18 Wedding Speech Examples That Will Inspire Your Perfect Toast

Light-hearted examples, practical advice, and everything you need to stand up, speak out, and toast like a pro.

Quick Stats: 📖 15 min read • 💬 18 Complete Examples • 🎯 Practical Tips

Quick-Glance Table of Contents

1. Why Speeches Matter (and How Long They Should Be)
2. Anatomy of a Great Toast
3. 18 Fresh, Fully-Written Speech Examples
4. Nerves? Read This First
5. Do’s, Don’ts & “Please-Don’t-Even-Think-About-Its”
6. Delivery Hacks (From Mic Grip to Last Sip)

Why Speeches Matter (and How Long They Should Be)

A wedding speech is the reception’s heartbeat—part tribute, part entertainment, all love. It’s your chance to honor the couple, share meaningful memories, and create a moment that will be remembered long after the last dance.

The golden rule for timing: Three minutes is the sweet spot, five is the outer limit before fidgeting sets in. That’s roughly 450-750 words when spoken at a natural pace.

Quick Timing Guide:

• 2-3 minutes: Perfect for most wedding party speeches
• 3-4 minutes: Ideal for parents or very close family
• 1-2 minutes: Great for short toasts or multiple speakers
• 5+ minutes: Only if you’re a professional comedian (and even then…)

Anatomy of a Great Toast

18 Fresh, Fully-Written Speech Examples

Tip: Lift the structure, not the wording. The following are 100% original examples you may adapt to suit your voice and relationship with the couple.

A. Classic & Heartfelt

1. Father of the Bride Speech

“Good evening, everyone. For those who don’t know me, I’m David, Sarah’s dad, and I’ve been practicing this speech in the mirror for weeks—much to my wife’s amusement.

Twenty-eight years ago, I taught Sarah how to ride a bike in our driveway. She was determined to do it without training wheels, even though she was barely tall enough to reach the pedals. After countless scraped knees and a few tears, she finally got it. But what I remember most wasn’t her triumph—it was how she immediately rode over to help her little brother learn too.

That’s who Sarah is. She conquers her own challenges, then turns around to lift others up. Michael, you’ve found yourself a partner who will not only ride alongside you through life’s adventures but will also help you find your balance when the path gets bumpy.

Sarah and Michael, may your marriage be filled with endless tandem adventures, shared victories, and the kind of love that makes even the steepest hills feel like gentle slopes.

Please join me in raising your glasses to Sarah and Michael—to love, laughter, and a lifetime of beautiful rides together. Cheers!”

2. Best Man Speech (Humorous but Heartfelt)

“Hi everyone! I’m Jake, Michael’s best friend and the guy who’s been listening to his fantasy football strategies for the past fifteen years. Yes, fifteen years of ‘This is my year!’ and ‘I can’t believe I benched him!’

But you know what? When Michael met Sarah three years ago, something changed. Suddenly, his Sunday afternoons weren’t just about optimizing his lineup—they were about optimizing his life. Sarah, you managed to do what no fantasy football expert could: you helped Michael draft the number one pick for happiness.

I’ve watched Michael become the best version of himself with you, Sarah. He’s more thoughtful, more patient, and yes, he even remembers to set his lineup before the games start now. That’s true love, folks.

Michael and Sarah, may your marriage be filled with victories that matter more than any championship ring—the daily wins of choosing each other, supporting each other’s dreams, and building a team that can weather any season.

So let’s raise our glasses to the real champions here—to Michael and Sarah, and to a love that’s definitely going to the playoffs. Cheers!”

3. Maid of Honor Speech (Story-Driven)

“Hello everyone! I’m Emma, Sarah’s sister and former college roommate. I have to share a story that perfectly captures who Sarah is.

During our sophomore year, Sarah decided to do her own laundry for the first time. She confidently threw everything together—whites, darks, that new red sweater she’d just bought. When she opened the washer, everything had turned a lovely shade of pink. Her favorite white dress, my favorite white jeans, even our towels.

Most people would have panicked or tried to hide the evidence. Not Sarah. She marched to the store, bought fabric dye, and turned our entire wardrobe into a coordinated pink collection. She called it ‘accidental fashion.’ We were the most stylishly coordinated roommates on campus.

That’s Sarah—she doesn’t just adapt to life’s surprises, she transforms them into something beautiful. Michael, you’ve found someone who will turn life’s little mishaps into adventures, and who will make sure you both come out looking good in the process.

Here’s to Sarah and Michael—may your love story be filled with beautiful surprises and may you always find the perfect way to blend your colors together. Cheers!”

B. Short & Sweet

4. 60-Second Universal Toast

“Good evening! I’m Tom, and I’ve had the privilege of watching Sarah and Michael’s love story unfold over the past two years.

They say the best relationships are built on friendship, laughter, and the ability to find your person in a crowded room. Sarah and Michael, you’ve found all three in each other.

So here’s to old stories, new chapters, and the spectacular plot twist we celebrate tonight. To Sarah and Michael—cheers!”

5. Poetic Short Toast

“Friends and family, I’d like to share a simple truth about love:

Two souls, one bright spark
Laughter stitches hearts as one
Love blooms, endless spring

Sarah and Michael, may your love continue to bloom in every season. Cheers!”

C. Modern & Inclusive

6. Blended Family Speech

“Hello everyone! I’m Lisa, and I have the unique joy of being both Sarah’s stepmother and Michael’s biggest fan.

When I joined Sarah’s family eight years ago, I learned that love doesn’t always follow traditional paths. Sometimes it creates beautiful, complex patterns that are even stronger than what we originally imagined.

Today, we’re not just celebrating Sarah and Michael—we’re celebrating the joining of two families who have chosen to love, support, and embrace each other. We’re proof that families come in all shapes and sizes, and that love multiplies when we open our hearts.

To Sarah and Michael, and to all the parents, step-parents, siblings, and chosen family here today—may we continue to show the world that love knows no boundaries. Cheers!”

7. Mother of the Groom Speech

“Good evening, beautiful people! I’m Patricia, Michael’s mom, and I’ve been waiting for this day since he was five years old and declared he was going to marry his kindergarten teacher.

Well, he didn’t marry Mrs. Henderson, but he did find someone even more wonderful. Sarah, from the moment Michael brought you home for Sunday dinner, you fit into our family like you’d always belonged. You laugh at his dad’s terrible jokes, you help me in the kitchen without being asked, and most importantly, you make my son happier than I’ve ever seen him.

Michael, you’ve grown into the kind of man your father and I always hoped you’d become. And Sarah, thank you for loving our boy and for becoming the daughter I always wanted.

May your home be filled with the same warmth, laughter, and love that brought you both to this beautiful moment. To Michael and Sarah—welcome to forever! Cheers!”

8. Bride’s Own Speech

“Thank you all for being here on the most magical day of my life. When I was little, I dreamed about my wedding day, but I never imagined it could be this perfect—not because of the flowers or the dress, but because of all of you.

Michael, two years ago you walked into that coffee shop and completely changed my world. You’ve shown me what it means to be truly seen, truly loved, and truly supported. You make me laugh every single day, you believe in my dreams even when I don’t, and you’ve taught me that love isn’t just a feeling—it’s a choice we make every day.

To our families, thank you for raising us to be the people who could find each other. To our friends, thank you for celebrating with us and for being the village that will support our marriage.

And to my new husband—yes, I love saying that—thank you for choosing me. I choose you too, today and always. Let’s raise our glasses to love, to laughter, and to the adventure that starts now. Cheers!”

9. Groom’s Own Speech

“Wow. Looking out at all of you, I’m overwhelmed by how lucky Sarah and I are to have so much love in one room.

First, thank you to both sets of parents for raising us to be the people who could find each other, and for welcoming us into your families with open arms. Thank you to our wedding party for standing with us today and for being the friends who’ve supported us through everything.

Sarah, I know I’m supposed to be cool right now, but honestly, I’m a mess. You look absolutely stunning, but more than that, you are stunning. You’re kind, you’re brilliant, you’re funny, and somehow, miraculously, you said yes when I asked you to marry me.

I promise to love you through every season of our lives. I promise to be your biggest cheerleader, your safest place to land, and your partner in all the adventures ahead. I promise to always put our relationship first and to never stop working to deserve the incredible gift of your love.

To everyone here, thank you for celebrating with us. Your presence makes this day perfect. To my wife—I love you. Cheers!”

D. Family & Friends

10. Sibling of the Bride Speech

“Hi everyone! I’m Alex, Sarah’s little brother, though she’ll tell you I stopped being ‘little’ when I hit six-foot-two in high school.

Growing up with Sarah meant having a built-in protector, cheerleader, and occasional tormentor—all rolled into one. She taught me how to tie my shoes, helped me with homework, and yes, she also convinced me that if I ate watermelon seeds, a watermelon would grow in my stomach. I was terrified of fruit for months.

But Sarah also taught me what unconditional love looks like. When I was getting bullied in middle school, she didn’t just comfort me—she taught me how to stand up for myself. When I was struggling in college, she didn’t just send care packages—she drove four hours every weekend to study with me.

Michael, you’re getting someone who will fight for you, believe in you, and probably try to reorganize your closet. Trust me on that last one. But you’re also getting someone who will love you with her whole heart.

Sarah and Michael, may your marriage be filled with the same loyalty, laughter, and love that Sarah has shown me my entire life. To the happy couple—cheers!”

11. Childhood Friend Speech

“Hello everyone! I’m Jessica, and I’ve been Sarah’s best friend since we were seven years old and bonded over our mutual love of Lisa Frank stickers and our shared fear of the monkey bars.

Sarah and I have been through everything together—braces, bad haircuts, first crushes, heartbreaks, college, career changes, and now this beautiful moment. Through it all, Sarah has been the most loyal, generous, and genuinely good person I know.

When Sarah started dating Michael, I’ll admit I was a little protective. I’d seen her heart broken before, and I wasn’t about to let it happen again. But then I met Michael, and I saw how he looked at her—like she was the most amazing person in the world. Which, let’s be honest, she is.

Michael, you’re not just gaining a wife today, you’re gaining a best friend who will stick by you through thick and thin. And Sarah, you’ve found someone who loves you exactly as you are while inspiring you to be even better.

Here’s to Sarah and Michael—may your love story be even better than the fairy tales we used to read. Cheers!”

12. College Roommate Speech

“Hey everyone! I’m Rachel, and I had the pleasure of being Sarah’s college roommate for three years. Let me tell you, living with Sarah was like having a personal life coach, therapist, and entertainment committee all in one.

Sarah was the roommate who would stay up all night helping you study for an exam, who would share her last pack of ramen when you were broke, and who would hold your hair back when you made questionable decisions at fraternity parties. She was also the roommate who would wake up at 6 AM to go for a run and somehow convince you to join her.

I watched Sarah date a few guys in college, and I can honestly say that none of them deserved her. But Michael, you do. I’ve seen how you two are together, and it’s clear that you bring out the best in each other. You challenge each other, support each other, and most importantly, you make each other laugh.

Sarah and Michael, may your marriage be filled with the same joy, adventure, and deep friendship that made your college years so special. To love, laughter, and happily ever after—cheers!”

13. Work Colleague Speech

“Good evening! I’m David, and I work with Michael at the marketing firm. I’ve had the pleasure of watching this love story unfold from the office perspective, which let me tell you, has been quite entertaining.

Before Sarah, Michael was a good colleague—reliable, creative, always willing to help. But after Sarah, Michael became insufferable in the best possible way. He’d come to work with this goofy grin, he’d randomly break into song, and he’d find excuses to mention Sarah in every conversation. ‘Sarah loves this restaurant,’ ‘Sarah thinks this campaign is brilliant,’ ‘Sarah says the funniest thing happened yesterday.’

At first, we all rolled our eyes. But then we met Sarah at the company holiday party, and we understood. She’s smart, she’s funny, she’s kind, and she clearly adores Michael as much as he adores her.

Michael, you’ve found someone who makes you a better person and a better colleague—though you’re still terrible at remembering to refill the coffee pot. Sarah, thank you for making our friend so happy.

To Michael and Sarah—may your love continue to inspire everyone around you. Cheers!”

E. Creative & Themed

14. Bilingual English-Spanish Toast

“¡Buenas noches, familia y amigos! Good evening, family and friends! I’m Carlos, Michael’s cousin, and I’m honored to speak in both languages that represent our beautiful, blended families.

Sarah, desde el momento que te conocimos, supimos que eras especial. From the moment we met you, we knew you were special. You learned to make abuela’s tamales, you dance salsa better than most of us, and you’ve brought so much joy to our family.

Michael, has encontrado a tu media naranja—you’ve found your better half. Sarah complements you perfectly, and together, you create something beautiful.

En nuestra cultura, we believe that marriage isn’t just between two people—it’s between two families, two histories, two futures becoming one. Today, we celebrate not just your love, but the beautiful family we’re all creating together.

¡Que vivan los novios! Long live the bride and groom! ¡Salud!”

15. Interactive Duo Toast (Best Man + Maid of Honor)

Best Man (Jake): “Good evening everyone! I’m Jake, Michael’s best man.”

Maid of Honor (Emma): “And I’m Emma, Sarah’s maid of honor. We thought we’d team up for this toast because, let’s face it, we’ve both got stories to tell.”

Jake: “I’ve known Michael since high school, and I can tell you he’s always been a hopeless romantic. He once wrote a love letter to his crush and accidentally put it in his math homework.”

Emma: “Well, Sarah’s not much better. She once practiced her wedding dance to *NSYNC songs in our dorm room—for a boyfriend she’d been dating for two weeks.”

Jake: “But when these two found each other, everything changed.”

Emma: “Michael became the guy who remembers anniversaries, who brings flowers just because, who actually listens when Sarah talks about her day.”

Jake: “And Sarah became the woman who laughs at Michael’s terrible jokes, who supports his dreams, who makes him want to be the best version of himself.”

Emma: “Together, they’re proof that when you find the right person, everything just clicks.”

Both: “So here’s to Sarah and Michael—to love, laughter, and a lifetime of being perfectly imperfect together. Cheers!”

16. Themed Toast (Star Wars)

“Hello there! I’m Mark, Michael’s college buddy and fellow Star Wars enthusiast. Now, I know what you’re thinking—‘Please don’t let this be a nerdy speech.’ But bear with me, because this story is actually pretty great.

Michael and I have been debating Star Wars theories for years. Empire versus Jedi, prequel trilogy defense strategies, whether Han shot first—you name it, we’ve argued about it. But when Michael met Sarah, something unprecedented happened: he found someone who not only tolerated his obsession but actually enjoyed it.

Sarah, you didn’t just accept Michael’s love for a galaxy far, far away—you embraced it. You watched all nine movies, you learned the difference between a Jedi and a Sith, and you even dressed up as Princess Leia for his birthday. That’s when I knew you were the one.

Michael, you’ve found your perfect co-pilot for this adventure called life. And Sarah, you’ve found someone who will love you to the Death Star and back.

May the Force be with you both, always. And may your love story be even better than the original trilogy. To Michael and Sarah—cheers!”

F. Heartfelt & Emotional

17. Grandparent Speech

“Good evening, dear ones. I’m Eleanor, Sarah’s grandmother, and at 82 years old, I’ve seen a lot of love stories. But I have to say, Sarah and Michael’s is one of the most beautiful.

When Sarah was little, she used to ask me about my wedding day, about how I knew Grandpa was ‘the one.’ I always told her that when you find the right person, everything else just fades away—the doubts, the fears, the what-ifs. You just know.

I see that same certainty in Sarah’s eyes when she looks at Michael. I see the way he protects her, cherishes her, and makes her laugh. I see two people who have found their home in each other.

Your grandfather and I were married for 58 years before he passed, and I can tell you that marriage isn’t always easy. There will be storms, my dears. But if you weather them together, if you choose love every single day, you’ll build something beautiful and lasting.

Sarah and Michael, may your love grow stronger with each passing year, and may you always remember the joy you feel in this moment. To a lifetime of happiness—cheers!”

18. Officiant’s Closing Toast

“Friends and family, I’m Pastor Williams, and I had the honor of officiating Sarah and Michael’s ceremony today. In my 30 years of performing weddings, I’ve learned that the most beautiful ceremonies aren’t the ones with the most elaborate decorations or the most expensive venues—they’re the ones where you can feel the love radiating from the couple.

Today, as Sarah and Michael exchanged vows, I watched their faces, and I saw something truly special. I saw two people who have found their perfect match, their best friend, their greatest love. I saw the beginning of a marriage that will be built on faith, hope, and unconditional love.

Sarah and Michael, you’ve made promises to each other today in front of God and all these witnesses. Remember these vows not just today, but every day of your marriage. Let them guide you through the joys and challenges ahead.

May God bless your union, may your love continue to grow, and may your marriage be a testament to the power of true love. To Mr. and Mrs. Johnson—may your journey together be blessed. Cheers!”

Nerves? Read This First

Before the Big Day

• Prep Early: Anxiety shrinks when scripts grow. Write, refine, and print a card.
• Rehearse Out Loud: Record on your phone; tweak pacing.
• Practice with Friends: Get feedback from trusted people.
• Know Your Opening: Memorize the first 30 seconds perfectly.

Day-Of Strategies

• Visualize Friendly Faces: Pick three audience members who radiate support.
• Grounding Breath: Inhale 4 sec → hold 2 → exhale 6 before you begin.
• Limit Liquid Courage: A single sip is fine; a tall cocktail may derail timing.
• Have a Backup Plan: If tears hit, pause, smile, and read from your card—no shame.

Do’s, Don’ts & Common Traps

Delivery Hacks (From Mic Grip to Last Sip)

Physical Delivery

1. Stance & Mic: Feet shoulder-width apart, mic 1–2 inches from lips; avoid tapping or swaying.
2. Eye Contact: Sweep the room slowly, not ping-pong fast. Focus on friendly faces.
3. Gestures: Keep one hand free for natural gestures; avoid pointing at the couple.

Vocal & Timing

4. Pace: ~150 words/minute; pause for laughs and let them land.
5. Volume: Speak to the back row, but don’t shout into the mic.
6. Toast Timing: Raise glass only for the final toast—otherwise keep it on the table.

The Perfect Exit

After “Cheers!”, take a sip, hug the couple, hand the mic to the emcee or DJ, and bask in the applause. Don’t linger at the mic or add “one more thing”—end on your high note!

Ready to Write Your Perfect Speech?

Whether you rhyme, rap, or keep it classic, the best wedding speech is honest, concise, and unmistakably you. Write with heart, practice with intent, and you’ll give the newlyweds—and yourself—a moment to remember.

Generate Your Custom Speech Now with our AI-powered wedding speech generator.

Need more wedding planning help? Create a memorable Wedding Hashtag for guests to share photos of your speech, plan your Wedding Budget including speech-related expenses, or learn about Wedding Social Media strategies to share your special moments with loved ones who couldn’t attend.