Saying a speech before a sea of expectant faces is a formidable task.

Here`s how to get a standing ovation.The wedding speech may be the one thing you dread more than your mother-in-law, but you can use this opportunity to your advantage. There will probably never be a better time to express yourself before a captive audience that delights so wholeheartedly in sharing your joy.

Confidence tricks

• KISS - Keep It Short and Simple. Remember, long epics are painful for all involved, so try not to exceed five minutes!
• Do the speech as early as possible, so that you can relax and enjoy the party afterwards.
• Try to make eye contact with familiar faces - and look at the person when you`re toasting them!
• Most of the time it`s not what you say, it`s how you say it! Pause for effect, especially after a joke or an anecdote, and try to maintain a comfortable stance - a stiff posture usually results in a strained oration.
• Toasts are a bit of wedding aerobics, as everyone is expected to leap to their feet at the whim of the speechmaker. Make sure champagne glasses are full and toasts are kept to a minimum.
• Don`t pretend to be someone you aren`t. If humour is not your forte, try sincerity.
• List all those people you need to thank, as leaving somebody out could be hazardous to your well-being!
• Use short notes rather than writing down the entire speech, as this makes it appear more `off-the-cuff.`
• Practise the speech a few times. Feeling prepared will make a big difference to the state of your nerves on the day.
• Don`t divulge anything that could get you sued for defamation - or divorced, for that matter! (We warned you.)

We would also like to thank my own parents (their first names) for (anything specific that they may have assisted with). Your (love/support) means so much to (bride`s name) and me.Ladies and gentlemen, please charge your glasses and join me in a toast to our parents.

To my best man, (his name), you and I have certainly shared some (wild/unusual) experiences, and I would like to thank you for (protecting my reputation tonight by not divulging the more embarrassing ones/undoing all my hard work in one fatal blow by airing my dirty laundry before those I have been trying so hard to impress. I don`t get mad - just even.)We would also like to give our heartfelt thanks to (her name), our wonderful (maid/matron) of honour, for (mention specific details), and our bridesmaids, (their names) - your participation in our special day is most appreciated.

We were also impressed with the way our groomsmen, (their names) cleaned up for the occasion.Thank you all for your friendship and for being such an integral part of the fun. A big thank you to (their names) for travelling the distance, all the way from (name of place) to share this memorable occasion with us. It is with deep regret that (the names of loved ones who could not come or are deceased) were not able to attend, but they are in our thoughts (tonight/this morning), as always.

Last, but certainly not least, I would like to thank (bride`s name) for agreeing to be my wife. (Her nickname), you look (breathtaking/exquisite) tonight, and I can`t wait to share the rest of my life with you. The first time I saw you (recount interesting/amusing/romantic moment).When I look back at the (weeks/months/years) we have spent together, I feel so (lucky/destined) to be with you. (Briefly speak of the qualities that make her special to you.) Ladies and gentlemen, please charge your glasses and join me in a toast to my beautiful bride.

And now - on with the show. Eat, drink and enjoy!

Article source: LifeWorld