Best Man Speech

Last Updated: September 5, 2024

Best Man Speech

A Best Man Speech is a formal and celebratory address given by the best man during a wedding reception. This speech is a significant part of the wedding festivities, traditionally delivered after the meal and before the cutting of the cake.

What is Best Man Speech?

A Best Man Speech is a special address delivered by the best man at a wedding reception. It is a heartfelt and often humorous speech that celebrates the groom and bride, shares memorable stories, and offers well-wishes for the couple’s future.

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Best Man Speech Format

1. Introduction

Greeting: Warmly greet the audience.

Self-Introduction: Introduce yourself and your relationship to the groom.

Gratitude: Thank the couple for choosing you as the best man.

2. Congratulate the Couple

Congratulations: Offer congratulations to the bride and groom on their marriage.

3. Share Anecdotes

Stories: Share personal and entertaining stories about the groom.

Humor: Include light-hearted and funny moments.

4. Compliment the Bride

Praise: Say kind words about the bride.

Impact: Highlight her positive influence on the groom.

5. Balance Humor and Sentiment

Sentiment: Include a few heartfelt and emotional lines.

Respect: Avoid inappropriate jokes or sensitive topics.

6. Offer Well-Wishes

Future: Express good wishes for the couple’s future together.

Advice: Offer any light-hearted or sincere advice.

7. Conclusion

Toast: Raise a toast to the newlyweds.

Closing: End with a positive and uplifting statement.

Best Man Speech Example

Introduction

Good evening everyone! For those who don’t know me, my name is John, and I’ve had the honor of being Mark’s best friend for the past 15 years. It’s a privilege to stand here today as his best man.

 

Congratulate the Couple

First and foremost, I want to congratulate Mark and Emma on their beautiful wedding. It’s clear to everyone here how perfect you are for each other, and I couldn’t be happier for both of you.

 

Share Anecdotes

Mark and I have shared countless memories over the years, from our college days to the many adventures we’ve had. One of my favorite stories is when we went on a spontaneous road trip without any plans. We ended up getting lost, but Mark’s positive attitude and sense of humor turned it into one of the best experiences of our lives. That’s the kind of person Mark is – always making the best out of any situation.

 

Compliment the Bride

Emma, you truly bring out the best in Mark. Since meeting you, I’ve seen him grow into a more caring, thoughtful, and incredibly happy person. You complement each other so well, and it’s wonderful to see how much joy you bring into each other’s lives.

 

Balance Humor and Sentiment

We’ve had some great times together, and today is certainly one of the best. But beyond all the fun and laughter, there’s a deep bond of friendship and trust that I cherish. Mark, you’ve been like a brother to me, and seeing you so happy today means the world to me.

 

Offer Well-Wishes

Mark and Emma, may your life together be filled with love, laughter, and countless joyful moments. My advice to you both is to always communicate, support each other, and never forget the love that brought you together.

 

Conclusion

So, let’s raise our glasses to Mark and Emma. Here’s to a future filled with happiness, adventure, and all the love in the world. Cheers!

Thank you, everyone.

Short Best Man Speech Example

Introduction

Good evening everyone! For those who don’t know me, I’m John, Mark’s best friend. I’m honored to be his best man today.

 

Congratulate the Couple

First, I want to congratulate Mark and Emma on their beautiful wedding. You two are perfect for each other, and it’s clear how much love you share.

 

Share Anecdotes

I’ve known Mark for many years, and one thing I admire about him is his ability to make every situation enjoyable. Like the time we got lost on a road trip and he turned it into an adventure. That’s Mark for you – always positive and fun.

 

Compliment the Bride

Emma, you bring out the best in Mark. Since you’ve been in his life, I’ve seen him happier and more fulfilled. You truly complement each other.

 

Offer Well-Wishes

Mark and Emma, may your life together be filled with love, laughter, and happiness. Always support and cherish each other.

 

Conclusion

Let’s raise our glasses to Mark and Emma. Here’s to a wonderful future together. Cheers!

Thank you, everyone.

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30 Awesome Best Man Speech Opening Lines

  1. “Good evening, everyone! For those who don’t know me, I’m [Your Name], the best man and the one with the pleasure of roasting the groom tonight.”
  2. “Hello everyone! I’m [Your Name], and before I begin, I’d like to thank [Groom’s Name] for choosing me as his best man. It’s an honor and a slight miscalculation on his part.”
  3. “Ladies and gentlemen, I’m [Your Name], the best man, and if my speech goes well tonight, I’ll consider it my wedding gift to the happy couple.”
  4. “Hi, everyone! I’m [Your Name], and I’ve known [Groom’s Name] since [how long you’ve known him]. Thankfully, he found someone who can tolerate him!”
  5. “Good evening, everyone. I’m [Your Name], and I have the honor of being the best man. Let’s all take a moment to appreciate that I dressed up for this occasion.”
  6. “Hello all, I’m [Your Name]. For those who don’t know me, I’m the best man, and yes, the rumors are true—[Groom’s Name] has finally found someone who can stand him.”
  7. “Hi, I’m [Your Name], the best man. I’m here to share some stories, some laughs, and hopefully not get kicked out of the wedding by the end of my speech.”
  8. “Ladies and gentlemen, I’m [Your Name]. Before I start, can we give a big round of applause for the newlyweds? [Pause for applause] Thank you!”
  9. “Good evening, everyone. For those who don’t know me, I’m [Your Name], the best man. I’m here to share some memories, and maybe even embarrass the groom a little.”
  10. “Hello everyone, I’m [Your Name], the best man. If you see me sweating, it’s either because I’m nervous or the groom turned up the heat to throw me off.”
  11. “Hi all, I’m [Your Name]. I’ve had the pleasure of knowing [Groom’s Name] for [number] years, and now you all get to hear some of our misadventures.”
  12. “Good evening, everyone! I’m [Your Name], the best man. They say the best man speech is supposed to be funny, touching, and short. Two out of three isn’t bad, right?”
  13. “Hello everyone, I’m [Your Name]. I’m here to talk about [Groom’s Name], the man of the hour, who has finally found someone who can keep him in check.”
  14. “Hi everyone! I’m [Your Name], and as the best man, I promise my speech will be like a mini skirt—long enough to cover the essentials but short enough to keep it interesting.”
  15. “Good evening! I’m [Your Name], the best man. Before I start, let’s all raise our glasses to the newlyweds who have given us all a reason to celebrate.”
  16. “Hi, I’m [Your Name]. I’ve been friends with [Groom’s Name] for [number] years, and today I get to share some of our best (and most embarrassing) moments.”
  17. “Good evening, everyone. I’m [Your Name], the best man. I’ve known [Groom’s Name] since [when you met], and I’ve been trying to get him married off ever since.”
  18. “Hello all, I’m [Your Name], and I’m honored to be the best man today. I’ve prepared a short speech—short enough to keep me from getting a drink thrown in my face.”
  19. “Hi everyone! I’m [Your Name], the best man. They say a best man’s speech should be like a comet—dazzling, eye-opening, and over before you know it.”
  20. “Good evening, everyone. I’m [Your Name], and I have the honor of being [Groom’s Name]’s best man. It’s a tough job, but someone’s got to do it!”
  21. “Hello everyone, I’m [Your Name]. I’m here to share some stories about [Groom’s Name] and celebrate the amazing couple we’re all here for tonight.”
  22. “Hi, I’m [Your Name], the best man. I promise to keep this speech brief—just like [Groom’s Name] promised me he’d be on time today!”
  23. “Good evening! I’m [Your Name], the best man. Before we get started, can we all agree that [Bride’s Name] looks absolutely stunning tonight?”
  24. “Hi everyone, I’m [Your Name], and I’m the best man. My main job today is to make sure [Groom’s Name] makes it through this evening in one piece.”
  25. “Hello all! I’m [Your Name], the best man. If at any point you think my speech is too long, just remember: it’s still shorter than the groom’s dating history.”
  26. “Good evening, everyone! I’m [Your Name], and I’ve had the pleasure of knowing [Groom’s Name] since [how long you’ve known him]. Today, we celebrate his most significant achievement: marrying [Bride’s Name].”
  27. “Hi, I’m [Your Name], the best man. I’ve known [Groom’s Name] for years, and I can honestly say this is the happiest I’ve ever seen him—mostly because he’s not paying for the drinks tonight.”
  28. “Hello everyone, I’m [Your Name]. As the best man, it’s my job to give a speech that’s heartfelt, memorable, and a little embarrassing for the groom.”
  29. “Good evening! I’m [Your Name], the best man. I’d like to start by saying how beautiful [Bride’s Name] looks tonight and how incredibly lucky [Groom’s Name] is.”
  30. “Hi all, I’m [Your Name]. For those who don’t know me, I’m the best man. My job tonight is to share some stories about [Groom’s Name] and make sure he doesn’t run off before the cake is cut.”

Best Man Speeches From Movies

Four Weddings and a Funeral

Ladies and gentlemen, I’m sorry to drag you from your delicious desserts. There are just one or two little things I feel I should say as best man. This is only the second time I’ve ever been a best man. I hope I did the job all right that time. A couple in question are at least still talking to me. Unfortunately, they’re not actually talking to each other. The divorce came through a couple of months ago, but I’m assured it had absolutely nothing to do with me. Apparently Paula knew that Piers had slept with her younger sister before I mentioned it in her speech. The fact that he slept with her mother came as a surprise, but I think was incidental to the nightmare of recrimination and violence that became their two-day marriage. Anyway, enough of that. My job today is to talk about Angus, and there are no skeletons in his cupboard, or so I thought.

The Wedding Ringer

Doug and I have been through a lot together, happy times and sad. When I was accepted in priesthood, Doug was there waiting for me with a huge hug and a Bible that was signed by Cardinal Enders. And when his parents, Merle and Irene, passed, God rest their souls, I cried as if they were my own. You know, my grandmother once told me that the true measure of friendship isn’t, isn’t how you feel about someone else. It’s about how, how they make you feel about yourself. And I can honestly say that I’ve never had a friend to make me feel the way that you have, Doug. I’m, I’m sorry. When Doug called me and, and told me that he wanted to propose, I was, I was, I was nervous. I was probably just as nervous as he was.

The Best Man

Mirad gave me too much credit for this union. I have learned from them what it means to be truly committed to another person. I have learned the importance of seizing the moment because you can’t go back. You can never go back. You have to live for today, not for what was or what could have been and what will be no one can say. But sometimes, you just have to step out on faith. And believe that what you have built together is worth preserving. Because when you’re made for each other as much as these two are, it’s definitely, definitely worth preserving. So to the bride and groom, Lance and Mia, I love you. And may God bless this union. Cheers. Cheers. Cheers.

Sherlock Homes Speech

I’m afraid, John, I can’t congratulate you. All emotions, and in particular love, stand opposed to the pure cold reason I hold above all things. A wedding is, in my considered opinion, nothing short of a celebration of all that is false and specious and irrational and sentimental in this ailing and morally compromised world. Today we honor the death watch beetle that is the doom of our society and, in time, one feels certain, our entire species. But anyway, let’s talk about John. Please, if I burden myself with a little helpmate during my adventures, this is not out of sentiment or caprice; it is that he has many fine qualities of his own that he has overlooked in his obsession with me. Indeed, any reputation I have for mental acuity and sharpness comes in truth from the extraordinary contrast John so selflessly provides. It is a fact, I believe, that brides tend to favor exceptionally plain bridesmaids for their big day.

About Time

Rory, when Tim asked me to be his best man, I was terrified, so I thought the best thing to do was find a book about speeches, and here it is. It says to think of really funny anecdotes, and there is a very hilarious story actually from work. It was quite a complicated case based on an issue of cross-amortization of ownership of post-divorce properties. Let me just explain the context of the defendant. When Tim asked me to do his best man speech, my immediate reaction was, “How much are you going to pay me?” I don’t write for free, you know. These were the girls available to him at that time. Hello girls, and this is how far he got with each of them. Let me explain the code: five—blow job, eight—full penetrative.

Funny Best Man Speech

I’ll start by introducing myself. For those of you who don’t know me, you’re probably at the wrong wedding, but my name is Sam and I’ve probably known Cam for about three-quarters of my life. There are a lot of great men in this room today—some are marketers, miners, engineers—but of all of them, I’m the best. So I just wanted to start with a bit of a gag. I’m hoping it’s not too bad, but I just wanted to use this platform to try and clear the air a bit. You know, the newlywed couple, I wanted to help them transition into their new life together, so I just wanted to clear up a bit of history. Everybody in their lives has a bit of history—girlfriends and boyfriends before we meet the one we love—and sometimes you give this person maybe a key to your house or something like that because they’re close to you.

I Give it a Year

For those of you who don’t know me, and especially if we meet in the bar later, my name is Danny. Do you want a pint then? For an occasion like this, I want to make sure I keep up the traditions of being a best man. Apparently, I need to get the groom to the church on time—tick. I need to remember the rings—did that. And I need to have sex with a bridesmaid. Wait, to be fair, I wrote these before I knew them. I would never have sex with you—maybe when they’re older. Never mind, and keep away from Pedo Raj, alright? For most of you, he’s come a long way. Good lad. It’s great to see so many people turn up to see Josh finally tie the knot, and about time too. Nat’s got it all—she’s brilliantly clever, apparently really delivers in the bedroom.

30 Best Man Speech Closing Lines

  1. “Ladies and gentlemen, please raise your glasses as we toast to the happy couple. To a lifetime of love and happiness. Cheers!”
  2. “Let’s raise our glasses to [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]. May your love for each other continue to grow with each passing year. Cheers!”
  3. “To [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], may your marriage be filled with love, laughter, and adventure. Cheers!”
  4. “Here’s to the newlyweds! May your life together be filled with joy and your love for each other remain strong. Cheers!”
  5. “Let’s toast to [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], a perfect match. May your days be filled with sunshine and your nights with stars. Cheers!”
  6. “To the bride and groom, may your love story be as magical and charming as today. Cheers to a lifetime of happiness!”
  7. “Here’s to the newlyweds! May your life be full of laughter, your love be everlasting, and your days be filled with joy. Cheers!”
  8. “To [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], may your marriage be filled with more love than you can ever imagine. Cheers!”
  9. “Here’s to a lifetime of happiness, adventure, and unconditional love for [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]. Cheers!”
  10. “Let’s raise a glass to the bride and groom, wishing you a lifetime of love, laughter, and happiness. Cheers!”
  11. “To the happy couple, may the joy you feel today last a lifetime. Cheers!”
  12. “Here’s to [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], may your journey together be filled with endless love and happiness. Cheers!”
  13. “To the bride and groom, may your love grow stronger with each passing day. Cheers!”
  14. “Let’s raise our glasses to the happy couple. May your love be modern enough to survive the times and old-fashioned enough to last forever. Cheers!”
  15. “Here’s to a lifetime of beautiful memories and endless love for [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]. Cheers!”
  16. “To the newlyweds, may your love be like a fine wine—better with age. Cheers!”
  17. “Here’s to the happy couple, may your life together be a long, happy journey filled with joy and laughter. Cheers!”
  18. “To [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], may your love be as deep as the ocean and your troubles as light as the foam. Cheers!”
  19. “Let’s toast to the bride and groom, wishing you a lifetime of love, laughter, and adventure. Cheers!”
  20. “To the happy couple, may your life together be full of love, joy, and endless happiness. Cheers!”
  21. “Here’s to a lifetime of happiness, love, and laughter for [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]. Cheers!”
  22. “To the newlyweds, may your love story be just as beautiful and enchanting as today. Cheers!”
  23. “Let’s raise our glasses to [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], may your love shine brighter with each passing day. Cheers!”
  24. “To the bride and groom, may your love be as timeless as the stars and as enduring as the mountains. Cheers!”
  25. “Here’s to a lifetime of love, joy, and endless happiness for the newlyweds. Cheers!”
  26. “To [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], may your marriage be filled with love, laughter, and countless wonderful memories. Cheers!”
  27. “Let’s toast to the bride and groom, wishing you a lifetime of happiness, love, and adventure. Cheers!”
  28. “To the happy couple, may your life together be filled with love, laughter, and endless joy. Cheers!”
  29. “Here’s to [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], may your love story continue to be filled with beautiful moments. Cheers!”
  30. “Let’s raise our glasses to the newlyweds, wishing you a lifetime of love, happiness, and unforgettable memories. Cheers!”

How to Write Best Man Speech

1. Start with a Strong Opening

Introduce Yourself: Briefly introduce who you are and your relationship with the groom.

Example: “Good evening, everyone! For those who don’t know me, I’m John, the best man and lifelong friend of our groom, Mike.”

2. Thank the Guests

Show Appreciation: Thank everyone for coming, especially those who traveled long distances.

Example: “Thank you all for being here to celebrate this special day, especially those who traveled from afar.”

3. Share a Memorable Story

Choose an Appropriate Story: Pick a funny or touching story that highlights your bond with the groom.

Example: “I remember the time when Mike and I went on a road trip and ended up lost in the middle of nowhere. Instead of panicking, Mike turned it into an adventure, showing his true spirit of positivity and fun.”

4. Compliment the Couple

Highlight Their Qualities: Talk about the groom’s positive traits and acknowledge the bride.

Example: “Mike has always been a great friend—loyal, kind, and always ready to lend a hand. And seeing him with Sarah, I know he has found his perfect match. Sarah, you bring out the best in him.”

5. Offer Well Wishes

Share Your Hopes: Express your wishes for their future together.

Example: “I wish you both a lifetime of happiness, love, and countless adventures.”

6. Raise a Toast

Conclude with a Toast: Invite everyone to raise their glasses.

Example: “Ladies and gentlemen, please join me in raising a glass to the wonderful couple. To Mike and Sarah, may your love continue to grow with each passing day. Cheers!”

Tips to Deliver Best Man Speech

1. Plan Ahead

Start writing your speech at least two months before the wedding. This will give you ample time to draft, revise, and perfect it.

2. Start with a Great One-Liner

Begin with a witty joke or anecdote to set the mood and grab the audience’s attention.

3. Use Humor Wisely

Fill your speech with funny and embarrassing stories about the groom, but be careful not to hurt anyone’s feelings. Avoid making jokes about the bride.

4. Express Appreciation

Acknowledge the efforts of everyone who helped make the wedding special. Thank the couple’s families and friends.

5. Vary Your Tone

Balance humor with sentimentality. Include some heartfelt moments to add depth to your speech.

6. Practice

Practice delivering your speech in front of a mirror or record yourself. Get feedback from a friend who won’t be at the wedding. Familiarize yourself with the speech so you can engage with the audience.

7. Have a Plan B

Prepare a backup plan in case your speech doesn’t go as expected. Complimenting the bride is always a good fallback.

Outline of a Best Man Speech

If the above steps didn’t help (and left you even more bewildered than you originally were), here are the things that a basic best man speech contains. Elaborate on these and you will get yourself a best man speech. You may also see tribute speech examples.

  • Have a killer opening line. This will automatically give you the attention of your audience.
  • Thank the speakers. Usually, you will be given an introduction by, perhaps, a master of ceremonies. Address them. Be courteous. You may also like middle school speech examples.
  • Congratulate the wedding couple. Before you proceed to the gory storytelling, don’t forget what brought you to that event in the first place.
  • Make a joke about the groom, and then make more jokes about the groom.
  • Read messages from guests who couldn’t come. That is, if there are any.
  • Quote a famous line, or a poem, or a song that you think the newly wed can relate to.
  • Propose a toast. Preferably a heart-warming one.

Other Important Things to Remember

Experts advise that a speech should be no longer than 5 minutes. This is enough time to say what you want without boring the audience. Adjust the length depending on the event; for a short Vegas wedding, your speech should be much shorter, but for a formal wedding, you might speak a little longer.

Remember, it’s their wedding, not yours. Focus on the couple, not yourself. Share memories of the groom, but don’t make yourself the hero. Include the bride in your stories and make sure she feels valued.

Topics to Avoid

  1. Negativity about Marriage: Avoid expressing cynicism about marriage. This is a celebration of love and commitment.
  2. Past Relationships: Never mention ex-girlfriends or flings. It can spoil the mood and upset the bride.
  3. Previous Marriages or Divorce: If the groom has been married before, don’t bring it up. It’s unnecessary and could offend someone.
  4. Sensitive Topics: Avoid jokes or stories about drinking, drugs, gambling, or STDs. Remember, there may be children present.
  5. Adult Humor: Steer clear of dirty jokes or innuendos, especially about the honeymoon. Keep it clean and respectful.

Weddings are joyous occasions, and as the best man, you have an important role. For just one night, for just five minutes, deliver the most heartfelt and meaningful speech you can. Make their special day even more memorable.

When should I start writing my best man speech?

Start writing your speech at least a few weeks before the wedding to allow ample time for revisions and practice.

How long should a best man speech be?

Aim for a speech that lasts between 5 to 7 minutes to keep the audience engaged without overstaying your welcome.

What should I include in my best man speech?

Include personal anecdotes, heartfelt sentiments, compliments to the couple, and a touch of humor to entertain the guests.

How do I begin my best man speech?

Start with a warm introduction, thanking everyone for being there and briefly mentioning your relationship with the groom.

Can I use jokes in my best man speech?

Yes, use appropriate and light-hearted jokes to add humor, but avoid anything that could embarrass or offend the couple or guests.

How do I practice my best man speech?

Practice by reading it aloud multiple times, ideally in front of friends or family, to gain confidence and refine your delivery.

Should I memorize my best man speech?

Memorize the key points but keep a written copy or note cards handy to stay on track during the delivery.

How do I handle nerves while giving my speech?

Take deep breaths, stay calm, and remember that the audience is supportive and there to celebrate with you.

What topics should I avoid in my best man speech?

Avoid controversial topics, ex-partners, embarrassing stories, and any remarks that could be deemed offensive or inappropriate.

Can I include quotes in my best man speech?

Yes, including meaningful quotes about love and marriage can add depth and resonate with the audience.

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