The thought of giving a wedding speech fills some people with dread.
I know dozens of strong, feminist, Beyonce-loving brides who refused to take their partner’s name, toss a bouquet, or have the word ‘obey’ in their vows – but gladly hid behind the tradition of their fathers speaking on their behalf at the reception.
And I get it.
There’s so much to organise for your wedding already without worrying about writing a speech.
You want to enjoy the day, not stress out about what you’re going to say.
And the thought of standing up in front of a huge room of people to read off a sheet gives you awkward high school English class flashbacks. Where do you put the emphasis on this sentence? Should every word be emphasised?!
But giving a speech at a wedding – and especially giving a speech at your own wedding – is like no public speaking you’ve done before.