A Memorable Father-Of-The Bride Speech: Tips, Tricks, And Examples
Dear Dads,
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.
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.
Step Four: Practice
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!
Meredith
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!
