Category: Tips & Advice

A Master of Ceremonies may sound like a circus role, but it’s actually a big part of your wedding reception.

As your reception host, your MC plays an important role in keeping your reception running smoothly while ensuring all of your guests are having a great time.

Without an MC, your guests may be confused about what is happening and when. With so many moving parts – food service, first dances, cake cutting, speeches – it’s helpful to have someone steer the ship and keep your guests informed.

That person is your charismatic, outgoing and personable Master of Ceremonies!

Keep reading to learn all about the emcee role – what duties this person performs, how to choose the best person for the job and how to prepare them.

Plus, don’t miss our list of tips for MCs that you can share with yours!

What is a Master of Ceremonies (aka MC)?

A Master of Ceremonies at a wedding, also known as the MC, emcee or wedding host, is the person who hosts the reception. They’re up at the mic stand, introducing everyone and everything, while keeping the party running with a smile on their face.

This person is a comfortable public speaker with an engaging personality who sets the tone for your wedding reception. They can be a friend or a professional wedding vendor.

Are an MC and a DJ the same thing?

Not always! Many wedding DJs or wedding musicians offer emcee services, since they’ll be at the front of your reception anyway and already have the audio equipment set up, but not all do.

Even if a DJ does offer an add-on MC service, it’s not their main job. Their priority is the music you’ve hired them to play – that’s their area of expertise. Asking them to also be your Master of Ceremonies may mean they have less time and attention for the music.

Lastly, with DJ/MC vendors, you’ll likely receive a less personalized MC experience. Expect them to focus much more on to-the-point announcements and less time engaging with the crowd, sharing personal anecdotes about you two, etc. This works for some couples but others prefer something more personal.

What does a wedding MC do?

As the host of the wedding reception, a Master of Ceremonies is often seen on the mic making announcements. But the job is much more than just reading names off a piece of paper. Here are a list of MC duties this person might perform:

Make housekeeping announcements: Before the reception officially kicks off, the MC may make some quick housekeeping announcements, such as pointing out the location of the bathrooms or any zones that are off-limits.

Warm up the guests: Your MC is usually the one encouraging your guests to join in on the fun, whether that’s standing up to cheer as you enter or meeting you on the dance floor.

(op) Give a short speech: If you choose a friend/family member to be your MC (more on that below), they’ll often share a short speech about their relationship with you two and how much they love you before jumping into their first announcements.

Introduce the couple & the wedding party: If you’re planning a grand entrance into your reception, or even if it’s going to be more low-key, it’s customary for the Master of Ceremonies to announce your entrance to your guests.

Announce the meal, cake-cutting and last call: Throughout the night, the MC will grab the mic to let guests know about important foodie moments, such as when the buffet is open, when the cake-cutting is happening and when the bar is closing.

Invite speakers: Before each speech, the Master of Ceremonies will introduce the speaker, share their relationship to the couple and invite them up to give their speech.

Present the first dance, parent/child dances and other events: As the reception host, your MC is also responsible for letting guests know when important reception events are happening, such as the first dance, parent/child dances, bouquet/garter toss, wedding games, sparkler exit, etc.

Check in with key wedding vendors: The Master of Ceremonies will need to coordinate with your key wedding vendors to ensure they’re making announcements at the right time and when everyone is ready. For example, they’ll need to make sure the band is ready before announcing the first dance.

How to choose the right MC for your wedding

When choosing a Master of Ceremonies you’ll have to decide between asking a friend/family member or hiring a professional wedding vendor. Like most things in life, there are pros and cons to each!

Asking a friend to MC your wedding

With a friend/family member as your MC, you can expect a more casual and personal vibe. This person likely knows some of your guests and has a relationship with the two of you. That can make their MC role feel much more intimate and meaningful.

Plus, when you ask a loved one to take on the emcee role, it’s typically assumed this will be unpaid, saving you some money! An MC also doesn’t need to be licensed, so you don’t have to worry about any legal issues.

Of course, there are downsides to asking a friend to step into a “friendor” (friend + wedding vendor) role. You may worry that your friend will get stage fright or, on the opposite end of the spectrum, try to make the MC role all about them and their latest comedy routine.

You’re also putting a lot of responsibility on your friend. They have to make announcements and coordinate with your vendors throughout the night, which can feel like a big job. If they hit the open bar too hard, this job can go downhill quickly!

If you do ask a friend or family member to be your Master of Ceremonies, choose someone who is confident speaking in front of a crowd. They don’t have to be a professional speaker or comedian, but they should be outgoing and charming. This person should also be dependable and comfortable with the responsibility of the MC role.

Bonus tip: Keep language considerations in mind. If you need to translate parts of your reception for your guests, it might make sense to choose an MC who speaks that language.

Hiring a professional to MC your wedding

Your other option is to hire a professional wedding vendor to emcee your wedding. There are wedding vendors who work strictly as MCs and others, such as DJs and officiants, who do MC gigs on the side.

The big pro of hiring a pro as your Master of Ceremonies is knowing your reception is in trusted hands. This person is a professional with experience. You don’t have to worry about them being nervous, getting drunk, stealing the show or telling inappropriate jokes.

A professional will also be better at communicating with your other wedding vendors and ensuring your reception stays on schedule. You won’t have to babysit them or stress about running behind.

Of course, there are downsides to having a professional MC. This would be a paid role, so you’ll have to factor that into your wedding budget. This person also won’t know you personally, so may not be able to offer that same intimacy.

Option: Hire your wedding officiant as your MC! As wedding officiants, we’ve been asked to emcee receptions before and always have a blast doing it! You already know that your officiant is good with words and comfortable in front of a crowd – they proved that at your ceremony – so they’re a natural choice as emcee.

Plus, if your officiant has crafted a custom ceremony with you in the months leading up to your wedding, they will already know you and have a leg up over someone who just shows up for the day. And for your guests, it might be nice to have the same person leading the reception who led the ceremony.

How to prepare your emcee for the wedding

As the couple getting married, there are lots of things you can do to ensure that your Master of Ceremonies is prepared and ready to deliver at your reception.

Note that most of these tips below apply to asking a friend to MC; a professional will have some of this information already.

Give them the script, schedule and all of the details ahead of time: Your MC will need a script that tells them exactly what to say and when. But the first time they read that script shouldn’t be at your reception. Send it to them ahead of time so they have a chance to practice and ask any questions.

Set up a meeting & give them info in writing: Not only should you provide this MC script ahead of time but you should provide it in writing and, if possible, in person. That way you have a chance to chat through the reception with your emcee and ensure you’re all on the same page.

Tell them how you’d like to be introduced: It’s not enough to tell your MC, “Introduce us as the newlyweds at 5pm.” They need to know exactly how you’d like to be introduced (new last name? just your first names? no names at all?).

And if they’re introducing the wedding party or any speakers, make sure they have correct pronunciations of everyone’s names.

Tell them when they should and shouldn’t speak: Some couples prefer their emcees take the mic at precise times to make announcements while others don’t mind if their MC riffs and jumps on the mic when the mood strikes. If you have a preference, let your MC know.

Tell them anything you do or do not want included: Especially if your Master of Ceremonies is giving a little speech, make sure they know about anything you do or do not want included.

For example, maybe you do want them to acknowledge your grandparents who couldn’t be there but don’t want them to tell that one story from freshman year…

Test the audio/tech: Once at your reception, ensure your MC is comfortable with whatever audio or tech they need to use. Give them a chance to test out the mic and set up their space.

For example, they may want to leave a glass of water and copy of their MC script at the podium where they’ll be speaking from.

Introduce them to the wedding planner & other vendors: If your Master of Ceremonies will need to coordinate with your vendors (and they probably will!), introduce them to each other before the reception begins.

If you have a wedding planner, they will usually be responsible for cueing your MC and letting them know about any changes to the schedule.

Seat them close to the mic: Since your emcee has to jump up and make announcements throughout the night, you want them to be seated somewhere that’s close to the mic. Don’t make them run across your reception hall every 20 minutes!

11 tips for being the best Master of Ceremonies ever!

Want to set your MC up for success? Send them this list of tips!

1. Check in with the couple ahead of time: If they haven’t already reached out to you, check in with the couple about the schedule, dos and don’ts, the vibe they want, any venue rules, how they want the introductions to go, a script/outline for the night, etc.

2. Practice names: Make sure you have the correct pronunciation of names for everyone in the wedding party, anyone giving a speech and, of course, the newlyweds! If it helps, you can write names out phonetically (officiants do this!).

3. Practice your speech: If you’ve been asked to make a speech or share some opening remarks, make sure you practice. Check out our tips for wedding readers & speakers here.

4. Keep track of your script: Hopefully the newlyweds have provided you with a script/outline for the night with your announcements and the schedule. Read this over before the big day and keep it on you at the reception so you’re ready to go.

5. Befriend the wedding planner: The wedding planner will likely be the person cueing you for when it’s time to make an announcement or letting you know about any changes. Make sure you know who they are and look to them for guidance.

6. Test your mic/audio: Ensure you’re comfortable with the tech set up before you make your first speech/announcement.

7. Limit your drinks: No one likes a sloppy speaker. Limit your drinks or hold off on hitting the bar until your MC duties are fulfilled.

8. Keep it short: Unless the couple has asked you to make a longer speech, keep things brief. Remember, you’re often introducing another speaker or event, so there’s no need to drone on and on.

9. Keep track of the time: A large part of the emcee role is keeping the reception moving on schedule. Especially if there’s not a wedding planner, it’s up to you to watch the clock and keep things moving.

10. (op) Add a personal touch: Some MCs like to go above and beyond, adding a little personal touch to their announcements. For example, you could find out a fun fact about each speaker and use it in their introduction.

11. Remember: It’s about the couple, not you: The worst thing a Master of Ceremonies can do is steal the show. This isn’t the time to tell a long story about yourself or work on your comedy set. Your job is to be a charismatic host of the reception and shine the spotlight where it should be, on the newlyweds!

Is there anything better than a love letter? What about a love letter from your partner on the morning of your wedding talking about how much they want to marry you? Yup, it doesn’t get better than a wedding letter!

As professional officiants for over a decade, we believe in the power of words. We know how important your ceremony and your vows are as the foundation of your marriage. We also love to see our couples put a personal spin on their wedding words.

That’s why we’re such big fans of wedding letters! They add a sweet touch to your wedding and ensure you start off your day feeling connected and ready to get married. We’ve been seeing letter exchanges more and more at weddings, and we couldn’t be happier about it.

Keep reading to learn what exactly a wedding letter is, why and when to write one, our template for writing your own and our best letter writing tips! 

What is a wedding letter?

A wedding letter is a letter that you write your partner to be exchanged on your wedding day. And hopefully, they write you one back!

This is usually a private letter, just for the two of you to read, where you can share how you’re feeling, personal stories about how much you love them and last minute wedding wishes before you tie the knot.

Is a wedding letter the same thing as wedding vows?

Nope, though they can be similar. A wedding letter is a personal note you exchange with your partner in private while vows are shared in public at your ceremony.

A wedding letter focuses more on your feelings and wishes for your partner. It’s a good place to tell stories or reflect on your relationship.

And while your vows can include your feelings and reflections, the primary purpose of your vows is to share the promises you’re making for your marriage.

Why write a letter for your partner?

Wedding letters are optional – you don’t have to write one. But a lot of couples are choosing to exchange letters on their wedding day.

For one, a wedding letter is another opportunity for you to tell your partner how much they mean to you. Unlike wedding vows, which are usually shared in front of all of your guests, your wedding letters are just for you. They’re a chance for you to share private sentiments with one another.

If you’re not seeing your partner before the ceremony, your wedding letters can be a great way to connect and “talk” to one another. Or if you are seeing each other, they can increase that moment of connection. Not only do you get to see each other, but you also get to read some heartfelt words that your partner lovingly wrote for you. How nice is that?

Wedding letters are also a great option if you’re not sharing personal vows. If you’ve opted for traditional vows or repeat-after-me vows, you can choose to put the more personal stuff into a private letter.

Lastly, wedding letters make awesome mementos from your wedding. They’re a nice memory of the day and how you were feeling that you can look back on for years to come.

When do you exchange wedding letters?

Wedding letters are usually exchanged at the beginning of the wedding day so you can start your day off with that nice boost from your partner.

If you’re spending your wedding morning together, you could exchange cards over breakfast. Or if you’re getting ready separately, you could have members of your wedding party deliver the letters.

Some couples also save their letter exchange for their first look. That way, you get the double emotional hit of not only seeing your partner all dressed up for the wedding day but also reading the sweet words they’ve written for you.

What about a wedding gift for your spouse?

Many couples like to exchange gifts on the morning of their wedding. Your wedding letter is a great addition to this gift giving tradition!

Whether you’re gifting a fancy new watch or necklace, bridal boudoir photos or a heartfelt keepsake, your letter is the cherry on top to make that gift so much more meaningful.

Format for a wedding letter

Because wedding letters are personal letters, only to be shared between you and your spouse-to-be, there’s not a regimented formula or template that you have to follow. Your letter can take whatever shape you want! 

That said, it might be nice to agree with your partner beforehand approximately how long you want your letters to be and the overall vibe you’re going for. Should this be a lengthy note that will have your partner reaching for tissues? Or is it just a few encouraging lines to give them a wedding-nerves-busting chuckle?

In case you’re stuck, here are some ideas for how to format your letter:

Step 1) Introduction

Start your wedding letter off by leaning into the feelings you have or the feelings you suspect you might have on your wedding day. Are you full of love, nervously excited, anxious but confident? Let your partner know!

This is also a good place to include a little inside joke or funny line to get your partner smiling right from the start. Remember, this letter is just for you two, so it’s okay to be a bit more casual.

Step 2) The heart of the letter

The heart of the letter is where you express what you want your partner to know on your wedding day. This part of your letter can take many forms, but considering answering one or more of these questions:

• What do you love most about your partner?
• What do you wish for them on your wedding day?
• How do you want them to feel the morning of your wedding?
• When did you know they were the one?
• Why are you marrying them today?
• What’s a favourite memory you have together?

Step 3) Conclusion

Lastly, end your letter by reminding your partner just how much you love them and how excited you are to be tying the knot today.

If you have any final wedding wishes you want to share with them, a feeling you want to leave them with or something you want them to remember for the rest of the day, include it here.

10 tips for writing a heartfelt wedding letter

1. Start early

You don’t want to rush through writing your letter the morning of your wedding. You’ll be stressed and busy enough that morning – don’t add more to do your to-do list. Plus, a rushed letter isn’t likely to be a very heartfelt one.

Instead, start writing your letter weeks or even months ahead of time. Give yourself lots of time so you’re not rushed.

2. Don’t try to write it all at once

Don’t try to write your wedding letter all in one go. Schedule a few writing opportunities over the weeks/months leading up to your wedding. That way, there’s no pressure to create a polished, final draft in one writing session.

3. Set the right writing mood

It’s hard to write a personal, heartfelt, romantic card when you’re rushing between meetings at work, hunched over your laptop on the couch or typing away on your phone at 1:00 AM.

Make writing easier on yourself by setting the right mood. Wait until you are relaxed and distraction free. Then turn on some romantic music, light a candle, pour yourself a beverage and get started.

4. Choose an inspiring card

While you could write your wedding letter on hotel stationary or the back of a napkin, it can help to choose a special card and even use a special pen to write it with. After all, this is a special occasion!

Take the time to select a beautiful card in-person or online, or even make the card yourself. That way, when you sit down to write, it will feel like you’re writing something important.

5. Take a walk down memory lane

In order to get in the right headspace to write a romantic card for your partner, it can help to take a little walk down memory lane. Spend some time rereading old cards, looking at old photos and even listening to songs you both love.

Soon, all those loving memories will come right back to you and spill out on the page!

6. Keep a note on your phone to jot down ideas

Sometimes, the perfect words or story for your wedding letter will strike when you least expect it. That’s why we recommend keeping a note on your phone (or in a notepad, if you’re old school) to jot down any ideas that come to you.

When you do sit down to write, you can reference your notes app and make sure you haven’t missed anything.

7. Write your letter with your vows

Because your wedding letter and your wedding vows will follow a lot of the same themes – nice things you want to say to your partner – it can be helpful to write them both together. That way, you can ensure you’re not just repeating yourself in both your letter and vows.

It’s also handy to think about your letter as you’re writing your vows in case there’s anything you want to save for the letter. For example, if your vows are feeling too long or getting too personal, you can move some of that content over to your letter.

PS: Need help writing your vows? Check out our FREE Wedding Vow Cheat Sheet!

8. Don’t worry about being too personal

Don’t be concerned if your love letter to your spouse feels too mushy, too personal, too emotional, etc. Remember, this letter is just for your partner’s eyes. You don’t have to read it out loud in front of all of your guests.

If anything, this is the perfect time to get personal! You can really open up your heart, knowing this is a private letter only for you two.

9. Got writer’s block? Try interviewing yourself

Sometimes it can be overwhelming to try and put all of the feelings you have for your partner into words. You know you love them so much but you’re just not sure how to say it.

If you find yourself getting stuck, try this technique: Pretend you’re being interviewed about your partner and answer each question, rather than forcing yourself to fill a blank page. Start with the questions we have listed above under Step 2 of the wedding letter format, which should help prompt your writing.

10. Turn your card into a keepsake

After your wedding, make plans to turn your love letters to one another into a keepsake. This can be something you display in your home and fill you with happy memories every time you walk by.

You could put your letters into a scrapbook or album, display them in a shadow box, add them to a special wedding memory box, type them out to hang in a frame, or get creative with your own ideas (or turn to Etsy). Another fun tradition is rereading your wedding letters every year on your anniversary.

Happy wedding letter writing! 

So you’re attending a wedding and you know you have to write a card for the newlyweds, but you’re totally stumped! What exactly should you be writing in the message for a wedding card?

Do you need to come up with something really romantic and profound? Or can you keep it casual? How long should the card be? What should it include and when do you even give it to the couple?

Relax, we’ve got you covered. As professional wedding officiants, we know a lot about wedding words. And while we’re usually speaking them at the ceremony, we’d like to think our expertise extends to wedding cards as well.

Below we’re sharing a simple 5-step formula to write the perfect wedding card message that will be easy for you to write while still impressing the newlyweds. We’re also answering some wedding card FAQs and sharing our best tips for card writing!

First things first, do you need to write a wedding card for the couple?

Yes, it’s good form to always write a wedding card for the newlyweds. Even if you’ve already sent a gift, even if you’re not giving a gift or even if you can’t attend in person, you should always write a card.

Wedding cards are important mementos for many couples; keepsakes that they hold onto for years to come. They’re also an easy and affordable way for you to let the couple know how much they mean to you.

The only time you could skip the card is if you’re not invited to the wedding. If you haven’t been invited, a card is not expected. However, you’re welcome to still send a card/gift if you feel like it!

PS: If you’re the couple getting married, you also must send thank you cards to your guests – even if they didn’t give you a gift or a card. Thanking them for attending is the polite thing to do.

When do you give/send the wedding card?

If you’re attending the wedding, there’s usually a box, table or wishing well at the reception where you can place your card. This is usually stationed by the entrance so you can drop off your card before you head to your table.

There’s usually not a place for wedding cards at the ceremony, so you don’t need to bring your card then. You may end up misplacing it or it may get forgotten if you try to hand it to someone before/after the ceremony. Instead, hold onto your card until the reception.

If you’re not attending the wedding, you can mail your wedding card to the couple ahead of time. It’s also acceptable for your card to arrive after the wedding date. Or you have the option to send your card along with someone else who is attending in person.

Our 5 step formula for a message for a wedding card (+ examples!)

You don’t have to be a wordsmith (or professional wedding officiant) to write a nice message for a wedding card. Simply follow along with our five step formula below!

Step 1) Congratulations

We’ll start off nice and easy. Wish the newlyweds a hearty congratulations! Pro tip: If you’re not 100% what the couple is doing with their last names after the wedding, simply address the card to their first names.

Examples:

• Congratulations, Patrick & David!
• Congrats to the newlyweds!
• Congratulations on your wedding day!
• Congrats to the new Mrs & Mrs!
• Congratulations, you two!

Step 2) Well wishes

Next, add a sentence or two wishing the couple well for their wedding day and awesome marriage ahead. This is the part where you can get a little sappy.

Examples:

• We hope this day is everything you imagined it would be.
• We’re wishing you a lifetime of love and happiness.
• May the true love you share today grow stronger as you grow old together.
• Here’s to a long and happy married life! No one deserves it more than you two.
• Warmest wishes for a fun-filled future together. We can’t wait to see where life takes you!
• We wish you two the best today and always.
• Best wishes on this wonderful journey, as you build your new lives together.

Step 3) Personal anecdote (optional)

If you’re a close friend or family member of the couple, you may want to add a personalized sentence or two. Here you could share a bit of marital advice, reflect on your relationship or tell a quick story. Remember to keep your anecdote short and appropriate.

If you don’t know the couple very well or can’t think of a good personal story to share, go ahead and skip this section.

Step 4) Thank you

As we wrap up your message for a wedding card, end by thanking the couple. You can simply thank them for inviting you to the wedding or elaborate and thank them for more (if appropriate to your relationship).

Examples:

• Thank you for letting me share in this joyful day.
• Thank you for inviting us to be a part of this celebration.
• Thank you for always having my back and including me in your special day.
• Thank you for showing me what it means to have someone to count on.
• Thanks for the free booze!

Step 5) Sign off

Finally, end your card with a sign off and your name(s). Since this is a wedding card, feel free to use a sign off that’s a bit more sentimental, rather than one you might use in the workplace.

Examples:

• With love, [your name]
• All my love, [your name]
• Congrats again, [your name]
• All the best, [your name]
• Lots of love, [your name]
• Best wishes, [your name]

What do you write in the card if you’re not attending the wedding?

If you’re not able to attend the wedding in-person, we still believe you should send a card. You can follow the format above but with a few tweaks.

Simply add in a line expressing your condolences for not being able to attend and a line sharing how much you look forward to celebrating with the couple another time. There’s no need to go on and on apologizing or explaining your absence. Instead, keep things upbeat!

Examples:

• I’m sorry we won’t be able to celebrate with you today but we can’t wait to cheer you on through all the years of your marriage.
• While we can’t be with you today, we hope you can feel our love from far away.
• We look forward to celebrating with you both when we see you next.
• We really wish we could have been there today but we’re celebrating with you all in spirit.
• We’re raising a glass to you two from afar today – and getting ready to celebrate in-person when we see you again.

Advice for writing the perfect wedding card message

Before you take pen to paper, here are seven pieces of card writing advice to keep in mind!

1. Start early

We’re not saying you have to start writing your wedding card message months in advance. But it’s also not something you should leave for the morning of.

Give yourself lots of time to choose and buy (or make!) a card and write the sentiment inside. Give yourself even more time if you need to mail your card.

2. Keep it short and sweet

There’s no need to wax poetic for pages or deliver a full-length novel to the newlyweds. You can still write a beautiful and heartfelt message in just a few sentences.

At the same time, don’t make your message too short. This is an important occasion and your loved ones deserve more than just “Best wishes, [your name]” scrawled inside an otherwise blank card.

3. Keep it G-rated

Yes, you can crack a joke or two in the card but make sure you keep everything appropriate. This is not the place for foul language, embarrassing stories or anything you wouldn’t want grandma to read.

4. Address both members of the couple

Even if you’re only friends with one person, your wedding card needs to be addressed to both members of the couple. And make sure you’re spelling their names correctly too (hint: check the invite or wedding website if you’re not sure)!

5. Go easy on the marital advice

The primary purpose of a wedding card is to share well wishes with the couple, not dole out marital advice. Only include advice if it’s appropriate for you to share and it’s genuinely useful.

For example, if you’ve been happily married for 20 years and have a nugget of wisdom you’d like to pass on, go for it. Especially if you have an advice-giving relationship with the couple, such as being an older family member, this can be a really special addition to your card.

But if you’re in the middle of a bitter divorce, perpetually single or only want to include a tired, sexist cliche (like “happy wife, happy life”), go ahead and skip the marital advice section.

6. When in doubt, go formal

If you’re hesitating about what tone to take in a wedding card, opt for more formal language rather than more casual language. While wedding cards don’t need to be serious and stuffy, they also shouldn’t be full of typos and slang.

Keep your writing true to you but remember that this card could be an important keepsake. Imagine the couple reading your card on their 20th wedding anniversary – does it hold up?

7. Make it heartfelt

Our last piece of advice is to add a little sentimentality to your wedding card message. The best cards are from the heart and speak to your unique relationship with the newlyweds. Take some time to reflect on their love and what you truly want to wish them on their special day.

That’s it – happy wedding card writing! 

It’s not just the couple getting married and their wedding party who have to worry about what they’ll wear on the big day, it’s wedding guests too! Choosing the perfect clothes for wedding guests leaves many people stressed, confused and over budget.

As wedding officiants, we get to see all of the wedding guests up close – plus we have to worry about our own officiant outfits too. So we know all about wedding fashion!

Below we’re answering your top questions about wedding guests outfits, from how to interpret dress codes and save money to what to wear to a beach wedding, Halloween wedding or helicopter wedding. Ready? Let’s get best dressed!

What are the different wedding guest dress codes?

The first thing that often stumps guests when they try to choose their outfit is the dress code. What the heck is semi-formal and how is that different than smart casual or cocktail?

We know it can be pretty confusing. Especially since different dress codes mean different things depending on where you’re located and your age group.

Plus, with many couples trying to come up with their own unique dress codes these days (like “dress to impress” or “here to party”), it’s even harder for guests to interpret the rules.

Here are the major wedding guest dress code categories and what they mean:

• White Tie: This is the most formal dress code. We’re talking black tuxes with bow ties and gloves or evening gowns with heels and jewelry.
• Black Tie: A step down from white tie, black tie will still see tuxes (but you can lose the gloves) and floor-length dresses.
• Formal or Black Tie Optional: Now you can swap out that tux for a formal suit and consider a cocktail dress or pantsuit instead of an evening gown.
• Cocktail: The hemlines are getting shorter as a tea-length or midi dress is acceptable or else a suit and tie.
• Semi-Formal or Dressy Casual: You can finally factor comfort into your outfit choice. Think a nice top and skirt, elegant pant-suit, knee-length dress or shirt and tie with slacks.
• Daytime or Casual: Sadly, casual does not mean sweatpants and flip flops. The experts suggest sticking to sun dresses, khakis and collared shirts.
• Theme: If it’s a Great Gatsby wedding, come in your best flapper dress or top hat. Is the couple obsessed with Bridgerton? Bust out your regency era finest! (PS: Only dress for the theme if specifically instructed to do so.)

Still not sure what to wear? Phone a friend.

If you’re close enough to the couple getting married, ask them what they mean by their dress code and if they can provide some examples or sign off on an outfit you’re considering.

If you can’t ask the couple, talk to another wedding guest and see if your interpretations of the dress code are aligned.

How can I buy my wedding guest outfit on a budget?

Weddings aren’t just expensive for the couple getting married. They’re expensive for guests too! Consider that on top of your outfit you might also be paying for hair/makeup services, transportation, accommodation and wedding gifts.

To save your wallet, here are some great ways to put together your guest outfit on a budget:

• Shop your own closet: There’s no reason why you can’t wear a formal outfit more than once. If you already have a gorgeous look at home, go ahead and wear it to the wedding.
• Thrift: Not only is thrifting trendy but it’s eco-friendly and budget-friendly. Hit up the secondhand stores near you to find the perfect wedding outfit.
• Rent: There are lots of formal clothing rental companies that allow you to wear an amazing outfit for a fraction of the price, as long as you send it back once you’re done with it.
• Swap with friends: Maybe you don’t have anything appropriate to wear to the wedding in your closet, but your friends might. A closet swap can be a great way to find free and new-to-you outfit options.
• Shop sales: If you end up needing to buy something new, do your best to shop the sales. Many retail stores have regular sales throughout the year or coupons you can find online. Otherwise, see if you can wait for Black Friday!

What clothes for wedding guests are off limits?

It’s hard to say that certain clothes for wedding guests are always off limits, as every couple gets to make their own rules (remember when Kim Kardashian asked all her guests to wear white?).

Plus, the rules vary a lot based on location, culture, age group, etc. For example, in some Indian and Chinese weddings, the bride will wear a red dress, meaning this colour may be off limits to guests.

But generally speaking you don’t want to wear:

• White: In traditional Western weddings, white is reserved for the bride(s) only.
• Black: Once again in traditional Western weddings, black is often seen as a funeral colour and a bit depressing to wear to a celebratory wedding.
• Anything against the dress code: If the dress code specifically says no jeans or that you must wear a tux, you don’t want to stray from those rules if you can help it.
• Anything too flashy: Sure, you’re a star, but this wedding isn’t really about you. Don’t choose an outfit that’s going to pull focus from the couple.
• Anything offensive: That shirt with the swear words on it? Yeah, let’s leave that at home.
• Anything too casual: Unless you’re specifically told it’s okay, steer clear of jeans, sweatpants, flip flops and tank tops.
• (op) The wedding party colours: If you want to be extra careful, check in to see what the wedding party is wearing. If they’re all in lilac, skip the lilac pantsuit you were thinking about.

What if I’m plus size? Pregnant or nursing? Over 60? Very tall, etc.?

If you Google “wedding guest outfit” and don’t feel represented by the images that pop up, you are not alone. Most of us are not thin, white models with unlimited budgets who look good in anything!

The key is to choose an outfit that works for you. It’s much more important that you feel comfortable and confident than it is that you are perfectly on theme and look like you walked out of the pages of a wedding magazine.

What should wedding guests wear to a…

…beach wedding?

For a summer beach wedding think light materials and light colours, fun and floral prints, and sunglasses! If the ceremony is actually on the beach, consider what footwear will be most practical. And pack a light sweater for cool beach nights.

…winter wedding?

A winter wedding usually means darker colours, longer sleeves and heavier materials. Rejoice that you won’t be sweating through that suit jacket! If it’s snowing, think about trading heels for boots and looking for a more formal (yet warm) coat.

…courthouse wedding?

Courthouse weddings or elopements are generally more casual and have a smaller guest list. Dress smart, but not overly formal or fancy. These intimate weddings are often conducted with everyone standing, so ensure your outfit (and your shoes!) are comfortable enough to stand in.

…Halloween wedding?

If the couple is hosting a Halloween wedding, double check that costumes are encouraged. If they are, go ahead and lean into the theme and arrive in costume. Opt for a fun costume while avoiding anything too racy, too gory or too anti-wedding (Bride of Chucky, we’re looking at you).

…helicopter elopement?

If you’re lucky enough to join the limited guest list for a helicopter elopement, you’re in for a very special wedding day! Enjoy the views but dress appropriately. Mountaintops can be cold and covered in snow so choose closed-toe shoes and consider layers, such as leggings under your dress/pants.

How do I make wedding guest outfits less stressful?

With weddings becoming bigger and bigger every year, it only makes sense that figuring out what to wear as a wedding guest could cause some stress. And if you’re a wedding guest who is on a budget, doesn’t wear standard sizes or is facing a confusing dress code, it can be that much more stressful.

When the stress starts to get to you, just remember: This wedding is not about you (harsh, but true). Sure, you want to look nice. But ultimately, this is not your day and all eyes will not be on you. Rather than be offended, think of this as your permission to care a little bit less about your outfit. You can breathe easy!

If you’re still feeling stressed, make sure you give yourself lots of time to find or decide on an outfit. The last thing you want to do is have to rush to pick something at the last moment.

It can also be helpful to set a budget, especially if you’re worried about ballooning wedding expenses. Commit to a number that you feel comfortable spending and try not to go over it. See our tips above for outfit shopping on a budget.

4 clothes for wedding guests rules

Before you start shopping (or thrifting) for your wedding guest outfit, keep these four important rules in mind:

1. Dress practically. Trust us, you won’t feel so gorgeous if you’re stuck in a pantsuit that you can’t sit down in without ripping. Skip anything where the zipper won’t stay up, you can’t move your arms or you otherwise feel uncomfortable.
2. Dress for the weather. Sure, that wool suit is stunning, but it won’t feel so great during a sweltering beach ceremony. Neither will that sheer mini dress at a New Year’s Eve outdoor wedding in Whistler.
3. Dress for your body. Choose an outfit that works for the beautiful body you have and makes you feel comfortable and confident. Opt for colours, patterns or silhouettes you know work for you, rather than things that happen to be trendy.
4. Don’t forget your footwear. Factor your shoes into your outfit equation. Do they work for the weather and venue? Are they comfortable enough to wear all night? Do they match the rest of your look?

For more wedding guest posts check out:

• The Do’s & Don’ts of Wedding Guest Ceremony Behaviour
• 19 Ways to Involve Your Guests in Your Wedding Ceremony
• 11 Things Every Guest Wants at a Wedding Ceremony

Congratulations, your daughter is getting married! While you’re likely beaming with pride, you may also be a little worried about the dreaded father of the bride speech you have to give.

Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. By the time you’ve finished reading this post you’ll have an awesome speech and all the skills needed to deliver it with confidence.

As wedding officiants, our job is all about the words spoken at weddings. We’ve helped thousands of couples write their vows, and countless friends and family members write their speeches, toasts and readings.

Whether you’re going for something sentimental or silly (or somewhere in between!) for your father of the bride speech, our template below will help you put all of your feelings into words. We’ll then inspire you with some ideas and share our best tips for nailing your speech.

Template for a father’s speech to his daughter on her wedding day

Think of our five-step template below as your father of the bride speech requirements. Follow this format and you’ll have the perfect speech for your daughter’s big day!

1. Introduction and welcome

Start off nice and easy by introducing yourself to anyone who might not know you and sharing how happy and proud you are to be there. You can also thank guests for attending and celebrating with you.

This is a great time to welcome your new child-in-law into the family and extend that welcome to their parents and siblings as well.

2. Memories with your daughter

The most sentimental part of your father of the bride speech happens here when you share some happy memories with your daughter. Choose 1-2 stories that represent the bond you two share and show off some of your daughter’s best traits.

3. Story of the couple

Don’t forget that your speech isn’t just about your daughter – it’s about their partner too. Make sure to talk about the two of them as a couple.

You can share a story about them, talk about how they’ve helped each other grow or explain when you knew their partner was the one.

4. Wisdom and well wishes

As you start to wrap up your speech, end with some marital wisdom and/or well wishes for the happy couple.

Marriage advice often sounds best coming from someone with many happily married years under their belt. If that’s not you, feel free to skip the advice and stick to well wishes for the couple’s future instead.

5. Toast

The last thing you’ll want to do is ask everyone to join you in raising their glasses as you toast to the newlyweds. Cheers!

Ideas for different types of wedding speeches by the father of the bride

Below we’ve got some tips and ideas for different father of the bride speech scenarios. If you find yourself a little stuck with your speech writing, check out our ideas below.

Not the father of the bride but father of the groom? We’ve got a post for fathers of the grooms right here!

Father of the bride speech for a 2nd marriage

If this isn’t your first rodeo giving a speech at your daughter’s wedding (aka if this is her second marriage), you may be a little stumped. Since many of the guests were at her first wedding, you can’t exactly bring out the old speech and reread it!

We recommend writing a new speech and focusing on your daughter’s new relationship. Keep it personal to this couple and try to think of different stories you can tell from your daughter’s childhood.

And trust us, there’s no need to bring up the ex or the fact that this is a second wedding.

Wedding welcome speech by the father of the bride

If you daughter and their partner have tasked you with giving the welcome speech, that likely means you’re the first speaker of the night. Luckily, you can still follow our father of the bride speech template above.

All you need to do is elaborate on the welcome portion. Spend a few more sentences welcoming guests and thanking them for attending.

Check in with your daughter to see if there are any special welcomes she’d like you to make, such as to out-of-town guests.

Christian wedding father of the bride speech

If you want to include your Christian religion in your speech, there are lots of ways to do so. You can include a favourite or meaningful Bible verse that inspires a story about your daughter or your well wishes for the newlyweds.

You could also open or close your speech with a prayer. For some inspiration, check out our list of wedding prayers and blessings, as well as alternatives to the (often overused) 1 Corinthians 13.

Funny father of the bride wedding speech

Many fathers want to include a little dad humour in their speeches. If you’re known as the funny guy in your family, go for it! But proceed with caution.

A little joke here or there is fine, but remember this isn’t a comedy roast. You don’t need a zinger at the end of every sentence and none of your jokes should be embarrassing to the bride or their partner.

To tickle your funny bone, check out our best wedding jokes and puns.

Father of the bride speech for a gay wedding

If your daughter is marrying their LGBTQ+ partner, there’s not too much you’ll need to change about your speech. After all, you’re still a proud dad supporting your daughter as they marry the love of their life!

Above all, you want to make sure your daughter knows how much you love, respect and support them and their marriage.

If you don’t already know, check in with your daughter to make sure you’re using everyone’s correct pronouns and wedding day titles (e.g. “bride & groom” might not be appropriate). Here’s a refresher on inclusive language for a wedding!

7 tips to write the best wedding speech ever as the father of the bride

Now that you’ve got your speech template and ideas for different speech scenarios, it’s time to share our seven best speech writing and delivery tips so you can rock it on the big day!

1. Write your speech down on paper

One of our biggest pet peeves as wedding officiants is when people read off their phones at weddings. We know it’s the 21st Century and everyone does everything on their phones, but can we all agree it just doesn’t look great?

Not only does reading off your phone look a little tacky in photos, but it’s also a disaster waiting to happen. What if your phones dies or you lose signal? What if you accidentally scroll too far or exit out of your Notes app?

Instead, go the old fashioned route with paper. You can handwrite or type out your speech – just make sure the text is large and legible.

Not only does reading off of paper look so much better in photos, but it also shows you put time and effort into your speech. Plus, it makes a great keepsake for you or your daughter after the wedding.

2. Practice, practice, practice

While we don’t recommend trying to memorize your speech (we’ve seen many minds go blank in the heat of the moment!), we do recommend taking some time to practice beforehand.

Practice your speech out loud, not just in your head. Get comfortable with the words you wrote, where you’ll take breaths, and moments that might be met with laughter, tears or applause.

You can stand up and practice in front of the mirror or, if you want some feedback, practice in front of a few friends or family members. Your daughter will definitely be impressed on the big day when you show up with a well-rehearsed speech!

3. Speak loudly and slowly

Sometimes the best speeches are lost when a speaker is talking a mile a minute or is whispering so quietly no one can hear them. Don’t let that speaker be you!

Another reason why we practice ahead of time is so we can get used to speaking at the right pace and volume. This is where having a few loved ones around to give you feedback can be helpful.

On the big day, you may be using a microphone and the nerves may make you want to speak faster. To combat this, you can ask someone in the crowd to give you a little hand signal if they think you should speak up or slow down.

Take a deep breath, dad. You worked hard on your speech and every word deserves to be heard.

4. Prepare for emotions

Even the most stoic of fathers have been known to shed a tear or two on their daughters’ wedding days. Rather than avoid any emotional moments, we encourage you to embrace them. There’s nothing sweeter than a dad tearing up!

Don’t be afraid to get emotional during your speech. Bring along a glass of water or tissue if you think you’ll need a moment to compose yourself. Everyone will understand.

5. Keep it short and sweet

Before you start writing your father of the bride speech, check in with your daughter about how long your speech should be. If they don’t know, aim for 2-4 minutes.

Long speeches are just that – looooong! Guests get bored and restless if they have to sit through anything over five minutes. And assuming there are other speeches and events throughout the night, your lengthy speech could delay everything.

So keep it short and sweet – long enough to be sincere but not so long that people start to look at their watches. You’ll also want to ask when in the evening you’ll be speaking so you’re ready to go at the right time.

6. Skip the controversial or embarrassing jokes

Even if you’re the most hilarious guy in the family, your daughter’s wedding is not the time to try out all of your best stand up material. Yes, you can make some jokes, but keep them G-rated.

That means nothing embarrassing or cringe-worthy and nothing that would be pushing boundaries. If you’re not sure whether a joke is funny or offensive, go ahead and skip it.

Remember that you’re here to celebrate your daughter and her new marriage. Any jokes you tell should be respectful to your daughter and appropriate for a wedding.

7. Don’t forget their partner

Many parents of the bride or groom get so swept up in telling emotional stories about their own child that they completely forget this day is actually about two people. Even though you’re the father of the bride, you can’t completely ignore their partner.

That’s why our wedding speech template above has a specific section for you to talk about your daughter’s partner and the two of them as a couple.

While sharing stories from your daughter’s childhood is sweet, nothing is more special to her (and all of the guests) than knowing how much you support her marriage and love your new child-in-law.

CHECK OUT MORE OF OUR WEDDING SPEECH RESOURCES:

• 4 Mother of the Groom Wedding Speech Samples
• Father of the Groom Rehearsal Dinner Speech Samples
• How to Write Your Wedding Speech as the Mother of the Bride
• How to Write Your Wedding Speech as the Father of the Bride
• How to Write an Incredible Best Man Speech
• 5 Maid of Honor Speech Examples
• 12 Tips for Wedding Readers
• The Ultimate Wedding Toast Guide
• How to Write A Killer Bride or Groom Wedding Speech

Congratulations, your dear friend or maybe your sister has asked you to be their maid of honor. What an honor, indeed! Along with standing by their side and planning a bachelorette party, you’ve also been asked to give a maid of honor speech.

Before you panic, know that we have your back. As wedding officiants, we’ve written words for thousands of weddings, coached couples through writing their vows, and helped wedding party members with their speeches and readings. We’ve got you covered!

Below you’ll find our sure-fire template for writing your speech and five maid of honor speech examples to inspire yours. Plus, some of our best tips to ensure your speech goes as smoothly as possible!

Follow this maid of honor speech template

Step 1: Introduction

Start off your maid of honor speech by introducing yourself. Who are you and how do you know the couple of the hour?

Step 2: About the bride

Next, share some sweet memories that you share with the bride. Is there a funny story about how you first met or when you knew you’d be friends for life? Or maybe a memory that perfectly encapsulates the bride’s personality?

Step 3: About their partner

While you may be BFFs or related to the bride, this wedding is about both the bride and their partner. Don’t forget to include their other half! Even if you don’t know them well, try to think of a story to share or reflect on how they’ve changed the bride’s life.

Step 4: About the couple

As you start to wrap up your speech, speak about the couple as a pair. What do you admire about them? What do you wish for their future together? If appropriate, what advice do you want to share?

Step 5: Toast

Lastly, end your MOH speech with a toast. Don’t forget to ask all of the guests to join you in raising their glasses as you celebrate the newlyweds!

5 examples of maid of honor wedding speeches

What better way to inspire your own writing and see our template in practice than by checking out some maid of honor speech examples? Read through these and you’ll be ready to pull out your pen and get to writing.

1. Maid of honor speech to your sister

Good evening! For those who don’t know me, my name is [Your Name], and I have the incredible privilege of being the maid of honor and the very proud sister of our beautiful bride, [Bride’s Name].

Growing up with [Bride’s Name] was nothing short of an adventure. I remember one summer, we decided to camp out in our backyard. [Bride’s Name], being the determined person she is, insisted we build the tent ourselves. We ended up with more of a fabric sculpture than a tent, but we laughed all night under the stars, making memories I’ll cherish forever.

When [Partner’s Name] came into the picture, I knew they were special. One particular moment stands out: we were at a family gathering, and I saw how naturally they fit in. They were playing with our younger cousins, completely at ease and making everyone laugh. That was when I realized they was not just another passing relationship; they were someone truly remarkable.

Seeing [Bride’s Name] and [Partner’s Name] together is witnessing a perfect harmony. They complement each other in the most beautiful ways. [Bride’s Name] brings spontaneity and passion, while [Partner’s Name] brings calm and thoughtfulness. Together, they create a balance that inspires all of us to believe in true love.

Please join me in raising your glasses. Here’s to [Bride’s Name] and [Partner’s Name]. May your lives together be filled with endless love, laughter, and adventure. Cheers!

2. Funny maid of honor speech

Hi everyone! I’m [Your Name], and I have the great pleasure of being [Bride’s Name]’s friend and maid of honor. I’m here to share some stories and, hopefully, a few laughs.

First, let me tell you about the time [Bride’s Name] and I decided to take up yoga. It sounded like a peaceful, zen activity. Fast forward to us tangled in poses that should come with a warning label. [Bride’s Name] managed to turn falling out of tree pose into a graceful dance move. Needless to say, our yoga career was short-lived, but the laughter we shared was worth every awkward stretch.

Now, let me tell you about [Partner’s Name]. When I first met [Partner’s Name], it was at a Halloween party. He was dressed as a giant taco, and [Bride’s Name] was a hot sauce bottle. It was clear from the start that they were a match made in culinary heaven. Anyone who can rock a taco costume with that much confidence is alright in my book!

As a couple, [Bride’s Name] and [Partner’s Name] are like a perfectly mixed cocktail – [Bride’s Name] is the fun, fizzy soda, and [Partner’s Name] is the reliable, steady whiskey. Together, they make every moment delightful, with just the right amount of buzz and warmth. Their adventures, from epic road trips to quiet movie nights, are filled with laughter and love.

So, let’s raise our glasses to [Bride’s Name] and [Partner’s Name]. May your days be as bright and bubbly as your personalities, and your nights as cozy and comforting as your love. To a lifetime of happiness and humor – cheers!

3. Maid of honor speech for your best friend

Good evening! My name is [Your Name], and I have the absolute pleasure of being [Bride’s Name]’s best friend and maid of honor. I’ve known [Bride’s Name] for [number] years, and tonight, I’m thrilled to share in this beautiful celebration of love.

From the moment I met [Bride’s Name], I knew she was someone special. She has this incredible ability to light up any room with her smile and make everyone around her feel valued and loved. We’ve shared so many wonderful memories together – late-night talks, adventures, and countless laughs. Through it all, I’ve watched her grow into the amazing person she is today.

Then along came [Partner’s Name]. From the first time I saw them together, it was clear that [Partner’s Name] was a perfect match. I saw the way [Partner’s Name] looked at [Bride’s Name], with so much love and admiration, and I knew [Bride’s Name] had found someone who truly understood and cherished her. [Partner’s Name], you complement [Bride’s Name] in the most beautiful ways, bringing out the best in each other.

[Bride’s Name] and [Partner’s Name]’s love is built on mutual respect, deep understanding, and unwavering support. They share a bond that is both inspiring and heartwarming, showing us all what true love really looks like. Seeing them together gives me faith in the power of love and partnership.

So, let’s raise our glasses to [Bride’s Name] and [Partner’s Name]. May your life together be filled with endless joy, unwavering love, and countless beautiful moments. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness and a love that grows stronger every day. Cheers!

4. Maid of honor speech with quotes

Hello, I’m [Your Name], and I have the absolute joy of being [Bride’s Name]’s maid of honor. Tonight, we’re gathered to celebrate the love story of [Bride’s Name] and [Partner’s Name], a story that has inspired all of us.

When I first met [Bride’s Name], I was immediately drawn to her infectious laughter and boundless kindness. One of my favorite quotes by Maya Angelou says, “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” [Bride’s Name], you have always made everyone around you feel cherished and loved, and I am so grateful for your friendship.

From the very beginning, I could see the connection [Bride’s Name] and [Partner’s Name] shared. [Partner’s Name], your tenderness and care for [Bride’s Name] are evident in everything you do, and it’s clear that you two were meant to find each other.

Together, [Bride’s Name] and [Partner’s Name] create a beautiful partnership built on love, respect, and shared dreams. Their love story brings to mind another favorite quote, this one by Rumi: “The minute I heard my first love story, I started looking for you, not knowing how blind that was. Lovers don’t finally meet somewhere. They’re in each other all along.” Watching the two of you together, it’s clear that you have found in each other what your hearts have always sought.

So, let’s raise our glasses to [Bride’s Name] and [Partner’s Name]. May your journey together be filled with the same love, joy, and tenderness that you share today. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness and to a love that continues to grow. Cheers!

5. Short maid of honor speech

Hello everyone! I’m [Your Name], and I have the incredible privilege of standing here today as maid of honor for [Bride’s Name] and her amazing partner, [Partner’s Name].

[Bride’s Name], from the moment we met, your kindness and spirit have always stood out. Meeting [Partner’s Name], I saw the perfect match for you— she is someone who complements your strengths and shares your dreams.

Together, you two exemplify the true meaning of love and partnership. Watching you grow and build a life together has been nothing short of inspiring.

So, let’s raise our glasses to [Bride’s Name] and [Partner’s Name]. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness, love, and endless adventures together. Cheers!

Our best maid of honor speech advice

1. Write your speech out and practice it

We are big proponents of having speeches on paper, not on your phone! Phones look tacky in photos and leave you worrying about wifi or battery life. Instead, write or type your speech onto a piece of paper.

And take time to practice! While you don’t have to memorize your speech, you should be familiar with all of the words. If you’re nervous, practice in front of the mirror or a few friends until you feel more comfortable.

2. No inside or embarrassing stories

Save the cringe jokes for the bachelorette party! Your maid of honor wedding speech is not the time to share detailed inside stories no one will understand, tell embarrassing jokes that will make any grandparents present blush, or bring up exes or illegal activities.

You can still be humorous but keep things PG. If you’re not sure if your joke goes too far, run it by a trusted friend.

3. Don’t forget the bride’s partner

Just because you’re BFFs with the bride doesn’t mean you can forget their partner. Remember this wedding is about both of them, not just a walk down memory lane for you and your bestie.

If you haven’t spent a ton of time with their partner and can’t think of any stories to tell, focus on what you do know. How do they make the bride feel? How have they influenced her life? How do they complement each other?

4. Only share thanks and advice that are appropriate

One thing we see a lot in MOH and best man speeches is the speaker thanking all of the guests for attending. While we understand this is a nice sentiment, it’s not actually appropriate. Only the hosts of the wedding should be doing this. It would be like attending someone else’s birthday party and thanking everyone for coming – not your job!

Another thing we hear is speakers giving marital advice. Again, this is a very nice gesture. However, you need to consider if it’s appropriate for you. If you haven’t been married, you don’t need to give marital advice. Instead, just offer well wishes to the couple.

5. Stick to your time limit

Typically, maid of honor speeches are 2-5 minutes long. However, double check with the couple how long they want your speech to be. Whatever length of time they give you, stick to it! No one wants to sit through a long speech and very short speeches can feel abrupt and insincere.

6. Pace your drinking

As a member of the wedding party, it’s likely you’ll be a few drinks in before it’s speech time. So we want to remind you to pace yourself. You don’t want to give a speech where you’re slurring your words, falling down or repeating yourself.

Find out exactly when your speech is happening and ensure you’re sober enough to deliver it. A little liquid courage beforehand is okay but too much could be a disaster. Save the celebratory shots until after the speeches are done.

CHECK OUT MORE OF OUR WEDDING SPEECH RESOURCES:

• 4 Mother of the Groom Wedding Speech Samples
• Father of the Groom Rehearsal Dinner Speech Samples
• How to Write Your Wedding Speech as the Mother of the Bride
• How to Write Your Wedding Speech as the Father of the Bride
• How to Write an Incredible Best Man Speech
• 5 Maid of Honor Speech Examples
• 12 Tips for Wedding Readers
• The Ultimate Wedding Toast Guide
• How to Write A Killer Bride or Groom Wedding Speech

Congratulations, your daughter is getting married! As the mother of the bride, we bet you’re filled with all sorts of emotions as the big day approaches. And if you’ve been asked to give a mother of the bride wedding speech, one of those emotions might be full on terror.

But don’t worry! As professional wedding officiants, we talk at weddings for a living. We have tons of experience helping couples craft their vows and helping wedding party members prepare their speeches and readings.

A mother of the bride speech is an awesome opportunity for you to highlight the bond between you and your daughter, share your well wishes and wisdom with the happy couple, and take the mic – because you earned it! Traditionally, only men spoke at weddings. But we believe mamas deserve a turn too!

Below, we’ll walk you through exactly how to write your mother of the bride speech, inspire you with some sample speeches and answer some frequently asked questions so you speech goes off without a hitch!

Template for a mother of the bride speech for your daughter’s wedding

Follow these five steps to write your perfect speech for your daughter’s wedding!

PS: Not your daughter getting married but your son? Check out our tips for mother of the groom speeches.

Step 1: Introduce yourself and welcome everyone

Start your speech off nice and easy by introducing yourself. While your side of the family likely knows who you are, some of the guests may not. So let everyone know you’re the proud mother of the bride!

After introducing yourself, share a welcome message. If you’re hosting the wedding (i.e. paying for it), it’s appropriate for you to welcome all of the guests. If you’re co-hosting, you can still say something like, “Thank you all for joining us in celebrating [daughter’s name] and [partner’s name]’s special day.”

You also want to welcome your new in-laws! Welcome your new child-in-law to the family and extend that welcome to their parents as well. You’re all one big happy family now!

Step 2: Share a happy memory about your daughter

Jump into the meat of your speech by sharing a special memory of your daughter. As their mother, you likely have so many to choose from. But you’ll want to be selective so your speech doesn’t carry on for 10+ minutes!

Choose one or two stories to share that highlight the best qualities of your daughter or speak to your bond. Avoid stories that are embarrassing, confusing, too long or too full of inside jokes. It’s best if the memory you share can relate to the rest of your speech.

PS: Don’t worry about getting too emotional. It’s completely fine to take a moment and wipe your (hopefully happy) tears. However, if the memory you’re sharing leaves you so emotional you’re unable to speak, maybe choose a different one.

Step 3: Include their partner

As much as this speech is about your daughter, it’s also about their partner. Don’t forget to include your new child-in-law in your wedding speech.

You can do this by sharing a cute story of the two of them together, how you knew they were the one or what you love best about them as a partner for your daughter. Don’t forget to speak from your unique POV as the mother of the bride.

Step 4: Talk about their future together

As you begin to wrap up your wedding speech, tie the stories and memories you’ve shared to the couple’s happy future. You can reflect on their past accomplishments, let them know how proud you are of them and share your well wishes for their bright future ahead.

This is the perfect time to share a little marital wisdom or sage advice for the couple. Just keep it short and sweet! Go with a meaningful sentiment rather than something controversial, lengthy or too specific.

Step 5: End with a toast!

Last but not least, you want to end your mother of the bride wedding speech with a toast. Ask all of the guests to join you in raising their glasses as you cheers to the newlyweds!

Sample wedding speeches for the mother of the bride

To inspire your own speech, check out these sample mother of the bride wedding speeches and toasts.

Sample wedding toast by the mother of the bride

If your daughter has asked you to make a short wedding toast rather than a longer wedding speech, keep things short and sweet like in this example:

Good evening, everyone. For those who don’t know me, I’m [Your Name], the mother of the bride. Thank you all for being here to celebrate this special day.

Ever since [Bride’s Name] was a little girl, she has always had a natural ability to make everyone around her feel loved and cared for. When she met [Partner’s Name], it was clear she had found someone who brings out the best in her. Together, they are a perfect match.

Please join me in a toast to the happy couple. Wishing you both a lifetime of happiness, love, and laughter. Cheers!

Wedding welcome speech by the mother of the bride

Perhaps you’re giving the first speech of the night, which means it’s up to you to welcome everyone. Remember that you want to welcome the guests as well as your new family members!

For those who don’t know me, I’m [Your Name], the mother of the bride. I’d like to start by extending a warm welcome to all of you. Thank you for being here to celebrate this wonderful day with us.

Today is not just a union of two people, but also the coming together of two families. I want to take a moment to welcome [Partner’s Name] and their family into ours. We are so grateful to have you all here and to be joining our families together.

[Bride’s Name], you have always been the light of our lives, and seeing you so happy with [Partner’s Name] fills our hearts with joy. [Partner’s Name], we are thrilled to welcome you as a son-in-law and a cherished member of our family.

Please join me in raising a glass to the happy couple and our newly united families. Here’s to a future filled with love, laughter, and many wonderful memories together. Cheers!

Mother of the bride wedding speech with jokes

Want to keep your speech fun and lighthearted? Add in some humour! Rather than trying to write a comedy routine, focus on a few funny stories that will make guests smile and laugh along with you.

Hello, everyone! For those who don’t know me, I’m [Your Name], the proud mother of the bride. Thank you all for being here to celebrate this wonderful day with us.

Raising [Bride’s Name] has been a delightful adventure. When she was little, she had a knack for turning every room into a circus. I always joked that we didn’t need a TV because [Bride’s Name] provided all the entertainment we could ever need. Whether it was her impromptu dance performances or her creative “redecorating” of the living room, she kept us on our toes and laughing every day.

When she met [Partner’s Name], I knew they were special because they not only joined in on the fun but also brought a sense of calm to the “Hurricane [Bride’s Name]” we all know and love. [Partner’s Name], you’ve shown that you can match her energy and bring out the best in her. We couldn’t be happier to welcome you into our family.

Now, as you two start this new chapter together, I have one piece of advice: Keep laughing together. Life is full of ups and downs, and a good sense of humour will carry you through both.

Friends and family, please join me in raising a glass to the happy couple. Here’s to love, laughter, and a lifetime of shared joy. Cheers!

Heartfelt mother of the bride wedding reception speech

Get inspired to speak from the heart with this meaningful wedding speech example:

Good evening, everyone. For those who don’t know me, I’m [Your Name], the proud mother of this beautiful bride. I want to start by welcoming all of you and thanking you for being here to celebrate this joyous occasion with us.

As I stand here today, I can’t help but reflect on the incredible journey that brought us to this moment. One story that comes to mind is when [Bride’s Name] was just a little girl. She would always insist on organizing these elaborate tea parties for her dolls and teddy bears, with every detail perfectly planned and executed. Even then, she showed a remarkable capacity for love, care, and attention to detail. It’s no surprise that she has grown into the remarkable woman we see before us today.

When [Bride’s Name] met [Partner’s Name], it was clear that she had found someone who complements her perfectly. [Partner’s Name], your kindness, patience, and unwavering support have brought out the best in [Bride’s Name]. Together, you are a perfect team, facing life’s challenges with grace and celebrating each other’s successes with joy.

As you embark on this new chapter of your lives together, my wish for you is to continue building a life filled with love, laughter, and endless happiness. May your marriage be as wonderful as the love you share today.

Friends and family, please raise your glasses and join me in a toast to [Bride’s Name] and [Partner’s Name]. Here’s to new adventures, shared dreams and a future filled with all the wonderful moments that make life truly special. Cheers!

Mother of the bride wedding speech FAQs 

Before you start writing, read through our FAQs below and check out our top tips for wedding toasts!

How long is the mother of the bride speech?

Wedding speeches can vary in length from 2-10 minutes. We think the perfect length of time for a mother of the bride speech is 3-4 minutes. That gives you enough time to share a story or two but not so much time that guests get bored.

Before you commit to a specific speech length, check in with your daughter and their partner. They likely have a time limit in mind for all of their speakers.

How do you begin a mother of the bride speech?

Start your MOB speech by introducing yourself, thanking guests for joining you in celebrating your daughter’s wedding, and welcoming your new child-in-law and their family into your family.

This could sound like, “Good evening! For those who don’t know me, my name is [your name] and I am the proud mother of the bride. Thank you all for being here today to join us in celebrating [bride’s name] and [partner’s name] wedding. I’d like to extend a special welcome to [partner’s name], their parents and their siblings. We are so excited to have you all as part of our family!” 

How do I write a mother of the bride speech for a gay wedding?

The format of your speech can be largely the same no matter who your daughter is marrying. You can still share a story about your daughter, talk about their partner and offer well wishes for their future together. Follow along with our speech writing template above.

If you don’t already know, check in with your daughter to ensure you’re using the correct terms and pronouns for them and their partner. They may prefer to be called “partners,” “spouses,” “newlyweds” or even just by their names, rather than using terms like “bride” or “groom.”

What are some wedding toast ideas for the mother of the bride?

If you’re stuck on what stories to share or what to talk about in the middle of your speech (after the intro and before the toast), here are some wedding toast ideas:

• Something funny your daughter did in their childhood
• An important moment you shared with your daughter
• A family memory you cherish, like a trip or holiday
• When your daughter and their partner first met
• When you knew their partner was the one
• A memory you share with your daughter and their partner
• The best traits your daughter and their partner bring out in one another

CHECK OUT MORE OF OUR WEDDING SPEECH RESOURCES:

• 4 Mother of the Groom Wedding Speech Samples
• Father of the Groom Rehearsal Dinner Speech Samples
• How to Write Your Wedding Speech as the Mother of the Bride
• How to Write Your Wedding Speech as the Father of the Bride
• How to Write an Incredible Best Man Speech
• 5 Maid of Honor Speech Examples
• 12 Tips for Wedding Readers
• The Ultimate Wedding Toast Guide
• How to Write A Killer Bride or Groom Wedding Speech