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Sample Introductory Speeches - Setting The Tone

Sample introductory speeches don't come better than an introductory speech for Usain Bolt.

Wow! Who will ever forget his moment of glory as he did his victory lap after winning 3 golds and smashing world records at the Olympics?

Take a look, read, adapt and in record breaking speed you'll have a great speech.

INTRODUCTORY SPEECH - USAIN BOLT

Good morning Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is both and honor and a privilege to be able to introduce you to a role model of note, a man of distinction - Usain bolt.

Usain Bolt is a Jamaican sprinter and he was born on 21st of August 1986.

Usain has distinguished himself as a world class sprinter and he holds the Olympic and World Records for the 100 meters in 9.69 seconds and the 200 meters in 19.30 seconds. Usain has taken his level of excellence one step further - and together with his teammates - he also won the 4X100 meters relay in the amazing time of 37.10 seconds.

What makes Usain's achievements all the more remarkable is the fact that they were all set at the 2008 Summer Olympics. Usain became the first man to win all three events at a single Olympics since Carl Lewis in 1984 and the fist man in history to set world records in all three events at a single Olympics. His name and his achievements in sprinting have earned him the media nickname "Lightning Bolt".

I am sure that you all know a great deal about his public sprinting life, but there is more to Usain than just running.

  Sidebar: great sample introductory speeches always show the speaker's human side too.

Usain enjoys dancing and he is often described as a laid-back and relaxed character. The first sport to interest him was cricket and he said that if he was not a sprinter, he would be a fast bowler instead. He is a fan of Sachin Tendulkar, Chris Gayle and Matthew Hayden.

Ladies and Gentlemen, I'm sure you will  agree that the world of cricket has lost out - but the world of sprinting has gained a legendary role-model.

Please join me in welcoming Usain Bolt to address you this morning with his words of wisdom.

Our sample introductory speeches are based on  less-is-more. Your introduction speech should welcome and honor your guest speaker, not steal their limelight.

How to Memorably Introduce Another Speaker

by Deborah Grayson Riegel

As a professional speaker and facilitator for over 20 years, I’ve been introduced more than a thousand times, by countless meeting planners, conference organizers, and team leaders. Nevertheless, most of the introductions have fallen into one of four categories:

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Public Speaking Tips & Speech Topics

Maid of Honor Speech [What to Say + Outline + Template]

Jim Peterson has over 20 years experience on speech writing. He wrote over 300 free speech topic ideas and how-to guides for any kind of public speaking and speech writing assignments at My Speech Class.

Giving a maid of honor speech is an honor – and also a responsibility.

If you’re invited to be maid of honor at a family member or friend’s wedding, you have a huge role in the wedding ceremony. Writing the perfect wedding toast or speech can often seem like the hardest part.

Coming up with the perfect toast for this special day is much easier when you have sample speeches to be inspired by. We’ve compiled an essential list of maid of honor speech examples, from roast to religious.

Read on for our step-by-step guide to writing a maid of honor speech, and then watch the examples below. Now you’re ready to prepare a great speech with confidence.

In this article:

How to Write a Maid of Honor Speech

Maid of honor speech topics blueprint, maid of honor speech outline, maid of honor speech examples.

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The Maid of Honor, sometimes also called the Bridesmaid or even the Matron of Honor, speaks after the Best Man. Remember, the audience has to listen to lots of speeches before and after you.

So, my tip number one is: Keep it brief and simple; for your own utility and the convenience of the guests.

Maid of honor speeches can take many different forms. They might be funny or sweet, creative or traditional . Often, the speech will incorporate different elements, like humor and nostalgia, to hit all the right notes. Most speeches are 5 to 10 minutes long, but wedding speeches can also take many shapes, from short toasts to extended performances.

These simple tips will help you write a maid of honor speech that’s a perfect fit for the wedding day.

Begin Early

When you need to write a maid of honor speech, you’ll want to start early.

Begin the brainstorming process as soon as you’re asked to be maid of honor or bridesmaid. This might involve jotting down fun memories or an embarrassing story you’ve shared with the bride. You can also consider talking about the groom, the bride and groom’s relationship, or how they met.

Write down some ideas early on and then take a few days or weeks to let them percolate. When you come back to your ideas, the speech outline will start to become more clear.

Try a Quote

A great way to start or end your speech can be with a beautiful quote that has meaning for the wedding day. It can be funny, emotional, or poignant. Just make sure it’s something that has meaning for the newlyweds and that wedding guests can resonate with as well.

Tell Stories

The best speeches combine quotes or big ideas about love with real stories. Stories are fun for guests to listen to, and give your speech a solid foundation.

Choosing the right stories about the bride, or the bride and groom, is important. Do you want your speech to be funny, inspiring, or touching? The stories you tell will help set the tone. Think about details: the sights, sounds, or sensations you remember will keep the audience’s attention. Just don’t let it get too long – most speeches should be 10 minutes or less.

Be Prepared

Your speech will go much better if you’ve practiced ahead of time – more than once. The more you practice, the more confident you will feel when the big day comes.

Practice reading your speech, and time yourself to make sure it’s the length you want. Keep in mind that at the wedding ceremony or reception there will be pauses for laughter or applause, which will make your speech a few minutes longer.

You might want to videotape yourself practicing, or even practice in front of a friend or family member to get some feedback on your delivery. Just make sure not to give it to the bride ahead of time – your speech should come as a surprise on the wedding day.

Don’t forget to bring notes, too. Even if you never actually look at them, they will help you feel more comfortable when you take the microphone, and can save you if you draw a blank when it’s time to start.

A heartfelt speech is better than a perfect one.

Don’t be afraid that you’re going to stumble over a word or mess up somehow. If you’ve practiced ahead of time and drafted your speech early, you’ve done all the preparation you need.

Take the stage with confidence, knowing that little mistakes and imperfections can sometimes make a speech that much more meaningful because it’s genuine. If you laugh or cry, the wedding guests are probably going to laugh or cry with you. Keep your sense of humor if the mic cuts out or you stumble over a word. Enjoy the moment!

Here are our maid of honor speech tips in a sample template plus the speaking do’s and don’ts in a matrimonial ceremony based on their complimentary life styles. You are invited and do not know what to say?

Use our template for outlining thoughts, ideas and facts about the bridal couple. I will show you what you should mention and what the text should focus on. If you are not an experienced talker: relax, you do not have to say much, less is more is often said and well put!

But always: public speeches should be from the heart! Be enthusiastic and sincere, but do not exaggerate.

Maid Of Honor Speech Template

INTRODUCTION

• Tell who you are for the ones who don’t know.
• Thank your friend for asking you to be in this wedding.
• How long have you known the bride and groom?
• Why were you selected to accept the honor giving the oral?
• Why did you accept the invitation?
• How did the two of them met?
• What did you think when you saw their friendship became more serious? Reflect on their complimentary life styles. Approach this from the female side. Be tasteful. The best man is at the grooms’ side … so his job is to cover that part, not you 🙂
• Can you come up with a funny story that illustrates the personality of the wedding couple? Think about characterizing sweet, inspiring, exciting or just average daily events or moments.
• Can you come up with a hilarious anecdote based on a real life situation?
• Conclude this part of this special wedding address with letting them know that’s why you were so happy when they announced their wedding. As I said before: keep it short. Stick to one funny story. Ask others if they really like it, if it’s funny enough to share.

THE CEREMONY

• Stress the importance of the matrimonial ceremony. Give your personal view.
• Use a famous quote about marriage, love or the future.
• Relate a short poem to the couple. Quotes and poems are a good starting point for inspiration.
• Wish the bride and groom a long and happy life.
• Express your love and best wishes for the future.
• If they have had hard times, then mention it briefly in one poetic sentence. Not more. Focus on this happy day!
• You can thank and toast to the bride and groom on behalf of the bride, but only if she asked you to do so.

Do’s And Don’ts

• Bring notes, know what you want to say. Too much improvisation can lead to babbling, stumbling or a too long maid of honor speech.
• Do not get too personal. Ask others if the stories you want to tell will not embarrass the bride and groom or the guests. Check double check is the motto.
• Do not come up with negative or depressing speech topics. Kee it nice and friendly for all.
• Avoid sexual tinted expressions, political engagement or religion issues and hold back your horses when you want to mention actual news or political stories.
• Read a draft out loud in front of somenone else and ask for opinions. Alter with the recommendations in mind.

Although maid of honor speeches can take many forms, having a classic speech outline will help you get started. If you’re not sure what to write, follow these simple steps and you’ll be able to write a beautiful, traditional speech.

1. Introduce Yourself

You can’t count on all the wedding guests knowing who you are or how you know the bride. Make time early in your speech to mention your name, what your relationship to the bride is, and how long you’ve known each other.

2. Thank People

Weddings can be expensive, stressful, and difficult to plan. It’s good to take a moment in your speech to thank the parents and other notable guests who helped make the wedding day happen.

3. Tell Stories

Next, you can launch into a story of your choice. There are many different directions you can take this part of the speech. An embarrassing story you share with the bride can get guests laughing, while a touching anecdote about the newlywed couple’s relationship might make happy tears flow.

4. Add a Quote

You can add a meaningful quote anywhere in your speech. The quotes you choose should have meaning to both you and the bride (and maybe the groom as well), and also be relatable to the other guests in attendance. If it’s an inside joke or an obscure reference that not many people will get, you may want to leave it out.

5. Give Heartfelt Emotion

Even the funniest roasts of the bride often have a moment when the speech becomes touching. No matter what the tone of your speech is, it doesn’t hurt to take a moment and recognize the beauty of the day. The best speeches often aren’t all funny or all sentimental – they’re a mix of both.

6. Finish Strong

Your ending will be the part of the speech guests are most likely to remember. Give a strong ending, whether it’s a quote, a final story, or proposing a toast to the bride and groom.

Sister Maid of Honor Speech

This sister wedding speech celebrates all of the fun of watching your family get married. The bride’s sister starts out with humor, telling family memories through a funny lens. However, she quickly gets emotional as she recounts how much her sister means to her.

“You’ve been a great mentor. You’ve been a beautiful impact on my life, and you taught me that there’s beauty in everyone no matter what they do.”

Best Friend Matron of Honor Speech

The best friend of the bride for over 10 years, this matron of honor has nothing but praise for the bride. She recounts how she approved right away upon meeting the groom, and how excited she was upon learning of their engagement.

“You have really, truly become like my sister. I knew I’d be telling you how beautiful you looked, but seeing you next to your handsome groom, you really are absolutely breathtaking.”

Short Matron of Honor Speech

This short speech starts with a funny memory of the bride talking about the groom years before their engagement. In just a minute and a half, the matron of honor brings both laughter and heartfelt emotion to her speech.

“Speaking from experience, marriage is a wild ride. But when you find that right partner, you never want the ride to end.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SRniSDMhWgM

Maid of Honor Toast

In a fun, beautiful toast to the bride, this bride’s sister thanks guests for coming, and then launches into memories of growing up together. She shouts out to both the bride and the groom for being important parts of her life.

“Katie is so much more than a big sister to me  – she’s my best friend, my mentor, and the unfailing reminder that sometimes being a sister is even better than being a princess.”

Matron of Honor Speech

This matron of honor gets guests laughing by pulling out a scroll to read from at the beginning of her speech. She recounts the embarrassing story of how the bride stole her spot on the varsity team when they first met. However, their friendship quickly blossomed, and the matron of honor touches on many of the fun things they did together as kids.

“I had the time of my life growing up with you.”

Funny Maid of Honor Speech

In a funny, lighthearted speech, this maid of honor recounts growing up with the bride, and even planning her wedding as little girls. The maid of honor also turns to the groom and thanks him for being the perfect partner for her friend. She fills the speech with memories, from embarrassing to sweet, and ends with a song for a truly memorable wedding moment.

“You’re all the things I hoped for my best friend and more, and I’m so grateful you found her and that you love her the way she really deserves.”

Roast Speech

This maid of honor kept guests laughing with her deadpan delivery of jokes in this short speech. Her stand-up comedy is perfect for the occasion, and she pokes fun at everyone from the bride to the groom to herself.

“When I first sat down and started thinking about what I want to say here tonight, I kept thinking to myself, ‘I can’t believe Erin’s getting married…in less than an hour. No, I’m kidding, I had it written before breakfast.”

Christian Maid of Honor Speech

A sweet speech from the bride’s best friend hits the right notes in a short amount of time. She compares the couple’s love to being like the love of Christ because it is so strong and so beautiful.

“The love that these two share is so strong, it doesn’t need a thousand stories, it doesn’t need a thousand words; it just radiates from these two.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AKKwOBW_8xY

Creative Maid of Honor Speech

This fun maid of honor speech starts with the bride’s sister recalling dancing to pop songs as a kid with her mom, who was pregnant with the bride. Then, she uses a musical interlude to tell the story of the bride’s life from a sister’s perspective. In a mashup of pop music covers, the maid of honor gives a great performance that gets the wedding guests clapping in time.

“[My mom and I] danced around the house to Cyndi Lauper’s ‘Girls Just Wanna Have Fun. And lo and behold, 9:30 am on day 9…DeeDee arrives. Apparently she also just wanted to have fun.”

Bridesmaid Speech

In this genuine, sweet speech, the bridesmaid’s excitement about the happy couple’s new marriage is truly evident. Her fun while holding the microphone is contagious to all the guests.

“I’m just so excited to be here, to witness the true love that is so evident between Taylor and Niko.”

Touching Maid of Honor Speech

This heartfelt, emotional maid of honor speech was given by a college friend of both the bride and the groom. She recounts the story of how she first met the bride, and then tells the bride and groom’s love story as she saw it unfold.

“It was obvious there was something truly amazing between the two of them. Four months of courting and a very, very, very confused Mark later, Mara finally accepted his proposal to be boyfriend and girlfriend – and the rest is history.”

Bridesmaid Toast

These bridesmaids toast the bride in song form. They celebrate the happy couple in their own words, and then shout out to notable wedding guests, keeping everyone entertained the entire time.

“Love is the reason we’re all here – that’s what you toasted for.”

Maid of Honor Speech

The maid of honor speech can be just as hilarious and emotional as the best man speech . Amusing, creative speeches like this one might get a standing ovation. The maid of honor uses a numerical countdown to format her speech, ending with the number one which is, of course, the bride.

“At the end of the day, you’re always gonna have that one person who’s in your corner, who’s your personal cheerleader.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uX9Y6OhkH1s

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How to introduce a speaker or honoree

by Margot Lester | Dec 20, 2012 | Best Practice

Updated June 2023

There's one sure-fire way to put a damper on an otherwise solid event and that's bad introductions. The worst offender is introductions that a read from a raft of bios that are already printed in the event program. By the third or fourth person, side conversations break out in the audience, audible sighs let out and eyes rolled (hopefully) imperceptibly. And it's not just the audience who suffers. As a speaker, I always feel like the introducer is phoning it in if they just read what's been sent out in the event email and printed in the event program. It doesn't take much to do better. Yet so few do. Don't be one of them. Join the ranks of expert introducers!

4 tips for making introductions

1. share your perspective..

Explain why you're excited this person is being honored or to hear what s/he has to say. Talk about something they've done that's impressed or effected you directly. And when in doubt, ask the person directly. Show your enthusiasm and respect.

2. Quote the speaker/honoree.

I was recently introduced by someone who shared some things I'd written in articles , on this blog and on Twitter about the topic of the day. This was fun way to establish my cred, hint at take-aways, and get the audience ready to go. You can also do this with honorees and speakers who aren't published by asking them for a few key points about themselves, like words to live by, a surprising fact, their most important lesson learned, etc.

3. Set the stage.

Tell us why this speaker/honoree was chosen in your own words and why we should care-- in your own words or through comments of others. Anything but a direct reading from the stock bio. What has this person done to merit this honor or speaking slot? How has s/he earned it? Help the audience get revved up about the value of the session.

This really only works with speaker introductions: If you're not comfortable with the previous ideas, cut to the chase with something like this: "You came to see Becca. I came to see Becca. So, I'm going to turn the mic over to Becca Jones, author of Better Introductions."

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How to Introduce a Speaker (With Examples)

• The Speaker Lab
• April 2, 2024

Table of Contents

Ever stood at a podium, your palms sweaty as you look out over a crowd? In this case, though, you’re not the main attraction — just the person who gets to introduce the star of the show. That moment before you introduce a speaker is crucial. It’s not just about saying names right or getting the titles in order. Knowing h ow to introduce a speaker can set the tone for their entire presentation and potentially shape the audience’s perception from the get-go.

A well-crafted introduction does more than inform; it engages the crowd and draws them in to pay attention to the upcoming speech. A poor one, on the other hand, falls flat, sounding more like a dry reading of someone’s LinkedIn profile rather than an exciting prelude to what’s ahead. But a good speaker introduction is powerful — transforming that brief moment into a perfect kickoff of the main event. You might feel overwhelmed trying to write your introduction, but don’t stress about it! With some insight into human psychology and strategic communication techniques, we’re here to guide you.

Crafting the Perfect Introduction for a Guest Speaker

Introducing a guest speaker is more than just reading off a script. It’s about setting the stage and grabbing the attention of the audience. A good guest speaker introduction builds anticipation, connects the dots for your audience, and sets up the speaker and their topic — all in 60-90 seconds.

To achieve this, you first need to know your crowd . Are they tech geeks at a Silicon Valley conference? Or maybe they’re teachers eager to soak up new ways of engaging their students? Understanding who is in your audience will help you create an introduction that resonates with your listeners.

As you begin your introduction, it’s important to grab the audience’s attention . Start with a thought-provoking statement or question that relates to the topic and prepares the audience for what’s to come. For example, you could ask “Have you ever wondered how technology will shape our future?” before introducing a tech speaker.

Next, be sure to mention the speaker’s credibility . Share the speaker’s education, experience, and provide specific examples of their expertise. It’s also helpful to mention notable achievements or awards related to their main topic.

As you continue, it’s often helpful to preview the topic . Give the audience a quick overview of what the speaker will be talking about. You can also explain why the topic is important to the audience and what they can expect to learn.

Finally, as the speaker joins you on stage, make them feel welcome . Smile, be energetic and enthusiastic, and ask the crowd to give them a warm welcome. You can also compliment the speaker and share something special about them.

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Essential Steps to Introduce a Speaker Effectively

Before you can introduce a speaker, you first have to know who they are. In some cases, you can request a short bio from the speaker, but in other cases you may have to prepare one yourself. As a result, a little research is in order. As you compose your speaker bio, make sure it’s clear why your speaker is credible. Even if you don’t explicitly state it, you want your audience to know that they’re about to hear from someone who knows their stuff.

Researching the Speaker

First things first: dig deep into who the speaker is. What have they achieved? What about their journey inspires? To gather this information, dive into their professional background. Depending on how well-known the speaker is, there might be articles or interviews that they’ve featured in. Scan these for insights into their achievements as well as their personality. Remember to cross-check sources to ensure you have your facts straight. Mispronouncing names or getting details wrong can quickly undo all your good work.

As you research your speaker, aim to understand why they matter to your audience at this particular point in time. The accomplishments that you mention in your introduction should align closely with what your audience values or finds intriguing. In addition, tie these accomplishments directly to the speech topic—why is what they’ve done informing what they’ll say?

Weaving together a narrative of accomplishments with reasons why it matters creates more than just interest—it builds respect. You’re telling everyone present: “This person knows their stuff, and you’re going to want to listen.” It turns “just another talk” into one people couldn’t stop thinking about. That’s how powerful the right introduction can be.

The Role of Credibility in Effective Introductions

Ever heard the saying, “You never get a second chance to make a first impression”? Well, when it comes to introducing speakers, this couldn’t be more true. The initial moments can either set the stage for success or lead to an uphill battle for your speaker’s attention and respect.

But why does credibility matter so much right off the bat? It’s simple. Before someone decides if they like what you have to say, they need to buy into why they should listen. That’s where speaker credibility kicks in. It essentially bridges the gap between an audience’s initial hesitation and their eventual engagement.

• Credibility builds trust: When you highlight a speaker’s accomplishments and relevance upfront, it reassures your audience that their time is well invested.
• Tailored introductions hit home: Craft introductions that resonate with audience needs while emphasizing why this particular person has something unique to offer on the subject at hand.
• Audience connection is key: An effective introduction goes beyond just listing accolades; it makes listeners feel personally connected and eager to hear more from the guest speaking powerhouse standing before them.

In essence, a strong start fueled by credibility doesn’t just introduce; it captivates, making sure everyone leans in closer rather than tuning out. Your role is to elevate that sense of anticipation.

Engaging Examples of Guest Speaker Introductions

When preparing to introduce a speaker, it helps to have some examples to look at. Below we have just that: two examples of speeches that you can tweak for your own personal use.

General Introduction Example for a Guest Speaker

“Ladies and gentlemen, imagine someone who’s not just mastered their field but reshaped it. This evening, we’re graced with the presence of an individual whose brilliance has not only illuminated their field but also redefined it. Meet [speaker’s name] , the brain behind groundbreaking innovations in [speaker’s field] . With a career spanning over two decades, [he/she] has earned accolades like [specific achievement] , transforming challenges into triumphs. Today, [he/she]’ll dive deep into [speech topic or title] , offering insights that promise to change the way you think about this important subject.”

Personal Anecdote Example for a Guest Speaker Introduction

“I’ll never forget the day I stumbled upon an article by our next speaker; my perspective on [topic related to speech] was forever changed. Fast forward to today, and I’m thrilled beyond words to introduce you all to [speaker’s name] . Not only is [he/she] a titan in the realm of [professional title or industry] , but also someone with heartwarming resilience facing personal hurdles head-on and emerging victorious. Brace yourselves as [he/she] shares [topic or name of speech] , enlightening us on overcoming obstacles while chasing dreams.”

In these introductions, did you catch how we used a bit of storytelling to introduce the guest speakers? That wasn’t just fluff. Storytelling helps grab attention instantly while connecting the audience with the speaker even before they’ve started speaking. So when you’re introducing a speaker, don’t just rattle off achievements. Find a way to highlight what makes your speaker an interesting person, someone worth knowing and listening to. Storytelling is one great way to achieve this.

Leveraging AI to Practice Introductions

If you’ve been chosen to introduce a guest speaker, then you definitely want to practice what you’re going to say beforehand. Thanks to AI, doing so is now a bit easier. For those tired of rehearsing in front of a mirror or roping in an unenthusiastic roommate as your practice partner, there’s now an alternative. With AI tools designed for speech practice, it’s like having a personal coach who’s always ready when you are. Take a look at some additional benefits below.

• No Judgement Zone: First off, these platforms offer a safe space free from judgment. So if you mess up? No one but the algorithm will know.
• Tailored Feedback: You get real-time feedback on everything from pacing to tone.
• Infinite Do-Overs: Practice makes perfect because with AI, you can repeat until those nerves turn into confidence.

It’s more than smoothly navigating an opener; it’s about leaving a lasting imprint with your words. Thanks to AI tools like Orai or Speeko, and even VR tools like VirtualSpeech , you can introduce your speaker with confidence.

Delivering Your Guest Speaker Introduction with Impact

As the big day approaches, there are a few more things to consider for your speaker introduction. For instance, how will you start it? How important is it to keep it brief? And will you use humor? We have the answers to all these questions below.

Starting with a Thought-Provoking Question or Statement

When introducing a speaker, it’s best to start strong. A thought-provoking question or statement can be just what you need to grab the audience’s attention from the get-go. It sets up not only your speaker but also primes your audience for what’s about to unfold. For instance, asking “Have you ever wondered how technology will shape our future?” could lead into introducing a tech visionary. Similarly, saying something like “Imagine achieving all your goals without sacrificing happiness” is perfect for setting up a motivational speaker .

The goal here is to craft an opening that resonates with every person sitting there, making them think, “This is going to be good.”

Balancing Brevity with Substance in Your Introduction

Speaker introductions can be tricky because they must be both concise and engaging . Here’s the secret: It’s not about stuffing every accolade or achievement into those first few sentences. Instead, it’s about sparking curiosity, establishing credibility, and making a connection—fast. Remember, you only have about 60-90 seconds, so you want each word to count. The trick lies in choosing each word carefully so every sentence serves multiple purposes—it informs, intrigues, and invites.

Determining When Humor Is Appropriate

Before you add humor to your speaker introduction, it’s important to first consider your audience. Who all is attending and are they the sort of people to appreciate a little humor? If so, how much and what type? The setting will also help you gauge whether humor is appropriate. For instance, a somber conference room isn’t usually the place for stand-up comedy routines. If you do decide to crack a joke or two, ensure your humor aligns with both the topic at hand and doesn’t stray into offensive territory.

Humor has its place. When used correctly, it can create an instant connection between speaker and audience. But if in doubt, play it safe. The goal here is to make them anticipate your guest speaker, not leave them puzzled or offended. So read the room before you decide your move.

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Techniques for Seamlessly Transitioning to the Keynote Speaker

After you’ve introduced your speaker, it’s time to welcome them onstage. As you transition, there are a few important things to take care of as the speaker steps up to the podium.

• Greet with gusto: Kick things off by warmly welcoming your speaker on stage. A smile or a friendly nod goes miles here.
• Name drop: Announce their name clear and proud—but please get it right. Nothing says “oops” like botching up someone’s name in front of everyone.
• The warm-up act: Lead the applause by clapping first. This isn’t just good manners; it signals everyone else to join in and sets a positive vibe right from the get-go.

Ensuring a smooth transition isn’t rocket science. It just requires checking off a few important steps before you step offstage. That way, the audience brimming with anticipation for what’s coming next.

Together, we’ve explored the art of introducing a speaker. This journey isn’t just about listing facts; it’s about connecting an audience with a speaker, preparing them for what the speaker has to share. To achieve this, it’s important to research your speaker. You want to be able to explain why this speaker is credible without sounding like a Wikipedia page, building interest for your guest speaker’s presentation. Using our examples (and maybe a little AI help), you can nail a speaker introduction that is brief, humorous, and thought-provoking. Transitioning over to the event speaker doesn’t have to be nerve-wracking either. With these insights, you’re all set to connect your audience with a speaker they’ll anticipate.

• Last Updated: June 4, 2024

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Crafting a Memorable Maid of Honor Speech: Tips and Inspiration

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Crafting a memorable maid of honor speech can be both an honor and a daunting task. It’s a chance to celebrate the bride in a heartfelt way while engaging the audience. Whether you’re a seasoned speaker or feeling the nerves, this guide will walk you through simple and effective steps to create a speech that will leave everyone touched and smiling. Remember, the key to a great speech lies in authenticity and personal anecdotes – sharing genuine stories and emotions will make your words resonate with everyone present.

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Maid Of Honor Speech Examples

Matron of honor speech.

In the realm of weddings, the roles of Maid of Honor and Matron of Honor are distinct yet equally significant. While the Maid of Honor is typically an unmarried woman, the Matron of Honor is a married woman, often a close friend or relative of the bride. The Matron of Honor’s speech is a cherished moment during the wedding reception, filled with heartfelt memories and well-wishes.

Difference between Maid of Honor and Matron of Honor:

• Maid of Honor: Unmarried woman chosen for her close relationship with the bride.
• Matron of Honor: Married woman, offering a unique perspective on married life and advice for the couple.

Ladies and Gentlemen, Good evening! For those of you who don’t know me, I’m [Your Name], the Matron of Honor and [Bride’s Name]’s older sister/best friend. It’s an incredible honor to stand here today beside my beautiful sister/best friend on this special day. Growing up, [Bride’s Name] and I shared countless memories—sleepovers filled with secrets, endless laughter, and a bond that only sisters/best friends can understand. From the moment she met [Groom’s Name], I saw a light in her eyes that was new and wonderful. Seeing her so happy and in love filled my heart with joy. As someone who has been married for a few years, I’ve learned that marriage is a journey filled with beautiful highs and challenging lows. [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], you two have a love that is strong and resilient. Cherish each other, communicate openly, and never stop laughing together. [Bride’s Name], you are my confidante, my rock, and my inspiration. [Groom’s Name], thank you for loving her the way she deserves. I’m excited to watch you two build a life filled with love and happiness. Here’s to a lifetime of love, laughter, and endless joy. Congratulations, [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]!

Hello everyone! For those who might not know me, I’m [Your Name], the Matron of Honor and [Bride’s Name]’s college roommate/best friend. I’ve had the pleasure of knowing [Bride’s Name] for [number] years, and I must say, standing here today is an absolute joy. When [Bride’s Name] told me about [Groom’s Name], she couldn’t stop smiling. In fact, she smiled so much that I thought she had taken up a new hobby—face exercises! But in all seriousness, from the first time I met [Groom’s Name], I knew he was the one. The way they look at each other, with so much love and understanding, is something truly special. Now, as someone who has been through the ups and downs of marriage, I want to offer a bit of advice: always remember to keep the humor alive. Laugh together, especially during the tough times. It’s amazing how a little laughter can ease even the most stressful moments. [Bride’s Name], you’ve been my partner in crime, my cheerleader, and my voice of reason. [Groom’s Name], you’re incredibly lucky to have her, and I know she’s just as lucky to have you. So, here’s to [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]—may your life together be filled with love, laughter, and lots of happy memories. Cheers!

Tips for Writing a Matron of Honor Speech:

• Start with a Personal Anecdote: Share a meaningful memory or story that highlights your relationship with the bride.
• Express Genuine Emotions: Speak from the heart, expressing your happiness and love for the couple.
• Offer Words of Wisdom: As a married woman, provide thoughtful advice and encouragement for their journey ahead.
• Keep it Concise: Aim for a speech that is heartfelt but brief, typically around 3-5 minutes.
• Practice: Rehearse your speech to ensure a smooth delivery and to manage any nerves.

Best Friend Maid Of Honor Speech

After years of helping Maids of Honor deliver awesome speeches, founder of Speechy and author of ‘The Modern Couple’s Guide to Wedding Speeches’, Heidi Ellert-McDermott, shares her tips. The first three-fifths of the speech should include revealing, entertaining stories that give an insight into the bride and your relationship with her. Don’t be shy of some affectionate teasing.

We’ve made a research and after surveying over 50,000 brides, the maid of honor choice was crystal clear: more than 51% of them chose their best friend as their maid of honor. This role isn’t just about tradition—it’s about an unbreakable bond. A best friend’s speech resonates deeply, filled with shared memories and heartfelt wishes.

“If you haven’t had the chance to meet me yet, my name is X. (Bride) and I have been best friends for about 10 years. We met in high school gym class, and we couldn’t stand each other at first. As you can see, things eventually changed for the better. When (Bride) first asked me to be her Maid of Honor I felt flattered. But as the big day approached, she also told me to give a speech and a toast. I’m kind of the shy type and tried my best to get out of it. But, as (Groom) can tell you, it’s almost impossible to tell (Bride) No and get away with it. I wanted to tell you both how absolutely spectacular you look today. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a better-looking couple (except for maybe my boyfriend and I). And I hope you’re all having a lovely evening and I’d like to I wish you two all the love and happiness in the world. How blessed you are to celebrate your love on this beautiful day. I know there are many happy years ahead for you. Let’s all raise our glasses to the bride and groom, and wish them a lifetime of love and happiness!”

“I never had a sister, but (Bride) has been like a sister to me for all these years. We have similar tastes, we like similar clothes… I knew (Bride) had found the one when (Groom) walked into her life. Well, I’m fine with that – she saw him first! Actually, you could see that it was love at first, second, and third sight. He is her Prince Charming and it seems to me he gives her all she needs – a strong arm, a sympathetic ear, and his credit card.”

“I met (Bride) 6 years ago, as we tried to survive in the concrete jungle of NY. To thrive there, your tribe is essential. We are quite protective of each other, so I was a bit skeptical of (Groom) when he first came into the picture. But as time goes by, I can’t imagine anyone else but him to be her one and only. They say that anyone can be passionate, but it takes a real pair of lovers to be silly. Well, together, (Bride) and (Groom) are two of the goofiest people I know.”

“Hello everyone, my name is X, and by my dress, you can tell that I am the Maid of Honor today. For many years, we have been through thick and thin, and we have shared many memories. Today is another great day to add to our collection of sweet memories, so I’m really looking forward to the cake! I know you will have challenges as all relationships do. But you know what’s great about love and relationships and marriages? It is learning to grow together. Caring and sharing, and lots of tenderness. And maybe a bit of patience, or maybe even a lot. So let’s raise our glasses to the power of love, that makes all these wonderful things happen! Today you start a completely new chapter of your lives. What can I say? Never forget the two most important replies: ‘you’re right, dear’ and ‘okay, buy it’. Love and cherish each other! These two are a rare find in today’s world. Here’s to the groom who has a bride so fair, and here’s to the bride with a groom who is so rare.”

Check out this touching maid of honor speech to get inspired!

How to write a maid of honor speech for best friend?

• Introduction: Begin by introducing yourself and expressing how honored you are to be the maid of honor for your best friend.
• Fond Memories: Share special and cherished memories you’ve shared together, highlighting the bond you both share.
• Praise and Qualities: Speak about your best friend’s wonderful qualities, accomplishments, and the ways they have positively impacted your life and the lives of others.
• The Friendship: Emphasize the strength and significance of your friendship, and how it has grown over the years.
• Love and Support: Show appreciation for the bride’s partner and express your excitement about their journey together.
• Gratitude: Thank the guests for being a part of this special day and acknowledge the couple’s families.
• Toast: Raise a toast to your best friend and their partner, wishing them a lifetime of love, joy, and happiness together.

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Sister maid of honor speech.

According to our research, the second most popular choice for the maid of honor role is the bride’s sister. While tradition often places the best friend in the spotlight, a sister brings a unique depth to the role. Their shared history, growing up together, and the intrinsic bond make a sister’s speech incredibly touching. With a wealth of childhood memories and a deep understanding of the bride, a sister’s words carry immense emotional weight. When delivering the speech, draw upon this shared journey, express genuine emotions, and celebrate the love that binds not only siblings but also the newlyweds.

“As you may know, I am the bride’s younger sister. As we were growing up, I always wanted to be like her. Do the things she did, have the things she had –  I was probably a bit annoying, I always wanted to tag along. She taught me how to care, how to share, and how to try to reach for the stars. And as I grew up I wanted to be just as beautiful, caring, smart, and successful as her. (Bride) has always set an example for me to follow. Over the years she has shown me how to love and care. Today she shows me how to find a best friend, a partner, and a true lover, all in one person. I hope that I am just as lucky someday. It’s a great happiness to find someone who loves you as much as (Groom) loves my sister. Today, I want to thank both of you for being a part of my life, and to celebrate the love you both share. Like many sisters, we weren’t always best friends. I remember fights, screaming, and door-slamming, but I couldn’t have picked a better sister and a friend. Now that we are older, I can finally admit how happy I am to have grown up with such a great sister. Having a sister is one of the greatest things in life. Having a little sister is even better because I liked to be bossy. (Bride) always wanted to be a bit more like me… But actually, there is so much that I admire about her! I have watched her grow into the gorgeous woman that she is. It is a great honor for me to be her big sister!”

“First of all, I want to thank you all for being here with us today. As most of you know I am (Bride’s) sister. As we grew, we were as close as can be. We were always in trouble and I remember wondering if there will be a guy brave enough for someone as wild as my sister is. Well, here he is!My sis has just tied the knot. And I do believe that (Groom) is her perfect match. And today I realize that all she needs is a guy who will love her just the way she is, with all her craziness. Their commitment to each other inspires all of us because that’s what we call true love. So let’s raise our glasses to this amazing couple!”

“I want you to know that it took me 3 weeks to write this speech over and over again. And I couldn’t think of anything perfect enough to describe just how much I love you. I couldn’t find words to define the kind of sister you are to me. This is your big day and there is so much I want to say… I Googled a lot of maid of honor speech examples. The one piece of advice I kept finding over and over again was to start off with a quote. I did some research and I think their love is best described by Dr. Seuss: “You know you’re in love when you can’t fall asleep because the reality is finally better than your dreams.”

“Love, be true to her; Life, be dear to her; Health, stay close to her; Joy, draw near to her; Fortune, find what you can do for her, Search your treasure house through and through for her, Follow her footsteps the wide world over – And keep her husband always her lover. – By Anna Lewis, from “To the Bride”

How to write a maid of honor speech for sister?

• Introduction: Start by introducing yourself and your relationship with the bride, emphasizing your sisterly bond.
• Anecdotes: Share heartfelt and funny stories that highlight your sister’s qualities, achievements, or memorable moments you’ve shared together.
• Praise the bride: Compliment her personality, kindness, and the positive impact she has on others.
• Address the groom: Welcome him into the family and share a warm message about their relationship.
• Express gratitude: Thank the guests for attending and acknowledge your parents and other family members.
• Toast: Raise a glass and propose a heartfelt toast to the newlyweds and their future happiness together.

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Pick a Maid of Honor?

Funny Maid Of Honor Speech

As a close friend of the bride, you would have a lot of material for wedding speeches bridesmaids, you just need to know how to put them all together. A few sample wedding speeches would give you the right kind of inspiration to get you on your way.

“Well, for those of you who I haven’t had the chance to meet yet, my name is [NAME]. [BRIDE] and I have been best friends for around the last 10 years. We first met at work one day, when she stole my carrot cake out of the fridge in the lunchroom and I threw away her pineapple yogurt cartons in revenge. I never had a sister, but [BRIDE] has been my stand-in sister for all these years. You could say we are even closer than sisters. We don’t fight like sisters, but we do wear each other’s clothes. Somehow she can still fit into my clothes but I can’t fit into hers anymore. I’m sure that is just because her dryer must be shrinking them. I knew [BRIDE] had found the one when [GROOM] walked into her life. Sure, she dated a few guys…after I was done torturing them. But [GROOM] was different. Unlike those jerks, he was kind and thoughtful. And he had a job. You could see that it was love at first, second, and third sight. Clearly [GROOM] is charming and it seems to me he offers her what she needs – a strong arm, a kind ear, and an American Express Black Card. I trust [BRIDE] and [GROOM] completely. I remember the time I asked them to watch my dog Benji when I went skiing in Europe. They were so nice to help out. I got back and Benji was so happy to see me. He was 40 pounds lighter and now he sees a therapist twice a week. Of course, we are having fun today. The test of this relationship will be over the long term. Will she still love [GROOM] when he leaves his underwear on the floor and cuts his toenails at the dinner table? The answer is no. God, please, disgusting. No, seriously, I know they will have challenges as all relationships do. And [GROOM] will learn what all men learn eventually. Keep your wife happy! Happy wife, happy life. No, really, what’s great about love and relationships and marriage is learning to grow together. The communication it takes to keep a marriage going is massive. But half the fun is working things out, talking, communicating, and launching kitchen appliances at each other – real love. Today has been a great day. Family and friends are here, the sun is shining and the champagne is flowing. And we’ll need it to get through this chicken dinner.”

Sometimes the hardest part of being a maid of honor to your bestie might be writing the wedding speech. Speaking with your friend face to face is always easy, however, making toasts or speeches in front of a group of people would be totally different and not as easy. This is why anecdotes and funny wedding speeches maid of honor could help you cruise through your speech while giving the wedding guests a laugh at the same time.

Funny Lines For Maid Of Honor Speech

• “I did some research on how to give the perfect maid of honor speech, and the first tip I found was to imagine everyone in their underwear. So, here we are, ladies and gentlemen, welcome to my nightmare!”
• “Being the maid of honor is like being a ninja. You have to be quick on your feet, prepared for anything, and ready to attack at a moment’s notice. But instead of throwing shurikens, I’m armed with embarrassing stories about the bride.”
• “As the maid of honor, I’ve been given the responsibility of keeping the bride calm and relaxed throughout the wedding planning process. Which is why I’ve been slipping her Xanax in her coffee every morning.”
• “When the bride asked me to be her maid of honor, I was thrilled. But then I realized it meant I had to give a speech in front of all these people. So if I faint halfway through, just drag me off stage and make it look like part of the act.”

Bridesmaid Wedding Speech

A list of example wedding speeches maid of honor could act as a template of sorts, helping you figure out just how to structure your bridesmaid speech.

Some of the best wedding speeches maid of honor, shine a light on the friendship between the bride and her maid of honor, as well as the beautiful personality of the bride. Most introductions begin with the story of meeting the groom for the first time. The intro is usually a good time to inject a funny quote, poem, or actual occurrence.

“Hi everyone, I am one of the bridesmaids at this wedding and I just wanted to say how happy and lucky I am to be here to celebrate [bride] and [groom’s] wedding with everyone. Today, everything looks effortless. From the beautiful wedding ceremony to the food, music, and decorations at this venue, every little detail was planned by [bride] and [groom.] And lots of time was spent shopping for dresses and doing fittings. When you get to peek behind the scenes, you see how much work really gets put into planning a wedding. There were a lot of late nights and hours spent working on this wedding and I have to say that it all turned out quite beautifully. Let’s all give a round of applause for [bride] and [groom.] [Bride] and [groom,] thank you for such a wonderful day. I raise my glass to the two of you and wish you nothing but the best in your life together. May each day be full of love and laughter between the two of you.”

Speeches are generally not as difficult as we imagine. So, you can relax, go through these samples, and create one of the best wedding toast speeches made of honor.

Short Maid Of Honor Speech Examples

“Greetings to all of you. I’m [Name], the maid of honor. I would like to express a few words about the lovely bride and groom. [Bride] has always been a wonderful friend to me, and it’s an honor to be her maid of honor today. And [Groom], I am delighted that you are joining our family. You two are a perfect match, and I wish you all the happiness and love in the world. Let’s raise a glass to the happy couple!”

“Hello, everyone. I’m [Name], the maid of honor. [Bride], you look breathtakingly beautiful today, and I feel grateful to be a part of your extraordinary day. [Groom], you’re a fortunate man! [Bride] is intelligent, gorgeous, and has a heart of gold. I am confident that you both will have a lifetime of love and happiness together. Congratulations on your special day!”

“Good evening, all. I’m [Name], the maid of honor, and for those who don’t know me, it’s lovely to meet you. I have known [Bride] for several years, and I have never seen her as happy as she is with [Groom]. You two bring out the best in each other, and it’s evident that you are destined to be together. It’s an honor to stand here today as a witness to your love and commitment. Congratulations to the joyful couple!”

“Hello everyone, I’m [Name], the maid of honor. [Bride], you’re my best friend and I couldn’t be happier to see you marry [Groom]. You two are perfect for each other and I wish you a lifetime of love and happiness. Congratulations!”

“Good evening, all. I’m [Name], the maid of honor, and I’m honored to celebrate [Bride] and [Groom]’s special day. [Bride], you’re my best friend and I’m so happy to see you with someone as wonderful as [Groom]. Wishing you both a lifetime of love and happiness. Congratulations!”

“Hi everyone, I’m [Name], the maid of honor, and I’m thrilled to celebrate my best friend [Bride] and her groom [Groom]. [Bride], I’m so proud of you and I know that [Groom] is the perfect partner for you. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness and love. Congratulations!”

“Good evening, everyone! For those who don’t know me, I’m [Your Name], and I have the incredible honor of standing by [Bride’s Name]’s side today as her maid of honor. First and foremost, I want to say how breathtakingly beautiful she looks tonight. As I stand here, I can’t help but reflect on the journey that led us to this moment. [Bride’s Name] and I have been inseparable since childhood, and I am beyond grateful for the memories we’ve created together. We’ve laughed together, cried together, and supported each other through life’s ups and downs. And now, as I watch her embark on this new chapter with [Groom’s Name], my heart overflows with joy. I’ve witnessed the love between them grow and flourish, and it’s truly something special. [Groom’s Name], thank you for making my best friend the happiest she’s ever been. To [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], may your love continue to blossom and may your journey together be filled with laughter, love, and adventure. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness. Cheers!”

“Hello, everyone! I’m [Your Name], and I have the honor of being [Bride’s Name]’s slightly crazy, but totally awesome, maid of honor! When [Bride’s Name] asked me to take on this role, I knew it would be an adventure. From choosing the perfect dress to planning wild bachelorette parties, we’ve had our fair share of laughs and tears. And let’s not forget about all the emergency wedding dress fittings! But in all seriousness, I couldn’t have asked for a better friend. [Bride’s Name] is compassionate, hilarious, and always there to lend a helping hand. She lights up every room she enters, and I know that [Groom’s Name] feels incredibly lucky to have her as his partner in crime. [Groom’s Name], welcome to the family! We’ve all been waiting for someone to take on the challenge of dealing with [Bride’s Name]’s terrible dance moves, and it looks like you’re up for it. To the happy couple, may your love be as endless as the dance floor at the reception. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness, laughter, and love. Cheers!”

“Ladies and gentlemen, distinguished guests, and most importantly, the beautiful couple of the day, [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]. I’m [Your Name], and I have the privilege of being [Bride’s Name]’s maid of honor. Today, I stand here with a heart full of emotions, for I’ve had the honor of witnessing the love between [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name] blossom into something truly extraordinary. Their love is like a gentle breeze, calming our souls and reminding us of the beauty in life. [Bride’s Name], you’ve always been the ray of sunshine in my life. Your kindness, grace, and unwavering love inspire all who know you. And now, as you embark on this new journey with [Groom’s Name], I know that you’ll be a guiding light in his life as well. [Groom’s Name], thank you for cherishing and loving [Bride’s Name] with all your heart. Your dedication to making her happy is evident in every glance you share. Let us all raise our glasses to the newlyweds. May your love continue to grow, like the mighty oak standing tall through the changing seasons. May your days be filled with laughter, and your hearts forever intertwined. Congratulations, and here’s to a lifetime of happiness and love!”

When delivering a speech, remember to speak from the heart, keep it concise, and maintain a positive tone. Make sure to customize the speech to fit your relationship with the couple and the overall vibe of the wedding.

How to write a short wedding speech?

• Start by introducing yourself and briefly mentioning your relationship with the bride. This will help the audience understand your perspective and why you were chosen to be the maid of honor.
• Take a moment to express your gratitude for being a part of the special day and your well wishes for the newlyweds.
• Say a few words about the bride and groom, highlighting their qualities and how they complement each other. You can talk about their journey as a couple and your hopes for their future together.
• End your speech by raising a toast to the newlyweds.

Maid Of Honor Toasts

One of the tips for giving good wedding speeches – to use a good toast. A toast is basically well wished to the newlyweds and their family, followed by a signal for guests to raise their glasses.

If you are unsure what exactly to say, here are some beautiful maid of honor toast examples to inspire you.

• “And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight. – Philippians 1:9”
• “Be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you. – Ephesians 4:32”
• “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Here’s to love, laughter and happily ever after. – Romans 12:10″
• “As (Groom) and (Bride) start their new life together, Let’s toast to the new husband and wife!”
• “Here’s to the husband And here’s to the wife; May they remain Lovers for life.”
• “Here’s to the health of the happy pair; may good luck follow them everywhere; And may each day of wedded bliss be always as sweet and joyous as this.”
• “May you grow old on one pillow. May their joy be as bright as the morning, and their sorrows be shadows that fade in the sunlight of love.”
• “Let’s drink to love, which is nothing—unless it’s divided into two with someone you love. May your joys be as sweet as spring flowers that grow.”
• “As bright as a fire when winter winds blow; As countless as leaves that float down in the fall; And as serene as the love that keeps watching over us all.”

As the maid of honor, you need to find the one speech, that is short and sweet, and resonates with you! Great Maid of Honor wedding speeches often includes great quotes . Famous quotes have a way of painting a picture that our own words can’t seem to do on their own.

The Maid Of Honor Speech Template

Infographic.

The biggest worry that most maids of honor have is freezing and forgetting the speech. A great solution is breaking your speech into sections and writing them down on cards that you carry with you. As you practice your speech it will be easier to memorize, and having all the words with you will keep you from panicking.

To get you started, stick to our basic Maid Of Honor Speech Outline:

• Introduce yourself (your name, your relationship to the bride, and how long you’ve known each other)
• Thank everyone involved in the wedding planning for their hard work
• Talk about the bride (why she’s a good person and friend, share a story to illustrate it)
• Tell the love story (The most romantic version of how the bride and groom met)
• Talk about the groom (Compliment him, why he’s great for your friend, what he does for her etc)
• Celebrate the couple (Why they’re so good together)
• Wish the newlyweds wonderful things for the future You could also insert a quote or a poem.
• Toast to the bride and groom – Raise your glass, say: “Here’s to the happy couple”, take and sip and voila! You’ve nailed it!

How To Write The Best Maid Of Honor Speech Ever

We’ve all seen when speeches go wrong, so how you do you get it right? After years of helping Maids of Honor deliver awesome speeches, founder of Speechy , Heidi Ellert-McDermott, shares her tips.

• Introduce yourself & explain how you know the bride.
• Include humor throughout. Yes, your speech should be a loving tribute to a true friend, but it’s also meant to entertain a crowd.
• Once you’ve written your speech, try to edit it in half. Promise, your speech will be better the punchier it is. No one ever wished a speech was longer!
• Pay tribute to the bride’s partner with than a cursory platitude. Prove you genuinely know and like them!
• Rehearse as often as you can but use notes on the day. Delivering the speech shouldn’t be a memory test.
• Remember to smile throughout your delivery. It’s a powerful (and infectious) communication tool.

Don’t

• Resort to cheesy cliches about love and friendship.
• Google gags.
• Thank anyone. It’s not your job.
• Take up more than 10 mins mic time.
• Pretend the bride is perfect. Instead cherish the crazy character she truly is, with all her quirks and eccentricities.
• Talk over laughter when you deliver your speech. If you’ve written a funny line, leave a pause after you’ve said it to allow your audience to get the joke and respond. Don’t start talking till the last giggle has died down.
• Drink more than a glass of bubbles prior to your speech. Alcohol actually increases the stress hormone.

How to Get Started Maid of Honor Wedding Speech

• Know Your Audience: Consider the bride and groom’s personalities, the formality of the event, and the sensibilities of the guests. Tailor your speech to the audience.
• Start Early: Begin writing your speech well in advance. This allows time for revisions and practice. Don’t wait until the last minute.
• Personalize It: Share anecdotes and stories that reflect your relationship with the bride. Highlight special moments and inside jokes.

Examples of How to Get Started:

• Opening with a Quote: Start with an inspiring or humorous quote related to love or marriage. For instance,

“Maya Angelou once said, ‘Love recognizes no barriers.’ Today, we’re here to celebrate a love that knows no bounds.”

• Anecdotal Introduction: Begin with a personal story about your friendship with the bride.

“As I stand here today, I can’t help but think back to the time we met in kindergarten. Who would’ve thought that our friendship would lead us to this beautiful wedding?”

• Express Your Gratitude: Begin by expressing your gratitude for being chosen as the maid of honor.

“First and foremost, I want to thank [bride’s name] for giving me the honor of standing by her side today as her maid of honor.” Remember, the key to a memorable maid of honor speech is sincerity and a touch of humor, sprinkled with personal anecdotes that capture the essence of your relationship with the bride.

How To End A Maid Of Honor Speech

When figuring out how to write a maid of honor speech, keep in mind that the latter part of the speech should be where you talk about the couple. In that vein, it’s also important to know how to end the speech flawlessly. Here are a few tips.

• Keep it short and sweet. While you might have a lot to say, there are time slots for each speech, so keeping things short would be best.
• Use sentimental wedding quotes. You might have a maid of honor speech template you follow but adding inspirational quotes to your speech is a great way to wrap things up.
• Finish with a toast. At the very end, it is customary to raise a toast to the happy couple.

10 Maid Of Honor Speech Tips

After years of helping Maids of Honor deliver awesome speeches, founder of Speechy and author of ‘The Modern Couple’s Guide to Wedding Speeches’, Heidi Ellert-McDermott, shares her tips.

Planning Your Speech

• Think of the speechwriting process as writing a dissertation (only this time, don’t leave it till the night before your deadline!).
• Firstly, jot down all your ideas and favourite stories and then construct a central idea (narrative theme) that you stick to through. It could be that your friend is always right, or maybe the newlyweds prove that opposites really do attract. Whatever it is, make sure your speech flows from one idea to the next, rather than being a list of random thoughts.

Speech Structure

• Remember to introduce yourself and how you know the bride at the start of the speech and try to include humor within the first 30 seconds. Resist the urge to include any of those tired googled-wedding-gags and ensure your line is original and relates to the couple themselves or the surroundings you find yourself in.
• The first three-fifths of the speech should include revealing, entertaining stories that give an insight into the bride and your relationship with her. Don’t be shy of some affectionate teasing.
• Towards the latter half of the speech, introduce her partner and explain why the couple are suited. Again, make sure to include some good-natured humour here.
• The final fifth of your speech could be a full-on love-bomb of a tribute to your friend. Make sure you avoid the usual cliches and platitudes about friendship and instead, try to nail the bride’s individual characteristics and quirks that make you love her.

Edit Your Speech

• When you’ve finished writing your speech, try to edit it in half. You may not achieve it but once you get editing, you’ll be surprised by the amount of needless waffle that’s in there.
• Remember, a speech is better punchy, so be brutal. A good maid of honour speech is generally between 700 and 1,100 words. No more than 10 minutes airtime!

Choosing Maid of Honor Speech Quotes

True love is not about perfection. It’s hidden in flaws and imperfections. It’s about two people who see the best in each other, no matter what. Unknown

Talking about love and trying to sum up a friendship can be hard. Luckily, some clever people have already done it, and we can all exploit their genius! While plagiarism isn’t ever cool, finding the perfect quote to supercharge your speech is a great idea.

For the best maid of honor speeches, consider incorporating heartfelt quotes that resonate with the couple’s journey. If you’re aiming for unique maid of honor speeches, blend personal anecdotes with these quotes to create a memorable and touching tribute.

Founder of Speechy (the bespoke speechwriting service), Heidi Ellert-McDermott, shares her tips for hunting the perfect quote to honour your bestie.

How to Use Quotes

• Don’t resort to a generic ‘marriage advice’ quote. They’re over-used.
• Don’t overload your speech with quotes. One, maximum two.
• Quote recognisable names – or at least provide some context. Don’t quote someone you need to Google or someone who’s a random ‘relationship coach’.
• Once you add the perfect quote to your speech, script a comedy back ref or put it into the context of the couple’s real-life relationship.
• Remember, quotes can be used to add the necessary humor, as well as the sentiment.

Where to Find Quotes

• Don’t just search for ‘wedding quotes’ on Pinterest.
• Quotes become more meaningful if they come from somewhere that means something to the couple. Could the quote come from the bride’s favourite book, her partner’s favourite film, or maybe it’s from that song you play when you’ve both had a few too many dirty martinis.
• Quotes can be found everywhere from children’s books to rom-coms, from hip-hop classics to the great philosophers, from historical icons to classic sitcoms so enjoy the search!

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the maid of honor have to give a speech.

It’s definitely customary for the maid of honor to give a toast to the newlyweds at the reception, but usually, she gave a sweet speech.

How long should a maid of honor speech be?

A maid of honor speech should ideally be around 3 to 5 minutes in length. This timeframe allows you to convey your message effectively without losing the audience’s attention or making other speeches feel rushed.

What should be avoided in maid of honor speeches?

When delivering a maid of honor speech, there are a few things to avoid to ensure it is memorable for the right reasons:

• Avoid embarrassing or offensive stories: You shouldn’t share anything that may make the bride uncomfortable or might be inappropriate for the audience.
• Steer clear of inside jokes: Inside jokes may exclude or confuse other guests who are not familiar with the context. Keep your speech inclusive and relatable for everyone present.
• Don’t overshadow the couple: Avoid making the speech all about yourself or unrelated topics that detract from the celebration of the couple’s special day.
• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption can impair your ability to deliver a coherent and meaningful message.
• Don’t go on for too long: Avoid rambling or dragging out the speech, as it may lose the interest of the audience.

Remember, the moh speech is an opportunity to celebrate the couple and express your love and support for them.

We hope that now you have everything you need for your perfect maid of honor speech. So just keep all of this in mind as you prepare and deliver your maid of honor speech, and you will be amazing. Make the bride proud she chose you!

Thank you for reading. Please let us know how we did.

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How to Write a Maid of Honor Speech: Wording Examples and Ideas

As a maid of honor, you’ll need to juggle several important duties – from organising an epic bridal shower to going wedding dress shopping and holding the bride’s bouquet.

But the most daunting task of all? Writing and delivering a maid of honor speech at the reception!

We totally get how terrifying this can be, which is why we’re here to help. Keep reading for our ultimate guide on writing the perfect maid of honor speech below, including some brainstorming prompts and wording examples to get you started.

How Long Should a Maid of Honor Speech Be?

Let’s get the good news out of the way first: your maid of honor speech doesn’t have to be long! Remember, you probably won’t be the only one speaking at the reception, so you’ll want to keep your speech short and sweet. We’d say the perfect maid of honor speech should ideally be between 2 to 4 minutes, and definitely no longer than 5.

What Should a Maid of Honor Speech Include?

Simply put, a maid of honor speech should be based around two key things: celebrating your relationship with the bride and celebrating her relationship with her new husband or wife. 

Maid of honor speeches usually includes a mix of personal anecdotes, compliments to the happy couple, and well wishes for the future. Your speech can include your favourite memories with the bride, but it should also strike the right balance by including some sentiments towards her partner and their relationship, too. Usually, you’ll start your speech by talking about the bride and wrap it up by talking about her and her partner as a couple.

So, what does this look like in action? If you’re looking for a helpful framework to follow, consider this tried and tested formula for a winning maid of honor speech below:

• Introduce yourself. It might seem obvious, but introducing yourself is important to give your speech context and explain your relationship with the bride. Don’t forget, there may be guests at the wedding who have no idea who you are!
• Talk about the bride. Begin your speech by complimenting the bride. What do you love about her? What makes her such a good person/best friend/sibling? Be specific with your compliments, too – rather than saying, “She’s such a generous friend”, share a specific moment that demonstrates this.
• Include a favourite anecdote. Do you have a favourite memory that sticks out when you reflect on your relationship with the bride? This is a good time to share one or two short anecdotes. They can be funny stories or more sincere and heartfelt moments.
• Compliment their partner. Now it’s time to bring her partner into the speech. What are your favourite qualities about them? What was your first impression of them? Why are they such a good match for the bride?
• Celebrate the couple. This is where you’ll want to highlight the relationship between the happy couple. Talk about what makes their relationship so special, what you admire about them as a couple, and how their lives have changed for the better.
• Share your well wishes. Tie it all together by offering your best piece of marriage advice, favourite quote, or some warm wishes for the future.
• Share a toast. Finally, raise your glass to toast the happy couple (and reward yourself with a sip of champagne, too!).

Things To Avoid In Your Maid of Honor Speech

Now that you know what to include in a maid of honor speech, is there anything you should strictly avoid? When it comes to correct etiquette, keep the following suggestions in mind to ensure your speech is well-received: 

• Sharing funny stories or gently “roasting” the couple is totally fine if that suits your relationship with them, but steer clear of anything inappropriate, rude, or embarrassing. Remember, there will likely be elderly relatives and important family members in the room, so keep it PG-rated.
• If you’re not comfortable using jokes or humour, then don’t! It’s better to keep your speech genuine and heartfelt, rather than trying to be funny. Of course, it’s completely okay to include some comedy, but don’t force it unless it’s true to who you are.
• While you and your BFF probably have a lifetime of inside jokes between you, try to avoid referencing these in your speech. If the majority of wedding guests won’t understand it, it’s probably not worth including.
• Finally, don’t bring up any old boyfriends or ex-partners! It probably goes without saying, but your maid of honor speech is about celebrating the happy couple – not bringing up unwanted memories from the past.

Maid of Honor Speech Writing Prompts

Still feeling stuck? The best place to start crafting your maid of honor speech is usually with a good brainstorming session. Use these questions and writing prompts to help you get the inspiration flowing:

• How did you meet the bride? 
• What was your first impression of her?
• How has your relationship evolved over the years?
• What’s your favourite memory with the bride?
• What’s your funniest story about the bride?
• What are the bride’s best qualities? How does she demonstrate this?
• How would you describe the bride in 3 words?
• How did you meet her partner?
• What was your first impression of her partner?
• What are her partner’s best qualities? How do they demonstrate this?
• How would you describe her partner in 3 words?
• How did you know her partner was “the one”?
• How did her partner propose?
• What do you admire most about the couple?
• What milestones have the couple celebrated?
• How has their relationship evolved over the years?
• Have they overcome any challenges or hardships together?
• What makes their relationship unique?
• What’s your favourite memory with the couple?
• How have they made an impact on your life?
• What are your hopes for their future together as a married couple?

Once you’ve spent some time answering these prompts, you should have plenty of fantastic material to work with. 

Maid of Honor Speech Examples and Ideas

Now, it’s time to start pulling everything together! Use these maid of honor speech templates and examples below to be inspired:

Maid of Honor Speech Example For Sister:

“Hi everyone. I wanted to start by thanking you all for being here today to celebrate this amazing couple. As most of you know, I’m (Bride’s) little sister, (Name). 

I think we can all agree that (Bride) has a personality like no other. She’s outspoken, feisty, and stubborn – but also the most caring, loyal, and funniest person I’ve ever known. Growing up, we were like two peas in a pod. We were always getting into trouble and causing mischief together – and truthfully, not much has changed! I’ll never forget the time we (insert relevant anecdote), or the time we (insert relevant anecdote). It’s memories like these that make me so thankful to have (Bride) as a sister.

I used to wonder if there would ever be a guy brave enough to handle (Bride). Well, my sister has just tied the knot, and I think she’s found her perfect match in (Partner). (Partner), I couldn’t have chosen anyone better for my big sister. You’re kind, patient, and just the right amount of crazy to fit into our family – as demonstrated by the time you (insert relevant anecdote). Most importantly, you love my sister for who she is – stubbornness and all.

Your commitment to each other inspires me every day, and watching your relationship grow over the years has been so special to witness. I wish you both nothing but the best for the future, and I know you’re going to have some unforgettable adventures together. So, with that, I’d like to invite everyone to raise their glasses for a toast. Here’s to the happy couple!”

Maid of Honor Speech Example for Best Friend:

“Hi everyone. For those who haven’t yet had the chance to meet me, I’m (Name). (Bride) and I have been best friends since college, where we quickly bonded over our shared love for (insert hobbies/interests). 10 years later, and I couldn’t be happier to be standing here today to celebrate the amazing person (Bride) is, and the amazing life she and (Partner) have created together.

There are so many traits that I love about (Bride). First, her wacky sense of humour and ability to find the funny moment in any situation – like the time she (insert relevant anecdote). Secondly, her thoughtfulness and generosity, especially when she (insert relevant anecdote). And finally, her ability to light up any room she walks into. (Bride), you look so beautiful tonight.

Now, onto (Partner). My first impression of (Partner) was that he was incredibly kind, friendly, and humble. All of these things are still true, but as I’ve gotten to know him better, I’ve also seen how hilariously goofy he can be. I’ll never forget when he (insert relevant anecdote). It was then I knew that he was “the one” for my best friend.

(Bride) and (Partner), you complement each other perfectly, and it’s easy to see how crazy you are about each other. I’m so honoured to call you my friends, and I can’t wait to see how you navigate this exciting next chapter together. I’ll leave with you a quote to take with you through marriage: (insert relevant quote). Here’s to (Bride) and (Partner)!”

Nailing Your Wedding Speech

Finally, don’t forget that practice makes perfect. Once you’ve crafted your maid of honor speech, spend some time rehearsing it before the day until you’re comfortable with your delivery. The more prepared you are, the more confident you’ll feel when the big moment comes!

And while the thought of writing a maid of honor speech can definitely be daunting, try not to put too much pressure on yourself. Simply speak authentically from the heart, and you can’t go wrong.

Want to be the best maid of honor ever? Read these 13 important maid of honor duties you can’t forget to do !

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15 Best Examples of Maid of Honor Speeches for Inspiration

As the maid of honor, delivering a speech at your best friend's wedding is a great honor and responsibility. You want to express your love, appreciation, and support for the bride and groom while also sharing some funny and heartfelt memories. However, writing and delivering a speech can be nerve-wracking, especially if you're not used to public speaking. That's why we have compiled this list of 15 best examples of maid of honor speeches for inspiration. These speeches are heartfelt, funny, and unique, and they will help you create a speech that perfectly reflects your relationship with the bride and groom. So, whether you're looking for a speech that is sentimental, humorous, or a mix of both, these examples are sure to inspire you to deliver a maid of honor speech that will be remembered for years to come.

15 Examples of Maid of Honor Speeches

• "Good evening, everyone. As the maid of honor, it is an honor to stand here and celebrate the union of my best friend and her partner. I remember the first time she told me about [partner's name], and I could see the twinkle in her eye. I knew from that moment that they were meant to be together. As I have watched their relationship grow, I have seen the way they support and challenge each other, and I am in awe of the love they share. [Share a personal story about your friendship with the bride, highlighting the moments when you knew she had found the one.] I am so grateful to have [bride's name] in my life, and I cannot wait to see the beautiful life that she and [partner's name] will build together.
• "To the happy couple, I am honored to stand here as the maid of honor and witness the start of your new journey together. [Share a personal story about the couple, highlighting the moments when you knew they were meant to be together.] From the moment I met [partner's name], I could see how much they adored [bride's name]. Their love is contagious, and it has brought so much joy and laughter into our lives. I am grateful to have witnessed their love grow, and I know that they will continue to be each other's best friend and support system. Congratulations on finding your forever love.
• "Dear family and friends, I am thrilled to be the maid of honor and celebrate the love between the bride and groom. [Share a personal story about the couple, highlighting the moments when you saw their love grow stronger.] From the first time I met [partner's name], I could tell that they were something special. Their love is a beautiful example of how two people can bring out the best in each other. I have seen them support each other through thick and thin, and I am grateful to have them in my life. [Add a personal anecdote or joke to lighten the mood.] I know that they will continue to bring love and light into the world, and I am honored to be here to witness it.
• "To my dear friend and her partner, I am so grateful to be standing here as the maid of honor, celebrating your love and commitment. [Share a personal story about the bride and groom, highlighting the moments when you saw their commitment to each other.] From the first time I saw [bride's name] and [partner's name] together, I could tell that they were meant to be. Their love is a beautiful example of how two people can work together to build a life full of love and happiness. [Add a personal anecdote or joke to lighten the mood.] I am so excited to see what the future holds for you both, and I am honored to be a part of your journey.
• "Good evening, everyone. As the maid of honor, I am honored to be here and celebrate the union of two amazing people. [Share a personal story about the bride and groom, highlighting the moments when you saw their love and admiration for each other.] From the moment I met [bride's name] and [partner's name], I could see the love and respect they had for each other. Their relationship is a beautiful example of how two people can support and challenge each other to be the best versions of themselves. [Add a personal anecdote or joke to lighten the mood.] I am so excited to see the amazing things they will accomplish together, and I am honored to be a part of their journey.
• "To the bride and groom, it is an honor to stand here as the maid of honor and celebrate your love and commitment to each other. I have had the privilege of seeing your relationship grow from the beginning, and I have been in awe of the way you two complement each other. [Share a personal story about the couple, highlighting the moments when you saw their love and connection.] Your relationship is a testament to how two people can come together to create something beautiful and powerful. [Add a personal anecdote or joke to lighten the mood.] I am grateful to have [bride's name] as my friend, and I know that [partner's name] is the perfect match for her. I cannot wait to see the adventures and experiences that you two will share together as you embark on this new chapter of your lives.
• "Dear family and friends, I am thrilled to be here as the maid of honor to celebrate the love between [bride's name] and [partner's name]. [Share a personal story about the bride and groom, highlighting the moments when you saw their love and dedication to each other.] Their relationship is a true testament to how two people can grow and evolve together, and it fills me with joy to see the love and respect they have for each other. [Add a personal anecdote or joke to lighten the mood.] I am grateful to have [bride's name] as my friend, and I am so excited to see what the future holds for her and [partner's name]. Congratulations on finding your forever love.
• "To the happy couple, it is an honor to be standing here as the maid of honor and witness the start of your new journey together. [Share a personal story about the couple, highlighting the moments when you saw their love and connection.] From the first time I met [bride's name] and [partner's name], I knew that they were something special. Their love is a beautiful example of how two people can support and uplift each other, and it has been amazing to see them grow together. [Add a personal anecdote or joke to lighten the mood.] I am so excited to see the adventures and memories that you two will create together. Congratulations on your wedding day.
• "Good evening, everyone. As the maid of honor, I am honored to be here and celebrate the love between [bride's name] and [partner's name]. [Share a personal story about the couple, highlighting the moments when you saw their love and dedication to each other.] Their relationship is a beautiful example of how two people can come together to create something powerful and meaningful. [Add a personal anecdote or joke to lighten the mood.] I am grateful to have [bride's name] as my friend, and I know that [partner's name] is the perfect partner for her. I cannot wait to see the adventures and experiences that they will share together as they start this new chapter in their lives.
• "To my dear friend and her partner, it is an honor to be standing here as the maid of honor, celebrating your love and commitment to each other. [Share a personal story about the bride and groom, highlighting the moments when you saw their love and admiration for each other.] Your relationship is a beautiful example of how two people can work together to create something powerful and lasting. [Add a personal anecdote or joke to lighten the mood.] I am so excited to see what the future holds for you both, and I am honored to be a part of your journey. Congratulations on your wedding day."
• "Good evening, everyone. I am honored to be standing here as the maid of honor for my dear friend [bride's name] and her partner [partner's name]. [Share a personal story about the bride and groom, highlighting the moments when you saw their love and connection.] Their love is truly inspiring, and it fills me with joy to see them together. [Add a personal anecdote or joke to lighten the mood.] I know that they will have an amazing life together, and I cannot wait to see all the incredible things they will achieve as a couple. Congratulations, [bride's name] and [partner's name], on your wedding day."
• "To my best friend and her partner, it is an honor to be here today as the maid of honor, celebrating your love and commitment to each other. [Share a personal story about the bride and groom, highlighting the moments when you saw their love and dedication to each other.] Your relationship is a beautiful example of how two people can come together to create something truly special. [Add a personal anecdote or joke to lighten the mood.] I am grateful to have [bride's name] in my life, and I know that [partner's name] is the perfect match for her. I wish you both a lifetime of happiness and love."
• "Dear family and friends, I am thrilled to be here today as the maid of honor for [bride's name] and [partner's name]'s wedding. [Share a personal story about the couple, highlighting the moments when you saw their love and connection.] Their love is truly one of a kind, and it has been amazing to see how much they have grown together. [Add a personal anecdote or joke to lighten the mood.] I know that they will have a lifetime of love, laughter, and happiness together. Congratulations, [bride's name] and [partner's name]."
• "To the bride and groom, I am honored to stand here as the maid of honor and celebrate your love for each other. [Share a personal story about the bride and groom, highlighting the moments when you saw their love and connection.] Your love story is one for the ages, and it has been a privilege to witness your journey together. [Add a personal anecdote or joke to lighten the mood.] I know that you will have a beautiful life together, filled with love, laughter, and countless adventures. Congratulations, [bride's name] and [partner's name]."
• "Good evening, everyone. As the maid of honor, I am overjoyed to be here today to celebrate the love between [bride's name] and [partner's name]. [Share a personal story about the bride and groom, highlighting the moments when you saw their love and dedication to each other.] Their love is truly inspiring, and it has been an honor to witness their journey together. [Add a personal anecdote or joke to lighten the mood.] I know that they will have a lifetime of happiness and love, and I cannot wait to see what the future holds for them. Congratulations, [bride's name] and [partner's name]."

In conclusion, delivering a maid of honor speech can be a daunting task, but with the right inspiration and guidance, you can create a speech that perfectly reflects your relationship with the bride and groom. The 15 best examples of maid of honor speeches we have provided are a great starting point for anyone looking to craft a heartfelt and memorable speech. Whether you choose to incorporate humor, sentimentality, or a combination of both, these speeches will help you find the perfect words to express your love and appreciation for the happy couple. So, take a deep breath, use these examples as a guide, and have confidence that you wil l deliver a speech that will be cherished by the bride, groom, and all in attendance.

If you're in need of more examples of wedding speeches, the following content may be helpful to you.

• 10 best examples of wedding speech for brother for inspiration
• 17 Best Examples of Wedding Speech for Father of the Bride for Inspiration
• 28 Best Examples of Wedding Speech for Mother of the Bride for Inspiration
• Comprehensive Resource List of Wedding Vows 2023 For Him & He

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How to Write a Maid of Honor Speech—Template Included

Wondering how to write a maid of honor speech? This guide covers everything you need to know and includes a template to help you get started.

Last updated February 5, 2024

Your best friend is getting married , and she’s asked you to be her maid of honor—one of the most meaningful and important roles in helping your best friend bring her wedding daydreams to life. With this honor comes a number of important duties, and at the top of that list is delivering the maid of honor speech.

The maid of honor speech traditionally takes place at the wedding reception , but it’s possible you might deliver it at the rehearsal dinner. Regardless of when the speech will take place, it’s best to get started writing it at least three weeks before the wedding day. After all, a meaningful maid of honor speech isn’t something you can write up on your phone the morning of the wedding—it requires some thought, preparation, and maybe a round of edits or two.

If the task of giving a moving speech to a room full of people feels a bit nerve-wracking, don’t panic. We’ve broken down everything you need to know to craft the perfect speech from start to finish, along with how to keep your nerves at bay when it comes time to deliver it.

6 Tips to Prepare for Your Maid of Honor Speech

You don’t need to be a professional writer or orator to create a meaningful maid of honor speech. Use the tips below to get an idea of what to include and get an idea of the overall structure of a solid speech.

1. Introduce Yourself and Express Thanks

Begin your speech by introducing yourself and your relationship with the bride. Then, share a word of thanks for those who had a hand in planning the wedding —the bride’s family, the groom’s family, and anyone else who you feel should be mentioned.

2. Talk About the Bride

Now it’s time to get personal about the bride and your history together. You might share an anecdote about how you two met, what her friendship has meant to you over the years, or any other endearing story that illustrates why she’s so special. It’s best to focus this section of the speech on the bride before her partner came into the picture, which you can lead into in the next section.

3. Talk About Her Partner

Now is a good time to discuss the bride’s spouse. While you’re certainly the designated right-hand woman to the bride, remember that the focus of a maid of honor speech should be on celebrating the couple , the beauty of their relationship and their future together as newlyweds.

When thinking about what to say about her partner, you can share any number of special sentiments that you feel illustrate who they are and what they mean to the bride. You also might decide to talk about what you love about her partner, mention their greatest characteristics, or share a story about how much he or she means to the bride.

4. Talk About the Couple

While the last section focuses on the bride’s partner as an individual, use this section to talk about who they are as a couple. If you’re close friends with both partners, you might have some special memories to share looking back on the journey of their relationship. If not, you might talk about the impact the bride’s partner has had on her and how you saw her grow as their bond grew over time. Whatever you choose to speak about, be sure to keep the focus on the beauty of their relationship.

5. Share Encouragement or Advice for the Newlyweds’ Future

As you near the end of your speech, try closing with a word of encouragement or advice for the couple and their future together as newlyweds. After all, the whole point of the maid of honor speech is to celebrate the couple! You might include an inspirational quote or poem if you feel like it fits, but be sure to keep it short and sweet to avoid a long-winded reading.

6. Closing Toast

The closing of your speech should be short and sweet—simply share a closing remark to commemorate the happy couple. Then, invite the guests to raise their glasses in a toast to the newlyweds.

How to Nail Your Maid of Honor Speech

While the steps above are helpful in nailing the structure of your speech, there are a few additional tips to keep in mind that will help you write a compelling and meaningful speech.

Set Aside Reflection Time

Before you even attempt to write your speech, it’s a good idea to carve out some time to simply think and reflect. This can help kick off the creative process and get you into the right headspace as you ideate what you might want to include. Spend this time reflecting on the memories you share with the bride, and try to pinpoint any ideas or emotions that come to mind when you think of her. This way, you come away with a road map of all the major points you want to touch on in your speech.

Define Your Objective

As you’re planning your speech, it’s helpful to define your overall objective before you dive into the nitty gritty details and stories you’ll share. Think about the goal you want your speech to accomplish: is it to make the wedding guests laugh, cry, maybe both? Is the couple known for their sense of humor? Perhaps you add some comedic flair to your speech.

If you’ve been through a lot with the bride or want to touch on some more serious memories, perhaps you craft your speech to be more emotionally moving. In the end, defining your objective will help you find the direction your speech will take.

Don’t Go Overboard with Anecdotes

If you have a ton of history with the bride, you might have a miles-long list of heartwarming stories you want to share. However, one key to a compelling speech is keeping it short and sweet. A standard maid of honor speech should only be three to four minutes long, and you don’t want to risk boring the guests or taking the focus off of the celebration. To avoid this, choose one or two must-have memories or anecdotes that you know you want to include, and nix the rest.

Develop Your Story

Along with keeping things short and sweet, another key to writing a compelling maid of honor speech is to tell it like a story. Any story worth hearing has a defined beginning, middle and end. While you’re in control of the details that fill the story, you want to ensure that every detail aligns with the main point of your speech. Whatever you talk about should clearly tie back to the overall focus of the speech, which is celebrating the bond the couple shares and wishing them well for their new future together.

Be Authentic

The bride chose you as her maid of honor for a reason, so you shouldn’t feel like you have to be anything but yourself when you give your speech. Throw off any pressure you might feel to sound a certain way if it doesn’t ring true to you and your connection with the bride. A great maid of honor speech is about speaking openly and honestly about the bride and her partner—remember to write in the same way you’d speak to avoid sounding stiff or robotic.

Practice, Don’t Memorize

If you feel like you need to memorize your speech word for word, don’t! Instead, focus on practicing your speech in the weeks leading up to the wedding day. This way, the main points will be well committed to your memory and you won’t need to memorize it line by line. However, it’s still helpful to use a bulleted list of the main points when it’s time to give your speech—this way you don’t have to worry about losing track mid-speech.

When you’re practicing your speech, make sure you’re practicing out loud so you can get a feel for the overall flow and rhythm of what you plan to say. It’s also helpful to read it aloud to a friend or the other bridesmaids to get some outside perspective on how your speech sounds and any tweaks that might help it shine.

Maid of Honor Speech Template

Your maid of honor speech should be authentic and personal, and there’s a number of directions you might choose to take your speech in. If you’re stuck on where to begin, the template below is a great starting point to give you an idea of the general structure and flow of a maid of honor speech. Fill it in with your own words to personalize it according to you and your unique relationship with the bride!

“Hello everyone, I’m [name] and [bride’s name] maid of honor. I met [bride’s name] X years ago when [how you met]. When [bride] and I became friends, it was [personal anecdote about your relationship with the bride]. I’ll never forget [personal memory between you and the bride].

When [partner’s name] came into the picture, [personal anecdote about how you met their partner]. [Partner’s name] was [personal anecdote about the partner’s characteristics or favorite memory].

Watching their relationship grow over time has been [personal sentiments about the couple’s bond. I’ll always remember how [personal anecdote about the journey of their relationship]. Ever since then, I’ve seen [bride’s name] [sentiment about the impact of the couple’s relationship].

It’s a privilege to join with you all in honoring the marriage of [bride] and [partner], and I know I speak for everyone when I say we’re thrilled to stand by your side today and support you both as you enter your new life together. If there’s one piece of advice I’d share, it’s [word of advice or encouragement for the newlyweds]. Thank you both for showing us what it means to love unconditionally. Please raise a glass to [bride] and [partner]! May you two never stop loving each other, growing together, and showing up for each other today and every day. Cheers!”

Whether this is your first wedding speech or your 20th, feelings of nervousness are normal! With some dedicated time and practice (and a few deep breaths beforehand) you’ll be more than ready to nail your maid of honor speech. All that really matters is that your words come from the heart. After all, the couple might not remember every single word you share, but they’ll always remember the love and care that went into it.

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How to Nail Your Maid of Honor Speech

Giving a maid of honor speech is a memorable experience that can leave a lasting impression on the couple and guests. Whether you’re a seasoned public speaker or feeling a bit nervous, we’ll explore tips, templates, and a step-by-step approach to help you write a genuine and engaging speech for the big day.  

How to Write a Maid of Honor Speech  

When preparing your maid of honor speech, consider your unique relationship with the bride, personal anecdotes about the couple, and your heartfelt wishes for their future. Begin by highlighting the bride, then extend compliments to their partner and wish them both well as a couple.  

If you’re having trouble getting started, here are a few prompts to help you generate ideas:  

• What was your first impression of their partner?  
• What do they both bring to the relationship?  
• How did they know they were the “one”?  
• How have they impacted each other’s lives?  
• How would you describe their relationship in five words?  
• How did you get introduced to their partner?
• What’s the funniest story you know about them as a couple?  

Your maid of honor speech should conclude on a sincere and joyful note. Celebrate the couple’s bond, express love for the bride, offer wisdom for their future, or share a meaningful quote.  

Maid of Honor Speech Template

• Introduce yourself: As the bride’s good friend or family member, you may assume that everyone there knows who you are, but that might not be the case. Greet the room and briefly share who you are and your relationship with the bride.
• Highlight the bride: Share heartfelt sentiments about the bride, highlighting what makes her special.
• Personal anecdotes: Share a memorable anecdote—or two— about the couple or your experiences with the bride.
• Couple’s relationship: Discuss the couple’s relationship and how you’ve witnessed their love grow. Optionally, include a story that involves the groom or tell a story that highlights the couple’s love and compatibility.
• Compliments: Compliment the bride and groom individually, highlighting their strengths.
• Toast and well wishes: Raise your glass and propose a toast to the newlyweds, expressing your best wishes for their future together.    

Optional Template Additions:  

• Jokes: While adding funny lines can enhance your speech, remember that a maid of honor speech doesn’t require humor if it’s not your forte. A sincere and direct approach is often more impactful than forced jokes. Focus on sharing stories that highlight the couple’s history; look for naturally funny moments, like gently teasing the bride about her excitement after the first date.
• Advice: If you are married, offer words of wisdom or advice for a happy and successful marriage that draws from your experience.

How long should a maid of honor speech be?

A maid of honor speech should be 2-3 minutes long (five minutes, max). Often, there are speeches from the best man or family members, so the maid of honor isn’t responsible for speaking the entire time reserved for toasts.   

Maid of Honor Speech Tips

1. practice your speech ahead of time  .

You don’t need to memorize your speech word for word (in fact, doing so might make your delivery a bit unnatural), but practicing your talking points and cadence ahead of time will go a long way in making you feel more confident. Use a small, aesthetic notebook with bullet points or key phrases if you’re nervous about public speaking. Speak slowly and pause between transitions—practicing aloud will help identify and smooth out any awkward parts or tongue twisters.  

2. Stay (Mostly) Sober Before Your Speech  

You can let loose during the reception, but you’ll want to have a clear head when making your speech. While some alcohol may ease nerves, drinking too much might lead to a speech that’s less thoughtful than it should be.  

3. Don’t Mention Any Exes  

Avoid mentioning exes, as it can make the bride and groom uncomfortable. Likewise, refrain from jokes about past weddings or marriages if this isn’t the bride’s first wedding.  

4. Don’t Make It About Yourself  

Focus your speech on the couple rather than solely on your relationship with the bride and avoid inside jokes and anecdotes that might be sensitive or require too much backstory. Any advice given should be heartfelt but quick and focused on the couple.  

5. Keep it Short and Sweet  

For wedding speeches, less is often more effective. Focus on succinct, funny anecdotes rather than long, unabbreviated stories. Write down your ideas and edit out less resonant parts as you practice. Seek input from another friend or family member of the bride to refine your speech.  

6. Don’t Put Too Much Pressure on Yourself  

Guests at the reception are there to enjoy themselves and will appreciate your speech no matter what. Don’t dwell on minor mistakes—focus on celebrating the couple.  

Maid of Honor Speech Examples

• Ex: “Hi everyone, our family wants to thank you all for being here today to celebrate (Bride) and (Partner). As most of you know, I’m (Bride’s) sister, (Name).”
• Ex: “I feel so privileged to have had (Bride) to look up to throughout my life. She has always been an example to me of what it means to show love through actions. Growing up, I remember she would (insert relevant anecdote). It’s memories like these that make me know that (Partner) is one of the luckiest people in the world to get (Bride) as someone to go through life with.”  
• Ex: “When (Bride) and (Partner) first met, our family already had an idea that (Partner) was (Bride’s) perfect match. When (Bride) first introduced him to us, I could tell that (Bride) had never felt this way about anyone before, and that this was her forever person. I couldn’t have chosen anyone better for my sister, and we are so excited to welcome you into our family. Thank you for your kindness, sense of humor, and patience—especially when (Bride) (insert funny anecdote).”  
• Ex: “Your love and commitment to each other is so inspiring, and it’s been so special to watch your relationship unfold. I wish you both a lifetime of happiness, understanding, and joy. I’d like to invite everyone to raise their glasses to the happy couple. Here’s to (Bride) and (Partner)!”  

For Best Friend

• Ex: “Hi everyone. For those of you who I don’t know, I’m (Name). (Bride) and I have been best friends since (college/high school/diapers), when we bonded over (insert funny shared interest). It’s (number) years later, and I couldn’t be happier or prouder to celebrate my friend today.”
• Ex: “There are so many reasons to love (Bride). She’s funny, silly, and sweet, but I think my favorite thing about her is her sense of humor. Something she definitely needed when she and (Partner) (insert funny anecdote). (Bride), you have always had the ability to light up the room, and you are so stunning tonight.”
• Ex: “My first impression after meeting (Partner) was that they were one of the only people I’ve ever met who could keep up with (Bride’s) wit. However, it wasn’t until (insert anecdote) that I knew he was (Bride’s) soul mate. It’s been a total pleasure getting to know you as an person and as the perfect partner for my best friend. Thank you for loving her the way she deserves.”
• Ex: “It’s so easy to see that you two are crazy about each other, and I’m honored to call you both my friends. I can’t wait to see the kinds of adventures you will get up to in the years to come. I’ll leave you with a quote from (Bride’s) favorite poet to take with you after tonight: (insert relevant quote). Here’s to the happy couple!”  

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Maid of honor speech examples

Two unique maid of honor speeches to help you prepare a perfect maid of honor speech of your own

By:  Susan Dugdale  | Last modified: 10-06-2023

What's the best way to share the happy couple's love story at the wedding reception on their big day?

The bride's your great friend, an amazing person. You love her to pieces which is why you said 'yes' when she asked you to speak on her wedding day.

However, maybe this is the first time you've given a maid of honor toast. Perhaps, in addition, you find public speaking, talking in front of a crowd and making eye contact as you do, a little bit nerve wracking.

You're in the right place. The goal of this article is to empower and enable you to write and deliver the best maid of honor speech you can. Begin by reading the speeches!

What's on this page

• 2 unique maid of honor speech examples - a heartfelt maid of honor speech - a light-hearted maid of honor speech
• how to begin - suggestions for getting started on your own MOH speech
• a link to ' How to end a Maid of Honor speech: 20 examples '
• a link to a maid of honor speech template
• how to test and rehearse your speech
• links to other resources to help you give the best maid of honor speech you can

A heartfelt Maid of Honor speech example

This example is written from the point of view of a childhood friend: someone who's shared the best and most difficult of times with the bride. The friendship between them is enduring and the speech is sincerely heartfelt: full of personal stories everybody will relate to.

Said aloud, it is approximately 5- 6 minutes long. 

Maria's MOH speech at Sonja & Mark's wedding

"Some one very wise, and obviously someone who knew Sonja and Mark said, “Don't marry a person you can live with. Marry somebody you can't live without."

That's what we're witnessing today – the union of two people who belong together. A perfect match!

My name is Maria and I'm delighted to be the Maid of Honor for my very dear friend Sonja.

We've been close friends since we were little girls and, as we are hitting our 30s, it feels like forever. I can scarcely remember life without her.

Sonja and me, we've gone from crayons to perfume together, with stops in between for learning to read and write, ride a bike, play with dolls, dress up, climb trees, scrape our knees... We’ve done our high school homework, got into trouble for staying out late, turned 21 together… And now here we are, all grown up.

A big night these days is a glass of wine, staying in and watching Netflix together.

From the time we were 13 and had to run to escape a mad, snarling, barking dog I knew Sonja was truly there for me. I was slower than her but she did not leave me behind. And she's been there to pick me up ever since.

Like when I've misplaced my confidence and haven't been able to find it. (Is it under the sofa? No! Behind the kitchen door? No!)

Or when I’ve needed someone to talk to about a personal life situation, for instance, another crappy boyfriend.

Over the years Sonja has been my touchstone, my wise go-to sister, and although there have been times when we have been physically apart that has never been true of our hearts. She is part of my identity, of who I am.

So when she asked me to be her Maid of Honor, the honor was all mine. Naturally I said yes.

Another “yes”, a previous and much more important one, is the reason we're here today.

Mark, that was one you received.

All Sonja's family members and friends, like me, take her best interests to heart. They look out for her, and I know, that like me, they are delighted that you and she have agreed to live your lives together.

Mark, your care, and love of Sonja over the last few years has demonstrated to us all you are indeed the right man, who was in the right place, at the right time. We've seen the good times you've shared together but most importantly we've also witnessed how you handled the tough ones.

You were there to shelter, cherish and nurture her through the period when her Father passed. And I know that meant everything to her. I feel certain not only he but also her brother, Matthew, would willingly give their blessing to your union from up above.

As for me, you definitely had my wholehearted approval when you asked one of my “ boyfriends”, (now very much past tense), aside for a man-to-man chat about respect and loyalty. From that time, I knew I have gained a brother.

In Sonja you have a hard-working, forgiving, loving big-hearted woman. As her friend, her sister, I am grateful you see, appreciate and know that.

I searched for a special gift of wisdom to pass on and found this – a recipe for love and marriage. It makes sense to me, and I hope it does to you too.

"As you walk through life together remember even though you both share many qualities that are very much the same, you are each unique, and it is your differences that helped bring you together.

Give your love openly and honestly. Always respect and accept what the other has to say, even when you do not agree. Take time to enjoy everyday and share together, and remember that each day is a new beginning."

Sonja, I am looking forward to all the celebrations we're going to have together down the years because although we no longer live on the same street, our roots are very deep.

Please make a note that I intend to speak at your 50th anniversary!

Cheers to the newly weds! Best wishes! I love you guys!"

A light hearted Maid of Honor speech example

To be successful this maid of honor speech relies heavily on its delivery.

Along with stories establishing the depth and importance of the relationship between the bride and her Maid of Honor it includes a good natured, gentle 'roast' of the groom.

The MOH has taken it upon herself to poll guests and family members on his suitability for the bride. She is now making the results public.

Although the groom is being teased we know he's respected, admired and loved by those who know the couple well, which includes the person delivering the speech, the bride's best friend.

The speech will take between 5-6 minutes to deliver.

Felicity's MOH speech at Sarah & Sam's wedding

Once in a while, in the middle of an ordinary life, love gives us a fairy tale.

That's what we're celebrating today: a story of true love, a dream come true, the union of two people who belong together.

My name is Felicity and it's my privilege to be Sarah’s Maid of Honor.

Sarah is my Best Friend. I know it's a cliché. However clichés become clichés for a very good reason, because they're true. She's my BFF: Best Friend Forever.

For her I would wear the gaudiest, frothiest taffeta maid of honor dress possible and still smile. Fortunately I don't have to.

Through Sarah I've learned that being a best friend isn't a competition between those who have been in your life the longest.

Neither is it about regular daily contact. Or about talking, Or being under the same sky, in the same city. Or even sharing the same tastes.

But it is definitely about sharing the same heart space.

Over the years she's been my touchstone, always encouraging me to be the best of myself: a work still in progress. I look forward to checking off the score card with her when we're much, much older.

We've seen each other through all those milestones of growing up: the ones we want to remember, as well as the ones we'd prefer to forget but don't. Amongst them are memories I'll always cherish: going on a bike tour of Paris in the rain, getting completely soaked and laughing about it, gorging ourselves on gastronomic delights in Greece. And ticking off the typical tourist “when in Rome” items: walking up the Spanish Steps and tossing coins in the Trevi fountain together.

Sarah you know, and see me clearly. Just like I know and see you. And today you've changed the course of your life forever with two words: I do.

Sam, you'll have understood by now just how much this woman is loved, not just by me but by all of us here. Inevitably that means when a suitor comes along they have to pass not just one test, but multiple ones.

There's the initial hurdle, getting her on your side. Once that's safely over there's more and these, as anyone married knows, can be quite formidable.

Friends, mothers, fathers, family, don't share quite the same blinkered infatuation. We stand back. We watch, and yes, we judge.

We have a “not-so-little” check list and we want every point on it passed, with honors.

Now I'd done a comprehensive survey of the interested parties and tallied the scores. They read like this.

On the “always has her back “ index you did extremely well. This one was a very important indicator. Knowledge of what it is “to have someone's back” is paramount. You passed with flying colors on the sub-set, “has spine” too.

Availability. The question behind this point had two parts, both equally weighted. Are you there for Sarah when she needs you? We looked at physically, as well as emotionally, present. Again, top marks.

Positive influence. Does this man extend and enhance the best in Sarah?

Now this one was a little trickier. Separating the vested interests and keeping ourselves honest is a challenge when so much is at stake. Change can be confronting even if it is for the better. But yes, we agreed, that Sam definitely brought Sarah more of all that is good. His presence enables her to grow.

Health. Really? Need we go there? Look at them! They eat so well, exercise so well – we're thinking of setting up a charity to donate the excess health they generate to those who need it. These two are the ultimate King and Queen of eating green. Their example inspires!

Our last was “laughter”.  Does this man make this woman smile, make her laugh with joy and share her humor? Sam, no one makes Sarah laugh the way you do.

In conclusion, you are quite simply, the best. We thank you for understanding, valuing and loving her as we do.

I want to acknowledge someone else in the line up looking out for Sarah, someone very dear to her who, although not physically present, is here in our hearts: Betty, Bette, her grandmother. I'm sure she would approve too.

And now a toast. Please raise your glasses.

To Sarah and Sam, and a lifetime of love! May your happily ever after begin here.

Content suggestions for your own MOH speech

Often the hardest part of preparing a speech is getting started.  These prompts will help you find the right words to say about the bride and her new husband on their special day.

Grab a piece of paper and answer the questions as quickly as you can. Let you mind go. Don't stop to edit, to check your spelling or to write full sentences. You can do all of that later.

Focus, for now, on generating ideas.

Maid of Honor speech writing prompts

• When, and how, did you first meet the bride?
• When did she become a close friend?
• What makes her a good person?
• What 3 or 4 words best describe her character?
• When did you realize (the groom's name) was the love of her life? What was your first impression of him?
• What hobbies or interests do they share as a couple?
• What do you admire about them as a couple? What makes them unique or special?
• What challenges or hardships have they faced and overcome?
• What funny moment or funny stories can you share about them?
• What do you want to say to wish them a happy future together? Is there a quote you'd like to use as a toast? A line from a song? A verse from a poem?  

What NOT to put into your speech

Before you go ahead in the writing process check the content you've generated.

Remove any:

• stories that would embarrass the bride and anyone listening: eg. tales about past relationships, wild nights out, participating in illegal activities of any sort...
• inside jokes or references that only a few people will understand
• comments or stories that make yourself the principal focus of attention. The most important people are the bride and groom.
• references to money or the costs involved in the wedding
• critical comments about the wedding planning, the people involved with that, and any of the lead up activities
• language or crudity (for instance, off-color jokes or sexual innuendo) that may offend the wedding guests
• strings of clichés. For example: she's most beautiful bride in the whole wide world. The groom swept her off her feet. It was true love at first sight and now they will live happily ever after...

How to get from notes to speech

Click the link for: a 5 part maid of honor speech outline, with examples, step-by-step guidelines and a complete maid of honor speech for a sister.

How to end a Maid of Honor speech

If you find yourself stuck, not knowing how to conclude your speech have a look here: how to end a Maid of Honor speech .

There are twenty example endings of varying types. Some are funny. Some use Biblical and other quotations and some are straight from the heart.

Find one you like, and then adapt it for your own use.

Test and rehearse your speech

It's vital to allow enough time to thoroughly test and rehearse your speech before you deliver it: that's about three weeks.

How to test your speech

Testing has two parts.

The first part is making sure the content covers all you think it should and flows easily from one segment to the next. This is where another pair of ears are very useful. Sometimes what we think we're saying and what we actually are is quite different. Get the opinion of someone whose judgment you trust.

The second part is testing your speech for timing. Set a timer and say it out loud at about the pace you would use if you were delivering it for real. Ideally you want it between 3 - 6 minutes long. If it's too long, look for places to cut it.

For more about how many words in a 3 minute, 4 minute, 5 minute, 6 minute...speech and speech rate .

Rehearse your speech

Once you have the words sorted, it's time to work on how you'll deliver them.

Delivery makes all the difference between an average, ordinary performance, and an extraordinary one. Please make the time to rehearse.

Trying to 'wing it' without preparation leaves you wide open for all sorts of unnecessary glitches to suddenly pop up and throw you sideways. Don't tempt it! How to rehearse a speech well: 7 steps to brilliance! ☺

More resources

Classic wedding poems and readings : find a segment of a poem or a quote to use

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The Ultimate Guide To Writing A Maid Of Honor Speech (Examples Included)

Being chosen as the maid of honor in a wedding is a huge honor and a huge responsibility.

To be selected shows that you are a very important person in the bride’s life and that she trusts you to help her big day go off without a hitch! 

When you first start your maid of honor duties, you’ll probably be focused on things like planning the bachelorette and making sure all the bridesmaids are organized.

However, there’s one important duty you definitely shouldn’t leave until the last minute: the maid of honor speech. 

As the maid of honor, your speech will be one of the most important aspects of the wedding reception.

Not only should it be meaningful and personal to the bride and groom, but it also needs to captivate the attention and stick in the minds of the guests. 

If you’re not sure where to start with writing the perfect maid of honor speech, don’t worry – we’ve got your back.

We’re going to walk you through the whole process, from choosing a style and subject material to writing the speech step-by-step. 

Your maid of honor speech should not only be heartfelt but also appropriate for all ages in the audience.

To help you get started, we’ve included some examples of great maid of honor speeches to inspire you and give you a better idea of what works well.

The Maid Of Honor Speech: What You Need To Know 

If you’ve been asked to be the maid of honor and to give a speech, but have absolutely no idea what a maid of honor speech is, don’t panic!

The premise of the maid of honor speech is actually fairly simple (albeit a bit nerve-wracking). 

The maid of honor usually gives a speech at the wedding reception, typically right after the meal.

The maid of honor’s speech is usually preceded by the father of the bride’s speech, or the best man’s speech. 

Your maid of honor speech is expected to last around 3-5 minutes. It can go on for up to 7 minutes, but you won’t be expected to speak for longer than this. 

During the speech, the maid of honor is usually directly addressing the newlywed couple in front of the rest of the guests.

The purpose of the speech is to congratulate the happy couple and specifically voice appreciation for the bride as well as the groom.

At the end of the speech, you’ll be expected to give a toast to the newlyweds. This is known as the maid of honor toast. 

If you’re not a naturally outgoing person or simply aren’t used to speaking in public, let alone at such an important and sentimental event, the idea of giving a maid of honor speech might be a little scary.

However, while some nerves are normal and to be expected, there’s no need to be scared.

As long as you follow the structure and guidelines set out in this article and practice your speech ahead of time, there’s no reason why it shouldn’t be a hit!

Writing The Maid Of Honor Speech 

Writing the perfect maid of honor speech comes down to knowing the correct structure as well as being aware of the things you should (and should NOT) include in the body of the speech. 

Here’s what you need to know when it comes to getting your maid of honor speech down on paper: 

The Structure 

Most maid of honor speeches follow a basic structure, which goes something like this: 

1. Introduce Yourself 

You should start by introducing yourself to the guests at the wedding.

Obviously, the bride and groom know who you are, but some of the guests might not have met you, so start by introducing yourself as the maid of honor and briefly stating your relationship to the bride. 

Remember, this speech is actually about the happy couple and not about you, so don’t be tempted to tell your whole life story here. 

2. Center The Bride 

Now that you’ve introduced yourself, it’s time to talk about the woman of the hour: the bride.

You can mention some of your favorite qualities about the bride and take this opportunity to let the guests know how you met. 

3. Express Congratulations 

Take a moment here to express how happy you are for the bride and groom and congratulate them on this incredible step in their relationship. 

4. Share About Your Relationship 

Although the maid of honor speech isn’t strictly about you, it’s clear that if you’ve been chosen as the maid of honor, you’re a special person in the bride’s life.

Therefore, talking about your relationship with the bride in the light of how she makes your life better is appropriate. 

You may have already mentioned how you met, but you can go on to talk about a funny (but wedding-appropriate!) story that brought you closer, or some moments where the bride really showed up for you. 

5. Celebrate The Couple 

Return to the couple at this point and talk about why you love their relationship and why you’re honored to be celebrating their love on this special day.

Talk about how you know the groom has enhanced the bride’s life and how you can’t wait to see what their future holds.

6. Thanks And Blessings 

Time to thank the happy couple for including you in the celebration of their love, and congratulate them once again. 

7. Raise A Toast 

To end the speech, ask the guests to raise a glass to the bride and groom – and take a drink yourself, because you’ve earned it!

Note: It’s fine to add some things to your speech at the last minute if it feels right to you.

Ideally, you should have your speech fully prepared in advance, but you may wish to include some stories or observations from the day of the wedding itself, and that’s totally fine!

A good maid of honor speech should come from the heart, so if something feels right to say in the moment and it’s appropriate for the occasion, go for it!

What NOT To Include 

We’ve covered the main things you should include in the structure of the speech, but there are also some things you should avoid including in your maid of honor speech. 

Please avoid any of the following when writing your maid of honor speech: 

1. Inside Jokes 

A personal story or two about your relationship with the bride is absolutely fine, and even encouraged in a maid of honor speech.

However, you should avoid including any inside jokes that only you and the bride will understand. 

While the bride might appreciate your use of your inside jokes, nobody else will understand and this is likely to lead to an awkward silence from the guests, which isn’t ideal. 

2. Embarrassing/Inappropriate Stories 

Again, although personal stories are fine for the most part, certain anecdotes really aren’t wedding-appropriate.

Your maid of honor speech is definitely not the time to start talking about wild college parties or that one time the bride got severe food poisoning on vacation. 

3. Clichés 

Try to avoid clichés wherever possible in your maid of honor speech. Your speech should be touching and heartfelt, but ideally, it shouldn’t be corny.

Obviously, it’s an emotional day, so it can be tempting to start talking about how love is eternal, but try to keep this to a minimum. 

4. Really Long Quotations 

If there’s a short and sweet quote that you feel summarizes either the bride’s character, your relationship with her, or the bride and groom’s relationship, there’s nothing wrong with including it. 

However, quotes that are several lines long should be avoided as they’re likely to send the guests to sleep. 

Maid Of Honor Speech Examples 

Now that we’ve covered how to structure your maid of honor speech and what you should avoid including when you’re drafting, you should be well on your way to writing an amazing speech! 

If you’re still not completely confident in your speech-writing abilities, though, here are some examples to draw inspiration from: 

Sister Edition 

“Hi everyone, I’m Emily, and I’m Sandra’s big sister. I’m so honored to be here with you all today celebrating the incredible love between Sandra and Drew.

Sandra, you’re not only my sister but my best friend. I’ve known you your whole life and you’ve always been such a shining presence in every room you walk into.

That’s why I’m so grateful to Drew for coming into your life and showing you the love that you deserve. 

You’ve been my rock through difficult times since I can remember.

I’ll never forget after grandpa died, you made us smile through our tears by sharing all your favorite memories of him.

You always manage to see the light in dark times, and that’s one of the things I love the most about you. 

I’m so happy that you and Drew found each other five years ago.

This man’s kindness, determination and loyalty make him the perfect partner for you, and I can’t wait to witness your journey continue to unfold. Congratulations to you both. 

Let’s all raise a glass to Sandra and drew – two of the best people I know!”

Best Friend Edition 

“Hello, my name is Kelly and I’m Bianca’s maid of honor. I feel very lucky to be able to call myself Bianca’s best friend, and even luckier to be a part of such a special moment in her life. 

I met Bianca in high school. We sat next to each other in math class on the first day of school in sophomore year and I just couldn’t figure out the answer to one of the problems.

I felt embarrassed, but when Bianca saw me struggling, she immediately smiled and offered to help. We’ve been best friends ever since. 

Bianca, you’re not only the reason I passed math class in high school, but the reason I am the person I am today.

No matter what, you’ve always continued to be there for me with a listening ear, a compassionate heart, and a shoulder to cry on through some of my most difficult times.

Someone so kind and special deserves an equally wonderful partner to share life with, and that’s why I couldn’t be happier today, celebrating your marriage to Ryan. 

I remember how happy and excited you were when you first met Ryan, and how overjoyed you were when he proposed.

The love between you is so powerful and I know that you’ll continue to love each other for the rest of your lives.

I wish you a long and beautiful marriage and I will love and support you both every step of the way. 

Cheers to the happy couple!”

Humor Edition 

Hey everyone, I’m Alison and I’m Lizzie’s best friend. I’ve known Lizzie ever since I can remember, so when she asked me to be her maid of honor, I was overjoyed. 

Lizzie, you’re the kindest, smartest, most hilarious woman I know, and I’m so happy you’ve found a husband who can handle your sense of humor – and your shoe collection! 

In all seriousness, Lizzie, I wish you and Noah the most incredible journey together. You’re both such amazing people and I couldn’t have asked for a better life partner for my best friend. 

When I agreed to be Lizzie’s maid of honor and started writing this speech, I made a list of all my favorite memories of us.

At first, I had 16 stories on the list, but then I took out all the ones she’d kill me if I talked about on her wedding day, and there were only 3 left.

I feel like that tells you everything you need to know about our adventures together! 

But seriously, of those 3 memories, my favorite has to be when we were 5 years old and decided to try on some of Lizzie’s mom’s makeup (sorry, Janice!)

We had no idea what we were doing and when we went downstairs to show everyone, nobody could stop laughing.

Since then, laughter has continued to be a huge part of our friendship, and I feel so lucky for that.

Lizzie, we’ve always said we were each other’s favorite people.

Since meeting Noah, I know you’ve had two favorite people in your life, and I’m honored to share that title with a great man who is perfect for you and makes you so happy.

Now, before I start ugly-crying, let’s all raise a toast to the bride and groom! Cheers! 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Does Maid Of Honor Speech Go First?

While the maid of honor speech is one of the most important events at the wedding reception, it is not the first speech given at the wedding reception.

Usually, the father of the bride speech goes first, followed by the maid of honor speech and then the best man.

Sometimes, the best man speech will precede the maid of honor speech depending on how the bride and groom prefer to structure the event.

What Is The Goal Of The Maid Of Honor Speech? 

The purpose of the maid of honor speech is ultimately to flatter and give insight into the life and character of the bride on her special day.

As a secondary goal, the maid of honor speech should aim to praise and congratulate the couple as a whole. 

How Should The Maid Of Honor Introduce Herself?

To introduce yourself as the maid of honor simply say your name and your relationship to the bride before specifying that you’re the maid of honor.

Related post: Bridal Shower Advice Cards – What To Write

Final Thoughts 

Being asked to give a speech as the maid of honor can be daunting because it’s a big responsibility, but as long as you follow our pointers and write from the heart, you should end up with a beautiful and graceful speech to honor the bride on her big day. 

Remember to congratulate and raise a toast to the couple at the end of your speech, and try to give the guests as much of a personal and genuine insight into the bride as you can while remaining respectful and avoiding clichés.

This is the key to delivering a great maid of honor speech.

PIN IT FOR LATER!

Serena & Dominic are a married couple and parents to 3 wonderful children. They plan weddings, run multiple small businesses, and curate wedding events.

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Sample Speech by a Chief Guest or Guest of Honor

Ladies and gentlemen,

Distinguished guests,

Faculty members,

Dear students,

I stand before you today with a profound sense of honor and privilege to be invited as the chief guest at this prestigious event. As we gather here, I am reminded of the countless hours of hard work, dedication, and perseverance that have brought us to this moment of celebration.

First and foremost, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the students who have successfully completed their academic journey. This day marks a significant milestone in your lives, and it is a testament to your commitment to learning and personal growth. Your accomplishments deserve applause, and I am confident that you will continue to achieve greatness in all your future endeavors.

I would like to take a moment to acknowledge the exceptional efforts of the faculty and staff who have guided and nurtured these young minds. Education is the foundation upon which societies are built, and the role of educators cannot be overstated. Thank you for your dedication and commitment to shaping the leaders of tomorrow.

Today's event is not just about individual achievements; it is a celebration of the collective spirit that thrives in this institution. The bonds forged here, the friendships made, and the experiences shared will shape your lives in ways you may not yet fully comprehend. As you step out into the world, remember to cherish these connections and support one another.

While we celebrate this moment of success, we must also recognize the challenges that lie ahead. Our world is rapidly evolving, and with it comes a myriad of global issues, from climate change to social inequality. As the leaders of tomorrow, it is your responsibility to confront these challenges head-on and work towards building a more just and sustainable future.

Embrace innovation, think critically, and foster a spirit of collaboration. The problems we face today require collective solutions that transcend borders and ideologies. I urge you to be the agents of positive change, to be compassionate and empathetic, and to always strive for excellence in whatever you pursue.

Remember that success is not solely measured by individual achievements but also by the impact we have on others and the world around us. As you excel in your chosen fields, consider how you can give back to society and uplift those who are less fortunate. Be role models, mentors, and beacons of hope for others to follow.

Lastly, never forget the value of lifelong learning. Education does not end here; it is a continuous journey of discovery and growth. Keep an open mind, embrace new ideas, and adapt to the ever-changing landscape of knowledge.

Once again, congratulations to the graduating class, and my best wishes to all the students for a bright and promising future. Thank you to the faculty, staff, and everyone involved in making this institution a center of excellence. Together, let us build a world that is compassionate, equitable, and sustainable.

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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 an Incredible Maid of Honor Speech

Follow these expert tips to knock your maid of honor speech out of the park.

Photo by Janine Licare

In This Article

Though it's a huge honor to be asked to serve as the maid of honor for a family member or friend, it's a role that also comes with a slew of important jobs . You'll be tasked with everything from helping the bride choose her wedding dress and planning the bachelorette party to hosting the bridal shower and corralling the bridesmaids on the wedding morning. Another very important job on your list? Giving a maid of honor speech during the wedding reception. While this is a moment to celebrate your friendship and share best wishes for the couple—two things that probably come quite easily to you—the idea of getting up in front of a crowd can be nerve-wracking if you're not used to public speaking.

If you're feeling overwhelmed, we're here to help. We've taken it upon ourselves to create a go-to guide for penning the perfect maid of honor speech and advice on how to deliver your words like a professional. With our tips and tricks (and a little bit of practice), your toast will go off without a hitch.

To help create this guide, we gathered expert insight from professional speechwriter Katelyn Peterson, the founder of vow- and toast-writing company Wedding Words, and public speaking expert LaQuita Cleare, the founder of Clear Communication Academy. We also rounded up examples of real-life speeches to help inspire your own words.

Meet the Expert

• Katelyn Peterson is a speech writer and the founder of vow- and toast-writing company Wedding Words .
• LaQuita Cleare is a public speaking expert and the founder of Clear Communication Academy , where she prepares CEOs, actors, and other professionals to become stronger, more engaging public speakers.

Ready to get to work? Ahead, you'll find our very best tips and guidelines to follow when writing and delivering an absolutely unforgettable maid of honor speech .

Photo by Jenny Quicksall Photography

Maid of Honor Speech Template

While every maid of honor speech will be different, we've put together an outline that you can follow as you get you started on yours.

Start with the bride; end with the couple.

Of everyone at the wedding, you have the best insight into how much your best friend's partner has changed them for the better . Your maid of honor speech needs to be about the pal you knew long before meeting their soulmate and then pivot to what role they have played in their life. Maybe your friend is even funnier now, or maybe you've simply never seen her so happy. This is also a great way to incorporate their new spouse into the speech if you don't really know them that well; speak to the way that they complement each other or how your friend's new spouse has made them a better person.

Make an emotional connection

One of Cleare's top tips? Write a speech that only you could pen. Make it emotional (it doesn't have to be a tear-jerker! Happiness is an emotion, too!) and bring your connection to the bride (and the couple) to the forefront. "Tell a story about your relationship with the [couple]. It doesn’t have to be a long story," notes Cleare. "In fact, small specific moments with relatable details make the best stories."

Pepper in anecdotes.

Stories do a better job of getting your point across than blanket statements do, so use these to move your speech along. "Each anecdote you share should have an underlying theme that ties all the short stories together," says Peterson. "Reveal that theme near the end of your speech, and you’ll achieve a strong emotional impact."

Skip any mentions of their exes.

No one wants to be reminded of past relationships , particularly in front of their family, friends, and new life partner. Keep the tone of your speech positive, and it will reflect positively on you also. You don't want to come across as though you're trying to roast your friend.

End with a positive outlook.

The nature of this speech is not so much about your relationship with your friend, but the bond the couple shares. Make sure all of the separate components of your toast draw a positive conclusion, ending in how happy the couple is together and your best wishes for their marriage .

Or give other attendees something to do next.

An alternative ending idea? Give guests something to do. "A call to action for everyone is also a fun way to end a speech," Cleare explains. "While wishing the couple well, you can also encourage guests to meet someone new or share a quick story with the person standing next to them about how they met the couple."

Photo by Samm Blake

Maid of Honor Speech Writing and Delivery Tips

Now that you have a loose template to follow, follow our expert-approved tips for writing, practicing, and delivering a maid of honor speech no one will forget.

Brainstorm before you start writing.

Kick-start the creative process by writing down any memories, emotions, or ideas that make you think of your best friend. "I recommend free-writing for 20 minutes," says Peterson. "When you’re done with this exercise, you should have some quality material that you can weave into the form of a speech." This allows you to create a blueprint of all the major points you want to make—more or less creating a roadmap for your ideas—and then fill it in with supporting information.

Need help brainstorming? Use these points to get the creative juices flowing.

• Who will be speaking before or after you, and how will this affect the content of your speech? (You might want to include a reference to their toast in your speech, thank them for an introduction, or introduce the next speaker.)
• What would your friend want their in-laws and newly-acquired family to know about them, and how can you attest to those qualities or characteristics from your own experiences with them?
• What's a warm memory of the newlyweds that always makes you smile? (Ask yourself: If their relationship were a Hollywood movie trailer, what key moments would be featured?)
• When you picture the couple's life together in a few years (or from this moment forward), what do you see? Is there any advice you can give them for their lifelong journey ahead?
• Is there something you want to say to your bestie's new spouse? (Perhaps a few lighthearted tips on how to handle more trying situations that you've learned from your own experiences with them.)

Ditch generic praise.

"Use entertaining and engaging stories to show the bride’s personality," advises Peterson. There's a big difference between simply saying, "She is such a great friend!" versus telling a story that illustrates just that.

Half the guests may not know your friend all that well, so use this moment to paint a picture of how amazing they are. Bring their character to life with details only you could know.

Remember it isn't about you.

While a lot of the anecdotes should be about your time with your friend, you should not be the focal point. After you briefly introduce yourself (remember: most of the people probably won't know who you are or your relation to the couple), you shouldn't be making any additional references to yourself. You're simply the vehicle to explain why the newlyweds are so fantastic.

Don't try to make it perfect.

According to Cleare, the worst thing you can do is put pressure on yourself to write or deliver a "perfect" maid of honor speech. "Take the pressure off yourself to be perfect," she says. Trying to do so, she explains, might actually cause you to trip up more. "I have noticed that people get really nervous when delivering wedding speeches. This causes people to speak too fast and often the verbal fillers like umm and uh come out. Purposeful pauses during a speech can make it feel more impactful."

Keep it short.

The longer your speech, the more opportunities you'll have for people to start losing attention. "Keep your speech under five minutes," suggests Peterson. "Anywhere between two to five minutes is great."

Be sure to pause for a few seconds after each joke to let the audience laugh. When you immediately start speaking right afterward, you won't give people a chance to laugh or even understand the next line. Keep in mind that starting the speech on a funny note can help you capture the attention of the audience for a minute or two, but it's the meaningful content that will keep them enthralled until the end. "Your goal should be to have guests laughing and wiping tears away by balancing humor with sincerity," says Peterson.

If you experience public-speaking jitters, try looking just above everyone’s head. This can minimize your anxiety while allowing guests to think you're looking right at them.

Avoid using too many inside jokes.

If the joke or situation is something other wedding guests would have to be there to understand, avoid using it. If people don't understand the context behind it, it will probably go over their heads. It's okay to poke a little bit of fun at your friend, but keep it light. Don't say anything that would be embarrassing or make them feel uncomfortable.

"The more you recite your speech out loud, the more comfortable you’ll become," notes Peterson. Practice your speech twice a day, starting at least a week beforehand, and record yourself a couple of times so you can hear your pacing and tone. Rehearse the speech in front of friends, too, in order to see if your jokes get a laugh, and try practicing in a mirror to nail your physical presence. Another option, according to Cleare? "You can also record your wedding speech and watch it to see where you can improve."

Get your energy level up.

Want to keep the audience engaged? The secret to doing just that is simple: Be engaging. "Raise your energy levels. Passion is contagious, and your audience will want to join in when they see you smiling and laughing," Cleare explains. If you seem like you're enjoying giving the speech, the other guests in attendance will be more likely to follow along.

Photo by Abby Jiu Photography

Maid of Honor Speech Examples to Make Your Own

If you're feeling stuck, here are three examples of speeches from real bridesmaids to inspire your own.

"Good evening, everyone. I’m Cami, the maid of honor and the bride’s best friend. Over the past 15 years, I’ve witnessed Madison prioritize everyone else’s happiness, but today, we get to honor hers. With Madison being my most fun-loving friend, I knew she’d be down to join me on a two-week adventure traveling throughout Europe. We lived together, but nothing cements a friendship quite like sharing a full-size bed in dingy hostels from the Netherlands to Spain. Madison’s luggage kept breaking, and she went through four suitcases in 14 days! There we were, strolling down a busy street in Madrid and Madison’s clothes were falling out of her over-packed suitcase, painting the path behind us with her sundresses and socks. But she never let her rundown luggage ruin the trip. She just kept rolling with it. Literally. I can always depend on Madison to roll with any situation, to show up for the people that she loves, and to have a good time.

But the truth is everyone in this room is better for knowing you, Madison. You love so deeply, selflessly, and unconditionally. And I know that Pete is the best partner for Madison because I’ve seen him mirror these traits for her. No matter what may come your way, your combined patience, resilience, and love will make you an unstoppable team. And most importantly, I know you two will continue to keep rolling with it . Cheers!" —Cami

"I’m Ashley and welcome! I was introduced to Sarah through a mutual friend to evaluate if she would be a fit as my future roommate. I showed up to that first dinner wearing a casual sundress and flats. Meanwhile, Sarah walked in with voluminous curls, smoky eyes, red lipstick, and a smile that showed me she deserved that Miss Florida title in ’04. I just thought, 'Who is this girl?' Over the next two hours, I learned that this girl was the coolest, funniest person and that I had to live with her. We moved in and it was truly an immediate fit from watching the same shows to downing bottles of the same wine. Despite our homebody nature, we did enjoy our Saturday nights running around the city. One night after several margaritas, Sarah and I found ourselves locked out of our house. So we came up with the best plan we could imagine: Let’s cannonball into our pool. There we were: Two tequila-loving girls cannonballing to see who could create the biggest splash. From that night on, whenever we went out, we’d ask ourselves one key question: 'Is it going to be a cannonball in the pool kind of night?'

And just like she’s always filled the gap in our friend group—we know that John has entered her life to level her out in the best of ways, too. Let’s raise a glass to Sarah and John! May your life together be full of cannonball-in-the-pool kind of nights." —Ashley

"Hi, my name is Makena and I’m the bride’s younger sister and maid of honor . As I look at Winnie and Miles today, I see two people in the most loving, trustworthy, and nurturing relationship I’ve ever witnessed. It shouldn’t come as a surprise to me that even on her wedding day, Winnie is teaching me about life and love. Because the truth is Winnie has been my lifelong teacher. She’s the one who taught me how to read and how to ride a bike, but my most memorable teaching moment was when I was 11 years old.  We had this mutual understanding—or so I thought—that we would not read each other’s journals. But I, of course, read hers and naively assumed she did not read mine. I learned the truth when I opened my journal one day to see an entire page filled with Winnie’s handwriting. There in the middle of my journal was a critique from my sister detailing out how I could improve my writing.

I know that if it weren’t for my sister, I would not be the person I am today. I’m inspired daily by the woman she is. Her confidence is unshakable, her excitability is contagious, and her determination is awe-inspiring. Winnie will finally get to experience what I’ve felt like my entire life with her. She’ll be cared for, unconditionally loved, and will learn every day with Miles as her lifelong teacher through love. Please raise a glass to Winnie and Miles! May you two never stop learning from each other as you continue to love each other." —Makena

First things first: Don't overcomplicate it! Stay authentic to yourself and keep it simple by telling a story, sharing why you love the bride, and toasting the newlyweds.

Keep it short and sweet! Having a two to five minute speech that is both sentimental and humorous is the best way to honor the couple in a way that is engaging and memorable.

Close out your speech with a simple, light-hearted joke and a toast to the newlyweds. This will create the perfect opportunity for a combined cheer and chuckle from the crowd.

A Guide to Wedding Reception Toasts

• 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
• currently on 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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The Ultimate Guide to Crafting the Perfect Maid of Honor Speech in 2024

Maid of honor.

June 19, 2024

• Founder of Bridesmaid for Hire
• Creator of the #1 Speech & Vow Writing Tools
• Author of Always a Bridesmaid (for Hire)
• Creator of 1-800-Bridesmaid

Hi! I'm Jen Glantz

Hi, Friend!   Jen Glantz here. The moment has arrived. Your best friend, sister , or cherished confidant has entrusted you with the honor of being her maid of honor . Along with the joy and excitement, this role comes with a significant responsibility: delivering a memorable and heartfelt maid of honor speech .

You’re in the right place. This comprehensive maid of honor speech guide will  walk you through the steps to create a speech that’s truly unforgettable and encompasses all the details you want to include.

Before we get started, here are some helpful resources for you as you take on the role of being a maid of honor: 

• Need help with your speech? Try out  maid of honor speech writing tool . It turns your stories into a well-written maid of honor speech.
• Looking for inspo? Eyeball our  maid of honor speech examples  blog for some inspiration.
• Want guaranteed laughs? Book a  1:1 speech delivery session . We’ll coach you on how to make your jokes land and be your practice buddy.

Ready to write the best maid of honor speech? Let’s dive in.

Table of Contents

Understanding the Maid of Honor Role

Before diving into the specifics of writing your speech, it’s crucial to understand the broader role of the maid of honor. This role is not just about standing beside the bride on her big day but also supporting her emotionally and practically throughout the wedding planning process. The maid of honor is often the bride’s right hand, helping with everything from dress shopping to planning the bachelorette party and bridal shower. On the wedding day, the maid of honor ensures everything runs smoothly, from helping the bride get ready to managing the bridal party and even handling any last-minute crises. Understanding these responsibilities will provide context and inspiration for your speech, allowing you to reflect on the unique bond you share with the bride and the journey you’ve taken together.

Pre-Wedding Duties

As the maid of honor, your pre-wedding responsibilities may include organizing the bachelorette party, planning the bridal shower, assisting with wedding preparations, and being a sounding board for the bride’s ideas and concerns. These duties provide ample material for anecdotes and heartfelt moments in your speech. Reflecting on these shared experiences can help illustrate the depth of your relationship and the support you’ve provided.

Wedding Day Duties

On the wedding day, the maid of honor plays a pivotal role in ensuring everything goes according to plan. This includes helping the bride get ready, managing the bridal party, and addressing any last-minute issues that arise. These moments are often filled with emotion and can provide powerful material for your speech. Highlighting these duties can demonstrate your dedication and the special connection you share with the bride.

Emotional Support

One of the most significant roles of the maid of honor is providing emotional support to the bride. Weddings are often stressful, and the maid of honor is there to offer a listening ear, a shoulder to cry on, and words of encouragement. Reflecting on these moments of support can add depth and sincerity to your speech, showcasing the strength of your friendship and the important role you’ve played in the bride’s journey.

Pro tip: For a full and in-depth guide on everything you need to know as a maid of honor, check out this blog post.

The Importance of the Maid of Honor Speech at a Wedding

The maid of honor speech holds a special place in wedding celebrations, serving both as a heartfelt tribute and a memorable highlight of the event. This speech is not just a formality but a deeply personal gesture that underscores the emotional significance of the day.

Firstly, the maid of honor speech is a golden opportunity to celebrate the unique relationship you share with the bride. Whether your bond is rooted in years of friendship, sisterhood, or a cherished familial connection, your words can illuminate moments that reveal the bride’s character, values, and shared history.

Secondly, this speech serves to set a tone of warmth, humor, and gratitude, providing a personal touch that resonates with the entire wedding party. Your anecdotes and reflections can evoke laughter and tears, creating a narrative thread that binds guests together, making the evening more memorable.

Moreover, the maid of honor speech often bridges the gap between formal ceremonies and the more relaxed festivities that follow. It acts as a culminating point for the evening’s toasts, linking the day’s sentimental moments to the celebratory atmosphere of the reception.

For those who might be daunted by public speaking, remember that delivering a thoughtful maid of honor speech is a way to honor the bride in an irreplaceable manner. It’s a chance to convey your genuine emotions and support, reassuring her of your love and commitment on her special day.

In essence, the maid of honor speech is an essential component of the wedding, blending personal expression with universal themes of love and friendship. By thoughtfully crafting and delivering your speech, you contribute significantly to the joyful and heartfelt ambiance of the occasion.

Maid of Honor Speech Overview

As the maid of honor, you have the unique privilege of standing by your best friend’s side on one of the most important days of her life. Your speech is an opportunity to celebrate your friendship, share heartfelt memories, and honor the love she shares with her new spouse. Crafting the perfect maid of honor speech can seem daunting, but with the right tips and guidance, you can deliver a speech that will be remembered for years to com e.

1. Know Your Audience

Understanding your audience is key to crafting a speech that resonates. Consider the diverse group of guests, including family members, friends, and colleagues, and tailor your speech to be inclusive and relatable to everyone present.

2. Share Personal Stories

One of the most impactful elements of a maid of honor speech is sharing personal stories and anecdotes that highlight the bride’s character, relationship with the groom, and your bond with her.

3. Keep It Positive

While it’s natural to include some humor or lighthearted anecdotes, ensure that your speech remains positive and uplifting. Avoid sensitive topics or embarrassing stories that may detract from the celebratory atmosphere.

4. Practice, Practice, Practice

Rehearse your speech multiple times to familiarize yourself with the content, pacing, and delivery. Practice in front of a mirror or with a trusted friend to receive feedback and make necessary adjustments.

5. Express Gratitude

Take a moment to thank the couple, their families, and everyone involved in making the wedding day memorable. Expressing gratitude adds a thoughtful touch to your speech.

6. End with a Toast

Conclude your speech with a heartfelt toast to the newlyweds, wishing them a lifetime of love, happiness, and prosperity. Invite guests to join you in raising a glass to celebrate the couple.

By following these actionable tips and incorporating personal touches into your maid of honor speech, you’ll deliver a heartfelt tribute that the couple and guests will cherish for years to come. Remember to speak from the heart, stay positive, and enjoy this special moment celebrating love and friendship.

How to Get Started on Your Maid of Honor Speech

Crafting the perfect maid of honor speech can seem overwhelming, especially if you’re not sure where to begin. As you prepare to honor your best friend and celebrate her love story, it’s essential to take a structured approach to ensure your speech is heartfelt, engaging, and memorable. In this article, we’ll share five actionable tips to help you get started on your maid of honor speech, from brainstorming memories to practicing your delivery.

These tips will guide you through the process, providing examples and explanations along the way, so you can feel confident and prepared when it’s time to raise your glass and toast to the happy couple. Let’s dive in and explore how you can create a speech that truly captures the essence of your friendship and the love that brought everyone together on this special day.

1. Brainstorm memories and moments

Action: Take some time to reflect on your relationship with the bride. Jot down any memorable stories, inside jokes, or heartfelt moments that come to mind. Consider moments that showcase her personality, your friendship, or her relationship with her partner.

Why it helps: Brainstorming helps you gather a collection of stories and memories to draw from when crafting your speech. It allows you to select the most meaningful and relevant moments to share with the audience.

Example: Think about the time you and the bride had a hilarious mishap during a road trip or the moment she confided in you about her feelings for her now-spouse.

2. Create a maid of honor speech outline

Action: Organize your thoughts and stories into a structured outline. Include an introduction, main body with anecdotes and memories, and a conclusion with well-wishes for the couple.

Why it helps: Having an outline helps you stay focused and ensures your speech flows logically. It prevents you from rambling or getting sidetracked during the actual delivery.

Example: The outline for your maid of honor speech could look like this:

Crafting the Perfect Maid of Honor Speech Outline

Creating an engaging and heartfelt maid of honor speech can be a rewarding experience. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you outline your speech:

1. Reflect on Your Relationship with the Couple

Begin by reminiscing about your bond with the couple. Consider the meaningful moments you’ve shared. This could include a memorable trip or funny incidents from your school days together. These anecdotes provide a personal touch and help guests see your close connection to the couple. Pick a favorite (and appropriate) story that highlights your relationship.

2. Highlight the Couple’s Relationship

Dedicate a section to celebrating the couple’s journey. Talk about their first meeting, the moment you knew they were in love, or instances that showcase their compatibility. Paint a vivid picture of their growth as a couple and how they balance and complement each other. If your memory needs jogging, consult other close friends or family members.

3. Steer Clear of Sensitive Subjects

Avoid topics that could offend or cause discomfort. Steer clear of:

• Negative comments about marriage
• References to past relationships or marriages
• Subjects involving drinking, drugs, or gambling
• “Adult” humor

Focus instead on uplifting and celebrating the couple’s love and commitment.

4. Incorporate Humor (in Moderation)

Adding humor can make your speech memorable, but moderation is key. Use universally relatable jokes or light-hearted anecdotes. Stay away from inside jokes that only a few would understand, and ensure your humor is gentle and positive. Spread your jokes throughout the speech to keep the tone light without overshadowing the sentimental aspects.

5. Structure Your Speech

To ensure your speech flows well, follow this outline:

• Introduction: Start with who you are and your connection to the couple.
• Thank You: Express gratitude to the couple for involving you in their special day.
• Personal Anecdotes: Share one or two stories that illustrate your relationship with the couple.
• Advice or Quotes: Offer some heartfelt advice or a thoughtful quote.
• Closing: Conclude with a warm closing remark and invite guests to toast.

By following this outline, you can create a maid of honor speech that is heartfelt, engaging, and memorable. Embrace the opportunity to honor the couple and share your unique perspective on their love story.

3. Write a draft

Action: Using your maid of honor speech outline as a guide, write a rough draft of your speech. Focus on getting your thoughts and stories down on paper without worrying too much about perfection.

Why it helps: Writing a draft allows you to flesh out your ideas and see how they flow together. It’s a starting point that you can refine and polish later.

Example: Begin your draft with something like, “I’ve known [Bride’s name] for [length of time], and I’ve had the privilege of watching her grow into the incredible woman she is today. I remember the day we first met…”

4. Edit and refine

Action: Review your draft and make edits to improve clarity, flow, and impact. Cut out unnecessary details, ensure smooth transitions between stories, and aim for a balance of humor and sentimentality.

Why it helps: Editing helps you refine your speech, making it more engaging and memorable for the audience. It allows you to remove any awkward phrasing or irrelevant details.

Example: As you edit, you might find that a certain joke falls flat or a story doesn’t quite fit the overall tone. Don’t be afraid to make changes and adjustments to strengthen your speech.

5. Practice and seek feedback

Action: Practice delivering your speech out loud several times. Consider practicing in front of a mirror, family members, or friends. Ask for their feedback and suggestions for improvement.

Why it helps: Practicing helps you become more comfortable with your speech and allows you to refine your delivery. Seeking feedback provides an outside perspective and can help you identify areas that need improvement.

Example: As you practice, pay attention to your pacing, tone, and body language. Make note of any parts that feel awkward or need more emphasis. Consider the feedback you receive and make adjustments accordingly.

Preparing Your Maid of Honor Speech

Gather thoughts and memories.

Before writing your speech, take time to reflect on your relationship with the bride and jot down key moments, memories, and sentiments you want to include. Organize these thoughts to create a coherent narrative that captures the essence of your bond.

Create a Maid of Honor speech Outline

Develop a structured outline that includes an introduction, memorable anecdotes, well-wishes for the future, and a heartfelt conclusion. This outline will serve as a roadmap, keeping you focused and ensuring a smooth flow.

Draw Inspiration

Look to past experiences, shared memories, quotes, song lyrics, or poems that hold special meaning for you and the bride. Infuse your speech with these personal touches to create a deeply resonant tribute.

Structure Your Speech

Divide your speech into clear sections, such as an introduction, anecdotes, and closing remarks. Tailor the structure to suit your personal style and the tone of your speech, reflecting your unique relationship with the bride.

Craft a Captivating Opening

Begin your speech with a memorable anecdote, heartfelt quote, or lighthearted joke to immediately engage your audience. Your opening should set the stage for the heartfelt tribute to come and establish a connection with the bride and guests.

Transition Smoothly

Use transitional phrases or storytelling techniques to seamlessly move between topics and anecdotes. Practice these transitions to ensure a natural flow that resonates with sincerity and emotion.

Remember, your Maid of Honor speech is an opportunity to express your love and support for the bride. Take your time to craft a heartfelt and meaningful tribute that celebrates your unique bond.

Writing Tips for a Memorable Maid of Honor Speech

Writing a memorable Maid of Honor speech requires careful attention to detail and a focus on emotional resonance. Start by brainstorming ideas and memories that you want to include in your speech, considering both heartfelt moments and lighthearted anecdotes. Structure your speech in a way that flows naturally, with a clear beginning, middle, and end. Use descriptive language and vivid imagery to paint a picture for your audience, bringing your stories to life and evoking emotion. Above all, be authentic and sincere in your delivery, speaking from the heart and letting your love for the bride shine through in every word.

Finding the Right Tone

Choosing the right tone for your Maid of Honor speech is essential for effectively conveying your message and connecting with your audience. Consider the atmosphere of the wedding and the personalities of the bride and groom when determining the tone of your speech. Strike a balance between sincerity and humor, ensuring that your speech is both touching and entertaining. Tailor your tone to suit your relationship with the bride, adopting a conversational style that feels natural and authentic. Ultimately, the right tone will enhance the impact of your speech and leave a lasting impression on the newlyweds and their guests.

Using Storytelling to Engage the Audience

Storytelling is a powerful tool for engaging your audience and making your Maid of Honor speech memorable. Use vivid descriptions, engaging narratives, and personal anecdotes to captivate your listeners and draw them into your story. Share meaningful moments and experiences that highlight the bond you share with the bride, allowing your audience to connect with you on a deeper level. Use pacing, tone, and expression to convey emotion and create suspense, keeping your audience engaged from start to finish. By harnessing the power of storytelling, you can create a Maid of Honor speech that leaves a lasting impression on the newlyweds and their guests.

Narrative Techniques in Speech Writing

Incorporating narrative techniques into your Maid of Honor speech can elevate your presentation and captivate your audience. Use techniques such as foreshadowing, dialogue, and character development to create a compelling story that resonates with your listeners. Structure your speech in a way that builds tension and suspense, leading to a satisfying conclusion that leaves a lasting impact. By weaving together anecdotes and shared memories into a cohesive narrative, you can create a Maid of Honor speech that is both engaging and memorable.

Incorporating Humor and Sincerity

Balancing humor and sincerity is key to delivering a Maid of Honor speech that resonates with your audience. Use humor to lighten the mood and entertain your listeners, but be mindful of the tone and context to ensure your jokes land appropriately. Pair humor with sincerity, expressing genuine emotion and heartfelt sentiment throughout your speech. Share personal anecdotes and heartfelt messages that reflect the depth of your relationship with the bride, allowing your audience to connect with you on an emotional level. By striking the right balance between humor and sincerity, you can create a Maid of Honor speech that is both entertaining and touching.

The Role of Timing in Humor

Understanding the role of timing in humor is essential for delivering a Maid of Honor speech that is both entertaining and appropriate. Consider the context of your jokes and the mood of the audience when determining the timing of your humor. Use pauses and pacing to build anticipation and create comedic tension, allowing your punchlines to land effectively. Be mindful of the overall tone of your speech and the atmosphere of the wedding, adjusting your timing accordingly to ensure your humor enhances rather than detracts from your message. By mastering the role of timing in humor, you can deliver a Maid of Honor speech that keeps your audience laughing and engaged throughout.

Finalizing and Practicing Your Maid of Honor Speech

Finalizing and practicing your Maid of Honor speech is essential for delivering a confident and impactful presentation on the big day. Start by reviewing your speech for clarity, coherence, and emotional resonance, making any necessary revisions to ensure it effectively conveys your message. Practice delivering your speech aloud, paying attention to your pacing, tone, and expression to ensure a polished performance. Consider recording yourself or enlisting a trusted friend or family member for feedback, allowing you to fine-tune your delivery and make any final adjustments. By finalizing and practicing your Maid of Honor speech, you can ensure you’re prepared to deliver a heartfelt tribute that honors the bride and leaves a lasting impression on everyone in attendance.

Adapting Your Speech for Different Venues

Adapting your Maid of Honor speech for different wedding venues is essential for ensuring your message is heard and appreciated by all in attendance. Consider the acoustics and layout of the venue when planning your speech, adjusting your volume and pacing accordingly to ensure your words carry to the back of the room. Tailor your speech to suit the atmosphere and formality of the venue, adopting a tone and style that aligns with the overall vibe of the wedding. By adapting your Maid of Honor speech for different venues, you can ensure your message resonates with the bride, groom, and guests, regardless of the setting.

Adjusting Your Speech for Indoor vs. Outdoor Venues

When delivering a Maid of Honor speech in indoor versus outdoor venues, there are several factors to consider to ensure your message is heard and appreciated by all in attendance. In indoor venues, be mindful of the acoustics and adjust your volume and pacing accordingly to ensure your words carry to the back of the room. Use microphones and sound systems as needed to amplify your voice and enhance your speech’s clarity. In outdoor venues, be prepared to project your voice more forcefully to overcome ambient noise and distractions. Use natural elements such as wind direction and terrain to your advantage, positioning yourself in a way that maximizes your visibility and ensures your audience can hear you clearly. By adjusting your delivery to suit the nuances of indoor versus outdoor venues, you can ensure your Maid of Honor speech resonates with everyone in attendance, regardless of the setting.

Tips for Your Maid of Honor Speech

With a few essential tips and a generous helping of love, you’ll create a toast that will resonate with the newlyweds and their guests, leaving a lasting impression on this special day. So, take a moment to gather your thoughts, embrace the excitement, and let’s embark on this incredible journey of crafting a speech that truly comes from the heart!

1. Be You, Unapologetically!

First and foremost, just be yourself! Your genuine personality and enthusiasm will shine through and connect with everyone in the room. Picture this: You, owning the stage, being the amazing person you are, and giving a speech that captures hearts. It’s all about embracing who you are and letting that authenticity radiate through your words.

2. Start with a Bang!

Hook your audience right from the start with a memorable opening. Whether it’s a heartfelt quote, a funny anecdote, or a personal touch, make it engaging. Imagine their attention piqued, ready to embark on the emotional rollercoaster of your speech. A strong beginning sets the tone for an unforgettable toast.

3. Share Heartfelt Anecdotes

Memories are a treasure trove! Share sweet, funny, or touching stories that highlight the bride’s beautiful journey and the bond you both share. Think of the best times you’ve had together, reminisce about old tales, and weave them into your speech. It’s like taking everyone on a delightful trip down memory lane.

4. Express Gratitude and Appreciation

Show some love to the people who made this special day possible. Thank the bride and groom for including you and express your gratitude to the hosts, parents, and anyone who contributed. A little appreciation goes a long way, and it sets a positive, warm atmosphere for your speech.

5. Speak from the Heart, Not the Script

Sure, jot down your speech, but don’t read it word for word. Let it flow naturally, as if you’re having a casual chat with dear friends. Connect with your audience by making eye contact and speaking genuinely. You’ve got this!

6. Balance Emotions and Humor

A great speech has a mix of emotions: a sprinkle of humor, a dash of sentimentality, and a pinch of excitement. Tell a funny story to get some laughs, then follow it up with a touching moment that tugs at heartstrings. Strike the right balance and keep the crowd engaged.

7. Short and Sweet Wins the Race

Aim for a speech that’s around 3-5 minutes. Be concise and to the point, covering the important aspects without dragging it out. Remember, brevity is the soul of wit, and your audience will appreciate you for it.

8. Practice, Practice, Practice!

Rehearse your speech multiple times to get the flow and pacing just right. Practice in front of a mirror or with a friend to gain confidence. The more you practice, the more natural and confident you’ll feel when delivering your speech.

9. Engage with the Audience

Involve the audience by asking them rhetorical questions or encouraging them to raise their glasses for toasts. Engagement keeps them attentive and makes your speech interactive and memorable.

10. End with a Heartfelt Toast

Wrap up your speech with a touching toast to the newlyweds. Raise your glass high and wish them a lifetime of happiness and love. It’s the perfect way to conclude your speech on a celebratory note.

11. Breathe and Stay Calm

Feeling nervous is natural, but take deep breaths, stay calm, and smile. You’ve got this, and everyone’s cheering for you!

12. Time Your Delivery

Coordinate with the emcee or the person in charge to ensure your speech fits seamlessly into the event’s schedule. Punctuality is key to a smooth-flowing event.

13. Speak Clearly and Audibly

Ensure everyone can hear you by speaking clearly and at a moderate pace. Project your voice and articulate your words for maximum impact.

14. Be Mindful of Your Body Language

Stand tall, maintain good posture, and use hand gestures naturally. Your body language should reflect your confidence and enthusiasm.

15. Spread the Love

Lastly, share the love! Radiate positivity, love, and happiness throughout your speech. Let your affection for the couple shine through your words.

So, gather your thoughts, put on your brightest smile, and let’s craft a toast that’ll be etched in everyone’s hearts forever. Cheers to you, the extraordinary Maid of Honor!

Tips for Incorporating Cultural or Religious Elements into your Maid of Honor Speech

Research and understand significance.

Before including cultural or religious references in your Maid of Honor speech, conduct thorough research to understand the significance of the elements you wish to incorporate. This ensures that your references are accurate, respectful, and meaningful to the couple and their families.

Weave References into Anecdotes

Seamlessly integrate cultural or religious references into anecdotes or stories that highlight the couple’s shared values and experiences. For example, share a story about a cultural tradition the couple embraces or a meaningful religious ceremony they participated in together. This approach makes the references more personal and engaging for the audience.

Incorporate Relevant Quotes and Blessings

Consider including relevant quotes, blessings, or well-wishes from cultural or religious texts to add depth and sincerity to your speech. These elements can provide a powerful and emotional connection to the couple’s heritage and beliefs.

Strike a Balance between Honoring Heritage and Ensuring Inclusivity

While it’s important to honor the couple’s cultural or religious background, it’s equally crucial to ensure that your speech remains inclusive and relatable to all guests, regardless of their own backgrounds. Approach cultural or religious references with sensitivity and thoughtfulness to create a Maid of Honor speech that resonates with everyone in attendance.

Celebrate the Couple’s Unique Identity

Use cultural or religious elements to celebrate the couple’s unique identity and the values that define their relationship. By incorporating these references in a meaningful and respectful way, you can create a Maid of Honor speech that deeply resonates with the couple and their loved ones, making the occasion even more special and memorable.

Maid of Honor Speech Template

Being a maid of honor is a cherished role that comes with the exciting responsibility of delivering a heartfelt speech. As you stand beside your best friend on her big day, your words will be a celebration of your friendship and a tribute to the love she shares with her partner.

So, whether you’re looking for guidance on how to weave heartfelt anecdotes into your speech, tips on using humor effectively, or strategies for overcoming stage fright, this ultimate guide has you covered.

Let’s dive in and explore maid of honor speech templates you can use for inspiration.

Pro tip: For more maid of honor examples and templates, check out this blog post .

Introduction

The introduction sets the tone for your speech and captures the audience’s attention. It’s crucial to start with a warm greeting and express your gratitude for being part of this special day.

Example: “Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests, and most importantly, the radiant couple [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]. I am truly honored and filled with joy to stand before you today as the maid of honor for this incredible celebration of love. Today marks a milestone in their journey together, and I am privileged to witness and honor this beautiful occasion.”

Opening Quote or Anecdote (Optional)

An opening quote or anecdote adds a touch of charm and can help convey the theme of your speech. It’s optional but can make your speech more engaging and memorable.

Example: “Before I delve into my heartfelt words, I’d like to share a quote/anecdote that encapsulates the essence of love and partnership. [Insert quote/anecdote]. This quote/anecdote resonates deeply with me, reflecting the enduring love that [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name] share.”

Past Memories and Anecdotes

Sharing past memories and anecdotes helps paint a picture of the bond between you and the bride, highlighting your relationship and the journey you’ve shared.

Example: “[Bride’s Name] and I have shared countless memories, from our childhood escapades to our adventures in adulthood. I vividly remember the time when [share a funny or heartwarming anecdote about the bride]. It’s these moments that have shaped our bond and made it unbreakable. Our friendship has weathered storms and celebrated joys, and I am grateful for every moment.”

Appreciation for the Couple

Expressing your admiration for the couple and acknowledging their love and partnership is a heartfelt way to honor them on their special day.

Example: “Today, as I look at [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], I’m filled with admiration for the love they share. They complement each other in the most beautiful ways, [mention specific qualities or moments that highlight their bond]. Their relationship is a testament to the power of love and commitment, and I feel blessed to witness their journey.”

Present Stories

Sharing present stories about the couple’s relationship and experiences together adds depth to your speech and shows your understanding of their love and commitment.

Example: “Seeing the love between them is like witnessing a real-life fairy tale. They’ve navigated challenges together with grace and have always put each other first. Whether it’s [mention a significant event or gesture], their love shines through. Their bond is built on trust, respect, and unwavering support, making them a perfect match.”

Thanking the Families and Guests

Thanking the families and guests is a gracious gesture that acknowledges the support and love surrounding the couple on their wedding day.

Example: “I would like to take a moment to thank the families of [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name] for their unwavering support and love. Your guidance and encouragement have played a vital role in shaping the wonderful individuals standing before us today. To the guests who have traveled far and wide to be here, your presence adds to the joy of this celebration.”

Future Well-Wishes and Advice

Offering future well-wishes and advice is a thoughtful way to send the couple off into their married life with words of wisdom and encouragement.

Example: “As they embark on this new chapter together, my wish for [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name] is a lifetime of happiness, laughter, and unwavering love. Remember to cherish each other every day, communicate openly, and face challenges as a team. Embrace the journey ahead with optimism and a deep commitment to each other’s happiness.”

The toast is the culmination of your speech and is a celebratory moment where you raise a glass to honor the newlyweds and wish them a happy future together.

Example: “So please join me in raising a glass to [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]. May your love continue to grow stronger with each passing day. Cheers! Here’s to a lifetime of love, laughter, and cherished moments together.”

Your Maid of Honor Speech Structure 

A well-structured speech is key to delivering an engaging and heartfelt message. By organizing your thoughts and stories coherently, you can ensure your speech resonates with the audience and leaves a lasting impression. This section will guide you through the essential components of a maid of honor speech, from the introduction to the conclusion.

The introduction of your speech sets the tone for the rest of your message. Start by introducing yourself and explaining your relationship with the bride. This helps the audience understand your connection and sets the stage for the stories and anecdotes you’ll share. A captivating opening can include a humorous anecdote, a heartfelt statement, or a memorable quote. For example, “For those who don’t know me, I’m [Name], and I’ve had the pleasure of knowing [Bride] for [number] years.”

Opening Line

Your opening line is crucial in capturing the audience’s attention. Consider starting with a light-hearted joke, a touching memory, or an intriguing fact about your relationship with the bride. The goal is to set a positive and engaging tone for the rest of your speech. For instance, “For those who don’t know me, I’m [Name], and I’ve had the pleasure of knowing [Bride] for [number] years. We first met during college orientation, and she offered to share her umbrella with me in the rain. Little did I know that moment would lead to a lifelong friendship.”

Establishing Connection

After your opening line, briefly explain how you met the bride and highlight a memorable moment that showcases your bond. This helps the audience connect with your relationship and understand the depth of your friendship. Reflect on moments that demonstrate the bride’s character and the unique connection you share. For example, “We first met during college orientation, and she offered to share her umbrella with me in the rain. Little did I know that moment would lead to a lifelong friendship.”

The body of your speech is where you share stories and anecdotes that highlight the bride’s qualities, your friendship, and her relationship with the groom. These stories should be meaningful, appropriate, and reflective of the bride’s character. Choose stories that illustrate the bride’s kindness, sense of humor, or dedication. Additionally, include observations about the couple’s relationship and how they complement each other.

Stories and Anecdotes

Choosing the right stories and anecdotes is crucial for an engaging speech. Reflect on moments that showcase the bride’s character and your shared experiences. These stories should be relatable and evoke emotions in the audience. For example, “I remember the first time we met during college orientation, and she offered to share her umbrella with me in the rain. Little did I know that moment would lead to a lifelong friendship. One of my favorite memories is when we decided to take a spontaneous road trip, and we ended up lost in the middle of nowhere. Instead of panicking, [Bride] turned it into an adventure, and we had the time of our lives.”

Ps. Add stories instead of adjectives in your speech!  Simply put, stories bring authenticity and depth that adjectives alone cannot capture. When you describe the bride as “kind,” “fun,” or “beautiful,” these words may sound pleasant but often fall flat. Instead, share specific anecdotes that illustrate these qualities in action. For instance, recount a moment when the bride went out of her way to help a friend in need, showcasing her kindness. Tell a funny story that highlights her sense of humor and adventurous spirit. By painting a vivid picture through personal stories, you allow the audience to truly understand and connect with the bride’s unique personality. This approach not only makes your speech more engaging but also leaves a lasting impression on everyone present.

Compliments and Qualities

Highlighting the bride’s best qualities is an essential part of your speech. Share specific examples that illustrate her kindness, sense of humor, or dedication. These compliments should be sincere and reflective of your genuine admiration for the bride. For instance, “One of the things I admire most about [Bride] is her unwavering kindness. I remember a time when she went out of her way to help a stranger in need, and it reminded me of how fortunate I am to have her as a friend.”

Relationship with the Partner

Including observations about the couple’s relationship adds depth to your speech. Mention how they complement each other and your hopes for their future. Reflect on moments that demonstrate their love and partnership. For example, “Seeing the way [Groom] makes [Bride] smile, I know they are perfect for each other. One of my favorite memories is seeing them dance together at a friend’s wedding, and it was clear to everyone that they were meant to be.”

Why It’s Crucial to Acknowledge the Partner in a Maid of Honor Speech

In a maid of honor speech, reflecting on your relationship with the bride is essential, but don’t overlook the significance of mentioning her partner.

• Celebrating the Couple : The occasion is, after all, about their union. Giving attention to both parties shows respect for their partnership and highlights the joint venture they’re embarking on together.
• Demonstrating Awareness : When you incorporate sentiments about her partner, it reinforces your understanding of what makes their relationship unique. This doesn’t just honor the couple but also deepens the impact of your tribute.
• Avoiding Cliche : A thoughtful mention of the partner can elevate your speech beyond generic praise. It underscores the personal connection and unique dynamics that make their relationship special.
• Balancing the Narrative : Your speech should be a harmonious blend of reminiscing about your friendship and acknowledging the new chapter she’s beginning. By addressing both individuals, you strike a balance that resonates with the entire audience, not just your friend.

In short, including the partner in your speech honors the full scope of the day’s celebration, adding depth and authenticity to your words.

The conclusion of your speech is where you bring everything together and leave the audience with a heartfelt message. Summarize your main points and offer your best wishes for the couple’s future. End with a toast that invites the guests to join you in celebrating the bride and groom. For example, “May your life together be filled with love, laughter, and countless happy memories. To [Bride] and [Groom], may your love continue to grow stronger each day.”

Well Wishes

Offering your best wishes for the couple’s future is a key part of the conclusion. These well-wishes should be sincere and reflective of your genuine hopes for their happiness. For example, “May your life together be filled with love, laughter, and countless happy memories. To [Bride] and [Groom], may your love continue to grow stronger each day.”

Ending your speech with a toast is a traditional and meaningful way to celebrate the couple. Raise a glass and invite the guests to join you in toasting the bride and groom. For example, “To [Bride] and [Groom], may your love continue to grow stronger each day.”

Things to Say and Not to Say in a Maid of Honor Speech

Things to Say: 1. Express your gratitude for being chosen as the maid of honor 2. Share heartfelt stories and memories that highlight the bride’s best qualities 3. Talk about how the bride and groom complement each other and how their love has grown 4. Offer genuine well wishes and advice for a happy and successful marriage 5. Raise a toast to the newlyweds’ love, happiness, and future together

Things Not to Say: 1. Don’t mention past relationships or exes of the bride or groom 2. Avoid embarrassing or inappropriate stories that could make the couple or guests uncomfortable 3. Refrain from making inside jokes that most guests won’t understand 4. Don’t talk excessively about yourself or steal the spotlight from the couple 5. Avoid discussing sensitive topics like politics, religion, or controversial subjects

Remember: – Keep your speech heartfelt, concise, and engaging – Focus on the couple and their love story – Practice your speech beforehand to ensure a smooth delivery – Be mindful of the time and keep your speech within the given time limit – Speak from the heart and let your love and support for the couple shine through

Maid of Honor Speech Examples

Being chosen as the maid of honor is a special and cherished role, and delivering a heartfelt speech is one of the most important duties you’ll have on the big day. Whether you’re filled with excitement or nerves, crafting the perfect speech can feel like a daunting task. To help you get started and spark some inspiration, we’ve compiled five unique maid of honor speech examples. Each one captures different tones and styles, from humorous and light-hearted to sentimental and tear-jerking. Dive in to find the perfect example that resonates with your personality and the special bond you share.

For more examples, check out our maid of honor speech examples blog post.

Childhood Best Friends

Good evening, everyone. For those of you who don’t know me, I’m [Your Name], and I’ve had the incredible honor of being [Bride’s Name]’s best friend for as long as I can remember. From the moment we met on the playground in kindergarten, I knew we were destined to be friends forever.

Growing up, [Bride’s Name] and I were inseparable. We had countless sleepovers, shared our deepest secrets, and dreamed about our futures together. I remember the time we decided to start a lemonade stand in her front yard, determined to save up enough money to buy matching friendship bracelets. It took us weeks, but we finally did it, and those bracelets remained a symbol of our unbreakable bond.

As we grew older, our friendship only strengthened. [Bride’s Name] was there for me through every milestone, every heartbreak, and every triumph. She has a heart of gold and a spirit that lights up any room she enters. I’ve watched her grow into the amazing woman she is today, and I couldn’t be more proud to call her my best friend.

When [Bride’s Name] met [Groom’s Name], I knew something was different. The way her eyes sparkled when she talked about him, the way she couldn’t stop smiling whenever he was around – it was clear that she had found her soulmate. Seeing the two of them together, it’s evident that their love is something truly special. They bring out the best in each other and have a connection that is undeniable.

[Groom’s Name], I want to thank you for loving my best friend the way she deserves to be loved. You’ve become not just her partner, but also a dear friend to me. I know that with you by her side, [Bride’s Name] will always be cherished, supported, and loved unconditionally.

Sisters by Blood, Friends by Choice

Good evening, everyone. I’m [Your Name], and I have the privilege of being both [Bride’s Name]’s sister and her maid of honor. Growing up, people always asked us what it was like to be sisters. The truth is, being sisters was just the beginning of our relationship. Over the years, we’ve become so much more – we’re best friends, confidants, and each other’s biggest supporters.

From a young age, [Bride’s Name] and I had an unbreakable bond. We shared a room, played dress-up together, and had countless inside jokes that only we understood. As we grew older, our relationship deepened. We became each other’s go-to person for advice, comfort, and a good laugh when we needed it most.

One of my favorite memories with [Bride’s Name] was the summer we decided to take a cross-country road trip together. We packed up her car, created the ultimate playlist, and hit the road with no real plan in mind. It was a journey filled with laughter, heart-to-heart conversations, and moments that we’ll cherish forever. That trip exemplified the essence of our relationship – spontaneous, adventurous, and filled with unconditional love and support.

When [Bride’s Name] introduced me to [Groom’s Name], I could immediately see the happiness he brought into her life. The way they complement each other, the way they make each other laugh, and the way they support each other’s dreams – it’s truly inspiring. [Groom’s Name], you have become not just my brother-in-law, but also a true friend. I am so grateful to have you as a part of our family.

To [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], may your love be a source of strength, comfort, and joy in all the years to come. May you continue to be each other’s best friend, biggest fan, and partner in all of life’s adventures. And may you always remember that no matter what challenges come your way, you have a family that loves and supports you unconditionally.

Friends Turned Family

Good evening, everyone. I’m [Your Name], and I am honored to stand here today as [Bride’s Name]’s maid of honor. [Bride’s Name] and I met in college, both nervous freshmen trying to navigate a new chapter in our lives. Little did we know that our paths would cross in the most unexpected way, leading to a friendship that would change our lives forever.

From the moment we became roommates, [Bride’s Name] and I just clicked. Late-night study sessions turned into heart-to-heart conversations, and before we knew it, we were inseparable. She became the sister I never had, the person I could turn to for anything, and the one who always had my back.

One of the things I admire most about [Bride’s Name] is her unwavering compassion and kindness. She has a heart that knows no bounds, and she’s always ready to lend a helping hand or a listening ear to anyone in need. I’ve watched her face challenges with grace and resilience, never losing sight of what truly matters in life.

When [Bride’s Name] met [Groom’s Name], it was like watching a real-life fairytale unfold. The love they share is so pure, so genuine, and so beautiful to witness. [Groom’s Name], you have become an integral part of our lives, and I am so grateful for the happiness you bring to my best friend. Your love story is a testament to the power of fate, the strength of commitment, and the beauty of finding your soulmate.

As you embark on this new chapter together, I want to share a piece of advice that [Bride’s Name] and I have always lived by: never stop being each other’s best friend. In the midst of the ups and downs, the challenges and triumphs, always remember to laugh together, dream together, and support each other unconditionally. Your friendship is the foundation that will carry you through anything life may bring.

A Toast to Love and Laughter

Good evening, everyone. I’m [Your Name], and I am so thrilled to be standing here today as [Bride’s Name]’s maid of honor. When [Bride’s Name] asked me to take on this role, I was incredibly honored and slightly terrified. How could I possibly put into words the love, admiration, and gratitude I have for this amazing woman?

[Bride’s Name] and I have been friends for [Number] years, and in that time, she has become more than just a friend to me. She’s my confidant, my partner-in-crime, and the person who can always make me laugh until my stomach hurts. We’ve shared countless memories together, from epic road trips to late-night heart-to-hearts, and every moment has been a blessing.

One of the things I love most about [Bride’s Name] is her infectious zest for life. She has a way of finding joy in the simplest things, whether it’s a spontaneous dance party in the kitchen or a cozy movie night in our pajamas. Her laughter is contagious, and her smile can light up any room. She reminds me every day to embrace the little moments and to never take life too seriously.

When [Bride’s Name] met [Groom’s Name], it was like watching two puzzle pieces fall perfectly into place. Their love story is one for the ages – filled with adventure, laughter, and an unwavering commitment to each other. [Groom’s Name], you have become not just [Bride’s Name]’s partner, but also a dear friend to all of us. Your love for her is evident in every look, every touch, and every moment you share together.

As you start this new chapter of your lives, I want to share a few words of wisdom. Remember to always be each other’s biggest cheerleader, to find humor in the midst of chaos, and to never go to bed angry. Cherish the little moments, the inside jokes, and the silly dance parties. And most importantly, never forget the love that brought you together and the friendship that will carry you through anything.

A Bond That Knows No Distance

Good evening, everyone. I’m [Your Name], and I am so honored to be standing here today as [Bride’s Name]’s maid of honor. [Bride’s Name] and I have a friendship that has withstood the test of time and distance. Though we may not have grown up in the same city or even the same country, our bond has remained unbreakable.

I first met [Bride’s Name] when we were both studying abroad in [Country]. We were two wide-eyed adventurers, eager to explore the world and soak up every experience. From the moment we met, it was like we had known each other for years. We bonded over our love for [shared interest], our desire to try every local cuisine, and our willingness to say yes to any opportunity that came our way.

Over the years, our friendship has grown and evolved, despite the miles that have separated us. We’ve celebrated each other’s triumphs, comforted each other through challenges, and always found a way to make each other laugh, even if it was through a grainy video call at 2 AM. [Bride’s Name] has taught me the true meaning of friendship – that it knows no bounds, no distance, and no limitations.

When [Bride’s Name] met [Groom’s Name], I remember her calling me, giddy with excitement, telling me she had met the most incredible man. As I watched their love story unfold, even from afar, I could see the joy and contentment that [Groom’s Name] brought into her life. [Groom’s Name], you have become not just [Bride’s Name]’s partner, but also a true friend. Your love for her radiates in everything you do, and I am so grateful to have you as a part of our lives.

As you embark on this new adventure together, I want to share a few words of advice. Remember that love is not just about the grand gestures, but about the little moments of kindness, compassion, and understanding. Cherish the inside jokes, the quiet moments of intimacy, and the memories you create together. And always remember that no matter where life takes you, you have a network of friends and family who love and support you unconditionally.

Maid of Honor Speech Generator Speech Examples

Throughout this guide, we’ve referenced that we have a unique maid of honor speechwriting tool that can help you brainstorm details for your toast and write it up for your in minutes — yes minutes.

The tool is interactive and designed in a way that lets you feel like you’re chatting with a professional bestie who is going to write your speech for you.

All of these speeches below were written using our  maid of honor speech tool .  You’ll see speeches that are short, medium, and long. Plus, different tones! One funny speech, one that’s warm, and one that’s a combo!

A medium-length warm maid of honor speech example

• Length: Medium (500 words or 5-minutes long)

Good evening everyone,

Thank you all so much for being here tonight to celebrate the love that Adrian and Lucas share. My name is Jane, for those who might not know me, and I have the honor of being Adrian’s best friend and, on this special day, her bridesmaid.

Our story began a few years ago in a place where friendships often blossom – the dog park. While our pups were becoming fast friends, unbeknown to them, they kindled a beautiful friendship between Adrian and me. It was a trip to the pet store that really kicked off something special. A good friendship is like a good habit, and we created one together: dinners, walks with our dogs, movie nights.

Three years of this regular bonding, and we became much more than just dog park pals, we became the best of friends. In our friendship, Adrian and I often joke that we share the same personalities as our dogs. Adrian, much like her dog, is shy and tends to go with the flow. You’ll often find me and my dog being the playful, rule-breaking duo.

Adrian, always the steadfast friend, can be counted on to lend a listening ear, offering a comforting space whenever needed. Then, along came Lucas, who we perfectly describe as an adorable mix of both our dogs – kind and sweet, but always ready to be the life of the party. A man who perfectly complements both of our quirkiness and has seamlessly fit into our dynamic.

A love for trying new sushi spots across New York City was one bond that Adrian and Lucas shared, even marking their love at the sushi spot where they had their first date. I, for one, can’t think of anything that epitomizes their relationship better. Adrian, you have shown me time and again how loyal, kind, and caring you are. It is an honor to be able to call you my friend.

And as we stand here today, my wish for you and Lucas is that you continue to enjoy each other’s company, exploring sushi spots, and sharing your endless love for one another. So here’s to Adrian and Lucas, may your life continue to be a journey filled with shared adventures and everlasting love. Cheers!

A long and funny maid of honor speech example 

• Length: Long (1,000 words or 7-minutes long)
• Tone: Funny

Good evening everyone, Thank you all so much for being here tonight to celebrate the love that Adrian and Lucas share. My name is Jane, for those unfamiliar faces here, and I have the honor of being Adrian’s best friend and, on this special day, her bridesmaid.

We met at a spot not meant for humans – the dog park. Our fun-loving dogs became instant friends, kindling a beautiful friendship between Adrian and me during our pet store runs, dinners, dog-walks, and movie nights. Often we laugh, saying we mirror our dogs’ personalities. Adrian, like hers, is shy and goes with the flow. My dog and I, on the other hand, are the playful rule-breakers!

Along came Lucas, who we can best describe as a perfect blend of our canine companions – kind, sweet and the perfect stirrer at a party. He’s smoothly fit our quirky dynamic. The first time Lucas and I met, he was so nervous he managed to spill his soup on me. But standing there, doused in soup, I just laughed and thought to myself, ‘This will make a great story at their wedding one day.’ Adrian and Lucas share an uncanny love for exploring sushi spots across New York City, a bond fueling their romance so significantly that Lucas proposed at the sushi spot of their first date. Adrian, your loyal, kind, and caring nature, make you a person that anyone would be lucky to call a friend.

My heart brims with wishes for you and Lucas. May you continue on your path of shared adventures and exploration, bound by an endless love for each other. Now, I’d love to end on a note of deep advice about relationships, but who am I kidding? I’m single and my life revolves around coaxing my cat into Instagram-worthy outfits.

So instead, here’s something Adrian once shared with me about love. Love isn’t just a feeling. It’s a million little actions stacked on top of each other. When it crumbles, it’s these actions, repeated, that rebuild it. So, Adrian and Lucas, here’s some top-tier advice. Keep doing those good things for one another, over and over again. A toast to consistency in love and a future steeped in joy. To Adrian and Lucas!

A funny maid of honor speech example

Good evening, everyone!

For those of you who don’t know me, I’m [Your Name], the charmingly awkward yet supremely honored maid of honor. Bride’s Name and I go way back—seriously, we’ve known each other since dial-up internet was still a thing.

Now, public speaking isn’t exactly my strong suit. In fact, I was hoping to avoid making a speech by pulling the fire alarm, but it turns out they frown upon that. So, here I am, with all of you, celebrating this amazing day!

Let’s talk about Bride’s Name for a moment. She’s a beautiful soul and my partner-in-crime since high school. We’ve had countless adventures together, like that time we tried to cook for the first time and almost burned the house down. But nothing could prepare me for the look on her face when she first mentioned ‘the hot coworker.’

For those keeping track, Groom/Spouse’s Name , that’s you! You became ‘the hot coworker’ who made our dear Bride’s Name giggle, blush, and text me at 2 AM for decoding your one-word replies.

Over the years, I’ve gotten to know Groom/Spouse’s Name as well, and I have to say, he is one of the most genuine, caring people I’ve ever met. Anyone who can put up with Bride’s Name ‘s nightly freak-outs over whether or not pineapple belongs on pizza deserves a medal—or at least a hearty round of applause.

Now, we all hope to find our one true love—an idea that makes me wonder how I managed to trick Bride’s Name into being my best friend. But in all seriousness, seeing these two together, I know they have found their true match in each other.

So, let’s raise our glasses to the newlyweds. May your life be filled with as much laughter as Bride’s Name and I shared trying to figure out how to adult. And may it be filled with love, joy, and lots of takeout on nights when cooking just isn’t an option.

Cheers to a lifetime of happiness, you two!

That should answer your question and provide a lighthearted, funny example of a maid of honor speech!

A short and enthusiastic maid of honor speech example

• Length: Short (250 words or 3-minutes long)
• Tone: Enthusiastic

My name is Jane and I have the honor of being Adrian’s best friend and Maid of Honor. Our friendship began in an unlikely place – the dog park, where our pups sparked a bond that paved the way for the wonderful friendship we share today. We are consistently compared to our dogs, Adrian being the shy and go-with-the-flow kind, while my pup and I tend to be a bit more on the playful and rule-breaking side.

Enter, Lucas, the perfect blend of both our pooches, kind and sweet, yet the life of the party. When we first met, he was so nervous, he accidentally spilled soup over me. The mishap turned into a hearty laughter and a precognitive thought for me: ‘Wow, I can’t wait to share this story at their wedding one day,’ and little did

I know how true that thought would turn out to be. Adrian and Lucas’s bond over their shared love for exploring new sushi spots across NYC led Lucas’s to a perfect, sushi-themed proposal. Adrian, with her unwavering loyalty, kindness, and care, marked Lucas as the one. As we are gathered here today, my wish for the two of them is a life marked with shared explorations and boundless love for each other.

Now, I’d normally close a speech with some relationship advice, but let’s be honest, I’m as single as a dollar bill and most of my efforts go into convincing my cat she looks good in tiny outfits for Instagram. So instead, allow me to share some wisdom from Adrian herself who once told me that love isn’t just a feeling, but a plethora of little actions stacked upon one another.

So dear Adrian and Lucas, keep loving and caring for each other, day in and day out. Here’s to a life filled with love, laughter, and endless sushi trips! To Adrian and Lucas.

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A Super Short Maid of Honor Speech Example

“Good evening, everyone. I’m [Your Name], and I’ve had the absolute privilege of knowing Bride’s Name for [number] years. As her maid of honor, it’s been amazing to stand by her side today.

I’d like to start by sharing a memorable moment. Bride’s Name and I once [share a brief, heartwarming, or funny memory that highlights your friendship]. This moment, among many others, shows her incredible kindness and unwavering love for those she cares about.

As I see her marry Groom’s Name today, I can’t help but feel overjoyed. They truly complete each other. Finally, let’s raise our glasses. Here’s to a lifetime of love, laughter, and unforgettable adventures together. To Bride’s Name and Groom’s Name !”

Tips for Writing and Delivering Your Maid of Honor Speech

Effective writing and delivery can make a significant impact on how the speech is received. This section provides practical tips to help you craft and deliver an engaging and heartfelt maid of honor speech. From writing tips to delivery techniques, these insights will ensure your speech resonates with the audience and leaves a lasting impression. Want help delivering your speech?  Check out our speech delivery prep session :  Get personalized feedback and coaching on how to deliver your maid of honor speech without nerves,  ummms,  or mid-sentence brain fog.

Writing Tips

When writing your speech, focus on clarity, brevity, and a personal touch. Aim for a speech length of 3-5 minutes to keep the audience engaged. Be yourself, use humor wisely, and practice multiple times to ensure smooth delivery. Authenticity resonates with the audience, so write in your natural voice and be sincere. Light-hearted jokes can add charm, but avoid controversial or offensive topics. Rehearse your speech in front of friends or a mirror to build confidence and refine your delivery.

Be Yourself

Authenticity resonates with the audience. Write in your natural voice and be sincere. Share genuine stories and emotions that reflect your unique relationship with the bride. Avoid trying to imitate someone else’s style or using overly formal language. Your speech should feel personal and heartfelt, showcasing your true connection with the bride.

Use Humor Wisely

Light-hearted jokes can add charm to your speech, but it’s important to use humor wisely. Avoid controversial or offensive topics, and ensure your jokes are appropriate for the audience. For example, “Remember, marriage is like a deck of cards. In the beginning, all you need is two hearts and a diamond. But by the end, you wish you had a club and a spade.” Humor should enhance your speech, not detract from its heartfelt message.

To incorporate jokes into a maid of honor speech without offending anyone, follow these guidelines:

• Choose Universal Humor: Opt for jokes, one-liners, or funny marriage quotes that will resonate with the entire audience. Steer clear of in-jokes that only a few people will understand.
• Stay Light and Positive: Your comedic elements should enhance the celebratory atmosphere of the wedding. Avoid humor that might be too harsh, or touch on sensitive subjects. Keep it light-hearted and positive.
• Know When to Insert Humor: Place your jokes strategically throughout your speech. This will balance the sentimental moments with a bit of comedic relief, without turning your speech into a stand-up comedy routine.
• Avoid Taboo Topics: Refrain from mentioning anything that falls under controversial or potentially offensive subjects. A wedding speech is not the place for edgy or polarizing humor.

By following these steps, your maid of honor speech will be both touching and entertaining, ensuring everyone enjoys your well-placed humor.

Rehearse your speech multiple times to ensure smooth delivery. Practice in front of friends or a mirror to build confidence and refine your delivery. Pay attention to your pacing, tone, and body language. Practicing will help you feel more comfortable and prepared, reducing the likelihood of stumbling over your words or forgetting key points.

Delivery Tips

Confidence and engagement are key to a successful speech. Maintain eye contact with the audience to create a connection and hold their attention. Ensure your voice is loud enough for everyone to hear and articulate your words clearly. Use pauses to emphasize important points and give the audience time to react. For example, “So here’s to love… laughter… and happily ever after.”

Eye Contact

Maintaining eye contact with the audience helps create a connection and hold their attention. Avoid staring at your notes or looking down too often. Instead, focus on making eye contact with different people in the audience. This will make your speech feel more personal and engaging, helping you connect with the listeners.

Speak Clearly

Ensure your voice is loud enough for everyone to hear and articulate your words clearly. Speaking too quickly or mumbling can make it difficult for the audience to follow your speech. Practice enunciating your words and projecting your voice. This will help you deliver your message effectively and ensure everyone can appreciate your heartfelt words.

Pauses can emphasize important points and give the audience time to react. Use pauses strategically to highlight key moments in your speech and allow the audience to absorb your message. For example, “So here’s to love… laughter… and happily ever after.” Pausing can also help you maintain a steady pace and avoid rushing through your speech.

How to Stay Calm, Cool, and Collected During a Maid of Honor Speech

Delivering a maid of honor speech is a momentous occasion, and it’s normal to feel a bit anxious. Here are some strategies to help you remain composed:

• Practice Deep Breathing: Before you step up to the microphone, take a few slow, deep breaths. This simple act can help lower your heart rate and calm your nerves.
• Prepare Thoroughly: Familiarize yourself with your speech. Practicing multiple times will make you more confident and fluent. Rehearse in front of friends or family to get comfortable with an audience.
• Pace Yourself: Speak at a measured pace. Rushing through your speech can make you more anxious and difficult for guests to understand. Take your time with each word to ensure clarity.
• Positive Visualization: Imagine the moment going perfectly. Picture the smiling faces of the guests and the happy couple’s reaction to your heartfelt words. This positive visualization can boost your confidence.
• Focus on Connection: Remember that the audience is eager to hear your words, and they’re supportive. Focusing on the connections with the people you care about can help ease anxiety.
• Mind Your Body Language: Stand straight and maintain good posture. It not only makes you look confident but also helps you feel more empowered.

After delivering your speech, bask in the joy of having contributed to your loved one’s special day. Enjoy the celebration, knowing that you’ve shared a beautiful moment with everyone present.

What to do About a Maid of Honor Speech With Multiple Maids of Honor

If there are multiple maids of honor, it is essential to communicate and coordinate with each other to ensure a cohesive and well-organized approach to the maid of honor speeches. Collaborating on the overall tone, length, and content of the speeches can help create a seamless flow and avoid repetition. By working together and possibly dividing specific aspects of the speech, such as sharing personal anecdotes or offering different perspectives on the couple, multiple maids of honor can deliver a heartfelt and engaging speech that celebrates the couple’s love effectively.

To optimize the impact and efficiency of your speeches, consider the following practical steps:

• Time Management : Aim to keep each maid of honor speech between three to five minutes. This constraint helps maintain the attention of the audience and ensures that the reception schedule stays on track.
• Pre-Speech Coordination : Prior to the wedding, gather as a group to review your speeches together. This collaboration allows you to identify any overlapping content and make necessary adjustments, ensuring each speech is unique and complementary.
• Use this opportunity to set each other up for jokes, enhancing the humor and enjoyment of your speech.
• Consider performing a heartfelt song or a simple skit that reflects your shared experiences with the couple, adding a unique and memorable twist to your tribute.

By integrating these strategies, you can effectively manage the challenge of having multiple maids of honor, ensuring that each voice is heard while celebrating the couple’s journey in a meaningful way.

Creative Opportunities for a Combined Maid of Honor Speech

When it comes to giving a combined maid of honor speech, there are countless creative avenues you can explore. Working together with the other maids of honor not only fosters a sense of camaraderie but also allows you to craft a memorable and unique presentation.

Shared Personal Anecdotes

• Combine your memories and experiences to paint a fuller picture of the bride.
• Use playful banter to highlight different aspects of your relationship with her.

Interactive Storytelling

• Take turns narrating different parts of the bride’s story, adding varied perspectives.
• Incorporate dramatic pauses and tag-team storytelling to keep the audience engaged.

Humor and Jokes

• Set each other up for punchlines, making your speech more dynamic and entertaining.
• Develop a comedic routine where you can play off each other’s reactions.

Musical Elements

• Perform a heartfelt song or create a parody that reflects the bride’s journey.
• Harmonize your voices to add emotional depth and a personal touch to the speech.

Multimedia Integration

• Use a slideshow or video clips to complement your spoken words.
• Showcase funny or touching moments that highlight the bride’s life and friendships.

Final Touches

Remember to practice together to ensure a smooth delivery. The combined effort not only makes the speech more engaging but also alleviates individual pressure, making it an enjoyable experience for both you and the audience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Giving a Joint Maid of Honor Speech

What can multiple maids of honor consider if they have a close relationship.

If the maids of honor share a strong bond, they might consider teaming up to deliver a joint speech at the wedding. This collaborative approach allows for greater creativity and can ease the pressure of speaking alone.

Here are a few ideas to make the most of a joint speech:

• Interactive Elements:  Take turns telling stories or setting each other up for punchlines, making the speech more engaging.
• Perform a Song:  If musical talent runs in the group, singing a heartfelt song can add a unique and memorable touch.
• Divide the Content:  Each maid of honor can focus on different aspects of the relationship with the bride, providing a well-rounded and rich narrative.

Ultimately, a joint speech can significantly enhance the impact, making it both fun and memorable for everyone involved.

How Long Should Maid of Honor Speeches Be if There Are Multiple Maids of Honor?

When there are several maids of honor, it’s important to keep the speeches concise to maintain the flow of the event and keep guests engaged. Aim for each maid of honor to speak for 3 to 5 minutes.

Here’s why:

• Guest Attention Span : A shorter speech helps in keeping the audience attentive and interested.
• Event Timing : Multiple speeches can add up quickly, so shorter durations ensure the event stays on schedule.

Coordinate with the other maids of honor beforehand to avoid repetition and ensure each speech highlights different aspects of your relationship with the bride. This coordination not only keeps the speeches fresh but also helps in creating a memorable experience for everyone.

Avoid Common Maid of Honor Speech Mistakes

Understanding common pitfalls and how to handle unexpected situations can help you deliver a successful speech. This section covers real-world considerations, from avoiding common mistakes to handling nerves and having contingency plans.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

Be aware of common errors, such as speaking too long or focusing too much on yourself. Aim for a speech length of 3-5 minutes to keep the audience engaged. Ensure the focus remains on the bride and groom, and avoid making the speech about yourself. Additionally, steer clear of inside jokes or stories that might alienate the audience. Remember, it’s better to leave them wanting more than to overstay your welcome.

Keep It Short

Aim for a speech length of 3-5 minutes. Long speeches can lose the audience’s interest, so it’s important to keep it concise and engaging. Focus on the most meaningful stories and messages, ensuring each point adds value to your speech. Remember, ” it’s better to leave them wanting more.”

Focus on the Couple

While it’s important to share personal stories, ensure the focus remains on the bride and groom. Your speech should celebrate their love and partnership. Avoid making the speech about yourself or unrelated anecdotes. Reflect on moments that demonstrate the couple’s bond and your admiration for their relationship.

Handling Nerves

Techniques such as deep breathing and visualization can help calm pre-speech jitters. Deep breathing helps you stay calm and focused, while visualization can build confidence by imagining a successful delivery. Remember, it’s natural to feel nervous, but with practice and preparation, you can deliver a confident and memorable speech.

Deep Breathing

Take deep breaths before and during your speech to stay calm and focused. Deep breathing can help reduce anxiety and steady your nerves. Practice deep breathing exercises in the days leading up to the wedding to familiarize yourself with the technique. During your speech, take a moment to breathe deeply if you feel overwhelmed.

Visualization

Visualize a successful delivery to build confidence. Imagine the audience smiling and applauding, and picture yourself speaking clearly and confidently. Visualization can help you feel more prepared and reduce anxiety. Spend a few minutes each day visualizing your speech going well, and use this technique to boost your confidence on the wedding day.

Contingency Plans

Be prepared for unexpected situations, such as technical difficulties or emotional moments. Have a backup plan if the microphone fails, and project your voice to ensure you can be heard. It’s okay to get emotional, but have a plan to regain composure. Pause, take a deep breath, and continue. Being prepared for these scenarios will help you stay calm and composed, ensuring your speech goes smoothly.

Technical Issues

Have a backup plan if the microphone fails. Project your voice and ensure you can be heard by the entire audience. Practice speaking without a microphone to build confidence in your ability to project. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the venue’s layout and acoustics to better understand how to address the audience without amplification.

Emotional Moments

It’s okay to get emotional during your speech, but have a plan to regain composure. If you feel overwhelmed, pause, take a deep breath, and continue. It’s natural to feel emotional, especially when speaking about someone you care deeply for. Allow yourself to feel the emotions, but don’t let them derail your speech. Practicing your speech multiple times can help you manage your emotions more effectively.

What Topics Should Be Avoided in a Maid of Honor Speech?

When preparing your maid of honor speech, it’s essential to steer clear of certain subjects. These topics, regardless of how humorously or tactfully you present them, might offend someone in the audience.

• Negativity about Marriage: Avoid any negative remarks about marriage or making cynical jokes about the institution itself.
• Past Relationships: Refrain from mentioning any past relationships, whether they belong to the couple or yourself.
• Previous Marriages or Divorces: Bringing up any previous marriages or divorces is likely to be controversial and inappropriate.
• Substance Use: Stay away from talking about drinking, drugs, and gambling. Such topics are not fitting for the occasion.
• Adult Humor: Steer clear of any humor related to sex or other explicit content. It’s important to maintain a classy and respectful tone.

In short, focus on celebrating the love and happiness of the couple. Stay positive and uplifting, ensuring your speech adds to the joyous atmosphere of the wedding day.

Delivering Your Maid of Honor Speech with Confidence and Grace

Handling nerves on the big day.

Managing pre-speech nerves is essential for delivering a confident and composed Maid of Honor speech that honors the bride and leaves a lasting impression on everyone in attendance. Start by practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, visualization, and positive self-talk to calm your nerves and center yourself before taking the stage. Focus on the message and purpose of your speech, reminding yourself of the love and support you’re expressing for the bride and groom. Surround yourself with supportive friends and family members who can offer encouragement and reassurance in the moments leading up to your speech. Remember that nerves are natural and can even enhance your performance by adding energy and authenticity to your delivery. By handling nerves on the big day with grace and confidence, you can deliver a Maid of Honor speech that you and the bride will cherish for years to come.

Techniques for Calming Pre-Speech Jitters

To calm pre-speech jitters, practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and mindfulness meditation. Visualize yourself delivering your speech with confidence and poise, focusing on positive outcomes and the joy of celebrating the bride and groom. Surround yourself with supportive friends and family members who can offer encouragement and reassurance. Remember that nerves are natural and can even enhance your performance by adding energy and authenticity to your delivery. By mastering these techniques, you can step onto the stage with confidence and deliver a Maid of Honor speech that you and the bride will cherish for years to come.

Mastering the Delivery

To ensure your message resonates with the bride, groom, and guests, start by rehearsing your speech multiple times, focusing on your pacing, tone, and expression. Pay attention to your body language, maintaining eye contact and open posture to engage your audience and convey sincerity. Use pauses and inflection to emphasize key points and create dramatic effect, adding depth and emotion to your delivery. Consider recording yourself or enlisting a trusted friend or family member for feedback, allowing you to identify areas for improvement and make any necessary adjustments. By mastering the delivery of your Maid of Honor speech, you can leave a lasting impression on the newlyweds and their guests.

Practicing with Feedback

Practicing your Maid of Honor speech with feedback is essential for refining your delivery and ensuring a confident and impactful performance. Rehearse your speech in front of a trusted friend or family member, asking for their honest feedback on your pacing, tone, and expression. Pay attention to their reactions and listen to their suggestions for improvement, making any necessary adjustments to your delivery. Consider recording yourself delivering your speech and watching it back to identify areas for improvement and fine-tune your performance. By practicing with feedback, you can gain valuable insights and ensure your speech resonates with the bride, groom, and guests.

Perfecting the Speech with Edits

To ensure clarity, coherence, and emotional impact, review your speech for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors, making any necessary corrections. Consider revising your speech for clarity and conciseness, removing any unnecessary details or tangents that detract from your message. Pay attention to the flow and structure of your speech, ensuring a logical progression of ideas and anecdotes that keeps your audience engaged from start to finish. Consider enlisting a trusted friend or family member to review your speech and offer feedback, providing fresh perspectives and identifying areas for improvement. By perfecting your Maid of Honor speech with edits, you can effectively convey your love and support for the bride and leave a lasting impression on everyone in attendance.

Making Final Touches to Your Speech

To ensure your speech is polished, heartfelt, and impactful, review it one last time for clarity, coherence, and emotional resonance, making any final edits or revisions as needed. Pay attention to the pacing and flow of your speech, ensuring a natural progression of ideas and anecdotes that keeps your audience engaged. Consider adding personal touches and heartfelt messages that reflect the depth of your relationship with the bride, making your speech both intimate and memorable. Practice delivering your speech aloud to ensure you’re comfortable with the pacing, tone, and expression, and to identify any areas for improvement. By making final touches to your Maid of Honor speech, you can effectively convey your love and support for the bride and leave a lasting impression on everyone in attendance.

Remember, the most important aspect of your Maid of Honor speech is the unique relationship you share with the bride. Trust in that bond to create a heartfelt and memorable speech that celebrates your friendship and the love she shares with her new spouse. And if you ever need additional support or guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to professional services like Bridesmaid for Hire.

Frequently Asked Questions: Writing a Maid of Honor Speech

Addressing frequently asked questions can provide additional clarity and confidence. This section covers common questions about maid of honor speeches, including how long the speech should be, whether you can use notes, and what to do if you make a mistake. By addressing these questions, you’ll feel more prepared and confident in delivering your speech.

1. What Should I Include in My Maid of Honor Speech?

Your maid of honor speech should include personal anecdotes, memories shared with the bride and groom, appreciation for the couple, well-wishes for their future, and a closing toast.

2. How Long Should My Maid of Honor Speech Be?

Aim for a speech length of 3-5 minutes to keep the audience engaged. This duration allows you to share meaningful stories and messages without losing the audience’s interest. Keep your speech concise and focused, avoiding unnecessary details. Remember, a shorter, well-crafted speech is more impactful than a long, rambling one.

3. How Can I Overcome Nervousness While Delivering My Speech?

Practice your speech multiple times to build confidence. Take deep breaths, maintain good posture, and visualize a positive outcome to ease nerves.

4. Should My Maid of Honor Speech Be Funny or Sentimental?

Your speech can incorporate elements of both humor and sentimentality. Strike a balance based on the couple’s personalities and the overall tone of the wedding.

Check out this in-depth guide if you’re looking to write a funny maid of honor speech .

5. Can I Use Humor in My Maid of Honor Speech?

Absolutely! Humor adds a lighthearted touch to your speech. Ensure your jokes are tasteful, relevant, and respectful to the couple and guests.

6. How Do I Structure My Maid of Honor Speech?

Structure your speech into sections: introduction, past memories, appreciation for the couple, present stories, future well-wishes, and a closing toast. This creates a cohesive and engaging narrative.

7. Should I Include Embarrassing Stories in My Maid of Honor Speech?

Avoid including overly embarrassing or sensitive stories that may make the couple or guests uncomfortable. Focus on positive and uplifting anecdotes instead.

8. Can I Practice My Maid of Honor Speech Beforehand?

Yes, practice your speech multiple times to familiarize yourself with the content, pacing, and delivery. Rehearse in front of a mirror or with a friend for feedback.

Practicing your speech is essential because it builds familiarity and comfort with your material. When you repeatedly rehearse, you naturally become more confident, reducing the likelihood of stumbling over your words during the actual event. Reading your toast aloud helps you catch hidden spelling or grammar mistakes that might go unnoticed on paper.

Additionally, practicing allows you to discover the natural rhythm of your speech. You’ll quickly learn where to insert pauses for laughter or applause, adding emphasis at key moments to enhance your delivery. Sharing your practice runs with another wedding party member can provide valuable feedback, fine-tuning your performance even further. With this groundwork laid, standing in front of the audience will feel less intimidating and more like a well-rehearsed performance.

9. Should I Mention Other Members of the Bridal Party in My Maid of Honor Speech?

You can mention other members of the bridal party briefly to acknowledge their support and contributions to the wedding celebration.

10. How Do I End My Maid of Honor Speech?

End your speech with a heartfelt toast to the newlyweds, wishing them a lifetime of love, happiness, and prosperity. Invite guests to join you in raising a glass to celebrate the couple.

11. Can I Use Notes?

Yes, you can use notes, but avoid reading verbatim. Use bullet points to remind you of key points, allowing you to speak naturally and engage with the audience. Practicing with your notes will help you become more familiar with the content, reducing the need to rely heavily on them during the speech. Your goal should be to deliver the speech as naturally and confidently as possible.

12. What If I Make a Mistake?

Stay calm and continue. The audience will be forgiving, and most people won’t even notice minor mistakes. If you stumble over a word or lose your place, take a moment to collect yourself and continue. Remember, the audience is there to celebrate the bride and groom, and they will appreciate your efforts and sincerity. Laughing off minor mistakes can also help ease any tension and keep the mood light.

13. Does the Maid of Honor Have to Give a Speech?

While it’s a common tradition for the maid of honor to deliver a speech at the wedding reception, it’s not an absolute requirement. If the other honor attendants are giving speeches, the expectation may be higher, but it ultimately depends on your comfort level.

Public speaking isn’t for everyone, and that’s perfectly okay. If standing in front of a crowd makes you uneasy, there are alternative ways to share your love and support for the couple. You could consider performing a heartfelt song, choreographing a fun dance, or putting together a beautiful presentation that tells the couple’s love story.

The key is to contribute in a way that feels genuine to you and celebrates the happy couple the best way you know how.

14.  Should I Write Down My Maid of Honor Speech?

Writing down your maid of honor speech offers several key benefits. Firstly, capturing your thoughts on paper can significantly boost your confidence. Whether you opt for a detailed script or a structured outline, having a written reference ensures you won’t lose your train of thought during the emotional moments.

Additionally, using paper instead of a smartphone is advantageous for wedding photography. Phone screens give off a light that can distort your face and affect the quality of the photos. By writing your speech on index cards, you maintain a natural look, keeping the wedding images flawless and timeless.

In summary, writing down your maid of honor speech not only helps you

15. Why is it Important Not to Procrastinate When Writing a Maid of Honor Speech?

Procrastinating on your maid of honor speech can lead to unnecessary stress and missed opportunities. Starting your speech early, ideally at least two months before the wedding, allows for a smoother and more thoughtful creation process.

As a maid of honor, your schedule will be packed with events such as dress fittings, the bachelorette party, and the rehearsal dinner. Juggling these responsibilities while rushing to write a meaningful speech can be overwhelming.

Early preparation gives you the luxury to draft, refine, and seek feedback from trusted friends or family members. This not only enhances the quality of your speech but also ensures you feel confident and excited when the moment arrives to deliver it.

By planning ahead, you can avoid the pressure of last-minute writing and fully enjoy all prewedding festivities without the looming stress of an incomplete speech.

Get started today by using our maid of honor speechwriting tool. 

Quick Recap of our Maid of Honor Speech Guide

Let’s recap the key points covered in this guide to ensure you’re well-prepared to deliver an outstanding maid of honor speech. From understanding your role and responsibilities to structuring your speech, practicing delivery, and handling real-world scenarios, we’ve covered everything you need to know. With these insights and tips, you’ll be ready to craft and deliver a memorable and heartfelt speech that celebrates the bride and groom.

Remember these key takeaways:

• Understand the key responsibilities and emotional support duties of the maid of honor.
• Structure your speech with a captivating introduction, meaningful body, and heartfelt conclusion.
• Use practical writing and delivery tips to ensure your speech is engaging and well-received.
• Be prepared for real-world scenarios and common pitfalls.
• Remember, Bridesmaid for Hire offers services that can help you craft and deliver the perfect speech.

Final Thoughts on Maid of Honor Speeches

Delivering a maid of honor speech is a special honor and a significant responsibility. By understanding your role, structuring your speech effectively, and practicing your delivery, you can create a memorable and heartfelt message that celebrates the bride and groom. Remember, it’s not about perfection; it’s about sincerity and genuine emotion. Embrace the experience, and don’t be afraid to let your love and admiration for the couple shine through. And if you ever need extra help, Bridesmaid for Hire is here to support you with professional speechwriting and coaching services. Cheers to a beautiful wedding and a speech that will be remembered for years to come!

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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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