Weddings can be complex events that have more much “going on” than is evident at the surface. This is part of the reason that the groom’s wedding toast is more important than many might initially find it to be. The groom must remember to thank a wide-array of people ranging from his guest to, of course, his wife. The wedding speech process can be all the more daunting for those who are afraid of public speaking. Not to worry, however, as there are some easy and simple ways that any groom can write a great groom’s wedding toast. With a little planning and thought your groom’s wedding speech can make you look like a funny and original guy who also has a sense of humor!

On most occasions, the groom’s toast is one that largely focuses on thanking family and friends for their contributions and time. Of course, any groom worth his salt will want to thank his wife as well. Usually the groom’s speech comes after the father of the bride’s speech. Hopefully, the father of bride has said some nice or even great things about you, which should make the transition to your speech a bit easier.

The groom’s speech is one that needs to be focused and precise. After all, you have a limited amount of time and many people to thank. Those who have made big contributions to your wedding should most definitely be thanked and in a big way. When you sit down to write your speech think for a moment about any contributions to your wedding that stand out as being funny or impressive in some fashion. Such a story is a great way to inject a little humor or life into your speech as well. Considering that there will be many speeches at your wedding it is a good idea to make sure that your speech does not exceed five minutes.

The Parents. Thank your bride’s parents. Repeatedly. Whether they love you, hate you, or pretend to like you, thank them repeatedly. This is especially true if they picked up the tab for your wedding.

The Parents. Early in your speech it is essential that you thank your bride’s parents. This is most certainly the case if they have paid for the wedding. Make sure that you thank them for their support and for accepting you as a part of their family. Even you if hate them and the feeling is mutual, make sure that you acknowledge them early in the speech.

Thank Those Who Lent An Extra Hand. A special thanks to individuals such as your best man or bridesmaids is always a good idea. More than likely were instrumental in making certain that your wedding was a success.

The Bride. Of course, you should thank your bride and tell her how much you love her. Everyone expects it and people will feel horrible if you forget.

The Bride. If you forget to thank your bride, you are in a lot of trouble. Obviously thanking your bride should be a “no-brainer.” Feel free to express your love of her and tell her how beautiful she is on her wedding day. Make sure that you look into her eyes when addressing her, and end the toast with her.

Basic Tips:

-Absolutely thank everyone!

-Make a list of key people to thank.

-Eye contact is key. When thanking someone look them in the eye.

-Write your speech out and practice!

Milton Kelly is a writer who prides himself on offering would-be grooms the best advice on everything from etiquette to groomsmen gifts.