As the Matron of Honor or Maid of Honor you have an important roll to play in the fast approaching wedding day. The wedding speech or wedding toast you deliver will help set the tone for the wedding reception. Here are a few tips to keep in mind and to give you that added boost of confidence...

Tips on Giving the Matron of Honor Speech

If you’ve been chosen to be the matron of honor at a wedding, it is the chance both to remember your own marriage ceremony and to celebrate the relationship you have with the bride.  Aside from being the bride’s first source of assistance and aid throughout the planning stages and the ceremony and reception, giving the matron of honor speech is one of the most important duties. 

Content of the Matron of Honor Speech

While the best man’s toast tends to focus on the groom, the matron of honor speech concentrates mostly on the bride and your relationship with her.  Funny stories about the two of you growing up together, an anecdote about how you met, or compliments about the bride and the groom’s relationship are all great ingredients for a matron of honor speech.  A religious blessing, advice that you’ve learned during your own marriage, and best wishes for the future can also be included in your matron of honor speech as appropriate.

Things to Avoid in your Matron of Honor Speech

If you tend to be nervous when speaking in public, you might be tempted to drink heavily before giving your matron of honor speech.  This usually tends to be a very bad idea, however.  Having a glass of champagne to loosen up is all right, but don’t go overboard with the drinking.  Avoid talking about any off-color or controversial topics in your matron of honor speech, as well as other men in the bride’s life.  While an amusingly embarrassing story can bring a smile to the faces of the guests, you don’t want to mortify the bride or groom.  Make sure any anecdotes you tell during the matron of honor speech are appropriate for all guests, no matter how old or how young.

When to Give a Matron of Honor Speech

Aside from the matron of honor speech given at the reception, it is also traditional for the matron of honor to give toasts to the bride during the bachelorette party, the bridal shower, and the rehearsal dinner.  These additional matron of honor speeches can be more irreverent and casual than the one given at the reception itself.

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Courtesy of Wedding Speeches & Wedding Toasts Online