1. - Your speech needs to have a logical order. Make sure you have your speech blueprint written down into sections under the following headings; Beginning; Middle; End.

2. Under each of these sections write a few ideas that you’d like to say. Some ideas about what to write could be; a. what do you know about the groom? (things that make good stories), b. little known stories about the groom, c. their interests, d. date of birth and e. famous people that share the same birthday etc…

3. You will need to introduce yourself to the audience. Do you know them, or will they be mainly strangers? As most people may not know who you are, be sure to give an introduction that is funny, catches their attention, and depicts the relationship that you have with the groom. You may also like to say a few words thanking the people hosting the wedding here, but that is entirely up to you.

4. Write down all the points and stories in the body of the speech. I generally like to do this first. Remember, in a 10 minute speech, you’ll have time for two stories only. In a 15 minute speech, you’ll only be able to cover 3 points max… so make sure they are short, to the point, and entertaining anecdotes about the groom. It helps if they are little known points about the groom, that way you don’t bore the audience with stuff that they already know and take for granted about the groom.

5. For the closing, it's hard to go wrong with a traditional toast or blessing for the couple. Make your toast loud impressive and short. Don't forget to have a full glass around, and drink to your toast yourself. For a good collection of wedding toasts, go to www.classicspeeches.com

6. When giving the speech, talk to the whole audience. Life your head up, speak loud and clearly. Make sure everyone hears you and sees you and never speak to the floor. If you are addressing individual people like bridesmaids, it helps to talk directly to them in the first person. This will help to build trust and a relationship with the listeners. Use good vocal variety and pause for maximum impact for the speech. DO NOT use umms and ahhs, as they detract from your message.

7. Take your time speaking. You should have practiced your speech at least three times before the big day so you know the content and have the timing and pauses well rehearsed. This will also help your confidence with this public speaking engagement. It is common for people to speak too rapidly when nervous. Try to avoid this by consciously speaking in a calm, relaxed tone. Don't be too quiet, especially if you don't have a microphone.

8. At the very least, you must memorize at least the introduction and the toast. You don’t want to spoil a good speech by reading a paper from beginning to end. You can have the structure on a note card and practice delivering the speech a few times in front of a mirror. And most of all… ENJOY IT!!!