TOP TEN HOT TIPS

If you're after some insider knowledge courtesy of the guys and gals here at Weddingsday, check out our Top Ten Tips set out below:

1. Have a chat with close friends and relatives before hand and ask them to lead the applause and laughter where appropriate.
   
   
2. If you don’t drink don’t worry, you won’t be pressured into doing so at the end of your speech – instead make sure that the Reception Venue is aware of your requirements and ask to have a non-alcoholic beverage in front of you. Lemonade, pineapple juice, water, it doesn’t matter as long as you like it!
   
   
3. Don’t feel you have to fully conform to tradition – yes, the Best Man’s speech is usually the funny one, the Father of the Bride’s is normally the sincere one and the Groom’s speech is usually the short, forgettable one but they needn’t be just that. If you are the Groom and want to say something a little more memorable, or the Best Man who wants to make it more heartfelt than Seinfeld or the Father of the Bride who will cry if he keeps it all lovey-dovey then do what feels right and comfortable. Don’t lose sight of the speech’s tradition, but likewise be yourself.
   
   
4. When you think of the speech, picture it with a smile on your face.
   
   
5. Before you stand up, think of a something that makes you laugh or giggle – that way you’ll begin with a big grin rather than a look of dread!
   
   
6. Begin with a glance around the guests before you start to help you relax and give the audience an air of confidence.
   
   
7. Picture the end of the speech with everyone applauding and imagine them laughing (at the appropriate bits) throughout.
   
   
8. Before you speak, forget completely about what lies ahead – enjoy yourself, take everything in and focus only on the moment.
   
   
9. Have a snack about quarter of an hour before hand – professionals advise a banana but if you can’t get hold of one of them just make sure you down anything that will stop your tummy from rumbling yet won’t repeat on you!
   
   
10. Remember above all else that nobody wants you to fail.

If you know of any other little gems, why not send us your comments and we will pass your tips onto others (we will have to rename the article, but what the heck!).