Introduction
Your wedding day is a momentous occasion, and as the groom, you have the privilege and responsibility of delivering one of the most anticipated speeches of the event. While this might seem daunting, especially if public speaking isn't your forte, your groom's speech is an opportunity to express gratitude and share your joy with the people who matter most in your life.
The groom's speech traditionally follows the father of the bride's speech and comes before the best man takes the microphone. This positioning is significant as it allows you to respond to any comments or anecdotes shared by your new father-in-law and set the tone before your best man potentially introduces some humor (or embarrassing stories).
Traditional Responsibilities
While wedding traditions continue to evolve, the groom's speech typically addresses several key responsibilities:
- Thanking guests for attending and sharing in your celebration
- Expressing gratitude to both families, especially your new in-laws
- Acknowledging and thanking the wedding party for their support
- Responding to the father of the bride's speech (if applicable)
- Complimenting your new spouse and expressing your love
- Proposing a toast to the bridesmaids/wedding party
These elements form the foundation of a traditional groom's speech, but remember that this is your moment to speak from the heart. The most memorable speeches are those that feel genuine and personal rather than rigidly adhering to convention.
Speech Structure
A well-structured groom's speech flows naturally while covering all the important elements. Here's an effective framework to help you organize your thoughts: