It is a real compliment and a privilege to be asked to be someone's best man. With that honor comes the task of delivering a great speech on the wedding day. Most of us are not comfortable about public speaking but here are some top tips to help you prepare and relax on the big day.
1. Preparation. You probably know it but if you can prepare before the big day then you will be more relaxed. Don't leave it to the last minute to write your speech!
2. Research. Get hold of the running order of the day and who you need to thank in your speech.
3. Consult. Check with everyone else who is making a speech what they intend to include in their speeches. You don't want your best man speech to repeat what has already been said.
4. Practice. If you can do practice your speech in front of family or friends. Even practicing saying your speech out loud will help calm your nerves on the big day.
5. Compliment. This is the most important day for the bride and groom - make sure you compliment both of them in your speech.
6. Thank You. Make sure you thank everyone for coming to share the special day and also any specific thank you's to the wedding party involved e.g. the bridesmaids
7. Discipline. Try to exercise a little self discipline if there is alcohol at the wedding. You may think that a drink or two may calm your nerves before your speech but too much alcohol is NOT going to help!
8. Use humor. Using jokes or humorous stories [keep them appropriate] can help you and the guests relax.
9. Vocalise. If you are not using a microphone make sure you project your speech to the back of the room. If people can't hear you they may begin talking amongst themselves.
10. BREATHE. Take a few calming breaths before you start your speech and always have a glass of water to hand in case your mouth goes dry.