Making a best man speech can be daunting – you are supposed to be a sincere best friend and a charming stand-up comedian, you need to be the comic relief after all the tear-jerkers that come from mom and dad, but you don’t want to insult or offend. Giving a best man speech is a balancing act. However, there is no need to panic! We are here to help you navigate a great best man speech, which is why we have rounded up some handy tips to get you on your way!
Don’t Be Drunk
We probably do not need to say this, but just in case, we want to start with the most essential piece of advice! Before the speech, you should go easy on the bubbly at the drinks reception! And once the speech is spoken, feel free to have a few, no one is judging!
Make Eye Contact
There is nothing more awkward and uncomfortable for everyone than a best man speech where the speaker is glued to his notes. Or even worse, his eyes wander around the room, and end up looking at the ceiling or at the floor. No matter how hilarious or tear-jerking your speech gets, in certain moments you need to make eye contact and speak to the room! Also, try to have bullet points, rather than a full speech, so you are not tempted to keep looking down.
Do not Make It into a Stand-Up Comedy Routine
Of course, funny best man speeches are the absolute best kind of best man speeches. However, you shouldn’t force comedy if it’s not your forte! In fact, you should crack a joke near the start of your speech. Select a few favorite anecdotes and that is it! After all, most of the attending guests are going to prefer a speech that’s sincere, relaxed, and even a little bit emotional. Rather than one full of awkward jokes with a nervous delivery.
Practice Makes Perfect
Before the big day of the wedding comes around, practice your speech a few times in front of the mirror. You’d be surprised how different it might sound out loud, so you might want to change it a bit. Also, rehearsing a speech is going to help you find the perfect flow, and it will help you avoid stumbling.