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Your groom’s speech is one of the most significant moments of your wedding day. Standing up before everyone you love can feel scarier than the first dance or saying, “I do.” Many guides give you boring templates that sound like everyone else’s. You want to say something real that makes your partner’s eyes light up and maybe even makes your dad wipe away a tear. The problem is, how do you turn all the love and gratitude in your heart into actual words without freezing up? This guide is your answer. We will walk you through, step-by-step, how to write and deliver a groom speech that is 100% you—funny, heartfelt, and unforgettable.
Why the Groom’s Speech Matters
Before we get into the how, let’s talk about the why. Your speech is more than just a task to check off the list. It’s a massive part of the celebration and sets the tone for the night’s rest.
The Role of the Groom’s Speech in a Wedding
Think of your groom’s speech as the heart of the reception. It’s your first chance to address your guests as a married man publicly and thank them for being there. More importantly, it’s your moment to honour your new partner in front of all your friends and family.
Your speech is a bridge. It connects the formal ceremony to the fun party. It’s a moment of shared emotion that makes everyone feel included in your love story. Years from now, your partner will remember the look in your eyes and the words you said. That’s a memory worth getting right.
Common Fears (And How to Overcome Them)
Is your heart pounding just thinking about it? You’re not alone. The fear of public speaking is widespread. Here are the biggest fears and how to beat them:
- Fear of Forgetting Your Lines: You imagine standing there, mind blank.
- How to Beat It: Don’t memorise! We’ll discuss this later, but the secret is using small notecards with bullet points, not a full script.
- Fear of Sounding Boring: You worry that people will check their watches.
- How to Beat It: Tell a story. People love stories. A short, sweet story about you and your partner is way more interesting than a long list of thank yous.
- Fear of Getting Too Emotional: You’re afraid you might choke up and not be able to finish.
- How to Beat It: Embrace it! Getting emotional shows how much you care. It’s a wedding—if you can’t show emotion here, where can you? Just breathe, smile at your partner, and continue when ready. Everyone will be on your side.
Groom’s Speech Structure: Step-by-Step Breakdown
The best way to beat the fear is to have a plan. A great groom’s speech has a clear beginning, middle, and end. Follow this simple structure, and you can’t go wrong.
1. Opening Lines That Grab Attention
Start strong. Your first few words set the mood. You don’t need a huge joke; a warm, welcoming opening is perfect.
Simple Opening Ideas:
- “Good evening, everyone. On behalf of my beautiful wife/partner and I, welcome. It means the world to us to see all of you here tonight.”
- “Wow. Looking out at all of your faces is just incredible. Thank you all so much for coming to celebrate with us.”
- “I want to start by saying a huge thank you for being here. We are so happy to share this day with the people we love most.”
2. Thanking Key People (Parents, Bridal Party, Guests)
This is a crucial part of your groom’s toast. It shows gratitude and makes everyone feel appreciated. Keep it sincere and personal.
- Your Guests: Thank them for travelling, for their gifts, and most importantly, for their support.
- Your New In-Laws: This is a big one. Thank them for raising such a fantastic person and welcoming you into their family. Mention them by name. “To [Father-in-law’s Name] and [Mother-in-law’s Name], thank you for everything. I promise to take care of your daughter/son.”
- Your Parents: Thank your parents for their love and support throughout your life. A short, personal memory can be very powerful here. “To my mom and dad, thank you for teaching me what love looks like.”
- The Bridal Party: Thank the bridesmaids and groomsmen, especially the best man and maid of honour, for their friendship and all their help with the wedding.
3. Heartfelt Words for Your Partner
This is the main event. All the other parts of the speech lead up to this. Turn to your partner, look them in the eyes, and speak from the heart.
This isn’t the time for a long list of compliments. Instead, tell a story.
- Talk about the moment you knew they were “the one.”
- Share a small, funny habit of theirs that you love.
- Tell them how they make you a better person.
- Talk about what you’re most excited about for your future together.
4. Adding Humour Without Overdoing It
A little bit of humour is great. It keeps the speech light and engaging. But be careful.
| Do’s and Don’ts of Wedding Humor | |
| Do: | Don’t: |
| ✅ Tell a light, funny story about yourself. | ❌ Tell embarrassing stories about your partner. |
| ✅ Share a sweet, funny quirk about your relationship. | ❌ Make “ball and chain” or “it’s all over now” jokes. They aren’t funny. |
| ✅ Keep it clean and family-friendly. | ❌ Use inside jokes that only a few people will get. |
| ✅ Make fun of yourself. | ❌ Make fun of your new in-laws. Ever. |
The safest bet is self-deprecating humour. For example: “When I first met [Partner’s Name], I knew she was way out of my league. I’m still not sure how I pulled this off, but I’m glad I did.”
5. Closing on a Memorable Note
End your speech with a toast. It’s a simple, classic way to wrap things up. Keep it short and powerful.
Simple Closing Toasts:
- “So, could everyone please raise their glass and join me in a toast? To my incredible wife/partner, [Partner’s Name]. I love you.”
- “Please join me in a toast. To love, to laughter, and to our happily ever after. Cheers!”
- “To my partner, my best friend, and the love of my life. To us.”
Best Groom Speech Examples for Inspiration
Reading examples can help you find your voice. Here are a few short examples to get you started.
Short & Sweet Speech Example
“Good evening, everyone. It’s hard to say how happy I am to stand beside [Partner’s Name]. Thank you to our parents for your endless love and to all of you for celebrating with us. To my wife/husband, you are my everything. I can’t wait to spend the rest of my life with you. Please raise a glass. To my partner!”
Funny Groom Speech Example
“Hi everyone. They say you shouldn’t marry someone you can live with—you should marry someone you can’t live without. That’s true for me, but mostly because I still don’t know how to work the washing machine. In all seriousness, [Partner’s Name], you improve daily. Thank you to everyone for being here, especially my new in-laws, for raising this amazing person… and for trusting me with them. To my partner, whom I love more than pizza. And I love pizza. Cheers!”
Emotional/Tear-Jerking Speech Example
“Looking around this room, I see so much love. It’s a bit overwhelming, in the best way. To our families, thank you for building the foundation of our lives. To my partner, [Partner’s Name]… I used to think I knew what love was. Then I met you. You walked into my life and showed me what it truly means to have a home in another person. You are kind and strong, and you make me better. I am the luckiest person in the world. To my forever. I love you.”
Religious or Traditional Speech Example
“Good evening, friends and family. The Bible tells us in 1 Corinthians that ‘love is patient, love is kind.’ I see that verse in action daily with [Partner’s Name]. I am so blessed that God has brought us together. We want to thank our parents for their prayers and guidance and all of you for witnessing our commitment. May our marriage be a reflection of God’s love. Please join me in a toast. To my wife/husband!”
Pro Tips to Nail Your Groom’s Speech
You have the structure. Now, let’s talk about delivery.
How to Practice (Without Sounding Rehearsed)
The key is to practice, but not to memorise.
- Write on Notecards: Use small cards with bullet points. Each bullet should be a key idea, not a complete sentence. This forces you to talk naturally instead of reading.
- Time Yourself: Your speech should be between 3-5 minutes. Any longer, and you risk losing people’s attention.
- Practice in Front of a Mirror: This helps you see your body language.
- Say It Out Loud: Practice in the car, showering, or with a trusted friend. The more you say it, the more comfortable it will feel.
Body Language & Delivery Tips
- Stand Up Straight: Good posture shows confidence.
- Smile: You’re married! You’re happy! Let it show.
- Make Eye Contact: Scan the room, but be sure to look at your parents, your in-laws, and most importantly, your partner when you talk to them.
- Breathe: If you feel rushed, take a slow, deep breath. It works wonders.
What NOT to Say (Avoiding Awkward Moments)
This is just as important as what to say. Avoid these topics at all costs:
- Past relationships. Never, ever mention exes.
- Money or the cost of the wedding.
- Crude or offensive jokes. If you have to wonder if it’s appropriate, it’s not.
- Long, rambling stories that don’t have a clear point.
Handling Nerves on the Big Day
A little bit of nervous energy is beneficial. It means you care.
- Have a Glass of Water Nearby: A dry mouth can make speaking difficult.
- Find a Friendly Face: Look at a smiling friend or family member in the crowd.
- It’s Okay to Pause: If you lose your thought, pause, sip water, and look at your notes. No one will mind.
Personalising Your Speech
The best speeches are the ones that you could only give.
Incorporating Your Love Story
You don’t have to tell your entire life story. Pick one small, meaningful moment.
- The first thing you thought when you met them.
- A funny story from your first date.
- The moment you knew you wanted to marry them.
Inside Jokes (How to Use Them Right)
The rule for inside jokes is simple: if you have to explain it, don’t use it. It can work if it’s a joke that the whole room can understand the context of (like a reference to a well-known hobby you both share). Otherwise, save it for a private moment.
Adding Quotes or Poems (When It Works)
A short quote or a few lines from a poem can be a beautiful addition, but only if it feels genuine. Don’t pick something just because it sounds smart. Choose words that are meaningful to you and your partner. It could be a line from their favourite movie, a lyric from “Your Song,” or a simple quote about love.
Last-Minute Checklist Before You Speak
Right before you stand up, run through this quick mental checklist.
- Do you have your notes? (In your pocket, not in your hand yet).
- Do you know when you’re speaking? (Usually after the father of the bride).
- Do you know how to use the microphone? (Ask the DJ or wedding planner beforehand.)
- Have you taken a deep breath?
Backup Plan for Forgotten Lines
What if your mind goes completely blank? Don’t panic. Look at your partner. Smile. Then, you have two great options:
- Look at your notecards to find your place.
- Skip to the end. Say, “I want to say I am so thrilled to marry you. Please join me in a toast. To my wife/husband!” It’s a perfect ending every time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How Long Should a Groom’s Speech Be?
The sweet spot is 3 to 5 minutes. This is long enough to say everything you need to say but short enough to keep everyone’s attention.
Can I Read My Speech or Should I Memorise It?
Neither. Don’t read from a full script, as it can sound robotic. Don’t try to memorise it word-for-word, as that adds pressure. The best method is to use notecards with bullet points. This lets you speak naturally while ensuring you don’t forget anything important.
Should I Mention Divorced Parents?
You should thank them, but do it separately and with equal warmth. Address each parent by name. For example: “I’d like to thank my mom, Jane, for her incredible support. And to my dad, John, thank you for always being my role model.” This is respectful and avoids any awkwardness.
How to React If You Get Emotional?
It’s completely okay to get emotional. It’s powerful. If you feel your voice start to crack, pause. Take a breath. Look at your partner. The crowd will be 100% on your side, and this moment of genuine emotion will make your speech even more memorable.
You’ve got this. Your groom speech isn’t a test you must pass; it’s a chance to share your happiness. Speak from the heart, keep it simple, and focus on the person beside you.
We’d love to hear your thoughts! What’s the best tip you’ve learned for giving a great wedding speech? Share in the comments below! And for more wedding planning inspiration, check out our guide to choosing the perfect wedding rings.
