So your son has asked you to speak at his wedding…but you don’t know where to start! No worries, below we’re sharing four mother of the groom wedding speech samples, from the short and sweet to the hilarious or religious, so you can find the perfect words for your own speech. Plus, we’re sharing the six-part structure to the perfect parent speech and seven tips to ensure you nail it on reception night!
Ready? Let’s write that mother of the groom speech!
Heads up: While this post is directed at mothers of grooms, our advice, tips and examples below will apply to all parents of the couple getting married. Since not all weddings have grooms – and not all grooms have mothers – these speech skills are for everyone.
What should I say in my son’s wedding speech?
Here is the basic structure for any good parent speech at their child’s wedding:
Part 1: Introduction
Introduce yourself! Tell the crowd your name and your relationship to the couple. If it’s a fairly small wedding you can include a caveat like “As most of you know, I’m Oliver’s mom,” since most people will know who you are. You may also want to welcome everyone to the wedding, but this is often only appropriate if you’re hosting the wedding (aka paying for it).
Part 2: Words about your child
Next, share some words about your son. This section should be a few sentences about how happy you are for your son, how proud you are of him, and maybe a short story that highlights your special mother-son relationship.
Part 3: Words about your child’s partner
Remember, this speech isn’t all about your son! You also want to spend some time talking about your son’s new spouse. Welcome them to the family, talk about how you knew they were the one, and mention what traits you love most about them.
Part 4: Story about the couple
While it can be tempting in a mother of the groom speech to just tell stories about your son growing up, save those stories and focus instead on the newlyweds as a couple. Do you have a favourite memory with both of them? Was there a particular moment when you knew they were meant to be? Maybe a sweet story about their first date or engagement?
Ideally, you want to choose a story that is short and sweet, that reflects who the couple is, and is told from your point of view. It would be odd for you to tell their engagement story if it didn’t involve you, just like it would be cringe-worthy to tell a story that embarrasses your son or his new spouse. Don’t overthink this. Any sweet memory you’ve shared with the couple will do!
Part 5: Marriage advice and well wishes
As you’re starting to wrap up your speech, you may want to share some words of wisdom for the newlyweds’ future together. This can be based on your own marriage or marriage advice you’ve heard. Again, don’t overthink this! If you don’t have any sage wisdom to share, you can simply say a sentence or two wishing your son and his new spouse all the best.
Part 6: End with a toast
The best way to end any wedding speech is with a toast. This is where you will ask all of the guests to join you in raising a glass to the happy newlyweds!
When does the mother of the groom wedding speech happen?
Parent speeches usually happen during the reception as part of the speech line-up. Depending on what your son is planning, he may ask you to open the speeches or speak somewhere in the middle. You may even close the speeches, but often the newlywed couple makes the last speech so they can thank everyone else for speaking.
Make sure you check in with the couple about exactly when you’re speaking so you’re prepared. Find out what time your speech is scheduled for and who you’re speaking after, just in case the schedule is delayed. That way, you can make sure your drink is topped up and you’re not in the bathroom when it’s time to give your speech!
Does a mother of the newlyweds have to speak at the wedding?
No, wedding speeches are not mandatory. Not all couples have speeches at their reception and not all couples want their parents to take part in those speeches. And even if your child does ask you to speak, you can always say no. (However, we hope you don’t!)
Traditionally, only men spoke at weddings. It was the father of the bride, the groom and the best man who gave speeches. These days, speeches are opening up to folks from both families and of all genders, but it’s still mostly men we hear from. With the father of the bride traditionally getting the spotlight role of walking the bride down the aisle, we love the idea of letting moms speak at the reception. More women’s voices in weddings please!
If you’re nervous about speaking at the wedding, check out some of our tips below. Remember that this is just a short speech delivered in front of people who love you and your child. If you think you’ll need some support at the mic, consider asking another family member to give the speech with you. Try not to let your nerves stand in the way of this special moment!
4 mother of the groom wedding speech samples
Heartfelt mother of the groom wedding speech sample
Family and friends, I stand before you today with a heart full of joy and gratitude as the mother of the groom. This is a momentous occasion, and I couldn’t be happier to celebrate the love that has brought us all together.
I have watched my son grow into the incredible man he is today. From a young age, he has always been compassionate, caring, and thoughtful. He has a heart of gold, and I am so proud of the person he has become.
And then, along came [Partner’s Name]. It was clear from the very beginning that they were the missing piece to our family puzzle. Their warmth, kindness, and unwavering support have brought so much happiness into our lives, and I couldn’t have asked for a more perfect partner for my son.
I remember the day my son introduced us to [Partner’s Name]. The way their eyes lit up when they spoke about their shared dreams and aspirations was truly magical. From that moment, it was evident that they were destined to be together. Through thick and thin, they have shown us the strength of their love, always finding laughter and joy in each other’s company.
As my son embarks on this incredible journey called marriage, I want to offer a piece of advice that has guided my own marriage: Always communicate openly and honestly with each other. Listen with your hearts, be patient, and never forget to cherish the little moments.
If you will all join me in raising a glass to [Groom’s Name] and [Partner’s Name], two remarkable individuals who have found their forever love in each other. May your journey together be filled with laughter, adventure, and an abundance of love. Cheers!
Short & sweet mother of the groom wedding speech sample
Good evening, everyone. My name is [Name] and I am the happy mother of the groom. I am so excited to celebrate this day with you all.
My son, [Groom’s Name], has always been a source of pride and inspiration in our family. His dedication, his sense of humour, and his unwavering kindness have touched the hearts of everyone he meets. When [Partner’s Name] entered our lives, it was like a burst of sunshine on a cloudy day. They have brought immense joy and warmth into our family, and we are so grateful to have them in our lives.
Together, [Groom’s Name] and [Partner’s Name] have navigated life’s ups and downs, always supporting and uplifting one another. Their love has grown stronger with each passing day, and it’s an honour to witness their journey. My wish for you both as you start this new chapter is that you will embrace change together, and let your love grow stronger with each passing day.
So let’s all raise our glasses to [Groom’s Name] and [Partner’s Name]. May your love continue to shine brightly, blessing each other and everyone around you. Cheers!
Funny mother of the groom wedding speech sample
My name is [Name] and I am absolutely thrilled to be here today as the mother of the groom. They say weddings are a time for love, laughter, and happiness, and I intend to deliver on at least two of those fronts tonight!
Now, let me say a few words about my son, [Groom’s Name]. From the moment he was born, I knew he was special. He has always had a unique way of making us laugh, whether it’s with his goofy jokes or his charming smile. He’s a true comedian at heart, and he’s been keeping our family in stitches for years.
And then, along came [Partner’s Name]. I must say, [Partner’s Name], you have the patience of a saint to put up with my son’s antics! But your grace, your kindness, and your ability to roll with the punches have won all of our hearts. You’re the peanut butter to his jelly, and we couldn’t be happier to welcome you into our family.
They say that opposites attract, and that couldn’t be more true in this case. [Groom’s Name] is notorious for his messy habits, while [Partner’s Name] is the definition of neat and organized. I remember the day they moved in together, and it was like watching a sitcom. But, against all odds, they’ve managed to find harmony in their differences and build a beautiful life together.
[Groom’s Name] and [Partner’s Name], as you begin this exciting journey of marriage I want to remind you to keep the laughter alive! Life can throw some curveballs, but if you can find humour in the little things, you’ll get through it. A couple that laughs together, stays together.
So please join me as we raise our glasses to [Groom’s Name] and [Partner’s Name]. May your days be filled with laughter, your love be as strong as your sense of humour, and your life together be one hilarious adventure. Cheers to the funniest couple in the room!
Religious mother of the groom wedding speech sample
We gather here today to celebrate not only the union of [Groom’s Name] and [Partner’s Name] but also to acknowledge the divine presence that blesses this sacred bond. As the mother of the groom, I am profoundly grateful to be a part of this beautiful celebration.
I want to take a moment to praise my son, [Groom’s Name]. He has always possessed a strong faith and unwavering devotion. His commitment to his values and his compassion for others are a testament to the goodness in his heart.
[Partner’s Name], from the moment you entered our lives, it was evident that your faith was equally strong. Your kindness, your humility, and your genuine love for [Groom’s Name] have been a blessing to our family. We are grateful for your presence and your shared commitment to faith.
The love story of [Groom’s Name] and [Partner’s Name] has been guided by their faith. They have prayed together, found solace in their shared beliefs, and sought spiritual guidance through life’s challenges. Their journey is a testament to the power of faith in nurturing a love that is unbreakable.
[Groom’s Name] and [Partner’s Name], as you embark on this sacred journey of marriage, I want to remind you to trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. Seek His guidance in times of joy and tribulation, and let your faith be the cornerstone of your love. Together, may you find strength and peace in His presence.
Together, let us raise our glasses and offer a prayer for [Groom’s Name] and [Partner’s Name], that their marriage may be blessed with divine love, unwavering faith, and the grace of God. May their union be a shining example of the power of faith in love. Cheers to a blessed and joyous marriage!
PS: Looking for help with father of the groom rehearsal dinner speeches? We’ve got you covered!
7 tips for an awesome mother of the groom wedding speech
1. Write your speech down on paper
Your wedding speech should be written down on paper. Don’t try to memorize it, don’t make it up on the spot and don’t read it off your phone. Take the time to write or type your speech out onto a piece of paper for you to read and reference. This is the best way to guarantee a smooth speech delivery and it looks best in photos.
2. Practice your wedding speech
Just because you’re not memorizing it doesn’t mean you don’t need to practice your wedding speech. Practice saying your speech out loud in front of a mirror so you’re comfortable with all of the words. This will give you added confidence on the big day!
3. Include your spouse (if appropriate)
If appropriate, include your spouse in your speech. You may want to give the speech together, each saying different parts, or just have them stand next to you while you speak. If your relationship isn’t one where you’d like to give a speech together, you can still reference your spouse or your family in your speech.
4. Keep it short
Your wedding speech should be 2-3 minutes long. That’s the sweet spot for wedding speeches – any longer and people get bored, any shorter and people might blink and miss it. Aim for 2-3 minutes while writing and time yourself when you practice so you know how long your speech is.
5. Skip the embarrassing stories
You may have joked with your son that you were going to share his naked baby photos at his wedding but when it comes to your speech, keep the embarrassing stuff out. A funny little story is okay but anything that is going to make your son or his new spouse uncomfortable should not be included.
6. Mention your son’s new spouse and their family
We included this in the structure of a speech above but it bears repeating: Don’t forget to mention your son’s new spouse! So many mother of the groom speeches only focus on the groom with no mention of the person he’s marrying. Remember, this isn’t all about your son; this is about his marriage. Take the time to highlight your new child-in-law, speak directly to them in your speech, and make them and their family feel welcome.
7. Prepare for emotions
Many parents say they don’t want to give a speech at their child’s wedding because they fear they’ll get too emotional. But rather than letting that stop you from speaking, take some time to prepare for it in advance. By practicing your speech at home, you’ll be more comfortable with your words and the emotions they bring up. You can also practice grounding exercises and bring tissues with you to the podium. Plus, who doesn’t love a photo of a tearful mother-son hug?
Check out more tips for wedding speakers and readers here!
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
