Speeches - What to do to get through
These days speeches are not only limited to the Groom, Best Man, Father of the Bride. Speeches can come from the Bride, friends, relatives or basically anyone who feels they have something meaningful to say about the marriage. But for whoever makes a speech for most people it is likely that at some point they will have to handle their nerves. Here is a quick guide to staying cool, calm and collected.
1. Watch your breathing. Try to take deep, long breaths.
2. Some people may find a little Dutch courage may help, but don’t go overboard. One drink should be quite enough.
3. Often public speakers are encouraged to make eye contact with their audience to build a rapport. However if nerves are getting the better of you it may be easier to focus on a spot furthest away from you so that you are looking upwards but are not intimidated by your congregations’ stares.
4. Keep it short and to the point. Not only will this be easier on you, but your congregation are more likely to stay focused and remember what you said.
5. Listen to your audience’s reactions. This is most important when telling a joke. If your audience laugh, even if this had not been your intention, make sure you pause for them to finish. Likewise, if no-one is responding, it may be best to move on.
6. The usual content of a wedding speech will involve a few things: talking about the family, particularly in-laws and parents and how welcoming they’ve been, a few anecdotes, thank-yous and then to finish something kind about the bride and/or groom. But don’t feel you have to stick to these conventions. The most important idea is that you celebrate the marriage through your speech.
7. Write it down. Whether or not you do this in shorthand or longhand it is important to have this by your side when making the speech, just in case you forget anything.
8. Practise, practise, practise. Even if you don’t remember it all, it’s important that you’re comfortable with your material.
9. Enjoy yourself!
