Welcome! Your buddy’s wedding is quickly approaching, and you’ve landed the role of best man? Putting together the ideal speech can feel like a huge task, but honestly, it’s way more straightforward than you think.
The sections that follow are packed with pointers and sample speeches from the Wedding Forward crew to help you build a toast that truly sticks. On top of that, our editorial team sat down with two highly respected pros: Mindy Weiss, who runs Mindy Weiss Party Consultants and is also a bestselling author, along with Steven Greitzer, a wedding tech pioneer and officiant who leads Provenance. Their expert guidance and suggestions are woven right into this guide.
Top Best Man Speeches Examples
Writing a great best man talk becomes so much simpler when you can pull inspiration from sample speeches. With that in mind, the Wedding Forward team has assembled a diverse collection of creative best man speeches to spark your imagination!
Best Man Speech for Brother
“Good evening, hope everyone is having a good time tonight. I feel very privileged and honored to be standing here tonight celebrating this lovely union. Two years ago, Matt gave the best man speech at my wedding and made a lot of awkward jokes.
So needless to say, I’ve been waiting for this moment for a really long time! For those who don’t know, I am Matt’s brother, Mike.
I first met Matt when I was two years old at our parent’s house in Boston. To be quite honest, I wasn’t thrilled because I really wanted a sister.
And I think he knew because Matt would do ridiculous things like throw my toothbrush in the toilet, pour water at me when I was asleep and run across the room naked when I had any friends over. This made me less popular than I already was.
Matt always excelled in school, was captain of the debate team (apologies to Cara, but he can argue his way out of anything!) and can make a mean steak. The truth is, despite him being an annoying brother at the time, I came out winning in the end. Because of him and this beautiful night, I am getting the sister I always wanted.
Cara, you’re beautiful and our family loves you so much. Thank you for making my brother so happy.
Let’s celebrate this amazing union and raise a glass to the newlyweds! On behalf of the groomsmen and bridesmaids, we’d like to wish you a life full of love, happiness, and joy.
To everyone who made tonight happen, thank you. You’ve made this night very special.” Source
Short Best Man Speeches
“Ladies and gentlemen, may I have your attention, please? As the best man, I stand here today to say a few words about the remarkable love story between my incredible friend, [groom’s name], and his beautiful bride, [bride’s name]. [Groom’s name] and I have been through thick and thin together, and I’ve had the privilege of witnessing his growth as a person.
But it wasn’t until [bride’s name] came into his life that I saw a change I can only describe as transformative. Their love is like a beacon, guiding them through life’s ups and downs.
So here’s to the newlyweds—a couple who have found true companionship. May your journey be filled with happiness, passion, and an everlasting bond.”
“Sure, here’s an even shorter best man speech example:
Good evening, everyone. For those who don’t know me, I’m [Your Name], the best man.
I want to thank [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name] for this wonderful celebration. [Groom’s Name], you’ve been an amazing friend, and seeing you with [Bride’s Name] brings such joy.
[Bride’s Name], you complete [Groom’s Name] perfectly. Together, you both inspire us with your love.
Let’s raise a glass to the happy couple. May your life together be filled with love and happiness. Cheers!”
Funny Best Man Speeches
Best Man Talk for Adam and Kate
“Adam and Kate – What a great day to get married! Marriage carries new responsibilities.
Kate – from now on, you should never argue or disagree with Adam, because he is now the head of the family and the king of his castle. You will be expected to keep your hair and make-up perfect at all times – to dress in a way that pleases Adam. You should cook his favorite meals every night and encourage him to go out with his friends on a regular basis.
Do these simple things and your marriage will be blessed with many years of happiness. Kate – I know that Adam loves you very much… because he spent a long time writing this speech for me.
Congratulations to the both of you!” Source
Best Man Presentation for Sarah & Simon
“Sarah & Simon – every great relationship starts with rings.
In the beginning, the phone would ring and just the thought of speaking to one another was exciting. Your love grew and so did your commitment to each other. The engagement ring soon came after.
There were no doubts… your love was true. The engagement ring has now turned into a wedding ring and we are all here today to celebrate your marriage.
Now of course… the suffer-ring begins. (smile and raise your glass) Peace and happiness to the new bride and groom!”Source
Speech for Neil and Claire
“Hi my name is Paul and Neil has asked me to be his best man for this wonderful occasion. I would like to say it is a very special honor but with it, comes the responsibility of giving the bloody speech. I would not say it is very comfortable to wear a tuxedo in a 30-degree church, which is not air-conditioned.
The church ceremony I’m sure you’ll all agree was a wonderful, wonderful occasion. Maybe a little hot, but I’m glad to see so many of you have replaced your electrolytes with fuel of the alcoholic kind since the reception began.
I have known Neil and Claire for_________ [how many years] years. You might say Neil and I met by accident, but it is no accident that Neil met Claire.
If you know Neil you know he is an excellent athlete, in fact I noticed his Athletes foot right away. This was a man who had his knees and ankles shaved, for easy taping. I knew this was a hard-core sports fanatic.
We both share a tremendous love of football and basketball. For many years, we have had a running bet during the season as to who will score more goals or more runs which of course, I always won.
Neil is a ______________ [Groom’s Occupation] in Truro, and I thought__________________________________[Funny or quirky aspect about grooms occupation] Neil is a man who has dedicated his life to __________________[Grooms occupation] And now I’m sure will use his experience with ___________________________[what the Groom does in his occupation] in his marriage with Claire.
It is great that Neil found Claire. He has always been looking for someone young, dynamic, intelligent, attractive, and with good health insurance. Neil and Claire met_________________________ [where they meet], But I have it on good authority that Neil started looking for a wife on the internet.
And with a multitude of resources at his fingertips, he found some really great stuff, but sadly was unable to find himself a suitable partner. That is, until I mentioned to him that the correct category to be looking should be Woman Seeking Man.
I explained the way it works, send an old picture when you still had lots of hair, lie about your height and weight, and at all other times be sincere and honest. I imagine that when Neil and Claire met and introduced each other he said I’m Neil and she said, “I need a Diamond.” So, Neil said, sure let’s pick one out.
Claire is a Diamond. Neil is a gem; I think together they make beautiful jewellery.
No Marriage would be complete without some brotherly advice to help set you on your way… So I canvassed the room and got some really good stuff for you!
- Love, honor and cherish each other, and don’t forget to take out the garbage.
- Your wife is always right.
- Just in case she is not right, refer back to #2.
- Always, yes always, notice every new hairstyle or dress.
- Do something nice for each other every single day.
- If she asks if something makes her look fat the answer is categorically, NO.
- Flowers are always a good Idea, even if you are not in trouble.
- There is really nothing better than a good foot rub or massage.
- Your wife is more important than sports. I guess. Even the cup final.
It is a great joy for me to see Neil and Claire so happy. You learn things when you get older. Hmmm, I mean more mature.
You make better decisions, isn’t it great that two people would entwine and commit to each other for life. Love, isn’t that what it is all about? We are here to celebrate that glorious event and this ceremony is all about letting the world know how much Neil and Claire’s love for each other is a reflection of one’s own soul in another’s.
Anyway, it is time to celebrate the joyous and unbridled love that these two spectacular people will share the rest of their lives. Would you please stand now and join me in a toast.
To love and laughter and happily ever after.” Source
What are the key elements that should be included in a memorable and heartfelt best man’s speech?
That is what Steven Greitzer, wedding tech entrepreneur and officiant, CEO of Provenance, said:
“There are many key elements to take into account when pulling together a great toast:
- Include 2-3 stories in your speech that capture the essence of the groom and your friendship.
- Make sure your speech is appropriate by discussing “no-go’s” with the couple beforehand.
- Acknowledge the groom’s partner in your speech and speak about how the relationship has helped the groom grow (more on that below).
- Offer a thematic takeaway, such as the importance of friendship or the strength of the couple’s love.
- Be sure to practice
The Provenance Toast Builder is the best and easiest way to make sure your wedding toast captures what you’re trying to say.”
How to Write Best Man Speech
Nailing your wedding toast comes down to following a handful of straightforward guidelines. Right here, you’ll see the essential Dos and Don’ts, straight from our editors.
Dos
Plot out your speech in advance (consider the flow and structure, settle on a tone that’s either formal or humorous) and rehearse it. Share a concise story (aim for a speech that clocks in at 5 minutes or less) peppered with a couple of lighthearted jokes. Find a moment to get a little sentimental and direct some warm words at the bride.
Wrap things up on a hopeful note (close with a loving sentiment or a beautiful wish for the couple). Show gratitude (express your appreciation to the couple, their relatives, and everyone who contributed to pulling off this wedding).
Don’ts
Don’t let your speech run past the 2 to 5 minute mark. Avoid turning the spotlight on yourself. Steer clear of any crude humor.
Don’t overlook the bride. Let her feel your genuine happiness that she’s about to share her life with your friend.
Skip any disrespectful comments. Keep your etiquette polished, just for this one day.
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Best Man Speech Templates
As you map out the framework for your best man remarks, weave in these components to make every single guest feel like an essential part of this joyful celebration:
Use a Magnetic Opening Line
The very first words you speak need to hook the entire room instantly. If a more romantic entry point feels right, you might launch with something like, “True love wins all,” and then walk everyone through the specific ways the groom’s deep devotion for his bride has completely captured her heart.
If the groom happens to love iconic singer-songwriters from decades past, you could borrow a line from Bob Dylan: “Love is just a four-letter word,” before listing other powerful four-letter words tied to true love, like “kiss, hold, keep and ever.” Being sharp and thoughtful with your language will pull your audience right in. If the mood calls for something with a more classic feel, you could quote Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s famous opening: “How do I love thee, Let me count the ways.” This beloved verse has been echoed in countless ways by generations of artists, so there’s no risk of sounding pretentious here. That line also opens the door beautifully to spotlight the bride’s most wonderful qualities.
Thank the Other Speakers
Taking a moment to thank everyone else who spoke is both classy and well received. This typically includes the Maid of Honor, the Bride’s Father, and anyone else the couple invited to share words at the microphone.
Expressing genuine appreciation for their contributions to this unforgettable moment is always the way to go. You should never poke fun at or judge their delivery or content. Just extend a sincere thank you and shift smoothly into your own words, since you’ve got this best-man speech thing handled.
Congratulate the Newlyweds
Offer your congratulations to the happy couple as they step into this thrilling new adventure together. Right here is your sweet spot for telling the room how you first crossed paths with your wonderful buddy, the groom. If you happen to be his brother or cousin, you can revisit those hilariously chaotic childhood memories or moments of shared mischief and adventure.
Replaying funny episodes or weaving in some good-natured jokes at the groom’s expense is completely fair game, as long as the content stays clean and suitable for a family crowd.
Expert tip from Steven Greitzer:
“A great best man speech strikes the perfect balance of humor and sincerity. You want it to be memorable, but for the right reasons. Check with the couple to see if there are any topics you need to avoid or any topics that might be of particular concern to anyone in the audience.
In the Provenance Toast Builder, the couple has the option to call out any topic they do, or don’t, want you to include. If you have any jokes in your speech you are unsure about, run them by someone who is close to the couple who you trust. And if you have a feeling that a joke might upset them or not land well with the audience – err on the side of caution.
It’s their big day, not yours! There’s a way to have a funny best man speech that doesn’t upset grandma. Find the balance.”
Compliment the Bride
Now the moment arrives to really shine the spotlight on the bride and sing her praises, using every trick you have up your sleeve. Shine a light on her most radiant qualities, her unique talents, and the things she’s achieved.
Make it crystal clear how overjoyed you feel to witness the union of two such remarkable humans, both of whom you hold in the absolute highest regard. Then, deliver one more charming compliment aimed directly at the bride, pulling from top-tier toast crafting wisdom.
Read Messages from Absent Guests
Carve out a little space to share greetings from folks who were on the invite list but couldn’t be there in person. This thoughtful move always lands warmly with both the missing guests and the newlyweds. It folds their celebratory blessings and good energy right into the fabric of the day.
Include a Famous Quote or Poem
Captivate your crowd of wedding guests even further by reciting a meaningful piece of poetry or a famous quote that fits the mood perfectly. This infuses the post-ceremony party with a splash of thoughtful flair for the honored duo. Browsing other templates, including collections of groomsman speech samples, might also give you a good spark.
You might pull a quote from the groom’s biggest hero, whether they’re an author, painter, thinker, inventor, titan of industry, or star athlete. Just keep the quote tasteful, snappy, and to the point so every person in the room can soak up its meaning.
Best Man Speech Quotes
Handpick quotes that mirror the spirit of the couple, bring a smile, and hold relevance to the moment.
- Love is like war: easy to begin but very hard to stop. H. L. Mencken
- Marriage is a workshop where husband works and wife shops.
- A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person.Mignon McLaughlin
Propose a Toast to the Wedding Couple
Lift up your champagne glass so the whole room eagerly follows your cue, as you offer a sincere, hopeful toast brimming with good wishes for the couple’s vibrant health, growing fortune, and a lifetime of joy together.
This final toast needs to burst with genuine enthusiasm and heartfelt meaning, and it can definitely include a lighthearted joke or two. Never forget, you’re the voice for every single person in that room who is rooting for this brand-new marriage. So, channel your highest energy, your brightest spirit, and your most persuasive delivery into this show stopping grand finale.
Best Man Speech Ideas
The following are quoted “Heartfelt Best Man Speeches” that are excellent quality templates for contemporary Best Man remarks at any after-wedding reception, dinner, and party:
The “Thankful” Speech
“Hello everyone, it’s such a pleasure to be here tonight as [Groom’s] best man. And I want to begin with saying what an honor it is that I was chosen to stand by your side today. You’ve always been someone that I looked up to and I am just beyond grateful that I get to share in this moment with you and [Bride].
[Groom] is someone that I’ve come to care for greatly over the years and I am so happy that he’s found someone to share his life with and start a family with. [Groom] has always been my right hand throughout the biggest moments of my life and I can’t wait to be able to watch everything beautiful unfold for the two of you. Cheers to a lifetime of happiness!”
The “Smart Move” Speech
“There’s an old saying about friendship that reads, “It is one of the blessings of old friends that you can afford to be stupid with them,” and goodness that couldn’t be more true for me and my boy, [Groom].
I could go into all the funny stories that include some of that stupidity but instead I’d rather focus on all the smart moves he’s made. His friendships, the relationship he has with his family, his career, it’s all a reflection of the incredible man he’s become. But really, the smartest move he’s made is marrying you, [Bride].
Let’s toast to the best decision [Groom’s] ever made. I wish you a lifetime of love, happiness and success.”
The “She Was the One” Speech
“Ladies and gentlemen, thank you all for coming out tonight to celebrate the wedding of two people we all love, [Bride] & [Groom]!
When I first met [Bride], I knew that she was the woman [Groom] would end up marrying. Even if it hadn’t dawned on him quite yet, it was obvious to everyone around just how smitten he was with her. They talk about a bride’s glow, but this man was shining since the moment he met [Bride].
He changed for the better without realizing it. And we all could see it.
He couldn’t stop talking about her. We’d go out with the boys and [Bride’s] name would be brought up every two minutes. So, when he came to me to tell me that he would be proposing my only response was, ‘Well, it’s about time!’
There’s something special about these two. They go together without forcing it. They love each other without fighting it.
And they care about each other without thinking about it. She was the one from the very beginning [Groom], and we’re all so happy to be able to take part in your big day. Cheers!”
Best Man Speech Opening Lines
Your opening words act as your icebreaker, so making a strong choice here matters. Hook the room immediately with a clever opener like one of these.
- “I would like to begin by congratulating the groom on his excellent taste in best men. He has really outdone himself this time, and I’m pleased.”
- “I have been asked by the bride and groom not to share any embarrassing stories, crude jokes, or pranks during my best man’s speech… so I guess that’ll be it from me! Thank you all for listening.”
- “If you cannot hear me at the back, nothing to worry about. By the complete silence in the front row here, you can rest assured that you’re really not missing much.”
- “Is anyone here this afternoon feeling nervous and queasy at the thought of what lies ahead? If you are, it’s probably because you’ve just married (groom’s name).”
- “All of you here who really know the bride must know that she is a wonderful person who deserves a good husband. Thank goodness (groom’s name) married her before she found one.”
Best Man Speech One-Liners
- I am about to make the groom cry. I just received the food bill.
- He is smart, tall, kind, generous….. Who am I actually talking about?
- Hi, the groom is a great friend. Our friendship is 2hours old. I was hired as he’s got no friends.
- His colleagues describe him as a first-class banker – I may have misheard them.
- I heard some time that marriage is a 50/50 affair. Believe that at your own peril. We have factors called women and improper fractions.
A one-liner delivers a punchy joke in a single crisp sentence. The magic of a great one-liner is its blend of brevity and impact.
It hits instantly but is packed with enough humor to keep the crowd chuckling. Every solid best man speech needs to feature a few of these gems.
Best Man Toasts Examples
- “It’s been an emotional day, even the cake is in tiers.”
- “Folks, I have been told I am not allowed to have a drink until AFTER my speech. If I seem like I’m in a hurry to finish, it’s because I am.”
- “I hope the two of you have the two essential things it takes to have a successful marriage 1) a sense of humor 2) selective hearing.”
- “Psychiatrists say that girls tend to marry men like their fathers. That must be why mothers cry at weddings.”
- “Love is not about how often you say I love you, but how often you show that it’s true.”
Best Man Speech Jokes
- “They say marriage is a journey, and tonight we celebrate the beginning of an epic road trip for the bride and groom. Just remember, guys, never forget to ask for directions!”
- “They say the key to a successful marriage is patience, understanding, and a remote control with fresh batteries. Groom, make sure you always keep that remote handy!”
- “Let’s raise our glasses to the newlyweds: may their love be like Wi-Fi, strong and never disconnecting, even in the midst of Netflix binges!”
- “As the best man, it’s my duty to share a piece of advice with the groom: in marriage, always remember that a happy wife means a happy life… and also remember to nod and agree, even when she’s wrong!”
- “Marriage is a lifelong commitment, just like the gym membership the groom signed up for and rarely uses. But this time, there are no cancellation fees!”
Always keep the crowd and the couple’s personalities in mind when you roll out these jokes, making absolutely sure they hit the right note and feel appropriate.
Best Man Speech Tips
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When you step up to deliver your best man address, your presence and words need to command the room. Here is how to make that toast truly stick in everyone’s memory:
- Maintain good eye contact with the audience: Connect directly with the guests as you talk. Locking eyes builds a genuine bond and signals that you are truly present with them.
- Speak clearly and at a moderate pace: Articulate every single word and resist the urge to race through your notes. A relaxed pace ensures your message lands and is fully absorbed by the listeners.
- Use appropriate gestures and body language to enhance your delivery: Let your hands and movements underscore the big moments and inject a dose of vitality into your talk. Just stay conscious not to overdo things and pull focus from your core message.
- Incorporate pauses for comedic timing and to allow the audience to react: Timing really is everything, especially when you are delivering a punchline. Pause right before and after a joke to build that delicious anticipation and give the room space to laugh and react.
By putting these delivery and presence tips into action, you will grip the audience, create a powerful memory, and turn your best man toast into one of the most talked about highlights of the whole celebration.
Are there any common mistakes to avoid, and how to overcome nervousness or stage fright?
According to wedding planner Mindy Weiss, “speeches can help make or break a wedding”. And we agree with this opinion.
Speeches have the power to elevate the celebration, bringing tears of joy and laughter to guests, while also creating cherished memories that last a lifetime. However, poorly delivered speeches can disrupt the flow and energy of the event, leaving guests feeling disconnected and the couple disappointed.
Steven Greitzer convinced that one of the biggest mistakes is when the person giving the wedding speech only talks about the partner they’re closest with, unintentionally making the other partner feel left out and unimportant: “To help remedy this, the Provenance Toast Builder gives you the option to either talk about each partner 50/50, or to talk 70% about your person and 30% about their partner (which is a good rule of thumb). The Toast Builder also has thoughtful prompts to encourage you to share why they’re both 1) good people and 2) a great match for each other.
If you are stressed and want to overcome stage fright or nervousness when giving a best man speech – you are not alone. 70% of Americans fear public speaking more than death. For that reason, in addition to Provenance’s digital tools, Provenance can connect you with professional speechwriters and public speaking coaches who can give you feedback and help you feel prepared (and even excited!) to deliver the toast”, – said Steven.