In these modern times, it's more than acceptable for the bride to stand up and speechify at her wedding, instead of listening meekly to her father, her husband and her husband's best man while they roll out those well-rehearsed jokes and anecdotes. After all, you've organised the whole event, lots of your nearest and dearest will be in your audience, and you may even have paid half the expenses, so why not have your say?

 

But it's gotta be good! And if there are four speeches instead of the usual three to listen to, you will have to entertain your audience. So here are a few tips.

 

                                                                                                                  

                           Portia luxury bridesmaid fur cape                                                                 Victoria bridesmaid dress

 

Start by summing up (briefly!) how you got to where you are today. Talk about your romantic story, not in an overly sloppy way, but as amusingly as you can. Try to be original, and don't apologise for not being used to public speaking - this is one occasion when your audience will indulge you!

 

Add a couple of witty anecdotes that won't upset your grandma or embarrass your new mother-in-law. Then say something like: ‘X and I would like to thank all our family and friends for joining us today, we're very touched by your love and good wishes. I could burst into song at this point, but luckily I'm no drunk enough yet! So I'll just propose a toast to my lovely groom.'

 

Remember, brevity is the soul of wit - and if you make sure you name check everyone who means a lot to you, there won't be a dry eye in the house. 

 

                                                                                             

                                  Angie bridal shoes                                                                                       Megan wedding shoes

 

For more ideas for your big day, check out our wedding information pages. They're an indispensable source of wedding style advice as well as practical hints and tips on how to plan the perfect wedding without all the stress. No bride should even contemplate tying the knot without consulting them first. And what's more, we're adding to them all the time so there is always something new to see. 

 

And don't forget to browse Henry Kaye's complete range of of stunning wedding shoes (for brides, bridesmaids and pageboys alike), stylish pageboy outfits, gorgeous bridesmaid dresses, and exquisite wedding bags and beautiful wedding accessories.