a Toast
Offer your heartfelt best wishes to the bride and groom.
"To Jane and John, for a lifetime filled with love and happiness..."
3 . Invite Participation
Encourage others to join in and share in this joyous moment.
"Let us all toast to the newlyweds' bright future..."
Thank everyone once again before you sign off.
1 . Reinforce Thanks
Reiterate your appreciation for the audience's presence.
"Thank you again, for being part of this momentous day..."
2 . Acknowledgment of Effort
Recognize everyone's contribution to the success of the event.
"A successful wedding isn't just about the couple, but also about the amazing friends and family who support them..."
3 . Goodbye
End your speech on a high and positive note.
"Let's enjoy the rest of the evening celebrating this new, lovely union. Thank you, and enjoy the celebration!"
Crafting the perfect best man speech might seem daunting at first, but by breaking it down into manageable "Bits" and following this guide, you're well on your way to delivering a memorable oration. Remember, it's the genuine emotion and sincerity behind your words that will resonate the most. So, embrace the moment, speak from the heart, and celebrate the joyous union of two special people in your life. Here's to making memories and raising a toast they'll cherish forever!
How to Write a Welcome Speech for a Wedding
- Intro • First subsection
Introduction to Crafting Your Wedding Welcome Speech
The first words you share directly with your guests at your wedding set the tone for the entire celebration. A well-crafted wedding welcome speech is not just a formality; it's an opportunity to express gratitude, share joy, and welcome your guests into one of the most memorable days of your life. The welcome address is your first step towards a day filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories.
The Anatomy of a Memorable Wedding Welcome Speech
Opening remarks: how to begin.
Your welcome speech should start with a bang. Begin by expressing your joy and gratitude for the presence of your guests. A touch of humor can also work wonders in breaking the ice and making everyone feel at ease.
Weaving Personal Stories and Humor
Personal anecdotes or a light-hearted joke can add warmth and personality to your speech. This segment is your chance to reflect the couple's personality or share a brief, endearing story that resonates with the audience.
Acknowledgments: Whom to Thank
Acknowledging the efforts of those who made the day possible is a must. From parents to wedding planners, a heartfelt thanks will not go unnoticed.
Designing the Perfect Welcome Toast for Couples
Key elements of a heartfelt toast.
A couples toast should reflect the essence of your journey together. Focus on love, commitment, and the future you're building.
Language and Tone: Speaking from the Heart
The best toasts are those that feel genuine and unscripted, even if every word has been carefully planned. Speak from the heart, and let your emotions guide your delivery.
Mastering the Welcome Address for Your Wedding
Structuring your speech.
A structured speech helps you stay on track and ensures you cover all the essential points without rambling. Briefly outline your speech to include an introduction, body, and conclusion.
Tips for a Confident Delivery
Practice is key to a smooth delivery. Familiarize yourself with your speech, but don't worry about memorizing it word for word. Remember, it's the sentiment that counts, not the letter. You can read through public speaking tips, or don't be afraid to ask for help from a public speaking expert
Sample Welcome Toasts to Inspire Your Own
Explore various examples ranging from traditional to modern toasts. These samples will provide a starting point for crafting a speech that feels true to you.
How to Write A Welcome Toast
Answer a few questions, and then watch as Provenance's Toast Builder writes a custom, heartfelt welcome toast for you and your partner.
Making It Your Own: Tips for Personalization
Incorporating unique elements into your speech, such as quotes, shared memories, or future aspirations, can make your welcome address unforgettable.
Overcoming Nerves: Delivering Your Speech with Confidence
Practice and preparation are your best allies against nerves. Learn techniques for staying calm and present, ensuring your speech is delivered with confidence.
The Impact of a Well-Delivered Welcome Speech
A compelling welcome speech can significantly impact the atmosphere of your wedding, setting a positive and inclusive tone for the entire celebration.
Crafting a personalized wedding welcome speech is an opportunity to express your joy, gratitude, and love. By focusing on heartfelt content, practicing your delivery, and leveraging digital tools like Provenance.co's Toast Builder, you can create a moment that resonates with your guesta. Don't miss the chance to make your wedding truly unforgettable. Start crafting your perfect welcome speech with Provenance today.
- What should be included in a wedding welcome speech? A wedding welcome speech should include a greeting, expressions of gratitude, personal anecdotes or humor, acknowledgments of the people who helped make the day possible, and a heartfelt message to the guests.
- How long should a welcome speech at a wedding be? A welcome speech should be concise and impactful, typically lasting between 2 to 5 minutes.
- Can I use humor in my wedding welcome speech? Yes, humor can be a great way to engage your audience, but ensure it's appropriate and won't offend any guests.
- How can I personalize my wedding welcome speech? Incorporate personal stories, shared experiences, and specific details that reflect the couple's journey and personality.
- What tips can help me deliver a confident wedding welcome speech? Practice your speech, familiarize yourself with the flow, and focus on the message you want to convey rather than memorizing every word.
- How can Provenance.co help me craft my wedding welcome speech? Provenance.co offers digital tools, including the Ceremony Builder, to help couples and officiants design personalized and meaningful wedding speeches, vows, and toasts.
More about this topic
IMAGES