8 Wedding Speech Tips

Research indicates that many people fear delivering a speech more than they fear death. The likelihood is that most people will be called upon to write and deliver a speech at least some time in their life. It may be for business or a wedding – but it will probably happen.My storyA few years ago I was terrified at speaking about my own business to gatherings of about 18. Now I willingly and confidently address small crowds (I haven’t got to the 1,000s stage yet).I’d like to help make the potential ordeal of speaking at a wedding much more palatable.FocusLet’s just look at wedding / vow renewal-type ceremonies. Tips

• It is better to be brief than over-long
• If you can deliver humour successfully, do so; if not, keep those jokes to a minimum.
• Avoid “in-references” – at a wedding half the guests may not know anything about one of the newly-weds, so in-jokes can fall very flat - and feel exclusive.
• Don’t try an off-the-cuff speech; use notes, but look up and try and make eye contact as much as possible.
• Speak more s-l-o-w-l-y than you would expect. Smile - at least, at the beginning and end.PLUS
• Avoid controversy, whether about people present or about politics – the idea of the proceedings is to create a wonderful atmosphere, not to score points or secure cheap laughs.
• Use anecdotes, but only appropriate and relevant ones. Avoid meandering ‘shaggy dog’ stories. Don’t embarrass people (unless you’re very sure it’s OK).
• If very nervous, try a few deep breaths beforehand - and remember, the guests will be on your side, and willing you to do well.

It is a privilege to be asked to give a speech, so be grateful. Remember your audience at all times.Oh, and, however nervous you may be, save the alcohol for afterwards.All the best,MichaelMichael Gordon can help prepare and conduct a tailor-made civil ceremony in or around London or, indeed, in Europe.