how to write a father of the bride speech

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• Who Gives a Speech at a Wedding Reception? How to Write a Wedding Toast Tips for the Father of the Bride Speech How to Write a Best Man Toast Advice for the Maid of Honor Speech What to Know About a Newlywed Toast Public Speaking Experts' Wedding Speech Tips 60 Quotes to Use for Your Wedding Toast

How to Write and Deliver a Perfect Father-of-the-Bride Speech

We're taking the guesswork out of this important moment.

Photo by Tanya Menoni

In This Article

The father-of-the-bride speech is one of the most anticipated toasts of any wedding reception . If you're a dad, you've likely looked forward to (or maybe dreaded) giving this speech for a very long time. Now that the moment is growing closer, it's important to sit down and write a toast that not only you're proud of, but that the happy couple will remember for a lifetime. While it might seem difficult to find the right words to express the endless love you have for your daughter and your excitement for her life with her new spouse, it's those very emotions that are often the star of the show. Feel free to let those feelings flow through your speech—you'll likely see most of the guests grab their tissues.

With that said, even the most eloquent dads can struggle with getting those words down on paper. To get you started, we created an easy guide to follow when you're sitting down to frame your thoughts into a full-fledged speech. We've compiled some top-notch tips for writing that sure-to-be epic father-of-the-bride speech, plus a list of brainstorming ideas to jump-start the creative process.

Read on for advice on how to write and deliver your father-of-the-bride speech—the most memorable toast of the day.

Father-of-the-Bride Speech Template

Here's a general outline for writing a father-of-the-bride speech that’ll have everyone reaching for tissues.

Welcome the guests.

Typically, the parents of the couple are the first to speak at either the rehearsal dinner or the wedding reception. If you're the first toast-maker of the night, this would be the time to welcome all of the guests to the reception or whichever event you are delivering the speech at. You can do this welcome speech with your partner, on your own, or followed by your child's fiancé's parents. Of course, feel free to skip this step if you're not the first speech and the guests have already been welcomed.

Give thanks.

Since you have the mic, don't forget to express gratitude. Be sure to thank your friends and family for coming to the wedding, and the parents of your daughter's new spouse for anything and everything that they did.

Pepper in some fond memories.

Nothing gets the waterworks started like some heartfelt anecdotes from the bride's lifetime through the eyes of their beloved dad. Choose some especially warm memories from her childhood that always stick out in your mind or some funny (not embarrassing) trials from adolescence. If one of those special memories includes their significant other, definitely be sure to share that with the guests.

Share your pride.

As the father of the bride , you're entitled to be a very proud papa. Mention some especially big moments of pride for you and how much you cherish your daughter's achievements. Don't confuse this with an excuse to spout off their résumé, though. Only pick a couple of standout highlights that really speak to their character.

Remember that half the guests in attendance probably won't know your daughter all that well, so this is an excellent time to low-key introduce them to their best qualities and character traits.

Talk about the present.

Try not to live completely in the past, Dad! Discuss notable things that are occurring presently, on this momentous day as it's unfolding. While everyone is experiencing the events from their own perspective, your special POV provides a unique lens on the significance of the occasion.

Acknowledge your daughter's new spouse.

While you have so much to say about the bride, remember to mention and acknowledge their new spouse , too. Take this time to welcome them into your family and share what it means to you. You can also share some anecdotes of their relationship and what stood out to you most.

Tell your daughter you love them.

That's your baby right there, and this is the moment to tell them just how much they mean to you. Express how much you love and cherish your daughter. Remind them of how you've treasured your relationship together and how you think that relationship may be evolving or staying exactly the same.

Look to the future.

You've covered the past and present, now move on to the next chapter and speak about the shared future of the newlyweds. While you can always get creative with the flow of the speech, breaking things down in a classic chronological order is always easy for the guests to follow.

Add some parting wisdom.

Whether it's a piece of marriage advice or just your most heartfelt wishes for the newlyweds, include some sage wisdom for the happy couple. This is pinnacle dad-talk time, so be sure to really relish the moment. Just don't forget that there are other people present, and it's not just you and your daughter.

Father-of-the-Bride Speech Tips

Okay, Dad! Now that you have a general idea of what to include, take note of these essential tips for writing and giving the best father-of-the-bride speech anyone has ever heard.

Consider a theme.

Having an overarching theme from the get-go will set a tone for the speech as a whole. This should make it easier for you to succinctly organize your thoughts and choose relevant examples to showcase. Utilizing this type of framework will result in cohesive and meaningful content that will come across as inspired and have the audience hanging on every word.

Keep it short.

Though you've been waiting for this day to come for many years, try to keep your toast short and sweet. The ideal length is about five or six minutes with the three-minute mark being your lowest threshold for a proper speech. There may be a lot you want to say, and if that's the case, consider writing some of those heartfelt sentiments down beforehand and giving it to your daughter in a card to read privately the morning of the wedding.

Don't be too embarrassing.

Skip the stories that may make your daughter cringe or those memories that they wish you would just forget already. Remember, the speech is a toast and not a roast. Keep in mind that along with their newly minted spouse, a whole new family of in-laws and possibly even a few work colleagues will be present. So, if there's something you're on the fence about saying, consider if you would think the information appropriate for your in-laws and colleagues to learn about you.

Skip ex mentions.

If you have an urge to call out how terrible some ex-boyfriends or girlfriends were in the past, skip that little tidbit and keep it to yourself. There's never any good that can come from name-dropping old lovers at your daughter's wedding, no matter how much you really disliked old what's-their-name. Stick to positive anecdotes and memories that showcase your daughter's good side, not mistakes.

Don't push for laughs.

Oftentimes, you'll get laughs when you're not trying hard for them. Don't feel like you have to color your toast with joke line after joke line—it may come off as forced, especially if you're not normally the jokester in the bunch. The most important person in the room, your daughter, will definitely know if you're not being yourself, and all they really need is their dad—not a comedian.

Embrace your emotions.

It's an absolute given that this is an emotional day for you, so don't feel the need to act stoic and put up a façade. Stay genuine and admit to how difficult it is to let your child go. These admissions make for a touching moment, and we guarantee there won't be a dry eye left in the room. And we mean you, too, pops. Today is the day when it's perfectly okay to shed a tear or two.

Practice, practice, practice.

And then practice some more. It's important that you attempt to memorize your speech, and at the very least, have everything written down and a general idea of what you want to say. If memorizing the whole speech is a little too difficult to do in such a short amount of time, be sure to practice it enough beforehand so that you can make eye contact with the couple and the other guests.

Get Brainstorming!

If you're still drawing a blank, here are some questions to ask yourself to start brainstorming.

• Who is speaking directly before or after me? (You may want to introduce the next speaker or reference whoever spoke previously.)
• What emotions do I experience when I think of letting my daughter go?
• What do I wish for their marriage and life together, and how can I prepare them for that?
• Is there anything I would like to say to their in-laws or newly acquired family?
• Is there something in the order of events that the audience needs to know, prepare for, or be aware of? (Your role can also assume that of master of ceremonies, so be mindful of the flow of upcoming events and if you need to alert the guests.)

Traditionally, the father of the bride gives the first speech at a wedding. But, of course, couples can choose any order they want speeches to take place in. 

If the mother of the bride is speaking directly after the father of the bride, they may choose to stand next to their significant other during the speech. In other cases, the father will be standing alone with the bride's mother being at her seat. 

Whatever you do, don't feel stressed out by the idea of giving a speech. Keep it short, speak from the heart, and don't embarrass the couple (okay, don't embarrass them too much) and you'll be well on your way to the perfect toast.

A Guide to Wedding Reception Toasts

• Who Gives a Speech at a Wedding Reception?
• How to Write a Wedding Toast
• currently on Tips for the Father of the Bride Speech
• How to Write a Best Man Toast
• Advice for the Maid of Honor Speech
• What to Know About a Newlywed Toast
• Public Speaking Experts' Wedding Speech Tips
• 60 Quotes to Use for Your Wedding Toast

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How to Give a Father of the Bride Speech (That Isn’t Boring!)

Heartwarming and humorous father of the bride ice breaker speech for a memorable wedding reception. Learn to deliver those touching moments.

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Your daughter’s significant other has popped the question, and the thing that strikes fear in your heart isn’t the cost of the wedding but the father of the bride speech you’re expected to give at the wedding reception. It’s got to be endearing and heartfelt, with a dash of humor, all without putting the guests to sleep. 

Read on for how to craft a speech that will keep your wedding guests engaged with funny one-liners, emotional quotes, and do’s and don’ts.

What are Father of the Bride Speech Icebreakers?

Father of the bride speech icebreakers is the introductory remarks the father of the bride uses to toast to his daughter and her new spouse during the wedding reception. These icebreakers can include jokes, quotes, or other phrases to hook the audience and warm them up.

The speech can be a wonderful gift to the happy couple. A good speech is a memorable one (for all the right reasons), humorous, engaging, and may even evoke a few tears.

Special Note: If you are teasing your daughter in your speech or with a one-liner below, be sure to run it by her, so she is comfortable with it.

The 35 Best Father of the Bride Jokes, Quotes, and Icebreakers

Before putting pen to paper on your speech outline, check out these jokes, quotes, and icebreakers and find one or several that you’d like to incorporate or modify for your daughter’s special event. After all, who can resist a dad joke? Done well, it will result in laughter and put everyone at ease.

• Good evening, I’m [your name]. I hope you know who I am, but if you don’t, I’m offended.
• I prepared a hilarious wedding speech… but as I’ve learned over my 35 years of marriage, a happy wife makes a happy life, so I’m reading this one instead.
• Although we love [bride] very much, we definitely won’t miss her singing in the shower every morning. Good luck, [Groom/Partner]!
• [Bride] told me not to have a drink before the speech, so I apologize if I seem in a rush to get to the end!
• I want to pause and truly enjoy this moment. After all, it’s the only five minutes that [Bride] couldn’t plan and has no control over!
• Welcome everyone to my daughter’s wedding. No matter what papers she signed today, I hope I’ll always be the most important man in her life.
• Hello all, I’m [name]. I hope you know who I am, but if you don’t, congratulations for sneaking into such an expensive meal unnoticed.
• Never ever discount the idea of marriage. Sure, someone might tell you that marriage is just a piece of paper. Well, so is money, and what’s more life-affirming than cold, hard cash?
• [Bride] is funny, intelligent, kind, and good-looking, and you can clearly see where she gets all of those traits…
• Today is a momentous occasion– you’re about to witness the first and last time anyone ever trusts me to make a speech.
• In every marriage, it sometimes pays to be a little deaf.
• Thank you all for coming. It wouldn’t be the same without you, although it would be much cheaper.
• Love may be blind, but marriage is a real eye-opener.
• Today is a big day, and we all feel quite emotional. Trust me. I’m crying over the emotion and not the final bill.
• I love being married; I do. It’s so great to find that one special person that you want to annoy for the rest of your life.
• Agatha Christie once said, “An archaeologist is the best husband a woman can have; the older she gets, the more interested he is in her.” May you always dig my daughter.
• [Groom/Partner], here’s a tip for a blissful future. Remember that marriage is a union in which one person is always right, and the other is you.
• Giving my daughter away was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do. As you know, I’m not a generous person!
• Husbands and wives are irritating. But without them, who would we blame for misplacing our socks?
• It’s been said that marriage is like wine. It keeps improving with age, so long as you put a cork in it!
•  [Groom/Partner], never criticize my daughter’s choices. Remember, you were one of them, after all!
• I’m sure we can all agree that today has been a fantastic, elegant event. I’m sorry to have to end that now with my speech.
• I married for love, but the obvious side benefit of having someone around to find my glasses cannot be ignored.
• [Bride] has always been generous. From the moment she could speak, she’d happily give her opinion to everyone.
• My daughter begged me not to embarrass her. So, that’s the end of my speech. Have a great evening!
• A wedding anniversary is a celebration of love, trust, partnership, tolerance, and tenacity. The order varies for any given year.
• Before you marry a person, you should first make them use a computer with slow internet to see who they really are.
• Honey, I just checked your Facebook page and noticed you hadn’t updated your name. Does that mean you’re keeping mine?
• It’s not uncommon to feel somewhat intimidated by the duties of the father of the bride. Thankfully, I’ve felt pretty relaxed because my wife’s so organized—from the suit rental, (check), to making sure I trimmed my beard, (check), to my speech. So, sweetie, can you give me my speech now?
• It’s been said that women subconsciously choose a husband that is the opposite of their fathers. But I just heard my wife describing our new son-in-law as funny, generous, and strong.
• This beautiful meal this evening is charged on a cost-per-head basis. So, I’d like to thank the following people for not coming…
• While I am confident of [Groom] ‘s qualities as a husband, I’m still not sure about him as a son-in-law. The jury is still out. Will he come over every weekend, or will I still have to mow the lawn and wash the car myself?
• Weddings are a marvelous excuse for a celebration, and today is no exception. It’s lovely to celebrate [Bride] and [Groom/Partner] along with the grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and a few others I recognize.
• I’m sure we all agree that [Bride] looks stunning today in her gorgeous white gown. And [Groom/Partner], well, what can we say about him in that dapper suit? It reminds me of the tale about a little girl who, attending a wedding for the first time, asked her mother why the bride was wearing white. The mother told her white was the color of happiness, and today was the happiest day of her life. The girl thought for a moment, then asked, “So why does the man wear black?”
• I’d like to wrap up by saying that we are so delighted to welcome into our family two very kind people not yet mentioned, but without whom [Groom/Partner] wouldn’t be here. No, I don’t mean the best man and the Uber driver, but [Groom/Partner] ‘s parents, who have already become dear friends.

Father Of The Bride Speech Template

A killer father of the bride speech has five components—a great intro, remarks about the bride, comments about the groom (or partner), advice about marriage, and a fabulous toast. Clink! Congratulations, you’ve done it!

Nail the intro

Welcome the guests and let them know how thrilled you are to have them there to celebrate this union.

Rather than “Hello, I’m Bob, and I’m Julia’s father,” try something like this: “Good evening, our lovely bride Julia calls me Dad—to my face, at least, but you can call me Bob. Joan and I, along with Derek’s parents, are so pleased you have made the journey to be here, regardless of whether it’s simply to see Derek in a suit or for a fabulous free meal. Welcome.”

Starting this way eases you into public speaking and sets the tone for the rest of the speech. Learn more great tips about How to Start a Speech . 

Watch our video below to learn how to start a speech and the best (and worst) speech openers:

Gush about the bride

Now is the place to pull in a few funny and poignant memories of your daughter. As one of the people who has known her the longest, you get to share some insights about her and her impact on your life.

Talk about how you felt when she was born, the first time a boy looked at her, or the day she got her first job. Mention what she does that makes you proud now and any relevant stories about her as an adult.

Also, take a moment to recognize your wife’s role in raising your daughter to be the beautiful woman she has become. Share a common trait you love about both of them. Tie your daughter’s spouse into the story by remarking about how you hope they will cherish this trait as much as you do.

• [Groom/Partner], I know [Bride] will be an amazing wife to you—loving, committed, and adventurous. And I know that because she’s learned from the best, her mother, who is still making me smile after 40 years.
• Despite having 29 years to prepare for this day, I am speechless at how she glows with the love you share and how much it reminds me of her mother, with whom I’ve shared this same, deep love for 35 years.
• [Bride], when you and I shared that moment earlier, right before I walked you down the aisle—know that it is a moment I will cherish forever. 

Special Note: Try to avoid using basic adjectives like sweet, nice, or lovely. Instead, use stories. Check out more tips on this in our How to Give an Awesome Toast article .

Talk about her spouse kindly.

After you gush about your daughter, you want to mention her new spouse. Welcoming them is an integral part of melding them into your family.

Feel free to incorporate some humor here as well. Talk about the first time you met him, how he changed your daughter’s life, a funny story about how they met, your early impressions of him, or how nervous he was when he sought your blessing.

• No amount of preparation can ever leave you feeling ready to give your daughter away, but if I had to choose a person to hand her to, I would choose you every time.
• [Groom/Partner], welcome to our family. Over the time we’ve known you, we’ve come to think of you as the son we never asked for.
• Of all the amazing qualities you possess [Groom/Partner], my favorite is that you make my daughter shine.
• It’s now when I’m supposed to officially welcome [Groom/Partner] into our family, but the truth is you’ve been a part of this family since the day we met you.

As with your daughter, don’t say anything that would be too awkward, uncomfortable, or embarrassing. This person may be the parent of your future grandchild!

Mention the partner’s parents and how happy you are to have them joining your family and you, theirs. Thank them for sharing the big day and congratulate them on the fine job they did raising their daughter’s new spouse.

Offer advice on marriage

Once you’ve acknowledged your daughter, her partner, and the families, it’s time to share a piece of advice. This can be done in several ways, depending on your situation.

If you’ve had a long marriage, find an inspirational nugget you can share about the journey, acknowledging the wonderful and challenging times. Pass on a piece of advice you were given at your wedding or a secret to your successful marriage.

• May your love be modern enough to adjust as times change and old-fashioned enough to last forever.
• [Bride] and [Groom/Partner], your life together is just starting, and it will take many turns along the way. You will have glory days and those you’ll prefer to forget. However, you will have all you need if you have each other.
• We don’t know what your future holds. But, whatever happens, and wherever you go, your mother and I know you’ll always have each other’s love, and you’ll always have ours.
• [Bride and Groom/Partner], as you enter this new phase of your journey, it’s worth bearing in mind that neither of you will ever be perfect, but you can be perfect together.

If you’ve never been married or have had ugly divorces, look for wisdom from others or a funny quote about what not to do (without criticizing anyone.)

• One piece of advice I wish I would have listened to and now want to pass on to you is: “Whenever you’re wrong, admit it. Whenever you’re right, shut up.”
• I polled my friends who have been married for over ten years, and they all agreed that the key to a successful marriage is…
• Your great-grandparents were married for 67 years. They said the secret to their success was loving peace more than being right.
• Always remember the most important three words for a successful marriage: “You were right.”

Nail the toast

A strong toast wraps the speech up like a beautiful bow on the gift. Make sure your guests know exactly what you want them to do. Otherwise, your speech may fall like a deflated balloon.

• They say it’s not a miracle that two people are different, but it is a miracle that they can live together so happily. Live miraculously, our dear newlyweds!
• Rumor has it that in a perfect family, the wife does not pay attention to where the money comes from, and the husband does not notice where it is going. May you live perfectly!
• May the two of you be poor in misfortune and rich in blessings. Here is to a beautiful wedding day and an even more amazing marriage.
• Today, we wish you happiness. May the Lord protect you from the storm and bad weather, bad people, pain and illness, and hardships. May God grant you a lot of passion, ardor, and love. And a lot of happiness!
• May your troubles be few and your blessings many.
• Your wedding day will come and go, but may your love forever grow. May the love and happiness you feel today shine through the years.
• Wishing you joy, love, and happiness on your wedding day and as you begin your new life together. Thank you for letting us share on this joyful day.
• May your marriage always bring glory to God, joy to one another, and blessings to your family for many generations to come. May love and laughter fill your hearts and your home for all the days of your lives. May you face every challenge hand-in-hand and side-by-side, knowing that with God’s grace, you’ll conquer all obstacles together. May the world forever be a better place because the two of you fell in love.

For more amazing tips on giving an incredible wedding toast or speech, read our advanced guide. 

What to Say in a Father of the Bride Speech (Dos and Don’ts)

• Ask for help. Before you even think about writing your first draft, it helps to brainstorm with a few key people. Ask your wife, the bride’s mother, her siblings, or close family friends to reminisce about your daughter. Look through photo albums to be reminded of the key moments or hilarious stories you may have forgotten.
• Incorporate humor. Find a humorous quote even if you’re not naturally known for your sense of humor . Laughter is always a great way to bring people together.
• Evaluate your adjectives. Nearly every father would say their daughter is beautiful, amazing, and kind, but what sets your daughter apart? Think about what makes her unique and show the audience why she is kind or beautiful.
• Seek your daughter’s input. Ask your daughter if there’s anyone special she would like you to mention. She may not think to say it, but she will appreciate that you asked and the time and thought you’re putting into your speech.
• Create bullet points . Most people don’t relish speaking in front of a bunch of people, particularly on a momentous occasion. Creating notecards of bullet points can help you feel more comfortable.
• Speak from the heart rather than reading from a script. The more fluid and off-the-cuff you can be, the better.
• Practice. Practice. Practice. This is not a time to wing it! Professional speakers know that the secret to a successful speech is to be comfortable with the material. The same is true with father of the bride speeches and toasts. Give your speech in front of your wife or good friend. Practice it in front of the mirror until you are really confident.

If you’re one of the nearly 30 percent of Americans who is “afraid or very afraid” of public speaking, dive into the research-backed public speaking tips to have the confidence you need on this special day.

• Ramble. As the father of the bride, you’ll likely have 3-10 minutes for your speech. Practice your stories to ensure you can tell them succinctly in that time frame, noting that it’s easy to ramble when you’re nervous.
• Forget to smile ! This is, after all, a wonderful day, and you want your face to reflect the joy you are feeling.
• Forget to introduce your wife. She has been a part of your daughter’s story and has likely put a lot of work into this day as well. Appreciate that effort and tell her that you love her as much today as you did on your wedding day.
• Embarrass your daughter (or her spouse!) Stick to stories that are meaningful and humorous without being embarrassing to her or her new spouse. If you’re unsure, ask her about including the story.
• Mention any exes . There is almost no reason that the exes’ names should be stated during this event celebrating new love.
• Be generic. Instead of saying, “Julia is my oldest daughter” or “I am the father of the bride,” try this: “The first time I saw her face, I knew I could never fall out of love, wrinkles and all. Holding her in that hospital room, just after she was born….”
• Make the speech about you. Remember, this day is about your daughter and the person she loves. When reviewing your speech, look for places where you use “I” or “me” and where you say “she” or “her” or your daughter’s name. If it’s more about you and less about her, revise it to make your daughter the focus. This day is all about her.
• Curse. Just don’t do it. Even if there aren’t children on the guest list, a conservative Aunt Betty or another guest may be offended.
• Forget your glass. At the end of your speech, you will want to have a glass for your toast. If you have an opportunity to practice holding it while you deliver your remarks, it will feel more natural when the big day arrives.

Remember Your Body Language

Finally, don’t forget your nonverbal body language. Here are 3 tips from How to Give an Awesome Toast: Advanced Strategies for Speeches .

• Claim the stage. Confident body language is about taking up space  Plant both feet (don’t stand like you have to go pee), roll your shoulders back (don’t look like a turtle), and keep your torso un-blocked  (See the next point—you should be using your hands, not hiding them!)
• Can you embellish your stories with hand gestures, reenactments, or voices? The audience loves this. There is no such thing as too corny in a toast.
• When you make a joke, laugh with the audience. Smile when you get on stage or say sweet things about the toastee. It will warm you up and help with your nerves.

Best Father of the Bride Speech Examples

YouTube is an excellent source of inspiration for touching and funny reception speeches.

If you’re more of a man of action than words, check out this father’s “speech.” One of the most unique and creative online.

This father sure knows how to start the audience off laughing. Thankfully, the bride is laughing, too.

This beautiful video hits all the highlights of a touching and memorable speech from a father to a daughter. Get out your tissues.

Don’t miss this classic Saturday Night Live interpretation of the father of the Bride movie.  

Make Great Conversation

After you’re done with your speech, what next? You’ll likely have time to converse with everyone at the event. This is where your interpersonal skills can truly shine! Take your conversations to the next level by learning how to make great conversation—and make boring, awkward conversations a thing of the past.

Crack The Code on Facial Expressions

The human face is constantly sending signals, and we use it to understand the person’s intentions when we speak to them. In Decode, we dive deep into these microexpressions to teach you how to instantly pick up on them and understand the meaning behind what is said to you. Learn how to decode emotions in our advanced communication course, People School.

Key Takeaways

• Honor your daughter and her spouse. This is their special day, and you want to make it memorable and emotional for all the right reasons.
• Take this seriously. A lot of time, money, and effort has gone into this celebration. Your daughter will appreciate the sentiment and energy you spend crafting the father of the bride speech.
• Authenticity takes the day. While you may be afraid of becoming too emotional or not delivering the speech perfectly, your daughter wants you to be the dad she loves and will be grateful for the kind words, humor, and wisdom you offer as she enters her marriage.
• Enjoy the celebration. A wedding day is a big event for the whole family. Take time to appreciate the gifts you have in them, and step back to reflect on the impact.

Get more great wedding tips with our insightful guide for the best man ‘s speech.

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Father of the Bride Speech Examples and Templates

by Ryan Hart | Updated on May 11, 2024 | Post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

When it comes to a wedding, one of the most anticipated speeches is the father of the bride’s.

It’s a moment for the father to express his love and pride for his daughter, offer advice and well wishes for the newlyweds, and thank everyone for being a part of this special day.

But for many fathers, the idea of giving a speech can be intimidating . You want to make sure you come across as confident, clear, and knowledgeable, but where do you start?

Brainstorming and planning ahead can help you organize your thoughts and ensure you hit all the key elements. From there, you can start writing and incorporating techniques to make your speech stand out.

What should you say in a Father of the Bride speech?

When it comes to delivering a memorable father of the bride speech, there are several key elements that you should incorporate. These elements will help you to create a speech that is heartfelt, emotional, and memorable for all the right reasons.

Introduce Yourself

Firstly, it’s important to introduce yourself and welcome the guests . This will help to set the tone for your speech and make everyone feel at ease. You can also take this opportunity to thank the guests for coming and for their support.

Share a Short Story

Next, it’s time to share stories and memories about your daughter. This is the perfect opportunity to reminisce about happy times and to highlight the qualities that make your daughter so special. You can also use this time to welcome your new son-in-law or daughter-in-law and to express your happiness for the happy couple.

Offer Words of Wisdom

It’s also important to offer some words of wisdom and marriage advice. This can be done in a concise and meaningful way, and can include quotes or anecdotes that have special meaning to you and your family. You can also share your hopes and wishes for the future of the couple.

End with a Toast

Of course, no father of the bride speech would be complete without a toast. Raise a toast to the happy couple and their future together, and share your pride and joy in their union. You can also take this opportunity to thank the maid of honor and the master of ceremonies for their contributions to the wedding.

Examples and Templates

When it comes to writing your father of the bride speech, having some examples and templates to draw inspiration from can be incredibly helpful. Here are a few resources to get you started:

"Ladies and gentlemen, I stand here as a proud father to [DAUGHTER'S NAME] . It feels like just yesterday that she was [SHARE A MEMORABLE CHILDHOOD EXPERIENCE] . Today, I can hardly believe she's marrying [GROOM'S NAME] , a man who [POSITIVE TRAIT OR ANECDOTE ABOUT GROOM] . As I raise my glass, I want to thank everyone for being here to celebrate this special day with us. To the happy couple, may your future be filled with love and joy."

"When [DAUGHTER'S NAME] was little, we used to [A SHARED ACTIVITY OR STORY] . Now as I watch her with [GROOM'S NAME] , I see a similar bond of [SHARED QUALITY] . I could not be happier for them. So here's to my beautiful daughter and her wonderful new husband. May your love continue to grow stronger with each passing day. Cheers!"

"As a father, you dream of the day your little girl finds someone who [VALUES OR QUALITIES YOU HOPED FOR] . Today, [DAUGHTER'S NAME] married [GROOM'S NAME] , a man who embodies all of these qualities. To my daughter and her new husband, I wish you a lifetime of happiness and love. May your marriage be as strong and beautiful as the love you share today."

"They say a father is his daughter's first love. Well, [DAUGHTER'S NAME] was my first true love. Seeing her today with [GROOM'S NAME] , I know she's found her [TERM OF ENDEARMENT: e.g. forever love, true match] . As I look at my daughter and her new husband, I am filled with pride and joy. Here's to a lifetime of love, laughter, and happiness. Cheers!"

"Raising [DAUGHTER'S NAME] has been my life's greatest joy. She's [POSITIVE QUALITIES OR TRAITS] . Today, as she marries [GROOM'S NAME] , I see those qualities reflected back at her, and it fills my heart with joy. To the newlyweds, may your love for each other only grow stronger with each passing year. Here's to a lifetime of happiness and joy together."

"I always knew [DAUGHTER'S NAME] would grow up to be [QUALITY, ACHIEVEMENT, OR TRAIT] . I am proud to say that [GROOM'S NAME] is the kind of man who values that about her. As a father, there is no greater joy than seeing my daughter so happy. To my daughter and her new husband, may your love for each other never fade. Cheers!"

"There are many moments in a father's life that he cherishes, but this moment, seeing [DAUGHTER'S NAME] marrying a man who is [POSITIVE TRAITS OF GROOM] , is truly special. To my beautiful daughter and her handsome husband, may your love story be filled with adventure, laughter, and endless joy. Congratulations and cheers to a lifetime of happiness together."

"As [DAUGHTER'S NAME] 's father, I've seen her grow and accomplish so much. Her marriage to [GROOM'S NAME] , a man who [COMPLIMENT ABOUT GROOM] , is another proud moment in a long list. As I raise my glass, I want to thank my daughter and her new husband for giving me the greatest gift of all - the gift of seeing my little girl so happy. Here's to a lifetime of love and joy together."

" [DAUGHTER'S NAME] has always been the [ADJECTIVE: e.g. light, star] of our family. Today, as she joins hands with [GROOM'S NAME] , I know she has found her perfect [COMPLEMENT TO PREVIOUS ADJECTIVE: e.g., beacon, constellation] . To my daughter and her new husband, may your love for each other be as strong and unbreakable as the bond between a father and his daughter. Cheers to a lifetime of happiness together."

" [DAUGHTER'S NAME] , from your first steps, to this walk down the aisle, I've had the privilege of being there. Now, as you step into a new journey with [GROOM'S NAME] , a man who [POSITIVE TRAIT OR QUALITY OF GROOM] , I know you will make beautiful memories together. As I look at my daughter and her new husband, I am filled with hope and happiness for their future together. To the happy couple, may your marriage be blessed with love, joy, and endless happiness. Cheers!"

Understanding the Role

As the father of the bride, you have a special role to play in your daughter’s wedding. Your speech is one of the most anticipated and memorable moments of the wedding reception, and it’s an opportunity to express your love and pride for your daughter and your new son-in-law.

Your speech should be heartfelt, sincere, and personal. It’s a chance to share your thoughts and feelings about your daughter, her new spouse, and their future together. Your words should be chosen carefully to reflect the love and support you have for the couple.

Remember that your speech is not just about your daughter, but also about your family. It’s a time to acknowledge and thank the guests who have come to celebrate this special occasion with you and your family. You should also take a moment to welcome your new son-in-law into the family and express your happiness at having him as part of your family.

When preparing your speech, it’s important to keep in mind the overall tone of the wedding. Is it a formal, traditional affair, or a more casual, relaxed event? Your speech should fit the tone of the wedding and reflect the personality of the couple.

Finally, don’t forget to practice your speech before the big day. This will help you feel more confident and ensure that you deliver your message clearly and effectively. With a little preparation and a lot of love, your father of the bride speech is sure to be a highlight of the wedding reception.

Brainstorming and Planning

Before you start writing a father of the bride speech, it’s important to take some time to brainstorm and plan. This will help you structure your speech and make sure you include all the important elements. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Step 1: Gather Ideas

The first step in planning your father of the bride speech is to gather ideas. Think about your daughter and her relationship with her new spouse. What are some of their shared interests? What are some of your favorite memories with your daughter? What advice do you want to give the newlyweds?

Write down all your ideas on a piece of paper or in a document. Don’t worry about organizing them yet, just get everything down.

Step 2: Organize Your Ideas

Once you have a list of ideas, it’s time to organize them. Look for common themes or topics that you want to cover in your speech. For example, you might want to talk about your daughter’s childhood, her relationship with her new spouse, and your hopes for their future together.

Create an outline for your speech, with each idea or topic as a separate section. This will help you stay organized and make sure you cover everything you want to say.

Step 3: Write Your Speech

With your ideas organized and your outline in place, it’s time to start writing your speech. Use your outline as a guide, and fill in the details for each section.

Remember to keep your speech concise and focused. Aim for a length of around five minutes, and avoid rambling or going off on tangents.

Step 4: Practice Your Speech

Once you’ve written your speech, it’s important to practice it. Stand in front of a mirror and read your speech out loud. This will help you get comfortable with the material and make sure you’re speaking clearly.

You might also want to practice in front of a friend or family member. Ask for their feedback and make any necessary adjustments to your speech.

Step 5: Deliver Your Speech

On the day of the wedding, take a deep breath and deliver your speech with confidence. Remember to speak slowly and clearly, and make eye contact with the audience.

End your speech with a heartfelt congratulations to the newlyweds, and a toast to their future together.

Writing Tips and Techniques

When it comes to writing a father of the bride speech, there are a few helpful tips and techniques that can make the process easier and ensure that your speech is a success. Here are some pointers to keep in mind:

• Be yourself: The most important thing to remember when writing your speech is to be yourself. Don’t try to be someone you’re not or use language that doesn’t feel natural to you. Speak from the heart and let your personality shine through.
• Practice public speaking: If you’re not used to speaking in public, it’s a good idea to practice beforehand. You can do this by rehearsing your speech in front of a mirror or recording yourself and watching it back. This will help you build confidence and get used to the sound of your own voice.
• Know your audience: When writing your speech, it’s important to keep your audience in mind. Think about who will be listening to your speech and what they might be expecting to hear. Tailor your speech to your audience and try to make it relevant and engaging for them.
• Keep it concise: While you might have a lot to say, it’s important to keep your speech concise and to the point. Aim for a speech that is around five minutes long, as this will keep your audience engaged without dragging on too long.
• Use humor: A little bit of humor can go a long way in a father of the bride speech. Try to include some lighthearted jokes or anecdotes that will make your audience smile and help to break the ice.

Practicing the Speech

Now that you have written your father of the bride speech, it’s time to start practicing. Practicing your speech will help you deliver it confidently and avoid any last-minute jitters. Here are some tips to help you practice your speech effectively:

• Practice in front of a mirror: Practicing in front of a mirror will help you see your facial expressions and body language. This will help you identify any nervous habits or gestures that you might want to avoid.
• Practice with a timer: Timing is crucial when it comes to delivering a speech. Practice your speech with a timer to ensure that you are not going over the allotted time. This will also help you pace yourself and avoid rushing through your speech.
• Practice in front of a friend or family member: Practicing in front of a friend or family member will help you get feedback on your speech. They can also help you identify any areas that need improvement.
• Record yourself: Recording yourself while practicing your speech will help you identify any areas that need improvement. You can also listen to your speech to get a feel for your pacing and tone.

Remember, practice makes perfect. The more you practice your speech, the more confident you will be when it’s time to deliver it. So, take the time to practice your speech and you’ll be sure to deliver a memorable speech that your daughter and her new spouse will cherish forever.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should the father of the bride say in his speech.

As the father of the bride, your speech should be heartfelt and sincere. You should start by welcoming the guests and thanking them for coming to celebrate this special day with your family. Then, you can share some personal anecdotes about your daughter and her relationship with the groom. You can also express your love and pride for your daughter and offer some words of wisdom for the newlyweds.

How long should a father of the bride speech be?

Your speech should be long enough to cover everything you want to say, but not so long that it becomes boring or tedious. A good rule of thumb is to keep your speech between 5-7 minutes. This will give you enough time to say what you want to say without losing the attention of your audience.

What should a dad say to his daughter on her wedding day?

As a father, your daughter’s wedding day is a very emotional and special day for you. You should take this opportunity to express your love and pride for your daughter. You can tell her how much she means to you and how proud you are of the person she has become. You can also offer some words of advice and encouragement for her future with her new spouse.

Is it OK to read the father of the bride speech?

Yes, it is perfectly acceptable to read your speech from a written copy. In fact, it may even be preferable if you are nervous or worried about forgetting what you want to say. However, it is important to practice your speech beforehand so that you can deliver it with confidence and emotion.

Ryan Hart is a certified relationship coach and writer. His mission is to help make connections between people better, stronger, more meaningful, and longer lasting using technology.

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In This Article

• How To Write A Speech
• Speech Examples And Template

Emotional Father Quotes

• Things To Avoid

Frequently Asked Questions

• Wedding Party & Reception

Tips For Writing Great Father Of The Bride Speeches + Examples

Halfpoint via Shutterstock

In this article about the father of the bride’s speech, we delve into the poignant moment of the wedding ceremony where a father expresses pride in his daughter and joy in the creation of a new family. The father’s speech is not only a moment of pride but also a significant expression of emotions as his daughter embarks on a new chapter, contributing to the formation of a family filled with love and happiness.

So, here are some tips for preparing your speech . Check out father of the bride speech examples and tips below.

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How To Write Brilliant Father Of The Bride Speeches

Introduce yourself and welcome guests.

The first thing you want to do is introduce yourself. You can start with a joke if you want, but keep it short and clean!

Next, you want to formally welcome your guests including family members, friends, and other esteemed guests, including the groom’s parents and officiant. Thank them for coming and sharing in this important occasion.

Hi! My name is (your name), (daughter’s name) father. She calls me “Dad”, to my face at least, but you can call me ______. I’d like to welcome all of our family and friends as well as ____ and ____ (groom’s parents.) as well as the rest of our special guests who took the time to share in this joyous day. I’d like to thank (officiant) for the moving wedding ceremony that joined (bride and groom) together for eternity.

Share Heart-Warming Stories From Bride’s Childhood

Endearing stories about the bride are the heart of the father of the bride’s speech. As someone who has known her all her life, you have many tender moments to share. You could also talk about the day she was born and how she changed your life for the better.

Include some funny and touching moments from her childhood and teenage years. Tell her how proud of the woman she is today. Mention how you are happy that she found the love of her life (mention her husband here). Also, remember that her best friend may cover some of the same stories in her maid of honor speech so you may want to compare notes with her.

Ladies and gentlemen, today, as I stand here with a heart full of joy and a touch of nostalgia, I can’t help but reminisce about the beautiful journey my daughter has had. From the moment she took her first steps to the day she walked into the arms of her soulmate, every step has been a testament to the incredible person she is. I remember the day she was born, a bundle of joy that filled our lives with laughter and love. Her childhood was adorned with countless funny and touching moments—her infectious laughter, her determination, and even the occasional mischief that always managed to put a smile on our faces. As she blossomed into the incredible woman she is today, finding her love in [husband’s name], my heart swells with pride. To witness the love that has grown between them is truly magical. So here’s to the little girl who changed my life for the better and to the remarkable woman she has become. Cheers to love, laughter, and a lifetime of happiness for [bride’s name] and [husband’s name].

Talk About Your Son-in-Law

Talking about your son-in-law is a crucial part of your father-of-the-bride speech. Share your feelings about him and his importance to your family. Add some humor, but keep it heart-warming. Mention your first meeting or how he has improved your daughter’s life. Lovingly welcome him to the family.

Ladies and gentlemen, if I may take a moment to express my sentiments about the remarkable man who now holds a special place in our family – my son-in-law, [son-in-law’s name]. From the first time we met, I could sense something extraordinary about him. Maybe it was the way he made my daughter laugh, or the kindness that radiated from him. [son-in-law’s name], you’ve not only won my daughter’s heart but the hearts of our entire family. Your presence has brought an added layer of joy and completeness to our lives. I still remember the first time I saw you together, and I knew then that you were someone truly special. So, with a heart full of gratitude and warmth, I want to officially welcome you to our family. May your journey with [bride’s name] be filled with love, laughter, and an abundance of cherished moments. Here’s to the wonderful man who has enriched our lives. Cheers!

Add A Funny Story About Couple

At this point, include a funny story about the couple. Keep it clean and not too embarrassing—making the newlyweds blush and giggle is fine, but you don’t want to humiliate them or make them uncomfortable on their wedding day.

Funny anecdotes will keep guests engaged in your father-of-the-bride speech. Maybe share a humorous story about the first time she brought him over for dinner, or something funny from the wedding preparations. Keep it light and appropriate.

Ladies and gentlemen, let me share a little tale about our lovely couple that brings a smile to my face. It was the first time [son-in-law’s name] came over for dinner, and let’s just say, we had a slight kitchen mishap. I attempted to impress him with my culinary skills, and, well, the smoke detectors were equally impressed. As the kitchen filled with a not-so-subtle haze, [bride’s name] and [son-in-law’s name] exchanged glances, and I thought, ‘Well, this is one way to make a lasting impression.’ Little did we know, that incident became a cherished story in our family, reminding us that laughter truly is the best seasoning. So here’s to the couple who knows how to navigate both the kitchen and the journey of marriage with a good sense of humor. May your life together be filled with many more delightful stories and laughter that echoes through the years. Cheers to [bride’s name] and [son-in-law’s name]!

Add A Few Words About Groom’s Parents

You should always include something about the groom’s parents in your speech. They are now part of your family, as you are part of theirs. You will be spending time with them during the holidays, birthdays, and other joint family events. And you could even share in the blessing of future grandchildren.

Thank them for sharing in the big day and becoming part of your family, as well as any part they took in the wedding. Congratulate them on the fine job they did raising their son and how happy you are to welcome them all to your family.

As we celebrate the union of [bride’s name] and [son-in-law’s name], it’s a joyous occasion not only for our family but for [son-in-law’s name]’s family as well. I want to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to [son-in-law’s mother’s name] and [son-in-law’s father’s name], who have warmly welcomed us into their lives. Today marks the beginning of a shared journey, not just for [bride’s name] and [son-in-law’s name], but for our families joining together. To [son-in-law’s mother’s name] and [son-in-law’s father’s name], thank you for your kindness, love, and for the integral role you played in creating the wonderful person who now stands by my daughter’s side. As we move forward, I look forward to the shared celebrations, the laughter, and the many beautiful moments that our families will create together. Here’s to the start of a new chapter for all of us.

Talk About Your Own Love Story With Bride’s Mother

Don’t forget to introduce your wife, the bride’s mother. Share a brief story about how you met and express your love for her. Thank her for raising your daughter into the wonderful woman she is today. Highlight how your daughter is like her mother, and connect this to your daughter and her new husband.

Ladies and gentlemen, amidst the celebration of [bride’s name] and [son-in-law’s name], I want to share a glimpse of the enduring love that anchors our family. A heartfelt thank you to my wonderful wife, [wife’s name], who has been my companion in this remarkable journey. From our ‘I do’ to the shared joys, she remains my constant. [wife’s name], your grace and strength have shaped [bride’s name] into the remarkable woman she is today. As we witness the next chapter unfold with [bride’s name] and [son-in-law’s name], I’m reminded of the beautiful love story that started with us. Cheers to enduring love!

Finish With A Toast

In keeping with tradition, end your father of bride’s speech with a toast. Ask everyone to stand and raise their glasses to the happy couple. The toast should be brief, congratulating the bride and groom and wishing them a happy life together.

Use these popular wedding toast examples :

Please stand with me and raise your glass to toast the happy couple. (Bride’s name) has been the light of my life for the past 25 years and today I hand her over to (groom’s name). I know he will love and cherish her every bit as much as I do a toast to a happy and healthy life full of endless love and laughter!

Please join me in a toast to _____ and _______. (Groom’s name), you have become like a son to me, and I am entrusting (bride’s name) to you. Cherish every moment you have together. Let us all wish the happy couple a lifetime of joy!

Please raise your glass to the newlyweds. When (bride’s name) was only 13 years old she told me that she wanted to marry (groom’s name). I watched them grow from happy and carefree teenagers to happy, loving and caring adults. Let’s offer a toast to many years of wedded bliss!

When (groom) first showed up at my front door, I never imagined he would be the one to steal my baby’s heart. But here we are today, and I couldn’t be happier for them. Let’s raise our glass to the (bride and groom) and wish them many years of happiness!

Please join my wife and I as we raise our glasses to the beautiful, kind, and loving couple. We welcome you to our family, and we look forward to many years of holiday dinners, family vacations, and late-night phone calls. Cheers to ___ and ___!

Father Of The Bride Speeches: Examples And Template

Father of the bride speeches can be difficult to write, because it’s an emotional time for a father, and there is so much you might want to include in your speech However, with a few tips, you should be able to put down a beautiful speech that expresses your emotions perfectly, one that your daughter will be proud of.

Best Father Of The Bride Speeches

When preparing your speech, speak from your heart and be genuine. Don’t worry about trying to be funny or overly sentimental. Keep it concise, but meaningful. And don’t forget to practice beforehand so that you can deliver your words with confidence and ease. Your daughter will appreciate your heartfelt words, and you’ll create a memory that will last a lifetime.

Good evening, everyone. For those who don’t know me, I’m the father of the bride. Today, I’m overflowing with emotions as I stand here to give this speech. I am incredibly proud of my daughter, and I couldn’t be happier that she has found such a wonderful partner in [groom’s name]. From the moment I met him, I knew he was the one for her. His kind heart and warm smile captured our hearts, and we welcomed him with open arms into our family. My advice to the newlyweds is to always communicate, be honest with each other, and most importantly, never forget why you fell in love with each other. To my daughter, you will always be my little girl, and I will always be here to support and love you. So, let’s raise a glass to the newlyweds, wishing you a lifetime of love and happiness.

Heartfelt Father Of The Bride Speech

Giving heartfelt and emotional father-of-the-bride speeches can take it out of you. But, if you find the right words, and you aren’t afraid to let your emotions show, you should do well.

I am Allen, Scarlet’s father, as most of you know. This is my proudest and happiest moment, watching her today and being able to reflect on all the years I watched her grow up. She was the most beautiful baby, and I’m lucky to have been able to be with her and guide her as she grew into the magnificent woman that she is today. She captured my heart then, and she still holds it now, my beautiful girl, my sunshine. I will always be fortunate to be called your father. And as I watch her get married today, to such a wonderful young man, I can say that my happiness is full. I can’t say that I give the most brilliant father of the bride speeches as I have never had to give one, but I can say this with all confidence. The two of you are about to begin a long journey. One that will be filled with all the love and happiness I have seen between you both, and more. And while on this journey, know that I and your mother will be there on the sidelines, ready to assist with anything that you need to succeed. May you always be true to each other, and may you always be kind to each other. May you share in all of the burdens all of the joys and all the happiness that this world has in store for you both. I ask you all to join me in raising a toast to my beautiful daughter and her amazing husband. I wish them a long and happy life together. Love you both to the moon and back.

Funny Father Of The Bride Speech

If humor comes naturally to you, then giving the funny father-of-the-bride speeches would be your forte. And, if you need some inspiration, here is a sample that could be helpful.

Hello everyone, I’m the proud father of this lady right here, Sasha, and the spanking new father-in-law of the handsome man beside her, David. And I would have to say, if any of these names sound strange to you, then you are probably at the wrong wedding. It was a little difficult writing my speech for today because at first, my wife recommended that I do not say anything embarrassing or stupid, and then late she suggested that I just be myself. Well, that’s hard and not confusing at all. I must say that I have always looked forward to the day that someone would step forward and take Sasha and all her endless demands far away from me and my bank account. And I am so happy David, that you had the courage to do so, good man. In fact, although I question his tastes in football teams, I have never questioned his loyalty to my daughter, and my bank account agrees. From the first day that I met David and his shiny new braces, I knew that any man who could care for his teeth like that, without shame, would be able to care for my daughter no matter the consequences. I have to admit that we’re all glad he’s present here today minus those dentures. My advice to you both today is love and laughter. Although marriage is as serious as a mortgage and should be taken as seriously, just be sure to have fun. Life will bring its ups and downs, but as long as you remember to laugh at each other and with each other through it all, you will succeed. I give you Sasha and David, the bride and groom.

Short Father Of the Bride Speech

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While writing father-of-the-bride speeches may not be a walk in the park, with the right wedding speech ideas to guide you, you are sure to succeed. Make your daughter proud on the most special day of her life.

Just like childbirth, marriage marks a new beginning. One that we are overjoyed to witness in our family. From the day you captured my heart as a newborn, to today when I walked you down the aisle, I have never stopped feeling grateful that you call me Papa. I hope that I have always lived up to your expectations, just as your husband will as you begin this journey together. I am happy for the union of these two families as the [Bride] and [Groom] begin a brand new family of their own. And I am proud that my daughter has grown into this amazing woman and that she met a man who is just as amazing. I love you son. This is my wish that you build your lives together and enjoy a relationship like no other. I offer you my warmest wishes and congratulations on this beautiful and joyous day. Please join me as we raise our glasses to the bride and groom. May your lives be filled with love and laughter always.

Here is an example of a father-of-the-bride speech to help you with your preparations for your wedding speech .

From the moment I first held you, I knew my life had changed forever.

Watching you grow into the beautiful, strong woman you are today has been my greatest joy.

You have been my sunshine on the darkest days, and I am so proud of the person you’ve become.

No matter where life takes you, you will always be my little girl, and I will always be here for you.

Seeing you find love and happiness with [groom’s name] fills my heart with immense joy and gratitude.

Things To Avoid In Father of The Bride Speech

If you have ever given a best man speech , you might have some idea as to where to start. However, there are some differences to take heed to the following advice.

• Avoid inappropriate jokes or stories: Stay away from anything that could embarrass or offend the couple or guests.
• Steer clear of excessive personal anecdotes: Focus on the couple rather than sharing too many personal stories unrelated to their special day.
• Don’t make it too long: Keep your speech concise to maintain interest and prevent it from becoming tedious.
• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption: Maintain clarity and composure by limiting alcohol intake before delivering your speech.
• Don’t overshadow the groom: Ensure the speech is balanced, acknowledging the groom’s role and expressing warm sentiments toward him.
• Avoid controversial or sensitive topics: Steer clear of divisive subjects that could create discomfort or tension among guests.

Wedding Speech vs. Wedding Toast: What’s the Difference?

A wedding toast is a statement of good wishes to the couple that often ends with the raising of glasses, clinking, and drinking. It usually comes at the end of a speech but can also stand independently. A speech is often longer than a toast and often tells a story.

Is it OK to read the father of the bride speech?

It is okay to read the father of the bride speech. No one is required to get a certificate in public speaking before giving wedding speeches, so it’s fine to have notes as long as you have at least practiced beforehand.

How long should the father of the bride speech be?

Typically, the speech itself should be around 5 minutes.

What Should A Father Of The Bride Speech Include?

A father-of-the-bride speech should include a warm welcome, anecdotes about the bride, words of wisdom, a heartfelt blessing for the couple, and a memorable toast. It should express love, pride, and best wishes for the newlyweds.

Keep these tips for writing a father-of-the-bride speech when you are composing your own speech. Take the time to practice in front of your wife, a friend or even a camera. Just speak from the heart and you will be fine!

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How to Write a Wedding Speech as the Father of the Bride

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.

by Kaitlin Day Photography

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.

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!

by Aileen Choi Photo

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 !

by Nomad by NK

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.

by Erica Miller Photography

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.

by JLGRAPHY

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

Amazing Tips & Themes For Your Magical Wedding

How to Write a Father of the Bride Speech + 3 Examples

Fathers of the bride have more to do than just hand over the ring at a wedding – they also get to give one of the most significant speeches of their lives.

But don’t worry – we’re here to help! This post will provide you with easy tips on how to craft an unforgettable father of the bride speech that will bring joy and tears from everyone in attendance.

Related:   Unforgettable Mother of the Bride Speeches: Writing Tips + Examples

Introduction to the role of the father of the bride

As the father of the bride, you have a special role to play on your daughter’s big day.

Not only are you responsible for walking your daughter down the aisle and giving her away, but you also have the opportunity to deliver a heartfelt and memorable speech at the wedding reception.

You may also want to share personal anecdotes or memories, and offer words of wisdom or advice for the happy couple.

Tips for writing a memorable and heartfelt speech

Here are some tips to help you craft a memorable and heartfelt speech that will leave everyone in tears (of joy, of course).

Start by brainstorming your main points

Make it personal.

Your speech is a chance to share your own memories and experiences with your daughter and the rest of the wedding party.

Consider including personal anecdotes or special moments that you’ve shared over the years. This will help to make your speech more meaningful and memorable. Bonus points if you can find a way to make everyone laugh!

Keep it concise

A good rule of thumb is to aim for a speech that’s about 5-7 minutes long. This will give you enough time to say what you need to say without boring your guests (or making them check their phones).

Practice, practice, practice!

The more you practice your speech, the more confident and comfortable you’ll be when it comes time to deliver it.

And don’t forget to keep a glass of water handy – it’ll help to calm your nerves and keep your throat lubricated.

Structuring your speech: a step-by-step guide

Alright, so you’ve brainstormed your main points and practiced your speech a million times. Now it’s time to put it all together and give the most epic father of the bride speech ever.

Begin with a greeting. Start off by greeting the guests and thanking them for coming to celebrate your daughter’s special day. You might also want to thank the groom’s parents for raising such an amazing son.

Introduce yourself. If you’re not already well-known to the wedding party, take a moment to introduce yourself and your relationship to the bride.

Share your memories. This is the perfect opportunity to share some personal anecdotes or special memories that you’ve shared with your daughter over the years. Make everyone laugh (or cry) with a funny or heartwarming story.

Express your love and pride for your daughter. Let your daughter know just how much she means to you, and how proud you are of the person she has become. You might want to get a little sappy here – it is a wedding, after all.

You might want to give the groom a little ribbing here by talking about how lucky he is to be marrying into such an amazing family.

Share your hopes and wishes for the future. Finish off your speech by expressing your hopes and wishes for the couple’s future together. This is your chance to get a little sentimental and give some advice on how to have a happy and successful marriage .

Father of the Bride Speech Examples

Example 1: a traditional and emotional father of the bride speech.

I stand before you today as the proud and emotional father of the beautiful bride. My daughter [bride’s name] has grown into an amazing young woman and it brings me immense joy to give her away to the love of her life, [groom’s name].

As [bride’s name] grew, I was constantly in awe of her kindness, intelligence, and determination. She has always put others before herself and has a heart of gold. I have no doubt that she will make a wonderful wife to [groom’s name] and an amazing partner in life.

When [groom’s name] entered our lives, I knew immediately he was the perfect match for my daughter. He is loving, caring, and adores [bride’s name] with all his heart. I have no doubt that he will make a wonderful husband and support [bride’s name] in all her endeavors.

[Bride’s name], [groom’s name], I am so proud of both of you and wish you all the happiness in the world. May your marriage be a beautiful and blessed union. I love you both with all my heart.

Example 2: A lighthearted and humorous speech

Hello everyone,

[Groom’s name], you are one lucky guy. Not only do you get to marry the love of your life, but you also get to join our crazy family. Just be prepared for late night game nights and impromptu dance parties. You’ll fit right in, I have no doubt.

Example 3: A personalized and sentimental speech

Dear friends and family,

It is an honor and a privilege to stand here today as the father of the bride. My daughter, [bride’s name], has always been the light of my life and it brings me great joy to see her marrying the man of her dreams, [groom’s name].

[Bride’s name], from the moment you were born, you have brought so much love and joy into my life. I am so proud of the person you have become and am grateful to be a part of this special day. Watching you grow into the amazing woman you are today has been one of the greatest joys of my life.

One of my favorite memories with [bride’s name] is the summer we spent traveling through Europe together. It was a wonderful opportunity for us to bond and make lasting memories. We visited so many incredible places, but my favorite was the week we spent in Italy. The food, the culture, the history – it was all just incredible. And while we may have gotten lost a few times and had to navigate some difficult language barriers, it was all worth it to spend that quality time with my daughter.

So let’s raise a glass to the happy couple. [Bride’s name] and [groom’s name], may your love continue to grow and thrive as you embark on this new journey together. I love you both with all my heart.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i make my speech memorable.

A: The key to a memorable speech is to be yourself and let your love and pride for your daughter shine through in your words.

Incorporating a little bit of humor can also go a long way in making your speech stand out.

What should I avoid in my speech?

A: First and foremost, try to avoid using any offensive language or telling inappropriate jokes. This is a family-friendly occasion, after all!

Finally, try to avoid getting too long-winded or going off on tangents. It’s important to stay focused and on-topic to keep your speech engaging and enjoyable for your listeners.

Keep these things in mind and you’ll be well on your way to delivering a smooth and memorable speech.

When does the father of the bride give his speech?

Conclusion: keys to a successful father of the bride speech.

The father of the bride speech is a special and important moment on your daughter’s big day. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this post, and taking inspiration from the examples provided, you can craft a heartfelt and memorable speech that will be remembered for years to come.

Remember to keep it personal, incorporate humor and personal anecdotes, and practice beforehand to ensure that you deliver your speech with confidence and poise. Above all, let your love and pride for your daughter shine through in your words.

Rosie Liliy

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A Memorable Father-Of-The Bride Speech: Tips, Tricks, And Examples

We know you’re nervous about making a father-of-the-bride speech at your little girl’s wedding. We won’t mince words here. You should be. 

This is why you’re probably furiously Googling “father of the bride speech examples,” so someone will tell you what to say. 

Make it funny, but short. Make it moving, but not too personal. 

Your job is to make everyone laugh and cry tears of joy. As the head honcho of your household (ok, second to your wife), it falls on your head to get it right, or you’ll ruin everything. 

All of that is hooey, of course, but you probably feel that way all the same. 

We want to help, so we’ve put together a father-of-the-bride speech outline to help you decide what to say and remember when to say it. 

Step Four: Practice

Simple father of the bride speech template, step one: know the rules and etiquette.

Before you get to writing, there are some basic speech rules and etiquette you should consider to avoid disaster and embarrassment. 

• Do Your Homework

Call in the cavalry. There are no rules that say your speech can’t be a collaborative effort. If you’re unsure what to talk about, ask those who know her best for stories and anecdotes. 

Find out who’s invited that you may not know so well. It helps to keep in mind who your audience will be. 

• Watch Your Time

Seven. Minutes. That’s the maximum time a father-of-the-bride speech ought to last. Anything more prolonged, and you’ll lose them. If you can, aim for six. 

• No Cliches, Find Ways To Be Unique

Talk about the qualities your daughter has that set her apart. Of course she’s brilliant and talented and beautiful. Anyone who knows her knows that. 

Avoid a resume-like list of her career or education, unless you can link that to a funny story or something that pertains to her new husband.

• Avoid Talking About Money, Religion, Or Politics

Just like at dinner parties (because let’s face it, that’s kind of what a wedding reception is), the rule is to avoid talking politics, religion, or money. 

Of course, it’s entirely appropriate to thank God and, by all means, prayers up. But use good judgment and keep it PC. 

• Keep It Clean

We probably don’t have to mention it, but we will anyway. Nothing will suck the air out of the room like a tasteless joke or inappropriate anecdote from Dad. Gross. 

• Aim For Funny, But Avoid Inside Jokes

Yes, you want to be funny, that’s a given. Remember, you are the master of the Dad Joke. Work it. Just avoid inside jokes, it may alienate some of the guests. 

• Don’t Get Too Emotional, Keep It Light

Just like you want to make ’em laugh, making your audience tear up is gratifying, too. But make sure you don’t go overboard and make it awkward. 

• Keep Your Family Strife Out Of It

It’s unbelievable how often people give speeches like this and veer off onto a tangent about family quarrels. 

If you and your daughter’s mother are no longer together and aren’t on the best of terms, keep it out of the speech. If you and her mother’s new significant other don’t get along, now is not the time. 

If someone’s not speaking to Aunt Tilly or the bride’s cousin ruined another family wedding by getting drunk and hitting on the groom’s mother: Do. Not. Make it a thing. 

Seems like common sense, but people are mysterious creatures.

Step Two: Brainstorm

Crafting an unforgettable father of the bride speech requires a bit of preparation, and the most important part of that preparation is brainstorming your ideas and outlining your speech. Here are some tips to get you started:

• Find your Voice

Every father has a unique personality and relationship with his daughter. While it can be tempting to emulate speeches found online, it is essential to infuse your own authentic voice and personal anecdotes into your address.

• Think of personal anecdotes

Reflect on your relationship with both the bride and groom, and write down any memories, jokes, or stories that you think would be relevant or entertaining.

• Consider the structure of your speech

Your speech should have an introduction, a body, and a conclusion. The introduction should capture the audience’s attention and set the tone for the rest of your speech. The body should be divided into several sections, each highlighting a different aspect of your relationship with the bride and groom. The conclusion should tie everything together and leave a lasting impression..

Step Three: Make An Outline

OK, with etiquette out of the way (but not out of mind), it’s time to get down to the nitty-gritty — the fun part! When you make your outline, by all means, write it all on cue cards and use them. Whatever you need to keep focused.

• Opening Line/Introduce Yourself 

Every good speech needs an opener, but it doesn’t have to be stand-up material. A quick introduction and welcoming the guests will do nicely. 

• Thank Your Wife, The Groom’s Parents, The Officiant, etc.

This is another part you can get through quickly. It’ll be tempting to spend a lot of time on this one, but keep in mind that you can thank everyone more thoroughly and one-on-one throughout the reception. 

Unless there’s something particular you feel the need to say, a quick thanks will do. 

• Share A Story Or Two and Don’t Forget The Groom

The moment everyone’s been waiting for: dad making fun of his daughter and her new husband. Gently, of course.

Seriously, though, this is the time to be funny. Mention the first time you met your new son-in-law and what you thought of him (if it’s not seriously negative). Talk about funny things from her childhood, as long as they’re not mortifyingly embarrassing.

The material for this part is rich, mine it. 

• Impart Some Fatherly Wisdom

So you’ve made them laugh, now make them say “awwwww.”

Pass on what you’ve learned about life, love, and happiness – things that worked for you, and maybe things that didn’t work so well if you can keep it light. 

If there’s a deceased family member that your daughter was particularly fond of, now is an excellent time to hand down any wisdom they imparted to you. 

• Raise A Toast 

The toast can stay short and sweet, all you have to do now is invite everyone to raise a glass to the newlywed’s happiness. Done and done. 

When it comes to giving a memorable father of the bride speech, practice is key. You don’t want to be reading from a script or stumble over your words on such an important occasion. Here are some tips to help you practice and deliver your speech with confidence:

• Write out your speech

Before you begin to practice, make sure that you have a draft of your speech. It does not have to be perfect at this stage, but it should have all the key points that you want to make. Writing out your speech will help you organize your thoughts and ensure that you have covered all the necessary elements.

• Practice in front of a mirror

Practicing in front of a mirror allows you to see your facial expressions and gestures. It also helps you to work on your eye contact and body language, which are important when delivering a speech.

• Record yourself

Another way to practice is to record yourself giving the speech. This allows you to listen to your tone of voice, pacing, and areas that need improvement.

• Get feedback

Ask a trusted friend or family member to listen to your speech and give you feedback. They can offer suggestions on delivery, pacing, and content.

• Practice in the wedding venue

If possible, practice your speech in the actual wedding venue. This will give you a sense of the acoustics and how your voice will carry. It also helps you visualize the setting, which can help calm nerves and build confidence.

Remember, the more you practice, the more comfortable and confident you will be when delivering your father of the bride speech. Trust in yourself and your message, and enjoy the moment.

Father-Of-The-Bride Speech Examples 

If this whole speech thing has been on your mind (obviously it has. otherwise, you wouldn’t be reading this), you’ll probably want an example or two for how to do it like a boss. 

Prepare to get educated…

BEST Father-of-the-Bride Speech. Ever. (According to the person who uploaded the Youtube video)

We love the way he includes the groom the whole way through, and his toast is perfect.

You’ll notice this guy incorporates money and religion in his speech and manages to make it not at all awkward, but fabulous. Shows how bendable the rules can be if you’re on your game…

Heartwarming Father-of-the-Bride Speech (Get Out the Hankie!)

This father offers up a funny and heartwarming speech, along with a few props that take this speech to another level.

Hilarious Father-of-the-Bride Speech That Includes the Groom’s Family 

He’s included the groom’s family in this speech in the best way ever. Not to mention the hilarity of his son-in-law story! We’re dyin’ over here!

Some Parting Advice

The speeches are arguably the best part of the reception, next to the open bar and dancing. Ahem.

Although it may feel like it, no one expects the world from the father-of-the-bride when he toasts the happy couple. 

It’s your job to be sincere, remind everyone of what makes your daughter so wonderful, and tell the room why you’re thrilled to gain a son-in-law. 

Do that, and the rest will fall into place. Next thing you know you’ll be grabbing a martini, loosening your tie and breathing a sigh of relief that you nailed that speech. Now to nail those dance moves you’ve been practicing!

Despite her dreamy wedding blogger lifestyle, Meredith's day job is running ClassicVeils.com and a full-time mom to an active toddler. If she could, Meredith would spend her days taking cruises, helping animals in need, and watching Big Brother!

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Elena & Daniel: husband and wife team behind Love and Lavender. Read Our Story

10 best father of the bride speech examples

As the father of the bride, your speech holds a unique power to move hearts, spark laughter, and create memories that will last a lifetime. But finding the right words to express the love, pride, and joy you feel for your daughter on her wedding day can be a daunting task.

Don’t worry, we’re here to help. We’ve gathered 10 of the best father-of-the-bride speech examples, along with expert tips and guidance to help you craft a speech that will leave a lasting impression.

Key Elements of a Father of the Bride Speech:

While every speech is unique, here’s a general structure to follow:

• Welcome and Introduction:  Greet guests with warmth and express your gratitude for their presence. Introduce yourself and your connection to the bride.
• Memories and Sentiments:  Share heartwarming stories and anecdotes that showcase your daughter’s personality, strengths, and the special bond you share. Highlight her accomplishments and the qualities that make her an incredible woman.
• Welcome the Groom or Bride’s Partner:  Express your heartfelt welcome to the new member of your family. Share your thoughts on their relationship and express your confidence in their future together.
• Words of Wisdom and Marriage Advice:  Offer genuine advice for a happy and fulfilling marriage, drawing from your own experiences or observations. Keep it heartfelt and relatable.
• Well Wishes and Toast:  Conclude with heartfelt wishes for their future happiness and raise a toast to the newlyweds.

Tips for Writing an Unforgettable Speech:

• Start Early:  Don’t leave it to the last minute. Give yourself ample time for brainstorming, writing, and practicing.
• Speak from the Heart:  Authenticity is key. Share genuine stories and emotions that resonate with you and the guests.
• Keep it Concise:  Aim for a speech that’s around 5-7 minutes long to maintain attention and impact.
• Practice Makes Perfect:  Rehearse your speech aloud to ensure smooth delivery and comfort with the content.
• Add a Touch of Humor:  Lighthearted moments can make your speech more engaging and memorable. Just keep it tasteful and appropriate for the occasion.
• Don’t Forget the Tissues:  Embrace the emotions of the day. It’s okay to get a little teary-eyed as you express your love for your daughter.

10 Speeches Examples

Looking for inspiration to craft a father-of-the-bride speech that captures the love, laughter, and unique bond you share with your daughter? Here are 10 examples to spark your creativity and set the stage for a truly unforgettable moment:

Speech Example 1: The Heartfelt Tribute

Good evening everyone! For those who don’t know me, I’m [Your Name], [Bride’s name]’s dad, and the luckiest man in the room to be standing here witnessing the blossoming of a love story that began even before she could walk.

(Bride’s name), my little hummingbird, your wings have always fluttered with an infectious energy. I remember you twirling through the house in princess dresses, convinced you were destined for fairytales. And look at you now, radiating radiance that rivals any enchanted castle. You haven’t just found your prince charming, you’ve created your own happily ever after with the kindness, resilience, and adventurous spirit you’ve carried since your first wobbly steps.

Remember when you used to climb every tree in the backyard, declaring yourself queen of the squirrels? Your tenacity was always breathtaking, even if it did give me a few heart attacks. Today, I see that same unwavering spirit in the way you chase your dreams, your eyes holding a fire that can’t be dimmed.

And [Groom’s name], seeing you standing beside her fills me with a peace I haven’t known since she started raiding my toolbox for “princess knight tools.” You possess a quiet strength that complements her vibrant energy, a gentle hand that calms her storms and a laughter that echoes hers in perfect harmony. You see her not just as a princess, but as the warrior queen she truly is, and in that, you show her a love that mirrors the boundless one she deserves.

My dear [Bride’s name], as you embark on this new chapter, remember the lessons we shared under the starlit sky, the dreams we whispered in the garden, and the laughter that filled our home. Carry them with you, alongside the unwavering love of the man you’ve chosen.

And to you both, may your journey be paved with sunshine and moonlight, your laughter echo through valleys and meadows, and your love bloom brighter than any fairytale rose. Now, raise your glasses, as I propose a toast to the queen and her king, to [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name], may your reign be long and joyous!

Speech Example 2: The Funny Anecdote

Ah, where do I even begin? To say [Bride’s name] had an interesting childhood might be the understatement of the century. She was a firecracker disguised as a princess, a whirlwind of elbows and glitter who managed to turn every tea party into a full-blown pirate battle.

Remember that time she “borrowed” my car keys at 16 for a “joyride” that ended with a traffic jam caused by a runaway pony named Buttercup? Or the incident with the neighbor’s prize-winning tulips and the very convincing “grasshopper infestation” story? We learned a lot about insurance adjusters that year!

But through it all, there was this incredible spark in her eyes, a mischievous glint that mirrored the one twinkling at you now, [Groom’s name]. You, my friend, have a spirit that matches hers, a smile that can cure a monsoon, and a patience that surpasses all human understanding. You’ve found a way to tame the pirate queen, not with chains, but with laughter and love.

Now, don’t be fooled by the princess dress, [Bride’s name] is as fierce as a dragon if crossed. Just ask the toaster that met its maker after failing to produce the perfect golden brown bagel. But her fire is fueled by passion, by a fierce loyalty that will leave you feeling like the most treasured knight in her kingdom.

So, to you both, I say embrace the chaos, revel in the laughter, and remember that true love thrives on a good sprinkle of sprinkles and a side of adventure. May your life be a whirlwind of joy, a never-ending quest filled with the treasures of discovery, and, for heaven’s sake, lock up the car keys!

Speech Example 3: The Wise Counsel 

Marriage, like a good bottle of wine, requires patience, understanding, and a willingness to let the flavors mingle and mature. Today, I offer you, [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name], a few vintage pearls of wisdom, polished by the years:

Communication is the elixir of love: Talk, listen, and truly hear each other. Speak with kindness, even when the grapes of wrath feel like stomping their feet. Remember, silence isn’t golden, it’s just awkward and leaves room for misunderstandings to ferment.

Respect is the soil where love blooms: Cherish each other’s dreams, support each other’s stumbles, and celebrate each other’s victories, big and small. Never let weeds of criticism choke the fertile ground of your love.

Laughter is the sunshine that keeps it all growing: Find joy in the mundane, share silly jokes, and let playful banter dance through your days. Remember, sometimes the best fertilizer for love is a well-timed giggle fit.

Patience is the key to the cellar: Life will throw curveballs, storms will brew, and there will be days when the vinegar of frustration threatens to overwhelm the sweetness. Practice patience, remember the reasons you fell in love, and weather the storms together.

Compromise is the art of the blend: No two wines are alike, and neither are any two people. Learn to blend your preferences, your wishes, and your dreams, creating a unique vintage that reflects both of you. Remember, compromise isn’t a defeat, it’s a waltz where both partners lead and follow.

Growth is the journey, not the destination: Don’t get so caught up in building the perfect life that you forget to nurture the love that built it. Embrace change, grow together, and remember that the most beautiful vineyards are those constantly evolving with the seasons.

And finally, never underestimate the power of a simple “I love you,” whispered over coffee in the morning or shared beneath a starlit sky. These are the vintage varietals that keep the love strong, the flavor complex, and the marriage eternally delicious.

So, raise your glasses, dear [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name], and toast to a love story that matures with grace, weathers every storm, and leaves a taste of happiness on the lips for generations to come. To your love, your laughter, and the beautiful vineyard you’ll create together. Cheers!

Speech Example 4: The Welcome to the Family

[Groom’s name], son, welcome to the circus! Just kidding, though I wouldn’t rule out a rogue juggling squirrel at some point. You see, our family isn’t your typical sitcom crew, we’re more like a well-loved ragtag band, each member playing a unique, if slightly off-key, tune.

[Bride’s name], our free-spirited firecracker, is the lead vocalist, with a voice that can melt glaciers and raise the roof. Now, you might find yourself tempted to turn down the volume occasionally, but trust me, her passion is what makes the music sing.

My wife, [Bride’s mom’s name], is the rhythm section, keeping us all grounded with her practical wisdom and endless supply of baked goods. She might seem quiet at first, but don’t underestimate her ability to drop the beat on any argument.

The rest of us, well, we’re the percussionists, adding a little chaos and a lot of laughter to the mix. We’re loud, we’re opinionated, and we love fiercely. Be prepared for impromptu game nights that turn into furniture re-arranging extravaganzas, holiday dinners that resemble performance art, and enough stories to fill a library (most of them true, I swear).

But through it all, one thing remains constant: our love for each other. And now, [Groom’s name], you’re not just joining a family, you’re becoming part of its melody. We embrace your quirks, your passions, and the unique notes you bring to our song.

So, raise a glass, let the music play, and welcome to the beautiful, messy, and undeniably heartwarming symphony that is our family. We can’t wait to see what kind of harmony you’ll add to the chorus.

Speech Example 5: The Shared Journey

They say the journey matters more than the destination, and for [Bride’s name] and me, that journey began the moment she entered this world, eyes wide with wonder and lungs filled with the loudest cry I’d ever heard.

From wobbly first steps to scraped knees and triumphant pigtails, I watched her blossom into the extraordinary woman she is today. Remember that time you convinced the neighborhood kids to stage a “mermaid rescue” in the sprinkler, complete with cardboard fins and glitter scales? Or the science fair volcano that erupted with enough baking soda to rival Mount Vesuvius?

Through it all, there were scraped knees, broken hearts, and moments of teenage rebellion that turned my hair a shade whiter than it is now. But through every tear and tantrum, every triumph and misstep, I saw the strength of her spirit, the fire in her heart, and the unwavering love that made my little girl into the incredible woman standing before me now.

[Groom’s name], as you take her hand and embark on this new chapter, remember the girl who built fairy houses in the backyard and dreamt of galaxies beyond the stars. She carries those dreams within her, along with the love and lessons learned along the way.

And [Bride’s name], my dearest daughter, as you step into this new adventure, never forget the laughter that filled our home, the values we shared, and the unwavering love that binds us. Carry them with you as you build your own happily ever after, a love story that surpasses even the wildest fairytales we shared under the starlight.

You’re absolutely right, the previous version captured your genuine sentiment beautifully. Let’s finish it with a heartfelt toast that honors both the memories and the future:

So, raise your glasses, dear guests, to the journey that is life, a story written in scraped knees and fairy houses, in triumphant laughter and whispered lullabies. Let’s toast to [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name], two souls embarking on a new adventure with hearts woven from shared dreams and laughter. May their love be a compass that guides them through uncharted territories, a fire that warms them on chilly nights, and a song that fills their lives with everlasting joy. To forever, to love, to the beautiful tapestry of their shared journey! Cheers!

Speech Example 6: The Poignant Reflection

Good evening everyone. For those who don’t know me, I’m [Bride’s name]’s father, and today, I feel like the luckiest man on the planet. Watching my little girl transform into this radiant woman standing before me, it feels like yesterday she was chasing butterflies in the garden, her laughter echoing through the air.

Time might fly, memories might fade, but the love we share remains an eternal constant. I remember holding her tiny hand for the first time, a fragile promise of life nestled in my palm. Witnessing her first steps, shaky yet determined, taught me the power of resilience. Each milestone, from her first wobbly words to her triumphant graduation, filled my heart with a pride that words can barely express.

But today, a new kind of pride blossoms within me. It’s the pride of seeing her choose a partner who reflects her own kindness, strength, and zest for life. [Groom’s name], your gentle gaze and unwavering support speak volumes about the man you are. Seeing you both standing side-by-side, two souls dancing to the same melody, fills me with an overwhelming sense of peace and joy.

[Bride’s name], my dearest daughter, as you embark on this new chapter, carry with you the lessons whispered in the hush of bedtime stories, the echoes of laughter shared beneath the summer sky, and the unwavering love that has always been your guiding light. Remember, you are capable of anything you set your mind to, and no dream is too grand for your brave and beautiful spirit.

To the bride and groom, may your journey be paved with sunshine and moonlight, your laughter a symphony against the backdrop of life’s adventures. May you forever find comfort in each other’s arms, strength in each other’s dreams, and joy in the tapestry of love you weave together. Now, raise your glasses as we toast to forever, to [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name]!

Speech Example 7: The Lighthearted Toast

Good evening everyone! For those who haven’t had the pleasure of meeting me, I’m [Bride’s name]’s dad, and I’m here to confess… I used to dream of the day I’d walk her down the aisle. Not because I wanted to get rid of my laundry fairy (because frankly, those socks never folded themselves), but because I always knew she’d find someone incredible to share her life with.

And [Groom’s name], believe me, you are incredible. You managed to tame our resident whirlwind, the girl who once convinced me a pet raccoon was a “necessary addition” to the family. You not only survived the chaos, but thrived in it, adding your own brand of humor and patience to the mix.

Now, [Bride’s name], I know I haven’t always been the easiest person to live with. My penchant for leaving socks on the floor and questionable dance moves at family gatherings might have tested your patience on occasion. But remember, my love for you has always been a constant, a warm fireplace on a snowy night, a cheesy joke guaranteed to elicit groans and eye rolls (which secretly I find hilarious).

[Groom’s name], welcome to the family! We’re loud, we’re opinionated, and we love fiercely. Be prepared for impromptu game nights that become furniture-rearranging marathons, holiday dinners that resemble performance art (you’ve been warned about Aunt Martha’s singing!), and enough stories to fill a library (most of them true, I swear). But through it all, know that you’re not just joining a family, you’re becoming part of its heart.

So, raise your glasses as we toast to the beautiful mess that is our family, to [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name], and to a future filled with laughter, love, and maybe just a few rogue raccoon encounters (don’t tell your mother I said that!). Cheers!

Speech Example 8: The Ode to Adventure

They say home is where the heart is, and for [Bride’s name], her heart has always yearned for adventure. From building forts in the living room to scaling backyard mountains (or at least the molehills that resembled them), she’s always dreamt of chasing horizons and conquering uncharted territories.

[Bride’s name], my fearless daughter, I remember the day you told me you wanted to climb Kilimanjaro. Your eyes sparkled with a fire that no mountain could extinguish, a determination that fueled every step you took on that ascent. And today, as you embark on this new adventure with [Groom’s name] by your side, I see that same flame reflected in his gaze. You’ve found a partner who doesn’t just share your adventurous spirit, but celebrates it, fuels it, and walks hand-in-hand with you into the unknown.

[Groom’s name], from the moment you stepped onto our deck with a worn backpack and a smile brighter than the morning sun, I knew you were made for this journey. You understand her need to wander, her thirst for new experiences, and you match her pace step for step, with a laugh that echoes her own and a heart that beats to the rhythm of discovery.

This marriage isn’t just a union of two souls, it’s a launchpad for a thousand expeditions. So pack your bags, darlings, for your map is filled with destinations yet to be explored. Climb mountains together, sail uncharted seas, and lose yourselves in the wonder of the world. And every time you reach a summit, every time you stand on the edge of a new frontier, remember the love that brought you here, the unwavering support that fuels your journey.

To the bride and groom, may your compass always point towards adventure, your laughter fill the canyons, and your love be the beacon that guides you home. Now raise your glasses, and let’s toast to the most epic love story, a tale written in footprints on foreign soil and whispers shared under starlit skies. Cheers to [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name]!

Speech Example 9: The Unexpected Wisdom

Good evening everyone. I’m [Bride’s name]’s father, and if I’m being honest, this whole “giving-my-daughter-away” business feels a bit like letting go of a kite you’ve spent years meticulously crafting. You watch it soar, knowing you can’t hold the string forever, but hoping it carries the love and lessons woven into its fabric with it.

[Bride’s name], my precious daughter, you were never one for conventional paths. Remember the time you declared yourself “Queen of the Sandbox” and refused to leave, armed with a plastic shovel and a crown made of dandelions? You’ve always questioned, explored, and carved your own way, your spirit a defiant spark in a world enamored with straight lines.

And [Groom’s name], seeing you by her side is like watching that spark ignite into a bonfire. You, too, embrace the unconventional, chase dreams with a glint in your eye, and laugh in the face of conformity. Together, you are a storm brewing in the most beautiful way, ready to change the world with your passion and audacity.

But remember, darlings, even the wildest storms need anchors. Love is your anchor, a tether to hold you steady amidst the winds of change. Be each other’s rock, the lighthouse guiding you home through choppy waters. Listen to each other’s whispers, respect each other’s silences, and always, always cherish the laughter that binds you.

Marriage isn’t a fairytale, it’s a messy, magnificent adventure. There will be storms, detours, and moments when you question if you can see the stars through the clouds. But hold onto each other, remember the love that brought you here, and embrace the imperfections that make your journey unique.

To the bride and groom, may your love be a constellation guiding you through the darkest nights, your laughter a symphony resonating through life’s valleys and peaks. Now raise your glasses, to [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name], may your story unfold like a masterpiece, with love as your brush and life as your canvas. Cheers!

Speech Example 10: The Legacy of Love

Good evening everyone. I, for one, am thrilled to finally hand over the reigns of the “chief sock-folding officer” position to a more than capable successor. But jokes aside, today isn’t just about giving [Bride’s name] away, it’s about celebrating the legacy of love that brought us all together.

[Bride’s name], my dearest daughter, you are the culmination of generations of laughter, shared stories, and unwavering support. I see my grandmother’s fierce kindness and wit in your smile, my father’s unwavering work ethic and gentle humor in your eyes. You carry within you the tapestry of love woven by those who came before, a legacy you now honor by building your own beautiful chapter.

And [Groom’s name], you, too, bring your own threads to this tapestry. Your family’s warmth and loyalty echo in your actions, your adventurous spirit a reflection of their love for life. Together, you weave a new pattern, a vibrant blend of old and new, tradition and innovation.

This marriage isn’t just about two families joining, it’s about the threads of love continuing to stretch through generations. Pass down the stories, share the laughter, and keep the legacy of love burning bright. Remember, the greatest inheritance you can leave behind is not wealth or status, but the unwavering love that binds you together.

To the bride and groom, may your love story be the next verse in this beautiful family poem, a chapter filled with laughter, adventures, and unwavering support. Now raise your glasses, to [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name], may your love weave a tapestry of joy that spans generations. Cheers!

These are just a few examples, and the possibilities are truly endless. Remember to personalize the speech with your own anecdotes, emotions, and the unique bond you share with your daughter. Make it authentic, heartfelt, and memorable, and you’ll create a speech that not only touches your daughter, but becomes a cherished part of your family’s story.

Here are some frequently asked questions about father of the bride speech examples

How to start a father of the bride speech?

Start by welcoming the guests and thanking them for celebrating with you on this special day. You can also share a brief anecdote about your daughter or your relationship with her.

What are some things to talk about in the body of the speech?

Share some heartwarming stories about your daughter growing up, her personality, and her achievements. You can also talk about how you feel about her marrying her partner and offer some words of advice for their future together.

How to make the speech funny?

Humor is a great way to connect with the audience and make your speech more memorable. However, it’s important to avoid jokes that are offensive or embarrassing to your daughter, her partner, or any of the guests.

How to end the speech?

End the speech with a toast to the happy couple and express your well wishes for their future together. You can also thank your daughter for being such a wonderful daughter and for making you so proud.

What should I do if I get emotional during the speech?

It’s perfectly normal to get emotional during your father of the bride speech. If you start to tear up, take a deep breath and pause for a moment. The guests will understand and appreciate your sincerity.

How long should the speech be?

The ideal length for a father of the bride speech is 3-5 minutes. You don’t want to be too short or too long, as you want to keep the audience engaged.

Do I need to memorize the speech?

It’s generally best to have some notes or cue cards to help you stay on track, but you don’t need to memorize the entire speech word-for-word. Speaking from the heart will make your speech more genuine and heartfelt.

What should I wear to give the speech?

Dress in something that is appropriate for a formal occasion, but also something that you feel comfortable and confident in. You want to look your best for your daughter’s wedding day.

What if I’m not a good public speaker?

Don’t worry if you’re not a seasoned public speaker. The most important thing is to be yourself and speak from the heart. The guests will appreciate your effort and sincerity.

Where can I find more tips on writing a father of the bride speech?

There are many resources available online and in libraries that can help you write a father of the bride speech. You can also find sample speeches and templates that you can use as inspiration.

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How to write a father of the bride speech

Easy Weddings

Writing – let alone actually delivering – your all-important father of the bride speech may seem daunting and, with all eyes on you, it’s understandable you’d be nervous. But you needn’t be because, once the speech is written and the nerves are subdued, it’s actually a wonderful moment that can be a real highlight, especially for your darling daughter.

The father of the bride speech is, usually, the first of the wedding speeches to be delivered, usually towards the end of the main meal . Traditionally, the father of the bride was the host of the wedding, but even where he isn’t, the father of the bride speech usually still includes many host-like aspects such as welcoming the guests and thanking them for their gifts.

Of course, traditionally, the father of the bride also share some words of wisdom or marriage advice – and, sometimes, even a few tears!

The delivery

Standing centre stage, delivering a speech in front of your nearest and dearest on such an important occasion may seem like a difficult, perhaps, terrifying task.

But remember, there is no need to worry at all. You’re surrounded by your friends and family, all of whom want to see you do well!

They know how proud you are and are probably dying to hear what you have to say! Simply take a deep breath and try and enjoy yourself.

Oh, and, if you’re considering steadying your nerves with a little liquid courage, be sparing in how much you drink. You don’t want to have too much courage, after all. You want to enjoy the moment and you want your daughter – and your entire family – to be proud of your performance, not embarrassed by it.

Getting started…

The hardest part of writing a good father of the bride speech is getting started.

A good tip is to break the speech down into headings. Under each heading, jot down some notes, ideas and emotions then expand on them.

Think about how you felt when your daughter was born, what it was like raising her as a child, some of her big milestones such as a graduation or a significant birthday. Then, attempt to put your emotions onto words.

As the speech starts to take shape, practice reading it out loud. Take note of how long it takes to read each section and try not to speak for longer than about five to seven minutes.

Want professional help?

Part 1: The introduction

But keep it clean.

People are expecting a mature gentleman, not a larrikin – that’s the best man’s role!

If joking is not your thing, simply start by introducing yourself and mentioning how beautiful the bride looks.

Say a few words about the wedding day so far, and how perfectly everything has run and, if you have a few funny stories from the lead up to the wedding or the early part of the wedding day itself, you can include those at the start of the speech.

Part 2: Welcome the guests

This is where your role as the father of the bride kicks in. Be sure to thank everyone for coming and give special thanks to those who have travelled to attend the celebrations.

Don’t forget to thank those who helped in the planning and organisation of your daughter’s big day and make sure you write down any names that you feel deserve a mention during this part of the speech.

Also, mention any significant family members or friends who are absent and, if you feel comfortable, those who may recently have passed away.

There are many great ways you can honour deceased loved one’s wedding ceremony. Here, for example, are 10 heart-warming ideas to honour any mothers who may have passed away.

Part 3: Now, it’s all about your daughter

This is the highlight of any father of the bride speech – and everyone’s waiting to hear it.

It’s not often you get to discuss your daughter’s many qualities and achievements so publicly, so make the most of it and indulge yourself. Make sure you compliment her; tell her how wonderful she looks and how proud you are of her. Don’t worry, it’s OK to gush about your darling daughter.

Try to talk a little about your daughter’s early years, perhaps tell a funny story or two about when she was like growing up. Feel free to tease her about some of the things she has done but be kind and don’t say anything that you know will really embarrass her.

Tell a story that reveals her personality: how strong, tough, creative, kind she is, perhaps? Or her love of animals or sports.

Finally, talk about when she met her new husband, making sure you tell the story in a positive way!

This will lead you nicely into the next part.

Part 4: And, don’t forget the son in law or daughter in law

Here, it is customary for the father of the bride to welcome the groom (or, in the case of a same-sex wedding, the other bride) into his family, and to express his happiness at the new connection between the two families that the marriage will bring.

Talk about your first encounter with the groom. Even if the first impression was not positive, it may be fun to mention it, as long as you follow up with how fond of him you are now – and say it

Depending on your relationship with your new son-in-law, it’s probably fine to poke (a little) fun at him, and to joke about what he is getting himself in for marrying your daughter.

Other anecdotes that work well include the first time you realised your daughter was in love with him and your reaction to their engagement.

Think of positive qualities about the groom that will make him a good husband and ways that he has made your daughter happy.

Part 5: Words of wisdom

At the end of your father of the bride speech, you should congratulate the happy couple on a wonderful wedding, and express your confidence in their future happiness together.

Traditionally, your closing should also contain some words of wisdom about life and marriage. This might include tips on how to have a happy marriage and things that are important in life.

This could be humorous or tongue-in-cheek.

Part 6: Toast

Finally, propose a toast to the bride and groom and have all the guests raise their glasses to the happy couple.

There you go. You’ve done it! It wasn’t that hard, was it?

Not sure you can do it? Visit our partners over at Speechform for info on how they can help you!

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How to Give a Perfect Father of the Bride Speech

Dads, it’s the article you’ve been waiting for! Your little girl is getting married and, as tradition dictates, she’ll be looking to you at the reception to give a Father of the Bride speech worthy of your love for her and which will contribute to the overall success of her big day. So, no pressure.

We know it’s hard. You’ll inevitably feel a lot of emotions after giving your daughter away at the altar. And, if you’re not au fait with public speaking, it’s probably difficult for you to imagine what it will feel like to get up and have to speak in front of a room full of people.

Expert advice on how to put together a loving and funny (and not embarrassing) Father of the Bride speech

In the traditional line-up of wedding speeches, yours will come first and will be the warm-up for the others. Therefore, it’s important you help your fellow speech givers.

To help you write the perfect Father of the Bride speech, we’ve compiled a helpful list of things to mention. We’ve spoken to some speechwriting pros to give you expert advice to remember when toasting your daughter and new son-in-law.

The Structure

Introduce yourself.

Most people in the room may know who you are, especially if you walked the bride down the aisle. Therefore, don’t make your introduction too robotic. If you say something like, “Hi, everyone, I’m Robert, and I’m Anna’s dad,” you will sound like you’re in an AA meeting. Make it conversational and be friendly.

Don’t start with a joke, though, says Robin of  The Wedding Speech Guru :

“The first line needs to be said with confidence and it could be anything, but I advise people against coming up with a gag is because it devalues the rest of the speech. For a Father of the Bride speech to be successful, it needs to be authentic.”

Welcome everyone

This will likely be done by all the speakers after you, but that shouldn’t stop you from saying it as well. In fact, especially if you and the bride’s mother are the hosts, yours might be the most important welcome.

It’s important to your daughter that everyone in attendance is there, and it should be to you as well! So take a brief moment to welcome them and to thank them for coming along. Many Fathers of the Bride thank those from furthest afield, for example guests who have flown in from Australia. Decide how you want to welcome everyone.

Your daughter

Today is about her, and your speech should be about her, too. Don’t be afraid to roast her (a little bit), especially if she made you pay for the wedding! But, believe it or not, no one wants to hear stories about her running around naked as a kid. There’s a fine line between making light fun of her and embarrassing her.

“I’ve seen it before,” says Adam of  Adaptable Speechwriting , “and what a dad may find funny can sometimes rub people up the wrong way and is not worth the risk.” Robin agrees, and even goes on to say that, “Anything that might embarrass her is strictly off-limits.”

Make gentle jabs at her teenage years or her poor taste in music when she was younger. But, if there’s one thing that all of the speechwriters we interviewed agree on, it’s this: do not mention ex-boyfriends.

Your son-in-law

Your Father of the Bride speech is the ideal moment to formally welcome your daughter’s new husband to the family. And, perhaps more importantly, it’s the time to put aside any negative feelings you may have about him.

If you two have a good relationship, some light joking here may be appropriate. If not, then take advice from Eddie of  Custom Speechwriting . “Wedding toasts should be truthful but they don’t need to tell all of the truth,” Eddie says. “The Father of the Bride in this situation should focus on the positive aspects of the new son-in-law; if that’s challenging, he should ask his daughter what she sees in him and what he does to make her happy. Use those reasons to talk about why they will be a great couple.”

Your daughter has just married this man, therefore let bygones be bygones and accept he is part of your family.

The bride’s mother and your new in-laws

Whether or not you and the Mother of the Bride are still together, taking the time to acknowledge her and the hand she had in raising your daughter is gracious and goes a long way. You may also wish to thank her for the part she played in organising the wedding.

When it comes to acknowledging the groom’s parents, think short and sweet, especially if you don’t know them very well. “Sometimes it’s just best to acknowledge the fact they don’t know each other too well, it can also be an opportunity to say something warming towards them and get some form of a relationship going,” says Adam (Adaptable Speechwriting). Use this as an opportunity to start building bridges.

Wisdom for the newlyweds

As you are typically the oldest of the traditional speakers, it’s up to you to impart some wisdom and marital advice. This could be a good opportunity for a joke at the expense of your other half (if you’re confident it’ll go down well). But, above all, keep it appropriate!

Moreover, remember not to get too intense. This isn’t The Godfather and you’re not Don Corleone.

Finish up with a toast to the newlyweds and to their happiness. Keep it simple and loving. This should be the easiest part of your Father of the Bride speech! Be genuine.

Yours is the first of the speeches, so, as important as your speech is, keep it short. The guests will know that yours is just the first speech of several so might get fidgety. This is especially true if speeches come before the wedding breakfast! Brevity is bound to earn you praise, so try to stick to around 5-7 minutes. Time yourself beforehand just to make sure.

You’re not a stand-up comedian

And even if you are, this isn’t the time for a set. Cracking jokes is a great way to loosen up your audience and to put everyone in a good mood, but don’t let that pressure you into being funny. Nobody wants to hear a string of bad dad jokes.

Eddie from Custom Speechwriting adds: “Light-hearted jokes are fine and are welcome in wedding toasts… However, keep in mind that everyone in your audience is an amateur videographer with the aid of their smartphones. Make sure that you are willing to have anything you say recorded and uploaded to YouTube for the near eternity of the internet.”

What to do if you get emotional

We understand that the day will take its toll on you emotionally. However, blubbing your way through your speech might make your daughter worry that she’s made a mistake! Instead, we recommend that you practice your speech.

Robin (The Wedding Speech Guru) is in firm agreement here: “Make sure you say your speech out loud 10-15 times,” he advises. “Just reading it through isn’t good enough. Create prompt cards or print the speech, but in a way that’s visually memorable so if you’ve gone through it a lot, you should know it almost by heart and you can just glance at it and remember it.”

This isn’t about you

Your daughter and her new husband are the stars of the show today. Make your Father of the Bride speech about them; praise them, make little jabs at them, and wish them well. Do those things and you can’t go too wrong.

And if you get nervous…

 “My absolute number one rule is breathing techniques,” says Adam (Adaptable Speechwriting). “Take a deep breath between points…It feels about four times as long when you’re stood there than what the audience will feel so take your time it won’t be noticed.”

“Make sure you have a glass of champagne to toast with and a glass of water in front of you,” Robin (The Wedding Speech Guru) advises nervous speakers. “In advance of the speech, make sure you talk to as many guests as possible…It means that the people you’re talking to have a vested interest in the success of your speech and it’s much less scary if you’re looking out at faces you know. Lastly, smile!”

Finally, if you remember nothing else, try to at least remember your last line. Remembering your intended last line will stop you from awkwardly tailing off and works as a mental chequered flag that you’ll be able to jump to in case you really blank. It’s a handy tip that all professional speakers use.

Finally, we hope that, after reading this, you are feeling more confident now about your speech. We have helpful advice for the Best Man and Groom , too. Good luck!

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A Shy Dad's Guide to Giving the Perfect Wedding Speech

Follow these tips from a communications expert and you'll deliver a speech your daughter will love.

Ellie is a freelance writer for MarthaStewart.com.

Some fathers love the limelight, so when it comes time for these dads to pen their father of the bride speeches , the material comes spilling out. But others feel shy about the experience-and for good reason! On such an important day, in a room filled with important people, it's easy to let emotion get the best of you. That's why we caught up with Balraj Arunasalam, president of Toastmasters International , an organization that specializes in communication and leadership development. Not only is he an expert in delivering an incredible speech under any circumstances, but he's also in the process of drafting a reception toast for his own daughter's wedding. He was kind enough to share some tips on the process, offering practical advice that can help even the shyest dad have his moment to shine.

Wait to Write

Arunasalam suggests dads first focus on what they want to say rather than worry about how they want to say it. "Take time two to three weeks prior to the ceremony to write several thoughts on the occasion," he says. "Make sure you have all your thoughts together first, then play around with the words."

Use Your Expertise

If you're not sure where to start, begin with what you know best: your daughter . "Add your favorite memories... when her first smile captured your heart, a first day of school, and so forth," says Arunasalam. From there, he suggests hitting foolproof beats like welcoming the spouse to your family and wishing the bride and groom a happy, prosperous life together.

Practice Your Speech

Once you have your words down, practice, practice, practice. And don't underestimate the power of reading it aloud in front of a mirror. What sounds good in your head may trip you up when you hear it spoken, so be sure to get comfortable well before the reception.

Let It Flow

"Deliver your speech from the heart," says Arunasalam. The father of the bride's toast is such an emotional moment between dad and daughter , and it's one that will make everyone in the room teary as soon as you stand up. Know that no matter what you say, your little girl will love every second of it. Just as much as she already loves you.

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Effortless Wedding Speeches

3 Easy Steps To The Perfect Father Of The Bride Speech

The time has finally arrived. You’re baby-girl is on her way to get married and you now need to sit down and compile a unique, supportive and yet moving Father of the bride speech.

How fast has time flown by…

When she was born and first placed into your hands, she was your most prized accomplishment. You looked after, protected her and guided her to the best of your abilities- through thick and thin.

You watched over her social life and ensured that any boys hanging around knew about you! Perhaps you weren’t easily impressed by who she initially brought home.

You’ve shielded her from boys which looked like they had impure intentions- after all, as her father, you could see these things clearer than she ever could.

But now she has found the perfect guy for her. He loves her so much that he will give his life for her- just as you probably would.

And, she has said yes to a new chapter in her life, and sometimes letting go may affect what you would really want to say.

So, how do you put together the perfect father of the bride speech that is heart warming, flows well and maybe injects a little humor too?

Don’t worry- we will show you exactly how and help you craft the best speech!

How To Begin Your Father Of The Bride Speech

Step 1: introduction to your father of bride speech.

Beginning is actually the easiest part. In fact, if you’ve listened to a couple of father of the bride speeches before, you’ll notice they generally follow this same trend…

Just a simple greeting to start- maybe a one-liner funny line or a nice welcoming quote about weddings in general.

But this is the part about getting the nerves and emotions out of the way for you. So where do you begin? A shot (if you will) and a deep breath and you’re best smile can muster.

Then, it would be nice to start with words of gratitude and say it aloud. A strong suggestion to begin with “I would like to thank everyone for”. It is inclusive, and sends a positive note to all in the room. You start with thanks as your closing later will be covering something else…

Step 2: 3  Steps For The Body Of Your Father Of The Bride Speech

So, let’s go through the steps that you will need to cover that will make up the majority of your speech.

List down memories that highlight your love for your daughter.

This needs to ring clear as a bell. Write it down so you can rank and choose later. But you don’t want to cover them all, just choose one or two that is really close to both your hearts and one you feel everyone else will also appreciate.

List down qualities your daughter has valued in her adult life, this will guide you in further clarifying which memories to use

Once you have the list too you’ll know which memory or two links best to the qualities of your daughter that you’d like to highlight.

It’ll allow you to take this moment to show how much you value her and how proud you are of her.

How well do you know the groom and his family? Getting a good backgrounder will be very useful now.

This is important as it will allow you to connect with the groom’s side of the family too. It will give you the chance to show that you recognize them and welcome them as your families unite through this union. (Wow that sounded almost medieval prince & princesses)

If you don’t know a whole lot about the grooms family, be sure to get in contact with your daughter to find out. Don’t be lazy and skip this! This family will become a big part of your life after the big day passes.

Knowing these steps above as accurately as possible will provide you with a clear direction on how to create the body of your speech and whether you need to present yourself as a more formal Father of the Bride

Critical Things To Remember/Avoid From The Perfect Father Of The Bride Speech…

Now that you’ve had some tips on how to start it off, it is very important to avoid the following.

• Crass and coarse humor. Even in an intimate family gathering . You are the father of the bride (I’ll keep saying it), and the smart money says bet on mild humor in these situations.
• In cases where there is a bad breakup in the family history, do not go there.
• This is your daughter’s wedding and it is a happy day. Keep the subject matter positive
• Being sensitive to these will prevent you from making a speech that may embarrass any of the parties present
• Check your notes on the guest list.

Multi-cultural? Multi denominational?

If so, review your references to make sure none of the guests are offended

• Don’t give in to the thought of “winging” a part of the speech.

Complete it, and stick to it. It will help you keep control if some untoward thing happens during the wedding or when you are in the middle of the speech.

It is critical to come across with your message, and that your message is clear. You love your daughter, and wish her all the happiness in the world.

And she will surely remember this special day for her for a long time, and will definitely keep close to heart what you have to say to her on this day… So make it a fond memory for her, one that she will be proud of and thankful for.

Step 3: Finding the Right Way to Conclude Your Speech

For this speech and for that day, you have to come out as who you exactly were in your daughter’s life.

You most likely were the Wall and the Moat, the Bear, the Dragon, the owner of unbelievably large hands and arms that can toss a person to the sky and catch with ease.

You had been Merlin, Arthur, Kal-El, Galahad, Dragon slayer, and sometimes a tea party guest.

Now you are giving her hand away, and a strong positive speech ensures that everyone present understands that.

• Work the end of the speech as a welcome to the start of a new adventure for your daughter and the notes you have about your son in law will help you make it an inclusive one.
• A lot of Father of the Bride speeches fail in this area, focusing only on the daughter as she is better known
• Making it something that covers the couple will send a very strong message of support
• Tell your daughter one more time that you love her, and by extension, you’ve gained a son.
• As you started with words of gratitude, close with a request for support for the newly wedded couple. Ask for a round of applause or clinking of glasses for the guests to show their agreement.

The points above should allow you to craft a strong and positively worded speech one that fits the occasion where a great Dad consents to the man her daughter has agreed to wed. Good luck and have fun writing your father of the bride speech.

Want To Guarantee An Amazing Speech For Your Little Girls Big Day?

If you want to ensure that you absolutely ‘nail’ your speech and really impress all those in attendance, I recommend that you check out the follow resource to help further:

(Note: When you click the link, you’ll need to select “Father Of The Bride” for the appropriate resource.)

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Here's a tell that it's time for the Trump campaign to 'start worrying': reporter

Managing Edito

Before joining raw story, brad reed spent eight years writing about technology at bgr.com and network world. prior to that, he wrote freelance stories for political publications such as alternet and the american prospect. he has a master's degree in business and economics journalism from boston university..

Former President Donald Trump and his campaign last month believed that they were cruising to victory against President Joe Biden .

Since Biden dropped out of the race, however, Vice President Kamala Harris has erased Trump's lead, and campaign reporter Jake LaHut believes that the former president is offering a telltale sign that his campaign is in real trouble.

Writing on X, LaHut points to recent frantic Truth Social posts from the former president angrily ranting about polls showing him losing to Harris.

"The NYT/Siena Poll has way over sampled [sic] Democrat voters, and way under sampled people who voted for me in 2020," wrote Trump in one post, referring to an election that he lost by more than 7 million votes in the popular vote nationwide. "The Fake News York Times insisted they do this so that it would look as bad as possible in comparison to their last poll, which was very good for me, way up, and made the very biased Times look 'stupid,' just like in 2016."

ALSO READ: 'Kill me or put me in prison': Convicted election denier vows to keep smearing Dominion

Of course, the last Times poll that showed Trump leading was when he was being polled against Biden rather than Harris.

All of this reminded LaHut of a quote he got from a Trump ally about the state of the race back in April: "Until we get to the point where we start telling you these polls are all wrong, that’s when you start worrying.”

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Do you think vice president kamala harris should be the next president, trump's 'doddering old man' attacks casting cloud over his re-election hopes: report.

Donald Trump's decision to make President Joe Biden's age a centerpiece of his re-election bid has now come back to haunt him after Biden gracefully stepped aside for much younger Vice President Kamala Harris to take her spot at the top of the Democratic ticket. According to a report from Politico's Megan Messerly and Myah Ward, the former president went to great pains to portray Biden as a "doddering old man" and, with the 59-year-old Harris running an upbeat and energetic campaign, the former president's latest public efforts have led to his earlier age attacks to bounce back and attach themselves on him . As the report notes, the Harris campaign has focused on talking about the future and, combined with rally chants of "We're not going back," Trump increasingly looks like a relic of "a past that the country can’t afford to return to."

ALSO READ: Donald Trump deep in debt while foreign money keeps coming: disclosure "Some Democrats are relishing the fact that they can finally make an attack based on age after months of being forced to defend a historically old nominee. Democratic vice presidential nominee Tim Walz , 60, veered into overt attacks on Trump’s age at a fundraiser in Newport Beach, California , this week. He called Trump 'low energy,' 'tired' and the 'guy that needs to get a little rest on the weekend,'" Politico is reporting. According to one Democratic pollster, Trump's age is the "cherry on top" for the Harris campaign. “You already thematically want to go to the future, but now you’re able to also point to a very real thing, which is how much confidence do you have in this guy’s mental acuity, energy, overall health?” Paul Maslin suggested. “Yeah, he can still play a decent game of golf. Okay, we’ll give him that. Is that enough?” You can read more here .

'Really bad idea': Why critics are coming out against Jared Kushner’s resort in Albania

Former President Donald Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner is planning to build a luxury resort in Albania. But the proposed development has been attacked by critics in both the Balkan country and the U.S.

Kushner — who launched his private equity firm Affinity Partners after Trump was voted out of office — has been working with Richard Grenell , who was Trump's acting Director of National Intelligence, on plans to develop in both Albania and Serbia. According to a new Washington Post report , the two have been working closely with Albania's "very transactional" prime minister, Edi Rama on plans to develop a section of protected land in the southern European nation.

However, environmentalists say Kushner's plans to raze protected acreage in the coastal area of Zvernec could prove to be dangerous to rare flora and fauna and tip the ecosystem out of balance. This includes Patagonia CEO Ryan Zellert, who told the Post he has "huge concerns" about the development.

READ MORE: Jared Kushner blasted over new $500 million 'present' from Serbian government

"It is a stunning area, unique across the Mediterranean," he said. "And the idea of them developing this, particularly in the absence of a master plan, is a really bad idea."

Albania's minister of tourism and the environment, Mirela Kumbaro, told the outlet that "all of Albania is open for potential development." She dismissed concerns from environmentalists, saying that they want the government to "abandon the region forever and to have only the birds. She added that Albania couldn't afford to sacrifice economic progress and leave protected land untouched, particularly as the acreage under environmental protection makes up roughly 21% of Albania's total area.

But ornithologist Joni Vorpsi suggested the ecosystem could be significantly harmed by the development, as the vegetation would suck the area dry without birds to feed on it. He reminded the publication that Kushner's resort would require access roads and additional infrastructure throughout the construction process, and all the traffic that comes with it.

“It can’t coexist,” he said. “Even if you try to be cautious, there is just so much disturbance.”

READ MORE: Senate Dems open investigation into Jared Kushner's 'lucrative' foreign business deals

Aside from the concerns raised by environmentalists, anti-corruption activists are also sounding the alarm about the development. Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Oregon) accused Kusher — who is married to Trump's eldest daughter, Ivanka — of trading on his relationship to the former president in order to fuel his own business interests.

In a June letter , Wyden asked an Affinity official to shed light on the ex-president's son-in-law, writing that he had concerns about the high percentage of Kushner's business coming from foreign sources. He added that it "creates an appearance that Affinity’s investors are motivated not by commercial interests of seeking a return on investment, but rather by strategic considerations of foreign nationals seeking to funnel money to U.S. individuals with personal connections to former President Trump ."

Kushner has countered that nothing about what he's done is illegal under statutes in both the U.S. and the Balkan nations he does business with, and that soliciting foreign investment isn't inherently corrupt.

"A lot of people [leave the public sector and] they kind of sell their services, you know, based on their relationships," Kushner told the Post . I" didn’t want to do that. I’ve always been an investor.”

READ MORE: 'Corrupt': Jared Kushner's overseas business deals under fire as Trump runs for president

Unnerved and exposed, Trump struggles to regain campaign mojo

Donald Trump has never lacked for self-confidence, but his presidential campaign has been sent into a tailspin by the extraordinary events of the past month, and suddenly he appears older, more awkward and grasping for direction.

An assassination attempt, the shock withdrawal of Joe Biden from the White House race and replacement by his younger, high-energy vice president, Kamala Harris , all seem to have taken a toll on a candidate who -- until recently -- had seemed well on course for victory in November.

President Biden's exit has been particularly impactful, removing a rival whose 81 years, faltering speech and physical frailties had largely shielded Trump from scrutiny of his own age and weaknesses.

Now it is Trump, 78, who is the oldest presidential nominee in history, and the point of comparison is a 59-year-old former prosecutor who has come out fast and swinging.

Trump is "very upset" as he huddles with aides searching for a new campaign narrative, said Anthony Scaramucci, who served briefly as Trump's White House communications director in 2017 before the two had a falling out.

"He's now frightened, he's now cornered, and he's very angry," Scaramucci told MSNBC .

- 'Quit whining' -

Trump's campaign managers are reportedly desperate to have their candidate focus on issues that play with his base like immigration and inflation.

And while Trump does address those subjects at length during his long and often rambling public appearances, he repeatedly pivots to personal insults, questioning Harris's intelligence, attacking her racial identity and branding her a "communist."

Republicans including Nikki Haley , who Trump vanquished in the primaries but who has since endorsed him, say such attacks play badly with the undecided voters Trump needs to win.

"Quit whining about her," Haley said on Fox News , while also urging Trump to stop obsessing over who draws the most people to their campaign rallies.

"The campaign is not gonna win talking about crowd sizes," she said.

But Trump's long list of grievances has only grown -- "they're not being nice to me," he complained recently -- as the momentum has shifted to Harris, erasing the poll leads Trump had in the swing states likely to decide the November election.

Sensing an opportunity, the Harris campaign has sought to amplify the image of Trump as withdrawn, angry and embittered.

"Donald Trump To Ramble Incoherently," it said in a mock promotion for a Trump campaign event on Thursday that promised "another self-obsessed rant full of his own personal grievances."

The Thursday event had been billed as a press conference focused on Trump's economic agenda.

Standing in front of tables loaded with supermarket goods aimed at illustrating the household cost of inflation, Trump stayed on message at first -- head down, reading out examples of product price rises that were listed in a binder.

But then he repeatedly veered off topic, talking about wind turbines that killed birds, going over crowd sizes again and peppering it all with derogatory personal remarks about Harris.

While politics of resentment can play well with his base, "it is less clear how Trump's personal attacks against Harris will play with undecided swing voters," political science professor Elizabeth Bennion of Indiana University told AFP.

"Some observers wondered whether Trump might exercise restraint when facing a multi-racial female candidate," Bennion added. "The answer is clearly no."

Does hosting your political convention in Chicago equal victory? History has an answer

Kari lake foe ruben gallego broke financial transparency law with years-late stock filings, how trump's new gibberish speeches are alienating swing voters.

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Father of the Bride Speech Examples

Looking for speech examples? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!

Reviewing a few concrete examples to see what other people have done is a great way to get a few ideas for your own speech.

However, try to avoid the temptation to borrow ideas wholesale because you never know how many other people will have done exactly the same thing.

Wedding guests look forward to the speeches and nothing disappoint them more than feeling your speech is just a collection of familiar lines borrowed from other speeches.

But with that warning in place, let’s jump in.

Icebreaker Examples

It’s important to have a strong opening to your Father of the Bride speech since it gets people’s attention and sets the right tone for an enjoyable speech.

You don’t have to lead with humour, although that is usually very effective, but try to avoid well-worn jokes that some people may have heard before.

The best icebreaker will be specific to the occasion and a gently humorous opener that’s personal to you will almost always be better than a stock line taken from a list of wedding speech jokes you found online.

That said, here are some quick examples to get your creative juices flowing:

“I’m David, Melanie’s proud dad and Simon’s brand new father-in-law. And if none of those names are familiar to you, there’s a good chance you’re at the wrong wedding.”

“The last time I stood up in front of a crowd with a microphone in my hand I was belting out a drunken version of ‘I Will Survive’. But the less said about my Groom speech the better.”

“I struggled a bit with writing my speech because my daughter and my wife gave me completely opposite advice. Beccy said I shouldn’t say anything stupid, smutty or embarrassing. While Carole said I should just be myself!”

After the icebreaker it’s time to start your speech proper. On the big day make sure you pause for any laughter and start with confidence and poise.

Examples of Bride and Groom Toasts

When it comes to raising a toast to the Bride and Groom, you don’t need to be particularly creative with your choice of words. Your aim is simply to clearly signpost the end of your speech and prompt the guests to raise their glasses.

Here are some simple ways to raise a toast:

“Finally, it’s my great pleasure to invite you all to stand and raise your glasses in a toast to our wonderful Bride and Groom!”

“Ladies and gentlemen, will you please be upstanding and join me in a toast to the happy couple, Beccy and Simon, the Bride and Groom.”

“Right, it’s time for me to stop talking and you lot to start drinking. So please raise your glasses and let’s toast Mrs and Mr Simpson, the Bride and Groom!”

“Before I hand over to my brand new son-in-law Simon, aka the Groom, please grab your glasses, get on your feet and let’s toast the happy couple.”

Once you’ve made your toast, it’s time to sit, turn your attention to the Groom and let him take over the reins with his own speech.

Complete Father of the Bride Speech Examples

To give you some quick inspiration, here’s a  warm and witty Father of the Bride speech  I wrote for an imaginary couple, Sarah and Scott.

If you’re in the market for a very short “blink and you’ll miss it” Father of the Bride speech, the Confetti website has an  example .

If you’re hungry for more examples, the Hitched website also has a handy database of  sample speeches  uploaded by its readers.

Now Go Write an Original Speech of Your Own

Armed with a few strong examples, you should now be in a good place to start working on your own speech.

Just remember that the best speech will always be one that only you could have written, rich with authentic detail.

So be inspired by these examples, but don’t copy them. Your daughter deserves better than a patchwork speech made from other people’s efforts.

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‘The situation in Israel is heartbreaking right now; it's probably not something I should talk about’

As a yiddishe mama herself, kyra sedgwick easily embraced the neurotic jewish mother role in bad shabbos, which wowed tribeca audiences; she discusses quirky jewish customs and the politics of identity but avoids current political topics.

'Kevin played a homosexual, that would not be met with open arms today'

Dan Levy and Eugene Levy

Eugene levy and dan levy set to host 76th emmy awards, the emmys to air live sunday, september 15.

Emmy Award-winning multihyphenates Eugene Levy and Dan Levy are set to host the "76th Emmy Awards" on ABC and will be the first-ever father-son duo. The "76th Emmy Awards" will air live coast to coast from the Peacock Theater at L.A. LIVE in Los Angeles on SUNDAY, SEPT. 15 (8:00-11:00 p.m. EDT/5:00-8:00 p.m. PDT), on ABC and stream next day on Hulu.

"For two Canadians who won our Emmys in a literal quarantine tent, the idea of being asked to host this year in an actual theater was incentive enough," said Eugene and Dan. "We're thrilled to be able to raise a glass to this extraordinary season of television and can't wait to spend the evening with you all on Sept. 15." "Eugene's and Dan's comedic intuition and uncanny ability to capture the hearts of viewers will make for a memorable Emmys telecast honoring this year's best and brightest," said Craig Erwich, president, Disney Television Group. "We are thrilled to welcome two generations of comedy genius to the Emmy's stage as hosts," said Television Academy Chair Cris Abrego. "Eugene and Dan Levy are known for creating unforgettable laugh-out-loud moments on screen, and together, they are super-charged. I cannot wait for Emmy fans to see what they have in store for all of us." "Eugene and Dan Levy created two of the most iconic TV characters in recent history and are a perfect fit to host television's biggest night," said Jesse Collins, Dionne Harmon and Jeannae Rouzan-Clay for Jesse Collins Entertainment. "We look forward to the audience having an unforgettable experience with this dynamic duo."

As previously announced, Jesse Collins Entertainment Executive Producer's Jesse Collins, Dionne Harmon and Jeannae Rouzan-Clay have reassembled the production team from last year's critically acclaimed 75th Emmy Awards telecast. Alex Rudzinski returns as director, Brittany Brazil returns as co-executive producer as does producer Taryn Hurd, production designer Brian Stonestreet and head writer Jon Macks. Emmy Award winner Rickey Minor will serve as music director for the sixth time. Lighting designer Noah Mitz and screens producer Drew Findley are returning from last year as well. Eric Cook is joining the team as co-executive producer. About Eugene Levy Eugene Levy is an Emmy-winning actor, producer, and writer, who is best known for his work on the record-breaking comedy series Schitt's Creek . The role of Noah Levenstein in the "American Pie" franchise that cemented his reputation as America's favorite dad, while the box office success of his films such as "Bringing Down the House," "Cheaper by the Dozen 2" and "Father of the Bride Part II" have established him as one of Hollywood's most popular comedic actors.

Most recently, Levy served as host and executive producer of The Reluctant Traveler  for Apple TV+, a non-scripted series that follows Levy as he visits some of the world's most remarkable hotels, as well as explores the people, places and cultures that surround them. After a successful first season, The Reluctant Traveler  returned for season two in 2024 and received two Emmy nominations for Outstanding Hosted Nonfiction Series Or Special and Outstanding Writing For A Nonfiction Program. Up next, Levy is set to guest star in season four of the hit Hulu comedy-drama Only Murders in the Building , premiering Aug. 27, 2024.

Levy is repped by UTA, Hunter Brand Management, 42West, and Yorn, Levine and Barnes.

About Dan Levy Daniel Levy is a multihyphenate Emmy Award-winning creator who has built his career telling vibrant and comedic stories, establishing himself as a Hollywood mainstay. Levy launched a film and television production company, Not a Real Production Company, which debuted its first series, The Big Brunch , on Max in November 2022. He not only created the series but also hosted and served as a judge alongside Chef Sohla El-Waylly and restaurateur Will Guidara. Additionally, the company began its new overall television deal with Netflix, where it also has a first-look feature film deal. First up was Levy's directorial debut, "Good Grief," an original film that he wrote, produced and starred in alongside Ruth Negga and Himesh Patel which was released on Netflix on Jan. 5, 2024. Not a Real Production Company also produced a short film, "Decades Of Confusion," for the luxury fashion house LOEWE, which Levy also wrote and starred in, as well as the upcoming documentary, "Lilith Fair," following Canadian singer-songwriter Sarah McLachlan's 1990s all-female music festival which CBC will premiere during their 2025-2026 season. Levy is best known for his work on one of the most beloved shows on television, Schitt's Creek , which he co-created with his father, Eugene Levy. The series garnered countless awards over the years and an impressive total of 165 nominations throughout its history, including nine Emmy wins for its sixth and final season, breaking major records becoming the most-awarded comedy series in a single year, the first comedy or drama series to sweep all four acting categories and receiving the most wins for a comedy series in its final season. His recent acting credits include a guest role on the final season of HBO's Curb Your Enthusiasm , season four of Netflix's acclaimed dramedy " Sex Education ," Disney's "Haunted Mansion" remake and Hulu's holiday rom-com "Happiest Season." He made his hosting debut on Saturday Night Live  in February 2021, which earned him an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series. Levy's upcoming acting credits include Paramount's animated "The Smurfs Movie" alongside Rihanna, Nick Offerman, Natasha Lyonne and more which will be released in theaters on Feb. 14, 2025; "Animal Friends," an upcoming feature combining live-action and animated characters, which he'll star in alongside Ryan Reynolds, Jason Momoa, Aubrey Plaza and Addison Rae; as well as Kornel Mundruczó's drama "At the Sea," opposite six-time Oscar nominee Amy Adams, Emmy winners Murray Bartlett and Brett Goldstein and more.

Levy and Not A Real Production Company are repped by WME, MGMT Entertainment, 42West and Morris Yorn.

Media Contacts: ABC Media Relations Nicole Gonzales [email protected]

Cheryl Pratesa [email protected]

Television Academy Media Relations Jim Yeager (breakwhitelight) [email protected]

For the complete  press release, click here .

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