A wedding is not only a formal affair, but most of the time it is an expensive affair. Thus, for this once in a lifetime moment, the couple would want perfection as much as possible. To help make the affair flawless, it is important to note some wedding speech etiquette. Knowing these guideline will help avoid major faux pax during the celebration. Here are some dos and don’ts for the wedding speakers.
1. Do not joke about race and religion.
These topics are taboo during the wedding day. The speaker may just end up making the guest feel uncomfortable especially if they have different religious beliefs.
2. Do not talk about previous romantic relationships of the bride/ groom
The wedding is a celebration of a new stage in life of togetherness for the couple. Thus, talking about their ex relationships would leave bad taste in the mouth.
3. Do not refer to morbid topics like death.
This is a happy occasion that is a cause for a vibrant celebration. Talking about death in the family will just dampen the jovial mood.
4. Do not use profane language
The wedding is usually a very formal event. The use of coarse language just does not suit the elegant atmosphere of the reception.
5.The order of the speech should be father of the bride first, the groom second, the best man third.
This is the standard order for speeches in weddings. It helps in the smooth flow of the program if this tradition is followed.
6. Do not bore the audience with a long speech.
A medium length speech is ideal. A five minute speech would do so that the audience does not become restless and the speaker could hold their attention.
7. Be the one to present the next speech if there is no one else in charge.
If the wedding is a personal do-it-yourself affair, there may be no emcee to handle the order of the program. Thus, be sensitive by introducing the next speaker less he be embarrassed to directly go on stage after you speak without a cue.
8. Make sure you’re not yet drunk from the wine served when delivering the speech
Worse than delivering a half-baked speech is a speech delivered by a drunk speaker. It is not just an embarrassment for the one speaking but most especially for the bride and groom who have been praying for a dream wedding without any major gaffes
9. Thank those who have helped make the wedding a success.
Politeness is always welcome in a wedding. Showing gratefulness to those who have put in effort for the success of the event should be standard in the speech. A line or two to say thank you would do. No need to be melodramatic here. A light and humorous tone would be welcome.
10. Avoid inappropriate jokes.
The couple and their guests might feel uncomfortable with inappropriate messages. The task of the speaker is to make the crowd feel at ease. Any topic that may come off as an intrusion to the couple’s private moments is not welcome in a formal affair.