how to give a wedding speech father of the bride

How to Write the Perfect Father of the Bride Speech, in 7 Easy Steps

Here are some tips for how to floor your daughter (and the wedding guests!) with your father of the bride speech.

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Your daughter is getting married. It’s a monumental day for not only her, but also for you, her father. She’s asked you to present a father of the bride speech (on of the traditional  father of the bride duties ), and you’re probably honored, but also a bit apprehensive. You want this father of the bride toast to floor her, like she’s floored you so many times in her life. Traditionally, father of the bride speeches either starts off or concludes the wedding reception toasts , so you’ll have everybody’s attention. You, as the father, have a unique perspective on this woman standing in front of everyone. Whether you're bursting with ideas or have a serious case of writer's block, it can be tricky to sit down and figure out how to write a father of the bride speech. 

It’s time to write the father of the bride speech you’ve always dreamed of giving. We’re here to help.

1. start your father of the bride speech with a few thank-yous..

As with any wedding toast, it's extra important that you kick off your father of the bride speech by introducing yourself and thanking whoever needs to be thanked in your early sentences. Many father of the bride speeches thank the guests for attending, as well as those who were instrumental in planning the big day (this may include your spouse). Introduce yourself as the father of the bride and feel free to make a joke about yourself. You can make a “dad joke,” or a pun, if that’s your style.

2. Mention any loved ones who you are remembering. 

If it feels right to you, mention any family members who aren't physically present at the wedding in your father of the bride toast. “I keep thinking of your mom, who would have absolutely loved to be here.” You can keep this sweet and simple. You don’t have to include it at all, but it could be a nice tribute to loved ones .

The Secret Garden at Rancho Santa Fe

3. Share any special memories of your child. 

Unless her older sibling or mother presents a speech, you have a plethora of memories to include in your father of the bride speech from a time in her life that no one else has tucked away. People love hearing stories from childhood, and you should capitalize on that . It can be sentimental or embarrassing – though, not too embarrassing. It is her day, after all.

Recall the day you brought her home from the hospital, and what you were thinking and feeling. Remember the time she brought a wounded bird into your house and demanded, through tears, that you two nursed it back to health? That was one moment out of many that you realized just how caring and generous your daughter has always been. Bring up the time she broke a bone (for the sixth time), because she was always so incredibly adventurous. You’ve always worried about her, but you know she can take care of herself. Our favorite father of the bride speech examples are ones where the giver uses an anecdote to share something about the bride's personality or his relationship with her. 

4. Talk about your new in-law.

Your daughter is the light of your life, but you have a new “child” in your life now. It would be nice to address her partner directly in your father of the bride speech, and thank them for making your daughter so incredibly happy. However you feel appropriate doing this, depending on your relationship with your new in-law , is up to you.

Use your father of the bride speech reminisce about the time when you first met him/her. If you’re particularly close with your daughter, maybe she called you after their first date – what were you thinking? Has there been a time you were particularly glad to have them around? This can be sentimental or funny, but it should be genuine – regardless of your true feelings. Maybe, on a family vacation, the car broke down, and her partner’s handy skills in a crisis made you really appreciate their presence. This is a funnier story, but can lead into a genuine appreciation. Most importantly, they have made your daughter incredibly happy, so definitely make sure to express gratitude and a warm welcome to the family.

Christy Renee Photography

5. Give some advice in your father of the bride speech.

You are older and wiser, so if it makes sense for you, give the new couple a piece of advice toward a happy marriage — or just happiness in general — in your father of the bride speech. Whether you’re married, divorced, or happily single doesn't matter. If you don’t feel equipped to offer advice, then don't force it. But, considering how many dads love to offer unsolicited advice to their children, this is a great opportunity.

If you are married, offer your secret . It can be real or a joke. But try to avoid sexist tropes, if you can. Jokes like, “Married men always have the same boss,” are tired and overused. More importantly than that, it presents an image of marriage to the new couple that isn’t ideal. If you do have genuine advice, though, feel free to offer it – even if you aren’t married. Don't joke about the divorce rate, though. It will only succeed in ensuing awkwardness for everyone present.

6. Use a quote, but don't force it.

This won't necessarily work for all father of the bride speeches. But, if it feels natural to work a quote that particularly speaks to you in your toast, you shouldn't feel like you have to shy away from it. It can be a sweet way to end your speech. Also, it doesn't have to be some profound quote — and this is what I mean about not forcing it. Don't use a quote just for the sake of using one. But, if there’s a quote that speaks to you on a personal level, it can be great. It doesn’t have to be serious. If you and your daughter have a special bond over something, like, The Simpsons , a comedic quote can be great provided you deliver it with confidence.

7. End with a toast.

If you're unsure of how to end your father of the bride speech, a toast is a crowd-pleaser. Offer up your congratulations and invite everyone to toast to the happy couple. Remind your daughter that you are proud of her, that you love her, and that you're so happy for her that she found someone who treats her well. Welcome your new in law to the family one last time, take a sip of your drink, and go hug your daughter – who may very well be crying .

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Father of the Bride Speech Examples and Templates

by Ryan Hart | Updated on September 21, 2023 | Post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

When it comes to a wedding, one of the most anticipated speeches is the father of the bride’s.

It’s a moment for the father to express his love and pride for his daughter, offer advice and well wishes for the newlyweds, and thank everyone for being a part of this special day.

But for many fathers, the idea of giving a speech can be intimidating . You want to make sure you come across as confident, clear, and knowledgeable, but where do you start?

Brainstorming and planning ahead can help you organize your thoughts and ensure you hit all the key elements. From there, you can start writing and incorporating techniques to make your speech stand out.

What should you say in a Father of the Bride speech?

When it comes to delivering a memorable father of the bride speech, there are several key elements that you should incorporate. These elements will help you to create a speech that is heartfelt, emotional, and memorable for all the right reasons.

Introduce Yourself

Firstly, it’s important to introduce yourself and welcome the guests . This will help to set the tone for your speech and make everyone feel at ease. You can also take this opportunity to thank the guests for coming and for their support.

Share a Short Story

Next, it’s time to share stories and memories about your daughter. This is the perfect opportunity to reminisce about happy times and to highlight the qualities that make your daughter so special. You can also use this time to welcome your new son-in-law or daughter-in-law and to express your happiness for the happy couple.

Offer Words of Wisdom

It’s also important to offer some words of wisdom and marriage advice. This can be done in a concise and meaningful way, and can include quotes or anecdotes that have special meaning to you and your family. You can also share your hopes and wishes for the future of the couple.

End with a Toast

Of course, no father of the bride speech would be complete without a toast. Raise a toast to the happy couple and their future together, and share your pride and joy in their union. You can also take this opportunity to thank the maid of honor and the master of ceremonies for their contributions to the wedding.

Examples and Templates

When it comes to writing your father of the bride speech, having some examples and templates to draw inspiration from can be incredibly helpful. Here are a few resources to get you started:

"Ladies and gentlemen, I stand here as a proud father to [DAUGHTER'S NAME] . It feels like just yesterday that she was [SHARE A MEMORABLE CHILDHOOD EXPERIENCE] . Today, I can hardly believe she's marrying [GROOM'S NAME] , a man who [POSITIVE TRAIT OR ANECDOTE ABOUT GROOM] . As I raise my glass, I want to thank everyone for being here to celebrate this special day with us. To the happy couple, may your future be filled with love and joy."

"When [DAUGHTER'S NAME] was little, we used to [A SHARED ACTIVITY OR STORY] . Now as I watch her with [GROOM'S NAME] , I see a similar bond of [SHARED QUALITY] . I could not be happier for them. So here's to my beautiful daughter and her wonderful new husband. May your love continue to grow stronger with each passing day. Cheers!"

"As a father, you dream of the day your little girl finds someone who [VALUES OR QUALITIES YOU HOPED FOR] . Today, [DAUGHTER'S NAME] married [GROOM'S NAME] , a man who embodies all of these qualities. To my daughter and her new husband, I wish you a lifetime of happiness and love. May your marriage be as strong and beautiful as the love you share today."

"They say a father is his daughter's first love. Well, [DAUGHTER'S NAME] was my first true love. Seeing her today with [GROOM'S NAME] , I know she's found her [TERM OF ENDEARMENT: e.g. forever love, true match] . As I look at my daughter and her new husband, I am filled with pride and joy. Here's to a lifetime of love, laughter, and happiness. Cheers!"

"Raising [DAUGHTER'S NAME] has been my life's greatest joy. She's [POSITIVE QUALITIES OR TRAITS] . Today, as she marries [GROOM'S NAME] , I see those qualities reflected back at her, and it fills my heart with joy. To the newlyweds, may your love for each other only grow stronger with each passing year. Here's to a lifetime of happiness and joy together."

"I always knew [DAUGHTER'S NAME] would grow up to be [QUALITY, ACHIEVEMENT, OR TRAIT] . I am proud to say that [GROOM'S NAME] is the kind of man who values that about her. As a father, there is no greater joy than seeing my daughter so happy. To my daughter and her new husband, may your love for each other never fade. Cheers!"

"There are many moments in a father's life that he cherishes, but this moment, seeing [DAUGHTER'S NAME] marrying a man who is [POSITIVE TRAITS OF GROOM] , is truly special. To my beautiful daughter and her handsome husband, may your love story be filled with adventure, laughter, and endless joy. Congratulations and cheers to a lifetime of happiness together."

"As [DAUGHTER'S NAME] 's father, I've seen her grow and accomplish so much. Her marriage to [GROOM'S NAME] , a man who [COMPLIMENT ABOUT GROOM] , is another proud moment in a long list. As I raise my glass, I want to thank my daughter and her new husband for giving me the greatest gift of all - the gift of seeing my little girl so happy. Here's to a lifetime of love and joy together."

" [DAUGHTER'S NAME] has always been the [ADJECTIVE: e.g. light, star] of our family. Today, as she joins hands with [GROOM'S NAME] , I know she has found her perfect [COMPLEMENT TO PREVIOUS ADJECTIVE: e.g., beacon, constellation] . To my daughter and her new husband, may your love for each other be as strong and unbreakable as the bond between a father and his daughter. Cheers to a lifetime of happiness together."

" [DAUGHTER'S NAME] , from your first steps, to this walk down the aisle, I've had the privilege of being there. Now, as you step into a new journey with [GROOM'S NAME] , a man who [POSITIVE TRAIT OR QUALITY OF GROOM] , I know you will make beautiful memories together. As I look at my daughter and her new husband, I am filled with hope and happiness for their future together. To the happy couple, may your marriage be blessed with love, joy, and endless happiness. Cheers!"

Understanding the Role

As the father of the bride, you have a special role to play in your daughter’s wedding. Your speech is one of the most anticipated and memorable moments of the wedding reception, and it’s an opportunity to express your love and pride for your daughter and your new son-in-law.

Your speech should be heartfelt, sincere, and personal. It’s a chance to share your thoughts and feelings about your daughter, her new spouse, and their future together. Your words should be chosen carefully to reflect the love and support you have for the couple.

Remember that your speech is not just about your daughter, but also about your family. It’s a time to acknowledge and thank the guests who have come to celebrate this special occasion with you and your family. You should also take a moment to welcome your new son-in-law into the family and express your happiness at having him as part of your family.

When preparing your speech, it’s important to keep in mind the overall tone of the wedding. Is it a formal, traditional affair, or a more casual, relaxed event? Your speech should fit the tone of the wedding and reflect the personality of the couple.

Finally, don’t forget to practice your speech before the big day. This will help you feel more confident and ensure that you deliver your message clearly and effectively. With a little preparation and a lot of love, your father of the bride speech is sure to be a highlight of the wedding reception.

Brainstorming and Planning

Before you start writing a father of the bride speech, it’s important to take some time to brainstorm and plan. This will help you structure your speech and make sure you include all the important elements. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Step 1: Gather Ideas

The first step in planning your father of the bride speech is to gather ideas. Think about your daughter and her relationship with her new spouse. What are some of their shared interests? What are some of your favorite memories with your daughter? What advice do you want to give the newlyweds?

Write down all your ideas on a piece of paper or in a document. Don’t worry about organizing them yet, just get everything down.

Step 2: Organize Your Ideas

Once you have a list of ideas, it’s time to organize them. Look for common themes or topics that you want to cover in your speech. For example, you might want to talk about your daughter’s childhood, her relationship with her new spouse, and your hopes for their future together.

Create an outline for your speech, with each idea or topic as a separate section. This will help you stay organized and make sure you cover everything you want to say.

Step 3: Write Your Speech

With your ideas organized and your outline in place, it’s time to start writing your speech. Use your outline as a guide, and fill in the details for each section.

Remember to keep your speech concise and focused. Aim for a length of around five minutes, and avoid rambling or going off on tangents.

Step 4: Practice Your Speech

Once you’ve written your speech, it’s important to practice it. Stand in front of a mirror and read your speech out loud. This will help you get comfortable with the material and make sure you’re speaking clearly.

You might also want to practice in front of a friend or family member. Ask for their feedback and make any necessary adjustments to your speech.

Step 5: Deliver Your Speech

On the day of the wedding, take a deep breath and deliver your speech with confidence. Remember to speak slowly and clearly, and make eye contact with the audience.

End your speech with a heartfelt congratulations to the newlyweds, and a toast to their future together.

Writing Tips and Techniques

When it comes to writing a father of the bride speech, there are a few helpful tips and techniques that can make the process easier and ensure that your speech is a success. Here are some pointers to keep in mind:

• Be yourself: The most important thing to remember when writing your speech is to be yourself. Don’t try to be someone you’re not or use language that doesn’t feel natural to you. Speak from the heart and let your personality shine through.
• Practice public speaking: If you’re not used to speaking in public, it’s a good idea to practice beforehand. You can do this by rehearsing your speech in front of a mirror or recording yourself and watching it back. This will help you build confidence and get used to the sound of your own voice.
• Know your audience: When writing your speech, it’s important to keep your audience in mind. Think about who will be listening to your speech and what they might be expecting to hear. Tailor your speech to your audience and try to make it relevant and engaging for them.
• Keep it concise: While you might have a lot to say, it’s important to keep your speech concise and to the point. Aim for a speech that is around five minutes long, as this will keep your audience engaged without dragging on too long.
• Use humor: A little bit of humor can go a long way in a father of the bride speech. Try to include some lighthearted jokes or anecdotes that will make your audience smile and help to break the ice.

Practicing the Speech

Now that you have written your father of the bride speech, it’s time to start practicing. Practicing your speech will help you deliver it confidently and avoid any last-minute jitters. Here are some tips to help you practice your speech effectively:

• Practice in front of a mirror: Practicing in front of a mirror will help you see your facial expressions and body language. This will help you identify any nervous habits or gestures that you might want to avoid.
• Practice with a timer: Timing is crucial when it comes to delivering a speech. Practice your speech with a timer to ensure that you are not going over the allotted time. This will also help you pace yourself and avoid rushing through your speech.
• Practice in front of a friend or family member: Practicing in front of a friend or family member will help you get feedback on your speech. They can also help you identify any areas that need improvement.
• Record yourself: Recording yourself while practicing your speech will help you identify any areas that need improvement. You can also listen to your speech to get a feel for your pacing and tone.

Remember, practice makes perfect. The more you practice your speech, the more confident you will be when it’s time to deliver it. So, take the time to practice your speech and you’ll be sure to deliver a memorable speech that your daughter and her new spouse will cherish forever.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should the father of the bride say in his speech.

As the father of the bride, your speech should be heartfelt and sincere. You should start by welcoming the guests and thanking them for coming to celebrate this special day with your family. Then, you can share some personal anecdotes about your daughter and her relationship with the groom. You can also express your love and pride for your daughter and offer some words of wisdom for the newlyweds.

How long should a father of the bride speech be?

Your speech should be long enough to cover everything you want to say, but not so long that it becomes boring or tedious. A good rule of thumb is to keep your speech between 5-7 minutes. This will give you enough time to say what you want to say without losing the attention of your audience.

What should a dad say to his daughter on her wedding day?

As a father, your daughter’s wedding day is a very emotional and special day for you. You should take this opportunity to express your love and pride for your daughter. You can tell her how much she means to you and how proud you are of the person she has become. You can also offer some words of advice and encouragement for her future with her new spouse.

Is it OK to read the father of the bride speech?

Yes, it is perfectly acceptable to read your speech from a written copy. In fact, it may even be preferable if you are nervous or worried about forgetting what you want to say. However, it is important to practice your speech beforehand so that you can deliver it with confidence and emotion.

Ryan Hart is a certified relationship coach and writer. His mission is to help make connections between people better, stronger, more meaningful, and longer lasting using technology.

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How to Give the Best Father of the Bride Speech

This guide includes everything from father of the bride speeches and examples, to how to write your own corker of a father of the bride speech

Danielle Smith Photography

The day your daughter gets married is likely to be one of the proudest of your life, but that can sometimes be clouded by the pressure of writing a father of the bride speech . After all, it is one of the main father of the bride duties !

But we're here to tell you that there's  nothing to worry about. With our guide to writing and delivering a killer father of the bride speech, putting it together will be an absolute breeze.

With expert tips from a professional speech writer, and real father of the bride speech examples to use as inspiration, you can't go wrong with advice like this. And the best news? Being yourself, using your real life experiences and smiling are almost all you need to do. 

Simple, right? And on that note, we also have a short guide on how to write a father of the bride speech in just six simple steps - does it get much better than that? We think not.

The 30 Best Father of the Bride Speeches, Tips & Ideas

Whether you're feeling super nervous and aren't sure where to start, or you're confident and raring to go, this father of the speech guide will help you craft and deliver a speech that your daughter will be so proud of, and ensure you feel confident doing so. 

We've also included expert advice and tips from Heidi Ellert-McDermott, founder of Speechy and author of The Modern Couple's Guide to Wedding Speeches - if there's anyone who can give expert insight into writing the perfect father of the bride speech, it's Heidi. 

What is a Father of the Bride Speech?

What should father of the bride speeches include.

• How to Structure a Father of the Bride Speech?

Dos and Don'ts for Writing a Father of the Bride Speech

Father of the bride speech examples.

A father of the bride speech is a speech given by the bride's father during the speeches section of the wedding ceremony. 

Traditionally, the father of the bride gives a speech about his daughter on her wedding day, but it's not uncommon nowadays to have mother of the bride speeches in lieu of, or as well as a father of the bride speeches. 

Within the speech, you'll want to include a mixture of happy and funny memories about your daughter, as well as some advice for the couple, and welcoming your new son or daughter-in-law. Fore more on the specifics of what to include in a father of the bride speech, scroll on! 

Mark Horton P hotos

Though each one will be completely different to the other, when it comes to writing a father of the bride speech, there are some things we always recommend including. 

1. A Tribute to the Bride

Every father of the bride speech should include some touching words about just how brilliant your daughter is. Be specific and avoid anything too generic - you want to ensure these things could  only  be said about  your daughter. 

This is also the time to talk about some of her achievements, and the things that make you proud, but you don't want it to turn into a CV so stick to fewer but better for this part. 

If you and your partner are together, or are on good terms, this is also a nice moment to give a compliment to the bride's other parent and how they have helped you raise such a great daughter. 

2. Anecdotes & Special Memories

An introduction of your daughter and her brilliance leads perfectly into you talking about some poignant and special memories. Think about the moments that shaped who she is as a woman, and some funny stories that'll get the room giggling. 

You may also want to share moments that solidified your bond as father and daughter, and some slightly embarrassing tales, of course! 

3. Welcome Their Partner

Any good father of the bride speech will include a special mention of their daughter's partner.

It's important that you take some time out of your speech to welcome them to the family, or perhaps explain why there's no need for a welcome, and why they've already cemented their place in your family. 

Talk about why they make such a brilliant partner for your daughter, speak to their character and perhaps even give a special mention to their family as well. 

4. Advice for the Couple

Most father of the bride speeches will include some advice or marital anecdotes for the couple. This doesn't have to be hard-hitting advice, but it's always a nice touch to end on something of a gift in terms of words of wisdom.

You could go heartfelt and sweet, or light-hearted and funny - the choice is completely up to you! 

How to Structure a Father of the Bride Speech

Ensuring you include all of the above in a father of the bride speech is step one, but step two is knowing how to structure it. Once you have the structure of father of the bride speeches down, writing it will feel like a piece of cake! 

Below is the traditional structure of a good father of the bride speech, including tips from industry expert Heidi Ellert-McDermott.

1. Introduction

Use the beginning of a father of the bride speech to introduce yourself to the guests and welcome everybody to the wedding of your daughter and her partner. 

Heidi explains why this part is such a biggie: "If following a traditional wedding speech order, the father of the bride speech tends to be the first of the day, so dads should start by welcoming all the guests that have attended the wedding.

"Make the welcome heartfelt but try to include a touch of humour too. This will help you and your guests relax into the speech."

2. Say Thank You

In line with the introduction, it's also a good idea to thank everyone for coming, and those in particular who helped plan or fund the wedding. This is usually where you will thank your new in-laws as well as members of your own family. 

3. About Your Daughter

Once you have done a short introduction and a few snappy thank yous, it's time to get to the heart of your speech and talk about your daughter.

Using the tips below, spend this part of the speech celebrating your daughter for the wonderful woman she is. 

Adding to this, Heidi explains that no father of the bride speech would be complete without a bit of praise for your daughter on her wedding day, "Whether it’s towards the end or at the beginning of the speech, a dad should always remember to publicly acknowledge how beautiful the bride looks.

"It can be easily forgotten by fathers sitting down to write their speeches months before the day but it’s not something you want to miss out."

4. Talk About the Couple

Once you've spoken about your daughter, pivot to talking about her partner, and welcome them and their family into yours. 

Heidi gives her take on how you can make this tribute special: "Again, this should be a mix of entertaining and meaningful.

"Pinpoint the unique characteristics that make them the ideal partner for your daughter. Do they both have equally appalling music taste? Or is one of them ridiculously clumsy and the other great at DIY?"

5. Your Words of Wisdom

After you've talked about the merging of two families, this is when you can offer a few words of wisdom and advice to the happy couple.

6. The Toast

The best way to end any father of the bride speech is, of course, with a wedding toast ! Whether it's funny, poignant, light-hearted or deep, getting everyone to raise a toast to the happy couple is the best ending to any father of the bride speech. 

Heidi explains, "The conclusion of the speech should reiterate your pride and love for your daughter, and share your hopes for the couple’s marriage. It’s no longer necessary to offer the newlyweds ‘marriage advice’ per se, but many dads still opt to; sometimes the advice is humorous and naughty, sometimes it's meaningful and heartfelt.

"A father’s toast at the end of the speech should be directed towards the newlyweds. The style is up to you, but we are seeing many fathers increasingly opting for a more personal sentiment over the traditional ‘health and happiness’ option."

Sally Rawlins Photography

Now you have the structure and 'must includes' down, it's time to start putting pen to paper.

But how do you write a cracking father of the bride speech? Heidi shares her insight on the biggest do's, and her top tips on how to write a father of the bride speech to be proud of. 

1. Do: Give Yourself Plenty of Time

Start thinking about your speech  at least a couple of months before the wedding date. 

2. Do: Crowdsource Stories & Ideas

You don't have to do this alone! Pick the brains of the rest of the rest of your family when it comes to thinking about stories or anecdotes. Ask people for their funniest and fondest memories of your daughter - siblings are great for intel.

3. Do: Choose a Narrative

Once you have all of the material together, see if there's a theme that links multiple stories together. Is she always right? Or remarkably clumsy? Or so devoted to her pups, you couldn't believe it when she found a human she liked as much?

Having a strong narrative is a great way of ensuring your speech has depth, and isn't just a list of unlinked observations.

4. Do: Be Ruthless

When you've got everything written down, go through your speech and edit it. We usually recommend people cut down their speech by about a third. Be ruthless. A speech is  always better when it's punchy and has pace to it. 

5. Do: Test it Out & Rehearse

Once you've made edits, test the speech out on your partner or someone you trust to give  honest feedback - that's the key here. You want someone who will tell you the truth - if they don't get a joke about your daughter, no one else in the room will, so take on any advice they give. 

Ensure you have at least a couple of weeks ahead of the big day to memorise your speech and feel confident in your delivery.

We always try and encourage our fathers to try and memorise the speech so they feel comfortable with the flow on the day, and use their notes as a reference as opposed to reading directly from them. 

6. Do: Smile!

It sounds so simple, but looking happy while you deliver your father of the bride wedding speech makes  all the difference. Ensure you make eye contact with the guests on the day and smile throughout - it's literally infectious. 

7. Don't: Use Common Wedding Jokes

Whilst all speeches need humour and a few jokes, please avoid the tired, old (and  really common) wedding jokes and googled gags. They will only result in groans or sympathy laughs, and that's not what you want.

If in doubt, remember the phrase, "It's funny because it's true," and use that when you're writing any jokes.

Think about your daughter at her naughtiest. What were her embarrassing habits as a child? Which of those  still happen to her as an adult? Any guilty pleasures she  should have grown out of, but absolutely hasn't?

8. Don't: Use Crude Language

On that note, when writing jokes or including humour in your father of the bride speech, avoid anything crude or inappropriate that could cause people in the room, specifically your daughter, to be embarrassed.

No exes. No mention of things you know she'd rather you didn't share. If it's the kind of story she'd kick you under the table for at a dinner party, it's definitely not wedding-appropriate. 

And that goes for money as well - it's better to not talk too much about finances. 

9. Don't: Tell Her Life Story

Of course, you love your daughter, and you probably have hundreds of stories and memories you'd like to share, but many dads make the mistake of trying to chronicle their daughter's entire life story and every achievement that's ever occurred into the speech, and it's really not necessary. 

Yes, you want your guests to get the sense of what a wonderful person she is, but no one needs to know that she played Annie in her Year 6 play - unless there's a funny story in there, of course. 

10. Don't: Let it Drag On

For the stories you are including, make sure they aren't too complicated and don't go on for too long. Much like the length of your speech, no one has ever listened to a story and thought, "God, I wish that went on for longer!"

If your stories are too complicated and long-winded, you'll lose the room. Land the plane, quickly and with a punch.

The length of your father of the bride speech absolutely matters and how long yours is will depend on how confident of a speaker you are, how many speeches are being made, and the timing of the day. But for a guide, Heidi advises on the perfect length and how to measure it.

She says, "When it comes to speeches, size matters. All speeches should be delivered within ten minutes, and that includes pauses for laughter.

"Generally, a father of the bride should aim for eight minutes or around 1,000 words. I'd say the maximum it should be is 1,300 words, but that's for a speech that's pacey and funny to justify the additional length."

11. Don't: Get Negative

Hopefully you're in a situation where you are really pleased with who your daughter has chosen to marry, but if for any reason you aren't, and you don't  completely approve - do, not, mention, it. At all!

Your father of the bride speech is not the time to suggest anything other than overwhelming happiness for your daughter's choices. It also isn't a roast of their new partner, so play nice, please. 

12. Don't: Be Generic

The biggest mistake you can make when writing your father of the bride speech is not making it unique to your daughter, and resorting to clichés and googled anecdotes and jokes.

Once you've written it down, read back through your speech and ask yourself how many lines could be said by another father - and get rid of any that could.

Make it personal - every baby doesn't sleep through the night and poos a lot, so think of things that are unique to her. 

Leslie Choucard Photography

Here’s some examples of simple, real father of the bride speeches from our father of the bride speech section that can inspire you.

As you already know, we're not about a 'copy and paste' job when it comes to writing a father of the bride speech, but there is nothing wrong with using father of the bride speech examples to inspire you. You can even use these as templates to build your own speech from.

A lot of father of the bride speeches and examples will refer to a bride and groom, but you can alter the references to your daughter's partner if you are giving a speech at a LGBTQ+ wedding.

1. Sweet Father of the Bride Speech Example

This father of the bride gave a sweet speech about his daughter Leah and her new partner, explaining how proud he and Leah's mum were of her life choices and welcoming her new partner to the family. 

Welcome! To the family and friends, and friends that I’ve yet to meet. 

For those of you that don’t know me, I am the very proud father of this beautiful bride, Leah. As the father of the bride, I have the dubious pleasure of making the first speech: I am therefore the warm-up act for the star speakers – the groom, Clive and best man, Tim. 

Your mum and I are aware of just how blessed we’ve been to have you in our lives Leah. It has been an absolute joy to watch a very talkative and extremely inquisitive little girl blossom into the very beautiful, clever, compassionate and extremely loving young lady that I had the privilege of walking down the aisle today.

Leah has been like a ray of sunshine since the day she was born. Now, as she begins married life, Clive will be whom she will turn to for love and protection. And I know, that she knows, her mum and dad will always be there for her, too.

You often wonder as a parent just how your children will turn out. You wonder what sort of life decisions they will make, especially those that you have no control over. What friends will they choose, who they'll pick as a partner to share their life with. Will that person love and care for them as well as you would? Will you approve?

Well for what it’s worth Leah, your Mum and I think you have made an excellent choice in Clive!

I was honoured when Clive approached me to ask for Leah’s hand in marriage, but I wasn’t at all surprised. Today they are embarking on their greatest adventure together, and it gives me much pleasure to be here with them. I’m very happy to formally welcome Clive into our family today. He’s become like a son to us and he’s an absolute credit to you, Jane and John.

Leah, there is so much more I’d like to say about you. But I believe that my time is up. You look incredible today. You are a beautiful woman and a wonderful daughter. You have married a terrific man. And you will make a perfect wife. I won’t bore you with lengthy pieces of paternal advice, regarding marriage and life together, as I understand your hens have already done that for you.

So here's my piece: This world is entirely yours, and it is only you who will determine its rules. I am sure that you will build a reliable family home, your safe haven where you’ll feel at ease, which will give you strength to withstand the storms and challenges of life ahead. On this journey, let me wish you only love and good fortune.

You can read the full speech here .

2. Traditional Father of the Bride Speech Example

When making a gesture to your daughter's new partner, a sweet story about them is a lovely way to show your appreciation for them. This father of the bride decided to share the story of his daughter's partner asking for her hand in marriage, a tradition they decided to celebrate. 

Hello everyone.  First of all, thank you so much for joining us tonight to celebrate [bride] and [groom] wedding.

Before I offer a toast to these newlyweds please allow me to say a few words about these two special people.

I'll start with the groom.  Kim and I have known [groom] for a few years now.  In our short time together we've been able to witness and appreciate many of his great qualities.  We've learned that he's thoughtful and good natured.  He's creative, industrious, and tackles projects with an artistic flair.

But better yet we've learned that [groom] has strong character.  For example, 18 months ago [groom] came to our house and asked permission to marry [bride]. While Kim and I were anticipating an engagement…asking permission demonstrated a level of character that you don't see every day.

It was a very special moment for us, and it really tested our capacity to keep a secret.  But best of all during our time together, Kim and I have learned that [groom] is the one for [bride].  This not based on one single thing, but on the many little things.

I think anyone who has spent any time with this couple would agree they connect in a special way.  And for these reasons, and the many more to come, we are delighted to call [groom] family today.

3. Funny Father of the Bride Speech Example

Adding just the right amount of humour to your father of the bride speech is guaranteed to go down well. It doesn't have to feel like a stand-up comedy routine, but a few jokes here and there can really bring it to live. This father of the bride did just that with his speech. 

Hello, for those of you who do not know me, I am Gillian's dad, Charlie.

As the father of the bride it's my privilege to give the first speech and, as I get to go first, you will have nothing to compare it to, so look to me at the warm up act for Kenny and David. This is an important day for my wife Lesley and I, a special day, when we officially welcome Kenny into our family.

Our welcome to him is not forced or a hardship, but something that we are happy to do, as we have known Kenny for so long now that it would have been sad if he didn't become part of our family one day. So today, both Lesley and I are delighted Gillian made it official and he is now one of us.

Time flies by so quickly, it doesn't seem that long ago since Gillian was born, and here I am today speaking or trying to toast her wedding. Gillian is a very caring person and has a lovely warm nature that has given her mother Lesley and I so much joy and happiness over the years, even in spite of her expensive tastes as she was growing up.

I could tell you a thing or two and who knows, later on, when I've had a few drinks I just might - but for now I can give you a small example, like when she used to ask me to upgrade her mobile phone, on what seemed like a weekly basis. So much so that I was sure I was getting a bigger discount from the manufacturers than Carphone Warehouse was.

Every father and mother wishes their daughter the best of luck for the future and worries about her finding the right person, one who will make her happy, cherish, and look after her forever.

During the time we have known Kenny, we have come to realise how special he is to Gillian, how much of a kind, caring, pleasant and genuinely nice man he is and what a great son in law he will be, IF  he finishes my tiling. It's almost a yellow card for you Kenny.

Gillian, you are a very pretty woman and looked stunning in your wedding dress and as you know, your dad tends to state the obvious. Today, you really looked beautiful when I saw you in your wedding dress. You looked like a princess who has now found her prince charming!

I'm not saying Kenny looked like a frog before you kissed him but... Oh no, I see Kenny is starting to go into a bit of a sulk…OK Kenny, you look really handsome and very smart too. Almost but not quite as good looking as Gillian.

Lesley and I will always be there for you if you ever need anything. But I need to clarify something, that by anything, I mean if you both want to talk, not borrow money, because that would be something different and nigh on impossible. It's good to talk but I can only lend you an ear.

And can I just remind you both, that you signed a contract. For richer, for poorer etc, remember? I have witnesses and it's on tape! That, in legal terms, is called good admissible evidence.

Finally, I would like to propose a toast to the happy couple, and know that everyone here will want to join me in wishing this pair a very long, happy, and healthy future together.

4. Sentimental Father of the Bride Speech Example

This father of the bride gave a sentimental toast to both his daughter and her new partner. He used beautiful stories and words to narrate how he felt and we just love the sentiment here. 

Laura, both me and your Mum are both aware of just how blessed we have been to have you in our lives and we hope you know exactly how much we love you and how very proud we are of the lovely young lady you have become.

It has been an absolute joy for both your mum and me to watch a very talkative, extremely inquisitive - and often clumsy - little girl develop into the beautiful, young lady that it was my absolute privilege to escort down the aisle today. After all it doesn't seem all that very long ago that you were dancing around in front of the mirror, hair brush in hand belting out some Spice Girls hit, or was that last week.

I first became aware that Laura had found herself a young man when suddenly our dinner discussions that had been on subjects such as reduction labels, stock levels, queue lengths and the amount of overtime left in the Tesco budget, suddenly became about groceries and a certain young manager by the name of James.

I know that tradition dictates that it is at this point that I am supposed to welcome James today into our family, but the truth is that we have known him for some eight years now and from day one he has always been a member of the family. He's happy to join in with what's going on, an expert in assembling gazebos and an excellent cook when it comes to looking after BBQs. Just not much of a rally driver.

For what it's worth Laura your Mum, Barney and I think you have made a great choice. From the first day we met James he has been an absolute credit to both Tracy and Lee. At this point I can only apologise to both of them for the additional workload that Laura joining their family may cause.

Laura and James, may your marriage be a truly happy one and may you have a long and wonderful life together. It is my very great pleasure to propose the first toast to the happy couple. So could I ask you please be upstanding and raise your glasses to the bride and groom.

You can read the full speech here . 

5. Funny & Heartfelt Father of the Bride Speech Example

This father of the bride speech example has the perfect balance of humour and sentiment, as it touches on funny stories and anecdotes, as well as some more hard-hitting roadblocks the couple have had to navigate through. 

Good afternoon everyone. On behalf of Moira and Ellen and myself, I would like to start by welcoming you all and to thank you for coming here to celebrate this very special, happy occasion, the marriage of our daughter Marie to Stephen.

Every wedding is special, of course. But to see your daughter get married is something else. Marie, our walk down the aisle this afternoon is a memory I shall cherish. You looked absolutely beautiful in your stunning wedding dress.

When the date was set for the wedding I thought that was plenty of time to get my father of the bride speech sorted or maybe just wing it! As you can imagine, that suggestion didn’t go down well. In fact, it should be called mother of the bride speech as Moira kept crossing out things I couldn’t say about Marie to embarrass her.

Growing up, Marie was stubborn and moody, don’t know where she got that from, but always there for friends and family. Always helping around the house, cooking and cleaning – NOT! I know where she got that from.

Marie went to Australia for a year, she left right after her 21st birthday not able to boil an egg, hopefully she has got better Stephen.

After they had been together a while I got a call from Marie, in tears saying she just found out something terrible about Stephen. I calmed her down and that’s when she told the news. Stephen was a Rangers supporter and what should she do. At the time they were in the 3rd division so I told Marie he was probably embarrassed to tell you.

When Stephen asked Marie to move in the first thing she asked was, “Do you have Sky Sports?” He must have thought it was xmas, a girlfriend who will watch footy instead of Corrie. She’s a keeper.

Anyone who knows the two of them and saw them together will know how much in love and how well suited they are, especially when they got the horrible news of Stephen’s cancer.

Stephen gave Marie the option to walk away, but that was never going to happen, as I saw first hand with Marie and Ellen being at his bedside during the chemo how close Marie was to the whole of Stephen's family and him to ours.

You only have to be in their company for a few minutes to realise they are best friends as well as soul mates.

After Stephen got the all clear I invited him to play golf having heard he was a pretty decent junior player, I thought this was a great chance to see how he reacts to me. With only one eye and difficulty hitting all his shots properly he let me win. I thought then “You will do for me”. We haven’t played since, thankfully.

Ladies and gentlemen, family and friends, could you please raise your glass to the bride and groom: Marie and Stephen.

6. Short Father of the Bride Speech Example

This short father of the bride speech example is concise and to the point, proving that you can make a brilliant speech with everything needed inside, without it having to last ages and ages. 

Good afternoon everybody on behalf of Sharon and myself, I would like to start by welcoming you all and to thank you for coming here to celebrate.

Now if you want to get an inkling of what Bex was like as a small child then look no further than her lovely daughter Raina, a child full of energy like Bex and always on the go.

Never sleeping when she should just like Bex, irritating her brother whenever possible like Bex, but always a wonderful happy little soul.

Bex was very talkative as a small child and when she wasn't forming long sentences she would gabble away in a language only known to herself.

You are a wonderful daughter; and have provided us with so much joy and happiness over the years.

It has been a joy for both your mum and me to watch you develop from our gorgeous baby daughter into the very beautiful, clever, compassionate and extremely loving daughter, mother, and now wife, that you have become.

And it was my honour and privilege to escort you down the aisle today.

I know that tradition dictates that it is at this point that I am supposed to welcome Paulo today into our family, but he has been part of it for a while now, with exceptional BBQ's whenever the weather permits, so we have had quite a few this year.

Also I have always thought that Paulo and I have had a mystic connection from the very start.

It seems that we both share a very strong interest in the spirit world.

Two spirits to be precise.

Gin and whiskey.

Together we have quite a substantial collection.

It only remains for me to say – Bexy and Paulo, happy marriages begin when you marry the one you love, and they blossom when you love the one you married.

May your marriage be a truly happy one, and may you have a long and wonderful life together.

Ladies and gentlemen, I have one final very pleasurable responsibility to fulfil.

It is my very great pleasure to propose the first toast to the happy couple. So, could I ask you please to be upstanding and raise your glasses to the Bride and Groom.

7. Father of the Bride Speech Example With Advice

In this father of the bride speech example, the dad gives some really personal, funny and sweet advice to his daughter and her new partner. 

Louisa and Steve not only found and booked this amazing house for their big day they also provided us with the fantastic meal we're all about to enjoy.

In fact, in a welcome break from tradition, today is virtually all courtesy of Steve and Louisa themselves. So thank you both, very much, for your generosity and hard work.

Every wedding is special, of course. But to see your first-born daughter get married is something else.

Louisa, our walk down the aisle this afternoon is a memory I shall cherish: you looked absolutely beautiful in your stunning and elegant wedding dress.

Although to be honest part of me expected to see you in your jeans and Converse and Steve in his purple Warwick University hoodie. That wouldn't have surprised anybody.

Louisa; Mum and I have always been extremely proud of you; and never more so than today. You're clever, independent, modest, thoughtful and fun-loving. What's not to like?

Now, I know what some of you are thinking; how on earth can such a beautiful, intelligent and modest young lady be his daughter? Well she is. It's just that, apart from the ginger gene, she's much more like her mother than she is me…which means she can be a bit secretive at times.

Now, at this point it would be customary to spend a few minutes bragging about the qualities of our new son-in-law…and that would be very easy for me indeed; in fact, I've got two pages of notes here listing Steve's good points and the many reasons why he's a perfect match for our number one daughter. Unfortunately Steve, I can't read your handwriting…

Suffice to say, Ali and I are delighted Steve met Louisa that fateful night; they're obviously a very well suited couple and make each other very happy.

Finally, it was suggested to me that I should sign-off today with my thoughts on what makes for a successful, long and happy marriage. Well, I'm not sure I can put a finger on it, to be honest; and I'm sure it's different for every couple.

In my case, it's been very easy. I've just done exactly what I've been told for the last 36 years and that works for us. Other than that, all I can really offer is some advice to Steve, based on my experience, for a continued happy time living with Louisa:

Always have Louisa on your side in any quiz or board game especially if it involves numbers. Never gloat if, in the unlikely event, Wales should ever beat England at Rugby Union. Most importantly, never, ever, eat the last piece of chocolate without Louisa's permission. More seriously, stay best friends, don't sweat the small stuff, do lots of everything while you both can, have fun and try to laugh every day. I wish you both much love and happiness in your new married life together.

8. Shy Father of the Bride Speech Example

I would like to begin by welcoming you all, and thank you for coming to this very special occasion to celebrate the marriage of my beautiful daughter Jennifer to Christopher

I would like to start by extending a very warm welcome on behalf of my wife Gill and myself to the parents of the groom Don and Sue.

I would also like to thank everyone who has helped in the lead up to the wedding in whatever way possible big or small, you have all played your part to make this day very special.

I would also like to give a huge thank you to the bridesmaids. These occasions don't just happen, they take a lot of thought, time, planning and preparation - y ou have done Jenny and Chris proud. 

Gill and I must also give a big thank you to Rhys the best man, h e's done such a great job so far and t he hardest bit is over Rhys, you got the groom here.

I am a bit nervous today as I am not used to speaking in public, but I am sure we will get by.

Writing this speech was a real worry at first. What do you say, what do you write?

Then it dawned on me, just say it how it is from the heart, s o here is the other copy my wife gill did not get to read or edit.

Every father knows that one day their offspring will find a partner and fly the nest. You worry about that day. Now that day has arrived. No longer am I worried, because Jenny has found and chosen her partner for life.

Your children are very special to you and you never stop worrying about them.

So this is the bit where I get Jenny worried about me embarrassing her.

When Jenny was tiny I remember she had a little knitted boots and a special little walker seat we sat her in.

It was round with casters on the bottom and she used to scoot round the house in it with those little knitted boots on trying to get whatever she wanted be for she could even walk.  So she earned my loving nickname of Scoot Boots.

Then she started to grow up. I remember watching Jenny trying to climb up the stairs on her little wobbly legs struggling on every step. Worried that my little girl might fall I went over to her and said you want some help Scoot. She was just about able to talk at this stage. She said noooo I can do it dad. Just hold this glass of vodka for me.

They grow up so quick don't they.

Well my little Scoot Boots has not flown the nest but has scooted off into another man's arms, the arms of a man she has chosen to help hold love and support her up and down the staircases of life.

Over the time we have got to know Chris we realise how special he is to Jenny. He is a real genuine nice guy who wears his heart on his sleeve and loves and cares for Jenny. They are both so happy together. As a son in law I couldn't have asked for better.

Don and Sue, your son Christopher is an absolute credit to you both.

If I try and put my emotions into words, I cannot express enough how I am the proudest father in the world today. Seeing my daughter all grown up looking so beautiful, happy and radiant is such an amazing sight.

Jenny and Chris I know you will both be very happy and forge a great life together. Enjoy and remember this moment forever. You are amongst people today who love and care about you very much. Gill and I will always be there for you.

Finally I would like to propose a toast to the happy couple, and I know everyone here will want to join me in raising your glasses in a toast to a very long healthy and happy future together.

So, there's your complete guide. Now, if you want to add some extra sentiment to your speech, here's our selection of emotional father of the bride speech quotes and toasts for you to use. 

Related Hitched articles

• Bridal Shower
• Bachelor & Bachelorette Parties
• Engagement Party
• Rehearsal Dinner
• Wedding Checklists
• Wedding Hairstyle Ideas
• Wedding Vows Readings
• Wedding Music

In This Article

• How To Write A Speech
• Speech Examples And Template
• Things To Avoid

Frequently Asked Questions

• Wedding Party & Reception

Tips For Writing Great Father Of The Bride Speeches + Examples

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In this article about the father of the bride’s speech, we delve into the poignant moment of the wedding ceremony where a father expresses pride in his daughter and joy in the creation of a new family. The father’s speech is not only a moment of pride but also a significant expression of emotions as his daughter embarks on a new chapter, contributing to the formation of a family filled with love and happiness.

So, here are some tips for preparing your speech . Check out father of the bride speeches examples and tips below.

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How To Write Brilliant Father Of The Bride Speeches

Introduce yourself and welcome guests.

The first thing you want to do is introduce yourself. You can start with a joke if you want, but keep it short and clean!

Next, you want to formally welcome your guests including family members, friends, and other esteemed guests, including the groom’s parents and officiant. Thank them for coming and sharing in this important occasion.

Share Heart-Warming Stories From Bride’s Childhood

Endearing stories about the bride are the heart and soul of the father of the bride’s speech. You are one of the few people who has known her for her entire life so undoubtedly you have quite a few tender moments you could share. Also, you could talk about how you felt the day the bride was born and how she changed your life for the better.

Include some funny and touching moments from her childhood and teenage years. Tell her how proud of the woman she is today. Mention how you are happy that she found the love of her life (mention her husband here). Also, remember that her best friend may cover some of the same stories in her maid of honor speech so you may want to compare notes with her.

“Ladies and gentlemen, today, as I stand here with a heart full of joy and a touch of nostalgia, I can’t help but reminisce about the beautiful journey my daughter has had. From the moment she took her first steps to the day she walked into the arms of her soulmate, every step has been a testament to the incredible person she is.

I remember the day she was born, a bundle of joy that filled our lives with laughter and love. Her childhood was adorned with countless funny and touching moments—her infectious laughter, her determination, and even the occasional mischief that always managed to put a smile on our faces.

As she blossomed into the incredible woman she is today, finding her love in [husband’s name], my heart swells with pride. To witness the love that has grown between them is truly magical. So here’s to the little girl who changed my life for the better and to the remarkable woman she has become. Cheers to love, laughter, and a lifetime of happiness for [bride’s name] and [husband’s name].”

Talk About Your Son-in-Law

Next to talking about your daughter, speaking about your son-in-law is the most important part of your father-of-the-bride speech. Be sure to tell him how you feel about him and how much he means to your family.

You can incorporate some humor as well but try to keep it heart-warming. You could talk about the first time you met him, or how he has improved your daughter’s life. Lovingly and sincerely welcome him to your family.

“Ladies and gentlemen, if I may take a moment to express my sentiments about the remarkable man who now holds a special place in our family – my son-in-law, [son-in-law’s name]. From the first time we met, I could sense something extraordinary about him. Maybe it was the way he made my daughter laugh, or the kindness that radiated from him.

[son-in-law’s name], you’ve not only won my daughter’s heart but the hearts of our entire family. Your presence has brought an added layer of joy and completeness to our lives. I still remember the first time I saw you together, and I knew then that you were someone truly special.

So, with a heart full of gratitude and warmth, I want to officially welcome you to our family. May your journey with [bride’s name] be filled with love, laughter, and an abundance of cherished moments. Here’s to the wonderful man who has enriched our lives. Cheers!”

Add A Funny Story About Couple

At this point, you could include a funny story about the couple. Remember to keep it clean, and nothing too embarrassing. Making the newlywed’s blush and giggle is one thing. You don’t want to humiliate them or make them uncomfortable on their wedding day.

Funny anecdotes will keep the guests engaged in your father-of-the-bride speech. Perhaps you have a humorous story about the first time she brought him over for dinner. Or maybe something funny from the wedding preparations. Keep it light and appropriate.

“Ladies and gentlemen, let me share a little tale about our lovely couple that brings a smile to my face. It was the first time [son-in-law’s name] came over for dinner, and let’s just say, we had a slight kitchen mishap. I attempted to impress him with my culinary skills, and, well, the smoke detectors were equally impressed.

As the kitchen filled with a not-so-subtle haze, [bride’s name] and [son-in-law’s name] exchanged glances, and I thought, ‘Well, this is one way to make a lasting impression.’ Little did we know, that incident became a cherished story in our family, reminding us that laughter truly is the best seasoning.

Add A Few Words About Groom’s Parents

You should always include something about the groom’s parents in your speech. They are now part of your family, as you are part of theirs. You will be spending time with them during the holidays, birthdays and other joint family events. And you could even share in the blessing of future grandchildren.

Thank them for sharing in the big day and becoming part of your family, as well as any part they took in the wedding. Congratulate them on the fine job they did raising their son and how happy you are to welcome them all to your family.

“As we celebrate the union of [bride’s name] and [son-in-law’s name], it’s a joyous occasion not only for our family but for [son-in-law’s name]’s family as well. I want to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to [son-in-law’s mother’s name] and [son-in-law’s father’s name], who have warmly welcomed us into their lives.

Today marks the beginning of a shared journey, not just for [bride’s name] and [son-in-law’s name], but for our families joining together. To [son-in-law’s mother’s name] and [son-in-law’s father’s name], thank you for your kindness, love, and for the integral role you played in creating the wonderful person who now stands by my daughter’s side.

As we move forward, I look forward to the shared celebrations, the laughter, and the many beautiful moments that our families will create together. Here’s to the start of a new chapter for all of us.”

Talk About Your Own Love Story With Bride’s Mother

Do not neglect to introduce your wife, the bride’s mother. Share a brief story about how you met and your lives together. Tell her that you love her as much today as you did on your wedding day.

Thank her for her part in raising your daughter to be the beautiful woman she is today. Perhaps share a story of how much your daughter is like her mother. Spend a moment or two doting on your wife and then tie it to your daughter and her new husband.

“Ladies and gentlemen, amidst the celebration of [bride’s name] and [son-in-law’s name], I want to share a glimpse of the enduring love that anchors our family. A heartfelt thank you to my wonderful wife, [wife’s name], who has been my companion in this remarkable journey. From our ‘I do’ to the shared joys, she remains my constant. [wife’s name], your grace and strength have shaped [bride’s name] into the remarkable woman she is today. As we witness the next chapter unfold with [bride’s name] and [son-in-law’s name], I’m reminded of the beautiful love story that started with us. Cheers to enduring love!”

Finish With A Toast

In keeping with tradition, your father of the bride’s speech should end with a toast. Ask everyone to stand with me and raise their glasses to the happy couple on their wedding day.

The toast itself does not have to belong. In fact, it should not be longer than the speech itself. Just say a few short sentences congratulating the bride and groom and wishing them a happy life together. Use some examples of father-of-the-bride wedding toasts :

• Example 1: “Please stand with me and raise your glass to toast the happy couple. (Bride’s name) has been the light of my life for the past 25 years and today I hand her over to (groom’s name). I know he will love and cherish her every bit as much as I do a toast to a happy and healthy life full of endless love and laughter!”
• Example 2: “Please join me in a toast to _____ and _______. (Groom’s name), you have become like a son to me, and I am entrusting (bride’s name) to you. Cherish every moment you have together. Let us all wish the happy couple a lifetime of joy!”
• Example 3: “Please raise your glass to the newlyweds. When (bride’s name) was only 13 years old she told me that she wanted to marry (groom’s name). I watched them grow from happy and carefree teenagers to happy, loving and caring adults. Let’s offer a toast to many years of wedded bliss!”
• Example 4: “When (groom) first showed up at my front door, I never imagined he would be the one to steal my baby’s heart. But here we are today, and I couldn’t be happier for them. Let’s raise our glass to the (bride and groom) and wish them many years of happiness!”
• Example 5: “Please join my wife and I as we raise our glasses to the beautiful, kind, and loving couple. We welcome you to our family, and we look forward to many years of holiday dinners, family vacations, and late-night phone calls. Cheers to ___ and ___!”

Father Of The Bride Speeches: Examples And Template

Father of the bride speeches can be difficult to write, because it’s an emotional time for a father, and there is so much you might want to include in your speech However, with a few tips, you should be able to put down a beautiful speech that expresses your emotions perfectly, one that your daughter will be proud of.

Best Father Of The Bride Speeches

When preparing your speech, speak from your heart and be genuine. Don’t worry about trying to be funny or overly sentimental. Keep it concise, but meaningful. And don’t forget to practice beforehand so that you can deliver your words with confidence and ease. Your daughter will appreciate your heartfelt words, and you’ll create a memory that will last a lifetime.

“Good evening, everyone. For those who don’t know me, I’m the father of the bride. Today, I’m overflowing with emotions as I stand here to give this speech. I am incredibly proud of my daughter, and I couldn’t be happier that she has found such a wonderful partner in [groom’s name]. From the moment I met him, I knew he was the one for her. His kind heart and warm smile captured our hearts, and we welcome him with open arms into our family. My advice to the newlyweds is to always communicate, be honest with each other, and most importantly, never forget why you fell in love with each other. To my daughter, you will always be my little girl, and I will always be here to support and love you. So, let’s raise a glass to the newlyweds, wishing you a lifetime of love and happiness.”

Heartfelt Father Of The Bride Speech

Giving heartfelt and emotional father-of-the-bride speeches can really take it out of you. But, if you find the right words, and you aren’t afraid to let your emotions show, you should do well. “I am Allen, Scarlet’s father, as most of you know. This is my proudest and happiest moment, watching her today and being able to reflect on all the years I watched her grow up. She was the most beautiful baby, and I’m lucky to have been able to be with her and guide her as she grew into the magnificent woman that she is today. She captured my heart then, and she still holds it now, my beautiful girl, my sunshine. I will always be fortunate to be called your father. And as I watch her get married today, to such a wonderful young man, I can say that my happiness is full. I can’t say that I give the most brilliant father of the bride speeches as I have never had to give one, but I can say this with all confidence. The two of you are about to begin a long journey. One that will be filled with all the love and happiness I have seen between you both, and more. And while on this journey, know that I and your mother will be there on the sidelines, ready to assist with anything that you need to succeed. May you always be true to each other, and may you always be kind to each other. May you share in all of the burdens all of the joys and all the happiness that this world has in store for you both. I ask you all to join me in raising a toast to my beautiful daughter and her amazing husband. I wish them a long and happy life together. Love you both to the moon and back.”

Funny Father Of The Bride Speech

If humor comes naturally to you, then giving the funny father-of-the-bride speeches would be your forte. And, if you need some inspiration, here is a sample that could be helpful.

“Hello everyone, I’m the proud father of this lady right here, Sasha, and the spanking new father-in-law of the handsome man beside her, David. And I would have to say, if any of these names sound strange to you, then you are probably at the wrong wedding.

It was a little difficult writing my speech for today because at first, my wife recommended that I do not say anything embarrassing or stupid, and then late she suggested that I just be myself. Well, that’s hard and not confusing at all.

I must say that I have always looked forward to the day that someone would step forward and take Sasha and all her endless demands far away from me and my bank account. And I am so happy David, that you had the courage to do so, good man. In fact, although I question his tastes in football teams, I have never questioned his loyalty to my daughter, and my bank account agrees.

From the first day that I met David and his shiny new braces, I knew that any man who could care for his teeth like that, without shame, would be able to care for my daughter no matter the consequences. I have to admit that we’re all glad he’s present here today minus those dentures.

My advice to you both today is love and laughter. Although marriage is as serious as a mortgage and should be taken as seriously, just be sure to have fun. Life will bring its ups and downs, but as long as you remember to laugh at each other and with each other through it all, you will succeed.

I give you Sasha and David, the bride and groom.”

Short Father Of the Bride Speech

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While writing father of the bride speeches may not be a walk in the park, with the right sample father of the bride speeches to guide you, you are sure to succeed. Make your daughter proud on the most special day of her life.

“Just like childbirth, marriage marks a new beginning. One that we are overjoyed to witness in our family. From the day you captured my heart as a newborn, to today when I walked you down the aisle, I have never stopped feeling grateful that you call me Papa. I hope that I have always lived up to your expectations, just as your husband will as you begin this journey together.

I am happy for the union of these two families as the [Bride] and [Groom] begin a brand new family of their own. And I am proud that my daughter has grown into this amazing woman and that she met a man who is just as amazing. I love you son. This is my wish that you build your lives together and enjoy a relationship like no other.

I offer you my warmest wishes and congratulations on this beautiful and joyous day. Please join me as we raise our glasses to the bride and groom. May your lives be filled with love and laughter always.”

Here is an example of a father of the bride speech to help you with your preparations for your wedding speech .

Things To Avoid In Father of The Bride Speech

If you have ever given a best man speech , you might have some idea as to where to start. However, there are some differences to take heed to the following advice.

• Avoid inappropriate jokes or stories: Stay away from anything that could embarrass or offend the couple or guests.
• Steer clear of excessive personal anecdotes: Focus on the couple rather than sharing too many personal stories unrelated to their special day.
• Don’t make it too long: Keep your speech concise to maintain interest and prevent it from becoming tedious.
• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption: Maintain clarity and composure by limiting alcohol intake before delivering your speech.
• Don’t overshadow the groom: Ensure the speech is balanced, acknowledging the groom’s role and expressing warm sentiments toward him.
• Avoid controversial or sensitive topics: Steer clear of divisive subjects that could create discomfort or tension among guests.

Wedding Speech vs. Wedding Toast: What’s the Difference?

A wedding toast is a statement of good wishes to the couple that often ends with the raising of glasses, clinking, and drinking. It usually comes at the end of a speech but can also stand independently. A speech is often longer than a toast and often tells a story.

Is it OK to read the father of the bride speech?

It is okay to read the father of the bride speech. No one is required to get a certificate in public speaking before giving wedding speeches, so it’s fine to have notes as long as you have at least practiced beforehand.

How long should the father of the bride speech be?

Typically, the speech itself should be around 5 minutes.

What Should A Father Of The Bride Speech Include?

A father of the bride speech should include a warm welcome, anecdotes about the bride, words of wisdom, a heartfelt blessing for the couple, and a memorable toast. It should express love, pride, and best wishes for the newlyweds.

Keep these tips for writing a father of the bride speeches when you are composing your own speech. Take the time to practice in front of your wife, a friend or even a camera. Just speak from the heart and you will be fine!

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The Ultimate Guide to Writing the Perfect Father of the Bride Wedding Speech

In this guide, we'll walk you through tips and templates to write an excellent father of the bride speech.

The role of the father of the bride in a wedding is an important one, and one that comes with the added pressure of giving a heartfelt and meaningful speech. If you're the father of the bride and are tasked with giving a speech, don't worry! With a little bit of planning and preparation, you can write and deliver the perfect father of the bride wedding speech that will leave everyone feeling touched and inspired.

Here are some tips on how to write the perfect father of the bride wedding speech:

• Start by brainstorming : Take some time to sit down and think about what you want to say in your speech. Consider what you want to convey to your daughter and her new spouse, as well as your guests. Jot down some notes and ideas to help organize your thoughts.
• Keep it personal : Your speech should be personal and heartfelt. Share stories and anecdotes about your daughter, and talk about the special bond you have with her. This will not only make your speech more engaging but also make your daughter feel loved.
• Share your hopes and wishes : Use your speech as an opportunity to express your hopes and wishes for your daughter and new son-in-law's future together. Share your excitement and happiness for the couple, and offer words of wisdom and advice.
• Be humorous : A little bit of humor goes a long way in a speech. Tell a funny story or make a light-hearted joke to break the ice and make the guests feel more at ease.
• Practice makes perfect : Practice your speech in front of a mirror, or even better, to a test audience. This will give you a better idea of how your speech will be received, and help you make any necessary adjustments.
• Keep it short and sweet : A wedding speech should be around 3-5 minutes long and no longer than 7 minutes. Keep your speech short and sweet.
• Make it memorable : End your speech with a memorable quote or a sentimental statement that will leave a lasting impression on the guests.
• Don't forget to thank everyone : Lastly, don't forget to thank the guests and the wedding party for joining in the celebration of your daughter's big day.

With these tips in mind, you'll be well on your way to writing and delivering the perfect father of the bride wedding speech. Remember to take your time, be personal, and above all, speak from the heart.

Here are 10 father of the bride wedding speeches to use as inspiration for your daughter's wedding:

Father of the Bride Speech Template #1

Good evening everyone, I'm [Name], the proud father of the beautiful bride, [Bride's Name]. And I'd like to start off by saying how grateful I am to be here with all of you on this special day.

Now, I have to admit, I wasn't exactly sure what to expect when my daughter started planning her wedding. But I can tell you this, I'm blown away by the love and happiness I see in this room.

[Insert Personal Anecdote 1:

E.g. I remember the day [Bride's Name] was born like it was yesterday. She was a little bundle of joy that brought so much light into our lives. And now, here she is all grown up and about to start a new chapter in her life.]

And speaking of new chapters, let's talk about the groom, [Groom's Name]. [Insert Personal Anecdote 2:

E.g. I've known [Groom's Name] for [Number of years] now and I can say without a doubt that he is one of the kindest, funniest, and most genuine people I've ever met. And I'm so lucky to welcome him into our family.]

[Bride's Name], I know I don't have to tell you this, but you are loved by so many people. Your smile, your laugh, and your kindness have a way of making everyone feel special. And I know you and [Groom's Name] will have a long and happy life together.

So, to my daughter and her new husband, I want to say congratulations. May your love for each other continue to grow stronger with each passing day. And may you always find joy and laughter in the simple things.

And finally, I'd like to raise a toast to the happy couple. To [Bride's Name] and [Groom's Name], may your love always shine bright like a firefly in the night sky. Cheers!

Father of the Bride Speech Template #2

Ladies and Gentlemen,

I am [FATHER'S NAME], the proud father of the beautiful bride, [BRIDE'S NAME]. And I have to say, what a day this has been. I mean, it's a wedding! The only time you get to hear the words, "I'm so glad you're here" and know they're not being sarcastic.

Now, I must admit, when [BRIDE'S NAME] first told me she was getting married, I was a little bit nervous. I mean, what if her husband wasn't good enough for her? But then I met [GROOM'S NAME], and I have to say, I was pleasantly surprised. He's the type of guy who [INSERT PERSONAL ANECDOTE ABOUT GROOM]. And let me tell you, [GROOM'S NAME] and [BRIDE'S NAME] together, it's a match made in heaven. They're like two peas in a pod.

[INSERT PERSONAL ANECDOTE ABOUT THE BRIDE]. I couldn't be more proud of the woman [BRIDE'S NAME] has become. And today, as she stands here before us, I am filled with love and joy to see her marry the man of her dreams.

So, [GROOM'S NAME], I want you to know, you're getting a fantastic person in [BRIDE'S NAME]. And [BRIDE'S NAME], I love you so much.

And to the both of you, [GROOM'S NAME] and [BRIDE'S NAME], I want to say, may your marriage be filled with love, laughter, and joy. May you always be there for each other, through thick and thin. And may your love for each other only grow stronger with each passing day.

Cheers to the newlyweds!

Father of the Bride Speech Template #3

Ladies and Gentlemen, friends and family,

It is with great joy and a touch of sadness that I stand before you today as the proud father of the bride. It is unbelievable that my daughter has grown from the baby she was [x years] ago and is taking her place alongside her soulmate in matrimony.

[Insert personal anecdote about the bride growing up, such as a funny childhood memory or a moment of pride as a father.]

Today, we welcome [groom's name] into our family. He has proven himself to be a kind, loving, and thoughtful partner to my daughter, and for that I am grateful.

[Insert personal anecdote about the groom, such as how he won over the family or a funny quirk that endears him to the bride and those around him.]

Marriage is not just about finding someone to love, it's about finding someone who will love you in all your flaws, insecurities, and quirks. [bride's name] and [groom's name], you have found that in each other, and I have no doubt that your love will continue to grow stronger with each passing day.

So, to my daughter and son-in-law, I want to say congratulations and good luck. I'm honored to be your father and to be a part of this special day.

And to all of you here today, let's raise a glass and toast to the happy couple. May their lives be filled with love, laughter, and adventure.

Father of the Bride Speech Template #4

Father of the bride speech template #5.

Ladies and gentlemen, friends and family, it's an honor to stand before you today as the father of the beautiful bride.

I never thought I'd be giving a wedding speech. I mean, the thought of my daughter growing up and getting married, it just doesn't seem possible. But here we are, and I couldn't be happier.

[Insert personal anecdote about daughter growing up and relationship with groom]

Now, let me talk about the groom. [Insert personal anecdote about groom and relationship with daughter]

Marriage is not just about love and happiness, it's about sharing life's ups and downs, sharing joys and sorrows, and supporting each other through thick and thin.

[Insert personal anecdote about the couple and their relationship]

So, to my beautiful daughter [bride's name], and to [groom's name], I want to wish you a lifetime of love, happiness, and laughter. May your love for each other continue to grow stronger every day, and may you always be each other's best friend.

And now, let's raise a glass to the happy couple. To [bride and groom's names], may your love last a lifetime. Cheers!

Father of the Bride Speech Template #6

Good evening everyone, and let me just say - it's an honor to be standing here as the father of the bride on this special day.

[Insert personal anecdote about daughter growing up and the emotions you're feeling as her father]

Now, let's talk about [Groom's name]. [Insert personal anecdote about first meeting the groom and your initial thoughts about him] But let me tell you, he's grown on me, and I couldn't be happier that he's going to be spending the rest of his life with my daughter.

[Insert personal anecdote about the bride and groom's relationship and how it's grown and flourished over time]

And to [bride's name], my beautiful daughter. [Insert personal anecdote about her growing up and the woman she's become] I am so proud of the person you have become, and I couldn't be happier to welcome [groom's name] into our family.

To [bride and groom's names], may your love continue to grow and flourish for a lifetime. I raise a glass to the newlyweds.

Father of the Bride Speech Template #7

Ladies and Gentlemen, let me start by saying that it's an honor to stand here as the proud father of the beautiful bride.

I want to take a moment to reflect on the journey that brought us here today. [Insert personal anecdote about your daughter growing up and how fast time has flown by].

Now, as we gather here to celebrate the union of [bride's name] and [groom's name], I want to share a few words about this amazing couple. [Insert personal anecdote about how you met the groom or a funny story about the couple].

[Bride's name] has grown into an amazing woman, and I couldn't be happier to see her marry the love of her life. [Insert personal anecdote about your daughter's qualities and why you think she and the groom are a perfect match].

I know that [groom's name] will take good care of her, and I have no doubt that their love for each other will only continue to grow stronger. [Insert personal anecdote about your confidence in the couple's future together].

So let's raise a glass to the happy couple and wish them a lifetime of love, laughter, and happiness. To [bride's name] and [groom's name], may you always keep the spark alive and never stop making each other smile. Cheers!

Father of the Bride Speech Template #8

Good evening everyone!

As the proud father of the bride, I stand before you tonight to deliver a speech in honor of my beautiful daughter [bride's name].

I have to admit, I'm a little nervous. I mean, let's be real, this is the biggest moment of my stand-up career since that time I accidentally made a nun laugh during a comedy show.

[Personal Anecdote 1: Insert a funny or heartwarming story about your daughter growing up]

But in all seriousness, I am beyond grateful to be here, surrounded by the love and support of our friends and family, to celebrate [bride's name]'s marriage to [groom's name].

[Personal Anecdote 2: Insert a story about how you first met the groom or how they fell in love]

[bride's name], you have grown into a stunning, confident, and loving young woman. And [groom's name], I couldn't have picked a better partner for my daughter if I had tried. You two are truly a match made in heaven.

[Personal Anecdote 3: Insert a funny or heartwarming story about the bride and groom together]

I wish you both a lifetime of happiness and love. To the happy couple, I raise a glass to you and say, "Cheers!"

Thank you, everyone, for being here to celebrate this special day. Now let's eat, drink, and be merry!

Father of the Bride Speech Template #9

Good evening everyone,

I’m the father of the bride [insert daughter’s name], and I have to say, it’s an honor to stand here today and give a speech in honor of her and her new husband [insert husband’s name].

[Insert personal anecdote about your daughter’s childhood or personality]

[Insert personal anecdote about the first time you met the groom or your relationship with the groom]

I have to say, when [daughter’s name] first told me she was getting married, I was a little apprehensive. I mean, let’s be real, look at this guy [gesture to groom sarcastically]. In all seriousness, I couldn't be happier to have [husband's name] joining the family.

[Insert personal anecdote about the bride and groom’s relationship or engagement]

So here we are, [husband’s name] and [daughter’s name], starting a new chapter in their lives together. I couldn’t be happier for the two of them. And let’s be real, I couldn’t have picked a better son-in-law if I tried.

[Insert personal anecdote about advice for the bride and groom’s future together]

So, [husband’s name], you take care of my daughter, and [daughter’s name], I hope you have the best life with [husband's name]. And together, may your love for each other grow stronger every day.

To [bride and groom], may you have a lifetime of happiness and love. Cheers!

Father of the Bride Speech Template #10

Good evening everyone, my name is [Name], and I have the honor of being the father of the beautiful bride, [Bride's Name].

[Insert Personal Anecdote about the Bride]

When I first heard that [Groom's Name] was interested in [Bride's Name], I must admit, I was a bit nervous. But after getting to know [Groom's Name], I couldn't be more thrilled for the two of them. They are a perfect match and I am so happy they have found each other.

[Insert Personal Anecdote about the Groom]

[Bride's Name], from the moment you were born, you have brought joy and laughter into our lives. You have always been independent and confident, and I am so proud of the woman you have become. You have found someone who loves and adores you just as much as we do, and I couldn't be happier for the two of you.

[Groom's Name], you have become part of our family and we welcome you with open arms. You are a kind and loving person, and [Bride's Name] is lucky to have you.

So, to the happy couple, [Bride's Name] and [Groom's Name], I want to say congratulations and wish you a lifetime of love, happiness, and laughter. May you always support each other and cherish each moment together.

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Father of The Bride Speech: The Ultimate Guide

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Traditionally the father of the bride is the first to speak at a wedding and so unless you’re a seasoned speech giver, it can feel like a daunting task.

Add to that the fact that alongside walking your daughter down the aisle it’ll probably be one of the proudest moments of your life and suddenly writing this special speech seems almost impossible.

Just how do you sum up your feelings in a few hundred words?

The good news is that father of the bride speeches are meant to be heart-warming and full of emotion, so no-one is expecting you to give a performance to rival a stand-up comedian. That said, no-one wants to sit in awkward silence while the father regales countless stories of the bride as a baby.

It’s important to get the tone and content of this much-anticipated wedding speech exactly right to ensure both your daughter and all the guests find it entertaining, uplifting, touching, and most importantly not at all embarrassing!

If you’ve got no idea where to start when it comes to writing a fantastic father of the bride speech, we’ve got some top tips and dos and don’ts to help you put pen to paper and create a standout wedding speech that your daughter will never forget.

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Father Of The Bride Speech Template

While you’ll want your wedding speech to be completely unique, it can help to follow a tried and tested template when you start to write and then let the original ideas start to flow from there…

1. Introduce Yourself

Introduce yourself and welcome all the guests to the special day (ask the bride for any special mentions she might want to include here like friends who have traveled from overseas).

2. Talk About The Bride

Talk about how proud you are of her achievements etc. and also provide funny (but not embarrassing) anecdotes about her as a little girl that are relevant to who she is today.

3. Pay Tribute To The Woman She Has Become

Talk about her job or anything she does that makes you proud now as well as any relevant stories about her as an adult.

4. Talk About How The Bride Met Her New Spouse

Make sure to include any funny stories from when you first met him or her. For example, is he/she normally full of bravado but was nervous as hell asking you if he/she could marry your daughter? Talk about the groom (or other bride) and their family and how happy you are to have them join your family.

5. Give Some Advice On Marriage

Best not to do this if you’ve been divorced 4 times, although you could joke about this in your speech, or just give some general advice about life. Perhaps you were told something on your wedding day that you’ve always remembered and want to pass on.

6. Raise A Toast To The Happy Couple

Try and make this as personalised as possible and unique to the couple. You could just toast their happy marriage or come up with a list of a few specific wishes that you want the guests to toast to.

What Should A Father Of The Bride Speech Include?

A traditional father of the bride speech includes a few key elements such as welcoming the guests, anecdotes and compliments about your daughter, a welcome to your new son-in-law or daughter-in-law, words of advice and a toast to the new couple.

How Do You End The Father Of The Bride Speech?

It always works well to end a father of the bride speech with a few words of wisdom for the newly married couple, followed by a strong heartfelt toast that you invite all the guests to take part in.

The Dos And Don’ts Of A Good Father Of The Bride Speech

1. ask for help.

Before you even think about writing your first draft, it can really help to have a brainstorm with a few key people.

Ask the bride’s mother, any siblings, or really close family to come together to reminisce about the bride, as they may remember some absolutely hilarious or key stories that you’ve forgotten.

You can go back and forth to this family group while writing too for extra details and clarification on facts, plus it’ll help you feel a lot less pressure than you would if you were going solo.

2. Focus On A Good Introduction

As you’re opening the speeches section of the wedding, it’s important not to just go straight into your speech at 100mph and instead to introduce yourself. While most people in the room will know who you are, there may be a few who don’t.

Plus, it’s a nice easy way to confidently ease yourself into public speaking. Try not to sound too robotic by just saying your name and that you’re the bride’s dad! Think of a more heartfelt way to say you’re her father.

You can also really quickly put wedding guests at ease by making them laugh. It doesn’t have to be a silly gag or a hilarious joke, but just something cute and quirky about the bride or perhaps an observation about the day that can really help get the ball rolling.

3. Don’t Spend Ages Thanking People

The father of the groom speech is not the time to go through everyone that needs thanking – this often happens during the groom’s speech and you can be sure that if you go down this route that you’ll massively wrong-foot the groom and make his speech rather difficult to deliver without major repetition.

Confine your thanks to a general one – simply thank everyone for coming to the wedding and watching the proudest moment of your life as your daughter gets married.

4. Use Clever Quotes

If it feels suitable for your speech, you can use famous quotes to get your point across and provide a bit of pace to the delivery. Some fathers like to open with a quote from someone famous and use it as a way to introduce an overarching theme that’ll carry on through the speech.

If you’re known for being a showman or a bit of a character, a dramatically delivered quote can get the guests laughing straightway. If not, find a quote that sums up exactly how you feel about the bride and use it instead of your own words if you can’t quite get the sentiment right.

5. Don’t Embarrass Your Daughter

There’s a fine line between a funny and sweet anecdote and one that’ll make your guests cringe.

You don’t want to make anyone, especially the bride, feel uncomfortable, so stick to stories that are heartfelt and meaningful rather than too graphic. No one needs to hear that she wet the bed until she was 11!

You can still take the mickey out of her though, but in a much more charming way.

Choose stories that are relevant to who she is today. Perhaps she was obsessed with animals from the moment she could talk and brought all manner of horrible bugs into your house – now she’s a vet it all makes sense.

Maybe she was the clumsiest little girl you’ve ever known so it’s incredible that she’s now a successful dancer.

Perhaps she had a crazy imagination that got her into all sorts of trouble (insert funny anecdotes here), but she’s now managed to harness it into a successful career as a novelist.

6. Make Your Speech Different

When talking about your daughter and how much you love her it’s important to avoid clichés and words that could apply to any bride.

We’re talking about “beautiful”, “amazing”, “kind” etc.

Think about what makes her who she is and celebrate these traits.

Remember no-one is perfect, and just because it’s her wedding day doesn’t mean you have to make her sound like the ideal woman. The guests want to hear about all the good bits as well as the slightly less so, as it’s much more real and will represent the person they know and love.

7. Don’t Mention Any Exes

This is a key one that shouldn’t be broken – DO NOT mention any exes. No-one wants to remember a time when the happy couple weren’t together or imagine the bride with another partner so just don’t go there, even if there’s a funny anecdote! It’s the quickest way to alienate the new in law to the family.

8. Spend Time Talking About Her New Husband Or Wife

On the other hand, not mentioning your new son-in-law or daughter-in-law in your wedding speech is almost as bad as the groom forgetting to mention his new wife in his wedding speech. While the father of the bride speech is predominantly about your daughter, you have to dedicate at least a sentence or two to her chosen partner.

Make sure to say how happy you are that the bride met their partner and how much happiness he/she clearly brings into her life.

You can talk about what your impressions were the first time you met him/her and how your relationship has grown or include funny stories about the early years of their relationship.

9. Mention The Bride’s Mother And New In-Laws

It’s important not to single-handedly take credit for your amazing daughter in your speech (unless of course, you raised her all alone).

Spend time talking about any good traits she has inherited from her mother and how special their relationship is. Even if you’re divorced from her mother, a line or two acknowledging her part in your child’s life will be very well appreciated.

10. Impart Some Wisdom For The Newlyweds

Once you’ve run out of anecdotes and have said all the beautiful words about how you feel, it’s time to impart some advice.

This can go one of two ways.

Perhaps you’ve had a successful and long marriage and therefore you can draw inspiration from both the wonderful and hard times to pass on some key bits of advice. If you’re known for being a bit hapless when it comes to marriages and relationships you can make this section funny and tell the couple not to do anything you did!

If this is the case you can also always ask other successfully married couples from within the guests for their advice before the big day and then impart this. Your daughter will appreciate the effort you’ve gone to, to ensure that you had something meaningful to pass on to her at such a huge stage in her life.

11. Don’t Make The Speech About You

Remember this speech is meant to be about your daughter and the person she is marrying today.

If once you’ve written the speech and are reading through it and you find yourself repeatedly saying “I” or “me” more than “she” or “her”, then chances are you’ve made the speech too much about you.

Yes, the anecdotes are your stories to tell, but they should focus on your daughter and why they are relevant to who she is today rather than how they made you feel or how they impacted you.

12. End With A Toast

As the first speechmaker, you can’t just tail off.

A strong end is key to the overall success of the speech and helps draw a line under your words and the start of the next speech.

So, make sure you have a really good finishing sentence, followed by a clear call to the guests to stand and toast. You need to make sure the guests know exactly what you want them to do otherwise you’ll end up with a half-hearted end with some standing up and some not and a mish-mash of words. Clearly state the words you want them to toast with and invite the guests to stand to ensure a resounding toast!

Now all that’s left to do is practise reading out your father of the bride speech, in a confident – and slow – manner and make sure you smile while doing it.

It can also be a really good idea to ask your wife or partner to read through the draft speech too. Just to make sure you’ve remembered the anecdotes properly (we’re all prone to the odd embellishment!) and also to check that you’re not veering off into embarrassing territory.

Father Of The Bride Speech Examples

Take some inspiration from fathers who have been there, done that and got the t-shirt with these brilliant father of the bride speech examples from real weddings.

Heartfelt father of the bride speech

A heartfelt speech is always a winner and this father  covers all the main points in a meaningful and heartwarming manner.

Father of the bride speech full of funny anecdotes

The extract from this hilarious speech shows how to weave anecdotes into your speech while also ensuring it focusses on your daughter and not you.

Alternative father of the bride speech

If you want to wow guests and your daughter consider pulling something alternative and wow-factor out the bag like this funny and entertaining video speech .

Emotional father of the bride speech

Emotional speeches don’t have to be embarrassing to watch. This father delivered a perfectly eloquent speech that focuses on the emotion and real meaning of the day.

Funny poem father of the bride

This father manages to keep the guests’ laughing and involved with his witty speech delivered in poem format .

Short but sweet father of the bride speech

This speech is only a few minutes long, but the father of the bride covers the two most important points – talking about his daughter and complimenting his new son-in-law.

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Father of the Bride Speech Template (Fill in the Blanks)

If you’re feeling at all daunted by the prospect of putting together your speech, the good news is that a solid structure will help keep you on track.

The exact structure you use will depend on whether you want to give a super short speech that only covers the bare essentials, or a slightly longer speech that covers all the traditional points.

But for a comprehensive speech, that covers all the expected topics you can use the following handy template.

Creating a perfectly structured speech is simply a case of painting by numbers when you use my comprehensive eight-part template.

1) Opening words (Icebreaker)

The opening words of any speech are important, and this is particularly true for the first speaker.

It’s often recommended to start with an “icebreaker” to start your speech on a high note.

So briefly introduce yourself and then follow up with a few words designed to grab people’s attention and signal the start of your speech. You could say something funny or a little surprising. The main purpose is to shift the guests’ focus from each other to you.

Even if you’re not naturally funny, it’s worth spending some time crafting a few words likely to raise a smile.

But try to avoid any cliches or wedding speech jokes borrowed from elsewhere.

2) Thank the guests for coming

Most guests will have travelled at least a short distance to the wedding and incurred some expense so it’s important to express your appreciation on behalf of the couple.

Try to keep things general here – you don’t want to thank individual attendees since that’s more often done by the Groom in his speech and you don’t want your speech to run too long.

You could say something simple like: “Thanks to all of you for being here. I know it means a lot to Richard and Debbie for you to share their special day.”

3) Mention other important people

Say a quick thank you to the key people who helped pull everything together behind the scenes in the lead-up to the wedding.

Typically, you’d mention your wife or partner for their help and support during the preparations and also thank the Groom’s parents and welcome them into the family.

Traditionally, you’d also mention people who weren’t able to make it to the wedding.

For instance, if someone close to the couple has passed away you could say something like: “I know Debbie’s Nana would have been so proud to see her today looking so amazing in her dress.”

4) Say something complimentary about the event

It’s good to say something briefly about the day itself. Doing this helps the speech feel less scripted since it’s not something that you could easily prepare weeks in advance.

You could mention the weather (good or bad) or say something about the venue or the ceremony or just refer to something notable that happened or made it particularly memorable for you.

Obviously you can’t script this upfront (that’s the whole point!) but you can leave a place for it in your speech and decide what to say on the day.

5) Tell stories about the Bride

Next you should shift your attentions to your daughter, the Bride.

This is really the core of your speech – talking about the Bride from your perspective as her father. In fact, I recommend spending around half of the total length of your speech on this section.

Stories from your daughter’s childhood are a reliable source of material. Try to pick stories that are memorable and reflective of her character, particularly her most positive traits.

There are a few different ways of structuring your stories:

• Life stages : pick stories from distinct phases of her life, e.g., her as a small girl, her as a teen, and her as a young woman.
• Life roles : pick stories that illuminative her various roles as a person, e.g., daughter, sportswoman, student.
• Personal qualities : pick stories that highlight certain specific qualities, e.g., loyalty, tenacity, adventurousness.

Whatever you choose to say, try to leave the guests feeling that they know the Bride a little better by the time you finish.

Who knows, the Groom may even learn a thing or too about his new wife he didn’t know before!

6) Mention the Groom

While the primary focus of your speech should always be the Bride, you’d be neglecting someone very important if you didn’t at least briefly mention her new husband.

You needn’t spend long talking about the Groom and you have a few easy options here:

• Talk about your first impressions on meeting the Groom (assuming they were positive or at least potentially amusing!)
• Praise the Groom’s qualities and/or achievements – why he’s a worthy person to marry your daughter.
• Mention the positive impact he’s on your daughter’s life, e.g., how supportive he is or how happy he makes her.
• Talk about how he complements your daughter’s personality and why they make such a great couple.

Remember, there would be no wedding without the Groom, so spend at least a little of your speech talking about him. And be sure to wrap up by welcoming him to your family!

7) Share words of wisdom

By this point you’re on the home straight and it’s time for some closing words before the final toast.

It’s traditional for you to offer some words of wisdom for the newlyweds. You’ll be able to find some ideas online but a more personal approach is to draw from your own life experience.

Is there some genuine advice from your own relationship with your partner you could pass on to your daughter and her new husband?

You should also wish them health and happiness for the future.

8) Finish by toasting the happy couple!

You’re almost done!

It’s time to wrap things up by raising a toast to the Bride and Groom. This signals the end of your speech and energises the guests by getting them to stand (and drink!)

You could say something like:

“Ladies and gentlemen, please be upstanding and raise your glasses to Debbie and Richard – the Bride and Groom!”

Copy This Template and Get Writing!

Use my Father of the Bride speech template and you can be confident you’re building your speech on solid ground.

Go heading by heading and start writing each essential part of your speech.

Before you know it, you’ll have a well-structured speech that includes all the essential information and flows smoothly from beginning to end.

So what are you waiting for? Let’s get going!

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Father of the Bride Speech Guide with Examples

As a father, it’s an emotional moment when your daughter is getting married and there are sure to be tons of wonderful, funny, and sentimental experiences that you may want to include in your “Father of the Bride” speech. 

It is the moment at most weddings that guests know to grab some tissues because it’s almost impossible not to have a few tears. As her wedding day grows closer, you should sit down and write a speech that you are proud of and that your daughter will cherish forever. 

While it might seem impossible to find the perfect words that express your feelings, it’s absolutely those emotions that are often the star of the show. Delivering a great father of the bride speech can be nerve-racking, following some basic toast rules should help ease the nerves. Check out these fantastic speeches for Dads.

What Makes A Good “Father Of The Bride” Speech?

The father of the bride toast typically kicks off all of the wedding speeches . And since you’re the first, you’re going to want it to be engaging so that you can captivate the crowd’s attention. The key to writing a good or great father of the bride speech is to just speak from the heart. 

Of course, you should put some thought into it beforehand and have it written down so that you don’t forget any essential parts. But your real memories and raw emotions are what need to be shared. 

Tips On What To Include In Your Father Of The Bride Speech

• Introduce Yourself (a no-brainer, we know, but the nerves may make you forget too)
• Thank Your Spouse, Groom’s Parents, Officiant & Other Vendors
• Praise Your Daughter
• Share A Story & Don’t Forget To Include The Groom.
• Add-In Some Fatherly Wisdom
• Thank The Guests For Their Attendance
• Add Some Humor But Avoid Inside Jokes
• Don’t Get “Too” Emotional.
• Congratulate the Couple
• Raise The First Toast

To help you get your creative juices flowing, we pulled together a collection of wedding speeches for the father of the bride that we like. These are sure to help you write a flawless, kick-ass father of the bride toast. 

Father of the Bride Wedding Speech Examples

Pride and happiness.

“As I look at my daughter, the bride, I can’t help but reflect on all the years I was lucky enough to watch her grow and become the beautiful woman she is today. She captured my heart on the day she was born, and I became more and more in awe of her as the years passed by. She’s my little girl, my princess, and my ray of sunlight, and no matter what her age, she’ll always be those things to me.

But today, as I watch her marry a wonderful man, I’m filled with pride and am confident that she and (Groom) are about to embark on a beautiful journey filled with the love and happiness that can only come as man and wife. May the two of you always treat each other with love, compassion, and kindness.

I ask you to join me today in congratulating the bride and groom and wishing them all the best for a long and happy life together.”

Greatest Father of the Bride Speech With Incredible Introduction

This is an example of the most hyped introduction of the Father of the Bride and an incredible speech filled with humor, love, and raw emotions. And this dad even wants the groom to take the bride’s last name. 

A Father’s Love

“Hi, I’m (Father’s Name), (Bride’s) father. I have been waiting for this moment for twenty-five years, and I must say that it is one of the most difficult things I have ever had to do. Although it is overwhelming to give your daughter away, it is so satisfying to know that she is marrying one of the greatest men I’ve ever met. If I had to choose someone for her to be with, I would not pick anyone else.

(Bride) has always been the type of person to find a good quality in everyone. Even when she was a little girl, she had such a large amount of compassion that it blew me away. From the time she was old enough to go to school, (Bride) made friends with every single person in her class. It didn’t matter if one child was not popular or if the other was too quiet; she found the best in every student that year. It surprised me that she was so sensitive yet made people feel like they had known her for years.

Since she has always had that quality, I was not surprised when she went into nursing. She thrived off of the fact that she could help people and save their lives. From that moment, she worked more for other people than herself. I always wished she would find a husband so she could do more for herself. Luckily, I introduced (Groom) to (Bride) when he started working for my company. I wanted someone who was just as warm-hearted as her but still had a great work ethic and a sense of determination. Even though (Bride) was appalled at the fact that I, her father, set her up on a date, I think she can thank me for it now. After all, I am the perfect matchmaker!

(Bride), although I have been cringing at the thought of letting you go, I could not be happier for my little girl. I have watched you go through school, around the clock internships, boyfriends, and breakups, and now I know that it was all worth it. I only wish the best for the both of you, and I know that you will have a beautiful marriage that will never once waiver.

(Groom), I am confident that you will take care of my daughter. You have been a dear friend and co-worker of mine for years now, and since day one, my impression of you has not once changed. Thank you for treating my daughter like gold. I know in my heart that you will be the perfect match, regardless of what happens later in life.

For this reason, I would like to make a toast. (Bride and Groom), may the future bring you happiness, wisdom, and children so I can be a grandfather! But in all seriousness, I give you my wholehearted blessing, and I know you two will last a lifetime. I am so happy that this day has finally come.

Congratulations (Bride and Groom)!”

Father Of The Bride Speech Hilariously Roasting The Groom

We love this father of the bride speech. A little roast for the groom and some heartfelt memories and sentiments for the couple. 

Prince Charming

“I raise my glass to toast my daughter (Bride’s name). She’s dreamed of this day since she was a young girl, and now her dream has come true, complete with her very own Prince Charming. (Bride & Groom), I wish you much love and happiness in your new life together.”

Loving Memories

“As I look at this beautiful woman before me in the lovely wedding gown, I can’t help but reflect on the girl she was and the woman she has become. She became “Daddy’s Girl” on the day she was born and has always been a princess to me. All through her life, she has brought joy to her mother and me, and while not every day has been perfect, the love I feel for her has been.

And today, she has joined hands with a wonderful young man, and in addition to the sparkle I have always seen in her eyes, today I see love and joy there beyond anything I have seen thus far. She and [Groom] today have completed each other as they become a new family unit.

Please join me today in wishing [Bride] and [Groom] every happiness possible and long and joyful life together as husband and wife.”

Inspirational

“Marriages, like births, mark a new beginning. The day I drove home from the hospital after [Bride] was born was a new beginning for me. To be the father of a daughter seemed a bit overwhelming, but anticipation for her life and for our relationship helped me overcome my fears and work hard to be a father worthy of such a daughter.

Today, we stand at another new beginning as [Bride] and [Groom] start a brand new family. Like me, they are probably filled with a feeling of being a little overwhelmed at it all, but those feelings will melt away in large part as they anticipate their new life together and as they build a relationship that will stand the test of time.”

Be true to each other always; share your joys and your burdens; love much and laugh much; be each other’s best friend. Always speak well of one another, even in private. And when things don’t go well, forgive as often as it is required. Married life is an adventure, and you embark today on that adventure together. Even though you are individuals, your covenant today makes the couple more important than either of you separately.

One day, if you are fortunate as I have been, you will stand in awe of a new life entering your family. That will be another beginning, filled with apprehension and anticipation. Bring to that relationship the same level of love and commitment you do to your marriage, and you will find joy beyond compare.

So today, your friends and family surround you as you begin something new and marvelous. Remember your promises, keep them with all your heart, and you will have that sense of joy and wonder that exceeds all you have heretofore known. With all my heart, I offer you my congratulations and warmest wishes as you begin the latest adventure life has to offer.”

A Humorous Touch

‘This is an important day for me… as I resuscitate my bank account and hand over Sarah’s spending habits to someone else.’

‘The good thing about weddings is that, as father-of-the-bride, you can show everyone how generous you are. I wanted to give you all an itemized bill so that you could see for yourselves how much these flowers cost, but Angela told me that it was not the done thing… as she slid into her astronomically-priced hat!’

‘Seriously, I have looked forward to this day for years. Sarah makes a stunning bride, John is a good man, and I wish them every happiness for the future. If they are even half as happy as my wife and I, then they will be very happy indeed.’

‘Marriage is an important commitment, so much so that you need a mortgage to pay for it! But it takes more than that. It needs patience and compromise, and I should know – I’ve been patiently compromising for years!’

‘Bob’s just looked at his watch, which is the signal that he needs a drink, so, ladies and gentlemen, please be upstanding. I give you… the bride and groom.’

A Gift from God

“A toast to my daughter. She was a gift from God, and I will always be grateful to have been given the honor of being her father. May God continue to bless her and her new husband and grant them safety, love, and happiness all the days of their lives.”

Amazing Tips & Themes For Your Magical Wedding

• Magical Words

How to Write a Father of the Bride Speech + 3 Examples

• Posted by by Rosie Liliy
• Last updated: April 14, 2023

Fathers of the bride have more to do than just hand over the ring at a wedding – they also get to give one of the most significant speeches of their lives.

Giving a father of the bride speech is an incredible honor and a great way to show your appreciation for your daughter on her special day. However, knowing how to write this important speech can be tricky, and the occasion can also be filled with nerves, as the father talks to the microphone in front of a crowd to deliver their speech.

But don’t worry – we’re here to help! This post will provide you with easy tips on how to craft an unforgettable father of the bride speech that will bring joy and tears from everyone in attendance.

Using our tips and examples, you’ll be able to craft an address that expresses your love for your daughter on her special day through celebration, humor and warmth.

Related:   Unforgettable Mother of the Bride Speeches: Writing Tips + Examples

Introduction to the role of the father of the bride

As the father of the bride, you have a special role to play on your daughter’s big day.

Not only are you responsible for walking your daughter down the aisle and giving her away, but you also have the opportunity to deliver a heartfelt and memorable speech at the wedding reception.

Your speech is your chance to express your love and pride for your daughter, and to welcome the groom and his family into your own.

You may also want to share personal anecdotes or memories, and offer words of wisdom or advice for the happy couple.

Tips for writing a memorable and heartfelt speech

Here are some tips to help you craft a memorable and heartfelt speech that will leave everyone in tears (of joy, of course).

Start by brainstorming your main points

What do you want to say to your daughter and son-in-law on their big day? What messages do you want to convey to your guests? It might be helpful to jot down some ideas on paper before you start organizing your speech.

Make it personal

Your speech is a chance to share your own memories and experiences with your daughter and the rest of the wedding party.

Consider including personal anecdotes or special moments that you’ve shared over the years. This will help to make your speech more meaningful and memorable. Bonus points if you can find a way to make everyone laugh!

Keep it concise

While it’s important to include all of your main points, it’s also important to be mindful of your time.

A good rule of thumb is to aim for a speech that’s about 5-7 minutes long. This will give you enough time to say what you need to say without boring your guests (or making them check their phones).

Practice, practice, practice!

The more you practice your speech, the more confident and comfortable you’ll be when it comes time to deliver it.

Practice in front of a mirror, or better yet, have a friend or family member listen to you and give feedback.

And don’t forget to keep a glass of water handy – it’ll help to calm your nerves and keep your throat lubricated.

Structuring your speech: a step-by-step guide

Alright, so you’ve brainstormed your main points and practiced your speech a million times. Now it’s time to put it all together and give the most epic father of the bride speech ever.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you structure your speech and keep it on track.

Begin with a greeting. Start off by greeting the guests and thanking them for coming to celebrate your daughter’s special day. You might also want to thank the groom’s parents for raising such an amazing son.

Introduce yourself. If you’re not already well-known to the wedding party, take a moment to introduce yourself and your relationship to the bride.

You could even throw in a little humor here by making a self-deprecating joke about how you’re not sure how you ended up with such an amazing daughter.

Share your memories. This is the perfect opportunity to share some personal anecdotes or special memories that you’ve shared with your daughter over the years. Make everyone laugh (or cry) with a funny or heartwarming story.

Express your love and pride for your daughter. Let your daughter know just how much she means to you, and how proud you are of the person she has become. You might want to get a little sappy here – it is a wedding, after all.

Welcome the groom and his family. Now is the time to extend a warm welcome to the groom and his family, and to express your happiness at their joining together.

You might want to give the groom a little ribbing here by talking about how lucky he is to be marrying into such an amazing family.

Share your hopes and wishes for the future. Finish off your speech by expressing your hopes and wishes for the couple’s future together. This is your chance to get a little sentimental and give some advice on how to have a happy and successful marriage .

Father of the Bride Speech Examples

Example 1: a traditional and emotional father of the bride speech.

Dear friends and family,

I stand before you today as the proud and emotional father of the beautiful bride. My daughter [bride’s name] has grown into an amazing young woman and it brings me immense joy to give her away to the love of her life, [groom’s name].

I still remember the day [bride’s name] was born like it was yesterday. She arrived in this world with a head full of dark hair and the most stunning blue eyes I had ever seen. From the moment I held her in my arms, I knew I would love her with every fiber of my being.

As [bride’s name] grew, I was constantly in awe of her kindness, intelligence, and determination. She has always put others before herself and has a heart of gold. I have no doubt that she will make a wonderful wife to [groom’s name] and an amazing partner in life.

When [groom’s name] entered our lives, I knew immediately he was the perfect match for my daughter. He is loving, caring, and adores [bride’s name] with all his heart. I have no doubt that he will make a wonderful husband and support [bride’s name] in all her endeavors.

I am overjoyed to welcome [groom’s name] and his family into ours and am thrilled to see the love [bride’s name] and [groom’s name] share. I have no doubt they will have a long and happy life together filled with love and laughter.

[Bride’s name], [groom’s name], I am so proud of both of you and wish you all the happiness in the world. May your marriage be a beautiful and blessed union. I love you both with all my heart.

Example 2: A lighthearted and humorous speech

Hello everyone,

As the father of the bride, it is my pleasure to welcome all of you to this joyous occasion. And let me just say, I am so relieved that [bride’s name] has finally found someone willing to put up with her stubbornness and her love of always being right.

But seriously, I am truly blessed to have a daughter like [bride’s name]. She has always been there for me and I am grateful to have her in my life. She has brought so much joy and love into my life, and I am so proud of the person she has become.

[Groom’s name], you are one lucky guy. Not only do you get to marry the love of your life, but you also get to join our crazy family. Just be prepared for late night game nights and impromptu dance parties. You’ll fit right in, I have no doubt.

But seriously, I am overjoyed to see the love [bride’s name] and [groom’s name] share and have no doubt they will have a long and happy marriage. I have no doubt that [groom’s name] will always be there for [bride’s name] and support her in all her endeavors.

So let’s raise a glass to the happy couple – may your love continue to grow and thrive for many years to come. I am so grateful to be a part of this special day and wish you both all the happiness in the world. Cheers!

Example 3: A personalized and sentimental speech

It is an honor and a privilege to stand here today as the father of the bride. My daughter, [bride’s name], has always been the light of my life and it brings me great joy to see her marrying the man of her dreams, [groom’s name].

[Groom’s name], you are a truly special person and I am grateful you have come into our lives. Your love for [bride’s name] is evident in everything you do and I have no doubt you will be a wonderful husband to her. I am so happy to welcome you into our family and know that you and [bride’s name] will have a long and happy marriage.

[Bride’s name], from the moment you were born, you have brought so much love and joy into my life. I am so proud of the person you have become and am grateful to be a part of this special day. Watching you grow into the amazing woman you are today has been one of the greatest joys of my life.

One of my favorite memories with [bride’s name] is the summer we spent traveling through Europe together. It was a wonderful opportunity for us to bond and make lasting memories. We visited so many incredible places, but my favorite was the week we spent in Italy. The food, the culture, the history – it was all just incredible. And while we may have gotten lost a few times and had to navigate some difficult language barriers, it was all worth it to spend that quality time with my daughter.

[Groom’s name], I know you and [bride’s name] will create many more special memories together in the years to come. I am confident you will always be there for each other, through the good times and the bad. You are the perfect match for each other and I am so excited to see what the future holds for you both.

So let’s raise a glass to the happy couple. [Bride’s name] and [groom’s name], may your love continue to grow and thrive as you embark on this new journey together. I love you both with all my heart.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i make my speech memorable.

A: The key to a memorable speech is to be yourself and let your love and pride for your daughter shine through in your words.

Consider including personal anecdotes or special memories that you’ve shared with your daughter over the years. This will help to make your speech more meaningful and memorable.

Incorporating a little bit of humor can also go a long way in making your speech stand out.

What should I avoid in my speech?

A: First and foremost, try to avoid using any offensive language or telling inappropriate jokes. This is a family-friendly occasion, after all!

It’s also a good idea to steer clear of any sensitive topics or controversial issues. You want to keep the mood light and celebratory, not heavy or divisive.

Finally, try to avoid getting too long-winded or going off on tangents. It’s important to stay focused and on-topic to keep your speech engaging and enjoyable for your listeners.

Keep these things in mind and you’ll be well on your way to delivering a smooth and memorable speech.

When does the father of the bride give his speech?

A: The father of the bride’s speech is typically given at the wedding reception, after the meal has been served but before the dancing begins. It is usually given before the best man’s speech and the groom’s speech.

Conclusion: keys to a successful father of the bride speech

The father of the bride speech is a special and important moment on your daughter’s big day. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this post, and taking inspiration from the examples provided, you can craft a heartfelt and memorable speech that will be remembered for years to come.

Remember to keep it personal, incorporate humor and personal anecdotes, and practice beforehand to ensure that you deliver your speech with confidence and poise. Above all, let your love and pride for your daughter shine through in your words.

Congratulations to the happy couple, and we wish them a lifetime of love and happiness.

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Rosie Liliy

Hey there, lovely couples and fellow wedding fanatics! I’m Rosie, the managing editor at Magical Day Weddings, and I’m here to make your wedding planning journey a blast! As a lifelong lover of weddings, I’ve dabbled in everything from DIY decor to event planning. I believe that every love story deserves to be told in a way that captures its essence. From heartwarming vows to tear-jerking speeches, I’m here to help you create unforgettable memories on your journey to “I do!”

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How to Give a Father of the Bride Speech

Last Updated: September 7, 2021 Approved

wikiHow is a “wiki,” similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. To create this article, 16 people, some anonymous, worked to edit and improve it over time. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. In this case, 94% of readers who voted found the article helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 66,728 times.

Being the father of the bride on her big day is an overwhelming emotional experience. One of the largest emotions of the day will be pride for the woman your daughter has become and the sadness that your little girl is no longer little and is about to embark on her own life journey with her beloved. As this day is special it is important to make your speech special and memorable.

Community Q&A

• Be genuine. It's okay for you to tell your daughter at this important stage of her life how proud of her you are and express your love for her as she enters this new stage in life. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Be humble and thankful for the opportunity. Your daughter asked you to do this because she loves you, not for her own amusement, so treat it as such. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Be formal. This is not a comedy club on a Saturday night. This is your daughter's big day, and you have half a room of new family members. You don't need them rolling their eyes at you. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• No embarrassing stories. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• No cheesy one-liners. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• No inappropriate comments about your new in-laws. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.weddingideasmag.com/how-to-write-a-flawless-father-of-the-bride-speech/
• ↑ https://www.topweddingsites.com/wedding-blog/wedding-planning/father-of-the-bride-speech-the-ultimate-guide
• ↑ https://www.theweddingsecret.co.uk/magazine/tips-perfect-father-of-the-bride-speech/
• ↑ https://www.weddingwire.com/wedding-ideas/how-to-write-the-father-of-the-bride-speech
• ↑ https://www.easyweddings.com.au/articles/father-of-the-bride-speech/

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How to Give a Perfect Father of the Bride Speech

Dads, it’s the article you’ve been waiting for! Your little girl is getting married and, as tradition dictates, she’ll be looking to you at the reception to give a Father of the Bride speech worthy of your love for her and which will contribute to the overall success of her big day. So, no pressure.

We know it’s hard. You’ll inevitably feel a lot of emotions after giving your daughter away at the altar. And, if you’re not au fait with public speaking, it’s probably difficult for you to imagine what it will feel like to get up and have to speak in front of a room full of people.

Expert advice on how to put together a loving and funny (and not embarrassing) Father of the Bride speech

In the traditional line-up of wedding speeches, yours will come first and will be the warm-up for the others. Therefore, it’s important you help your fellow speech givers.

To help you write the perfect Father of the Bride speech, we’ve compiled a helpful list of things to mention. We’ve spoken to some speechwriting pros to give you expert advice to remember when toasting your daughter and new son-in-law.

The Structure

Introduce yourself.

Most people in the room may know who you are, especially if you walked the bride down the aisle. Therefore, don’t make your introduction too robotic. If you say something like, “Hi, everyone, I’m Robert, and I’m Anna’s dad,” you will sound like you’re in an AA meeting. Make it conversational and be friendly.

Don’t start with a joke, though, says Robin of  The Wedding Speech Guru :

“The first line needs to be said with confidence and it could be anything, but I advise people against coming up with a gag is because it devalues the rest of the speech. For a Father of the Bride speech to be successful, it needs to be authentic.”

Welcome everyone

This will likely be done by all the speakers after you, but that shouldn’t stop you from saying it as well. In fact, especially if you and the bride’s mother are the hosts, yours might be the most important welcome.

It’s important to your daughter that everyone in attendance is there, and it should be to you as well! So take a brief moment to welcome them and to thank them for coming along. Many Fathers of the Bride thank those from furthest afield, for example guests who have flown in from Australia. Decide how you want to welcome everyone.

Your daughter

Today is about her, and your speech should be about her, too. Don’t be afraid to roast her (a little bit), especially if she made you pay for the wedding! But, believe it or not, no one wants to hear stories about her running around naked as a kid. There’s a fine line between making light fun of her and embarrassing her.

“I’ve seen it before,” says Adam of  Adaptable Speechwriting , “and what a dad may find funny can sometimes rub people up the wrong way and is not worth the risk.” Robin agrees, and even goes on to say that, “Anything that might embarrass her is strictly off-limits.”

Make gentle jabs at her teenage years or her poor taste in music when she was younger. But, if there’s one thing that all of the speechwriters we interviewed agree on, it’s this: do not mention ex-boyfriends.

Your son-in-law

Your Father of the Bride speech is the ideal moment to formally welcome your daughter’s new husband to the family. And, perhaps more importantly, it’s the time to put aside any negative feelings you may have about him.

If you two have a good relationship, some light joking here may be appropriate. If not, then take advice from Eddie of  Custom Speechwriting . “Wedding toasts should be truthful but they don’t need to tell all of the truth,” Eddie says. “The Father of the Bride in this situation should focus on the positive aspects of the new son-in-law; if that’s challenging, he should ask his daughter what she sees in him and what he does to make her happy. Use those reasons to talk about why they will be a great couple.”

Your daughter has just married this man, therefore let bygones be bygones and accept he is part of your family.

The bride’s mother and your new in-laws

Whether or not you and the Mother of the Bride are still together, taking the time to acknowledge her and the hand she had in raising your daughter is gracious and goes a long way. You may also wish to thank her for the part she played in organising the wedding.

When it comes to acknowledging the groom’s parents, think short and sweet, especially if you don’t know them very well. “Sometimes it’s just best to acknowledge the fact they don’t know each other too well, it can also be an opportunity to say something warming towards them and get some form of a relationship going,” says Adam (Adaptable Speechwriting). Use this as an opportunity to start building bridges.

Wisdom for the newlyweds

As you are typically the oldest of the traditional speakers, it’s up to you to impart some wisdom and marital advice. This could be a good opportunity for a joke at the expense of your other half (if you’re confident it’ll go down well). But, above all, keep it appropriate!

Moreover, remember not to get too intense. This isn’t The Godfather and you’re not Don Corleone.

Finish up with a toast to the newlyweds and to their happiness. Keep it simple and loving. This should be the easiest part of your Father of the Bride speech! Be genuine.

Yours is the first of the speeches, so, as important as your speech is, keep it short. The guests will know that yours is just the first speech of several so might get fidgety. This is especially true if speeches come before the wedding breakfast! Brevity is bound to earn you praise, so try to stick to around 5-7 minutes. Time yourself beforehand just to make sure.

You’re not a stand-up comedian

And even if you are, this isn’t the time for a set. Cracking jokes is a great way to loosen up your audience and to put everyone in a good mood, but don’t let that pressure you into being funny. Nobody wants to hear a string of bad dad jokes.

Eddie from Custom Speechwriting adds: “Light-hearted jokes are fine and are welcome in wedding toasts… However, keep in mind that everyone in your audience is an amateur videographer with the aid of their smartphones. Make sure that you are willing to have anything you say recorded and uploaded to YouTube for the near eternity of the internet.”

What to do if you get emotional

We understand that the day will take its toll on you emotionally. However, blubbing your way through your speech might make your daughter worry that she’s made a mistake! Instead, we recommend that you practice your speech.

Robin (The Wedding Speech Guru) is in firm agreement here: “Make sure you say your speech out loud 10-15 times,” he advises. “Just reading it through isn’t good enough. Create prompt cards or print the speech, but in a way that’s visually memorable so if you’ve gone through it a lot, you should know it almost by heart and you can just glance at it and remember it.”

This isn’t about you

Your daughter and her new husband are the stars of the show today. Make your Father of the Bride speech about them; praise them, make little jabs at them, and wish them well. Do those things and you can’t go too wrong.

And if you get nervous…

 “My absolute number one rule is breathing techniques,” says Adam (Adaptable Speechwriting). “Take a deep breath between points…It feels about four times as long when you’re stood there than what the audience will feel so take your time it won’t be noticed.”

“Make sure you have a glass of champagne to toast with and a glass of water in front of you,” Robin (The Wedding Speech Guru) advises nervous speakers. “In advance of the speech, make sure you talk to as many guests as possible…It means that the people you’re talking to have a vested interest in the success of your speech and it’s much less scary if you’re looking out at faces you know. Lastly, smile!”

Finally, if you remember nothing else, try to at least remember your last line. Remembering your intended last line will stop you from awkwardly tailing off and works as a mental chequered flag that you’ll be able to jump to in case you really blank. It’s a handy tip that all professional speakers use.

Finally, we hope that, after reading this, you are feeling more confident now about your speech. We have helpful advice for the Best Man and Groom , too. Good luck!

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A Shy Dad's Guide to Giving the Perfect Wedding Speech

Follow these tips from a communications expert and you'll deliver a speech your daughter will love.

Ellie is a freelance writer for MarthaStewart.com.

Some fathers love the limelight, so when it comes time for these dads to pen their father of the bride speeches , the material comes spilling out. But others feel shy about the experience-and for good reason! On such an important day, in a room filled with important people, it's easy to let emotion get the best of you. That's why we caught up with Balraj Arunasalam, president of Toastmasters International , an organization that specializes in communication and leadership development. Not only is he an expert in delivering an incredible speech under any circumstances, but he's also in the process of drafting a reception toast for his own daughter's wedding. He was kind enough to share some tips on the process, offering practical advice that can help even the shyest dad have his moment to shine.

Wait to Write

Arunasalam suggests dads first focus on what they want to say rather than worry about how they want to say it. "Take time two to three weeks prior to the ceremony to write several thoughts on the occasion," he says. "Make sure you have all your thoughts together first, then play around with the words."

Use Your Expertise

If you're not sure where to start, begin with what you know best: your daughter . "Add your favorite memories... when her first smile captured your heart, a first day of school, and so forth," says Arunasalam. From there, he suggests hitting foolproof beats like welcoming the spouse to your family and wishing the bride and groom a happy, prosperous life together.

Practice Your Speech

Once you have your words down, practice, practice, practice. And don't underestimate the power of reading it aloud in front of a mirror. What sounds good in your head may trip you up when you hear it spoken, so be sure to get comfortable well before the reception.

Let It Flow

"Deliver your speech from the heart," says Arunasalam. The father of the bride's toast is such an emotional moment between dad and daughter , and it's one that will make everyone in the room teary as soon as you stand up. Know that no matter what you say, your little girl will love every second of it. Just as much as she already loves you.

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• Who Gives a Speech at a Wedding Reception? How to Write a Wedding Toast Tips for the Father of the Bride Speech How to Write a Best Man Toast Advice for the Maid of Honor Speech What to Know About a Newlywed Toast Public Speaking Experts' Wedding Speech Tips 60 Quotes to Use for Your Wedding Toast

Public Speaking Experts Share Their Top Tips for Giving an Amazing Wedding Speech

Check out their best examples and advice to learn how to knock it out of the park.

Photo by Kurt Boomer

In This Article

Most people would agree that public speaking isn't easy, and this is especially true when you're feeling the added pressure that comes along with giving a speech at a loved one's wedding. Not only do you have the attention of dozens (if not hundreds!) of guests you probably don't know, but you're also trying to appeal to a group of people in a wide range of ages from all different phases of the couple's lives. What's more, you want your speech to delight the couple of the hour and be as appealing to your group of friends as it to the newlyweds' grandparents. All in all, it's a tough task.

Before you panic, know that we're here to help. Ahead, we're sharing a comprehensive guide on what you should include in your speech , how to nail your delivery, and questions to consider to get the brainstorming process started—all from noteworthy speakers, well-established speechwriters, and wedding planners (who have seen it all).

Wedding Speech Template

Every great wedding speech has one thing in common: the right flow. Factor in these guidelines to help you find your own organic rhythm.

Open With a Statement or Question

Don't lead with a joke or a reference to how nervous you are. "The goal is to engage your audience, not make it a boring one-way message," says award-winning motivational speaker Jaime Pfeffer . "You'll lose them if you do this."

Introduce Yourself

After your opener, introduce yourself, says Fallon Carter , a wedding planner, even designer, and professional speaker. "A lot of times, people don't know who is speaking, and they don't know their relationship to the bride or the groom," she says. "It's really important to identify yourself, so make sure you've prepared something."

Address Your Audience

As speaker and life strategy coach Mark Black, CSP , points out, focusing on yourself only enhances nerves. "Instead, concentrate on your audience and how you want them to feel. This will help you to speak from the heart, allowing your speech to do what it's supposed to do: Make the couple feel special while also engaging the audience."

Focus on a Few Points

Seasoned speaker Susan Bender Phelps, CEO of Odyssey Mentoring & Leadership , says her top guideline is to select one to three aspects of the newlyweds that you love and appreciate, along with no more than three short stories to illustrate each of these points (or that one point). "The simple, succinct story or stories where the bride and groom are the hero will work best." This is an excellent way to structure your speech and keep your message focused.

How Long Wedding Speeches Should Be

The ideal length for a speech is three to five minutes, with five minutes being the absolute maximum you should speak for. That's it. "I’ve never been to a wedding where anyone said, 'That was a great wedding, but the best man speech was just too short and that  ruined  it,'" says David Litt , the speechwriter for former President Barack Obama and author of Thanks, Obama .

Carter agrees: "I always say anywhere between two and five minutes—and no more than five minutes," she says. "You want to keep things short and sweet." It's just as important to keep in mind when the speech will take place when determining length, since toasts are often timed with meal courses: "Be mindful of how long a course generally takes or how long it takes people to eat," Carter adds, noting that most courses last between 15 and 20 minutes and that several speeches have to fit inside each window. "If there are other people speaking, you want to be mindful and give them space."

Wedding Speech Tips

Now that you've established the right framework for your words, take note of these essential tips for acing the delivery from a few speaking pros.

Rehearse Regularly

The better prepared you are, the more confident you'll be and the better your speech will be, says author and professional speaker Barry Maher . A good rule of thumb is to practice the speech enough that you can remember the points you want to make and the order in which you want to make them. That way, you can look out to the crowd and make eye contact every so often.

Record Yourself Practicing

Use your phone to take a video of yourself practicing, suggests Kate Kenfield , speaker and sex educator. "It can be a little uncomfortable to watch yourself, but you'll be able to identify distracting mannerisms, such as the verbal pauses 'um,' 'uh,' and 'like'." It's also a good idea to practice your speech in front of someone else. "A second opinion can help you craft your piece and make it that much stronger," she says.

Don't forget body language! Rehearse the speech in front of a mirror and notice things like your facial expression, eye contact, and hand position.

Avoid Alcohol

Although it may be tempting to look for some liquid courage, alcohol definitely won't do you any favors, warns keynote speaker Amy Morin , author of 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do . "It may cause you to slur your speech and forget your lines, so wait until after your toast to celebrate," she advises. If you need a drink to loosen up the nerves or can't refrain from participating in a toast without being rude, stick to one glass of Champagne before you address the crowd.

Use Nerves to Your Advantage

A little nervousness can actually liven up your speech. "I get worried if I'm not a little nervous," says Maher. "I'll actually try to make myself a little tense to get my energy level up." The key is to harness that energy and communicate it in a positive, genuine way; tensing up to the point that you forget your words or panic won't make for a great presentation.

Be Yourself

Keep in mind that you're not putting on a show, only sharing your personal perspective. Trying too hard to force the funny can yield the opposite of the desired effect, cautions Matt Dalley, co-founder of Simply Eloped . "I've noticed that keeping it short and sweet, heartfelt and warm, and coming across as authentic and focused on the couple is something we are all capable of and generates some very wonderful moments," he says.

Never Embarrass the Newlyweds

It's a wedding toast, not a roast. While this should go without saying, keep the bachelor or bachelorette party jokes out of it, and remember that grandma and possibly a few colleagues are in the audience, notes Laurie Battaglia , a keynote speaker and workplace strategist. "It's okay to look back at childhood and refer to something funny, but ask yourself if you'd like 200-plus of your closest friends knowing that story about you."

Use Your Notes

Reading your speech straight from a piece of paper is a big no-no. However, having a couple of note cards handy is encouraged. "You're likely to be nervous, excited, and exhausted, which can make you forget your lines," explains Morin. "The audience won't care if you glance at your notes. In fact, there's a good chance they won't even notice."

Wedding Speech Brainstorm Ideas

Need some inspiration? Ask yourself these questions to get the brainstorming process going.

• Who will speak before you? After you? How will this affect the content of your toast? (Perhaps you want to include a reference to their speech, thank them for an introduction, or introduce the next speaker).
• Is there someone you should thank for making the event possible and inviting you to speak?
• What would you want to hear in this speech if you were in the audience?
• Is there a favorite story or memory that the couple would want you to share with their friends and family?

Wedding Speech Examples to Make Your Own

So, what does it look like when all these elements come together? Wedding vow and speechwriter Katelyn Peterson , owner and creator of Wedding Words , offered us three examples of successful toasts to inspire your own.

Maid of Honor Wedding Speech Example

"Hi, I’m Maya, the bride’s older sister . With Lucy being three years younger, we fell right into our respective roles as sister-rivals growing up. We constantly fought over stolen clothes, monopolizing the phone back when landlines were a thing, and what boy band to blare from the car speakers. I’m still Team Backstreet Boys while Lucy is forever indebted to NSYNC.

Looking back on those memories, I should have stepped up and granted Lucy permission to wear my favorite sweater for picture day, to hand her the phone once in a while, and to let her play, 'Bye Bye Bye.' Even I can admit that’s a good one. But despite Lucy being the younger sister, she has always been more patient, more accommodating, and more thoughtful than me. And that’s because when it comes to the people she loves, she’s all in.

She’s the one to prioritize their desires. She’s the one to compromise first. And, she’s the one to support their dreams as if they were her own. 

This is why it makes me so happy to know that Lucy has found a home in David. He matches her in compassion, thoughtfulness, and warmth. And I know he’ll spend his life prioritizing her desires, being ready to compromise, and supporting her dreams as his own.

Cheers to Lucy and David! May you always feel loved because you always put each other first."

Best Man Wedding Speech Example

"Hello, everyone. My name is Luke and I’m the best man . I met Robert eight years ago when I became his neighbor. His reputation preceded him as I had heard about the 'Block Party King' before my closing papers were inked. 

Rob has never been the guy to wear fancy clothes. In fact, I’m still in shock seeing him in that tux tonight. And he’s never been the guy to show off even though the work he’s put into his vintage Mustang could make Henry Ford himself envious.

But when it comes to cooking, he should receive an award. His pulled pork is a staple at our summer block parties and his homemade barbeque sauce has remained our neighborhood’s best-kept secret. But the most satisfying part about his delicious dishes is that there’s always plenty to go around. And Rob makes sure your plate is never empty. I have no idea how he pulls it off, but Rob has a covert ability to scoop seconds onto your plate without you ever seeing him do it. I hope you all came hungry tonight, folks. You’ve been warned! 

The first time I met Jasmine I could immediately tell she was an amazing person. She laughed at his jokes which I never thought anyone would get. She supported his career and the nonstop travel involved. But most importantly, whenever we’re all hanging out, Jasmine is the one always topping off Rob’s plate with more pasta, more chicken, more of everything. When she’s around, it’s never empty. 

And that’s when I saw what a perfect match they were for each other. I know they will always put each other first, make sure their needs are met, and will never allow the other to go hungry.

So let’s raise our glasses to toast the newlyweds! As you begin this next chapter together, may your plates and your hearts always remain full."

Father of the Bride Wedding Speech Example

"Good evening, family, and friends. I’m Daniel Lee, the father of the bride. I’d like to welcome you to this special occasion where we get to celebrate the love between my daughter Allison and her new wife, Kristin. 

Standing up here today, I’m reminded of all the moments that led to this significant one. The dance recitals that ended with standing ovations and the soccer games that concluded with winning scoreboards. 

But, while those were fun and rewarding times, those aren’t the moments I cherish most with Allison. The memories that make me smile the brightest are those in-between the big stuff moments. It’s the makeshift magic shows in our living room using a bedsheet that Allison confiscated from our linen closet to convert into a curtain. It’s the countless tea parties she hosted with exclusive invitations just for me and her beloved stuffed bear, Buttons. And it’s the way she’d beg to stay up for just five more minutes but was asleep on the couch by minute number two.

Those everyday, blink-and-you’ll-miss-them moments with Allison are the ones that gave color to my life and filled my heart with a happiness I never knew could exist.

So, my beautiful daughter, as you begin your life with Kristin today, I have one wish for you: May your warmest memories come from the ordinary moments throughout your marriage, and may those moments give you a reason to smile brighter every day. Cheers! I love you both." —Daniel

What Not to Say in a Wedding Speech

Your job when delivering a wedding speech is to keep things light—tell an anecdote, make an emotional connection, then wish the couple well before you close out. Anything that doesn't feel definitively positive should be avoided. "I would advocate against bringing up negative details, specifically past relationships or past spouses," says Carter. "Skip anything that you wouldn't want to be physically recorded and played over and over again—this is a rule of thumb."

Keep it light, delicate, and present- and future-focused, Carter adds. "If you're going to go into the past, make those stories really intentional," she says. "Bring those stories back to who they are now. Your mission is to create a great environment and vibe and to potentially give some information about one of the newlyweds, so that it's enlightening for all guests."

A Guide to Wedding Reception Toasts

Who Gives a Speech at a Wedding Reception?

How to Write a Wedding Toast

Tips for the Father of the Bride Speech

How to Write a Best Man Toast

Advice for the Maid of Honor Speech

What to Know About a Newlywed Toast

Public Speaking Experts' Wedding Speech Tips

60 Quotes to Use for Your Wedding Toast

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How to Write a Father-of-the-Groom Speech

How to Write a Sister-of-the-Groom Speech

How to Write the Perfect Best Man Speech

How to Write a Wedding Toast: Examples, Tips, and Advice

How to Write a Rehearsal Dinner Toast

How to Write a Maid of Honor Speech

Mother-of-the-Bride Speech Examples and Writing Tips

How to Write a Father of the Bride Speech

Everything to Know About Your Groom Speech: Tips, Advice, and Examples

6 Simple Tips for Delivering an Amazing Best Man Speech

36 Funny Wedding Toasts and Speeches That'll Get the Whole Room Laughing

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How to Write an Unforgettable Newlywed Reception Toast

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How to Write the Best Father of the Groom Speech

• Christin specializes in writing gift guides and shoppable articles for The Knot.
• Christin is a freelance writer, also covering lifestyle, health, and parenting.
• She has written for such publications as The Bump, Parents, VeryWell, Parade and LittleThings.

If you're the father of the groom, you've likely been there for everything from your son's first diaper change and scraped knee to the blossoming relationship he's built with his partner. Now, they've decided to tie the knot, and he's asked you to give a father of the groom speech.

This is a great honor, and a good opportunity for you to share your innermost feelings with the couple about their future together. You're a big part of their wedding day, so guests will want to hear what's on your mind.

If the wedding will follow a traditional format , you'll probably give your speech at the rehearsal dinner, since the groom's family traditionally hosts that event . You might also give your speech at the wedding reception, likely before the best man speech .

How Long Should a Father of the Groom Speech Be?

In order to keep guests engaged during your wedding speech, brevity is key. Aim to speak for no more than 4 to 6 minutes, or less if possible. Expect that there will be some overlap between speeches (like thanking guests for coming). Use funny or touching stories about your son's childhood in order to make your speech stand out.

How to Write a Father of the Groom Speech

Your son's wedding day is a very personal day for your family—you'll share lots of tender moments together as you look back over your son's life before he met and chose to marry his partner. So the best advice when it comes to how to write a father of the groom speech is simply to write from your heart. You know your son better than just about anyone, so there's no need to worry about saying the wrong thing. Even if you and your son have had a rocky relationship in the past, remember that he's still asked you to share in his big day, so he wants to hear what you have to say.

A Father of the Groom Speech Template

Looking for some father of the groom speech examples? We've got a few that just might give you the inspiration you need in order to finish writing your wedding toast for the happy couple .

Traditional: Welcome! My name is [name] and I'm [son's name]'s father. I'd like to start by welcoming each and every one of you, and to say thank you for sharing in this most special day. From the first time I saw my son with [partner's name], I knew they shared something very special.

I know that because [reason]. I'm reminded of all the times my son [did this or that] as a child, and how much I hoped he would grow up to find the perfect partner. And in [partner's name], I see that perfect partner.

So today, I'm welcoming [partner] into our family with open arms. I'm truly excited for what the future holds for you, son, and for your [lovely wife/handsome husband/wonderful spouse]. I know you two will share a happy life together.

Brief: Thank you everyone for coming today. [Son], I love you with all of my heart, and always will. You've turned into a fine young man, and seeing you so happy with [partner's name] makes this day perfect. I wish you many happy days ahead, no matter where life takes you. Sentimental: Hello, and thank you for coming. It means so much that each and every one of you has come to share in [son's] special day today, and I only wish that [relative who died] could be here as well. [Son], seeing you with your [new wife/husband/spouse] is nothing short of heartwarming. I wish you both the best of everything in your new life together.

Find your kind of venue

Who does the father of the groom thank in his speech.

When it comes to doling out your appreciation to different people in your father of the groom toast, it's customary to thank your son's new spouse's parents and family members, especially if they've traveled a long way to attend the celebration. Then, thank your new daughter or son for making your child so very happy. After that, it's really up to you who you'd like to thank.

How to Give a Father of the Groom Speech

Public speaking isn't typically a favorite pastime, so don't feel like you're alone if it isn't yours. But it's an honor to be part of this special moment, so if you're asked to share some words of wisdom for your son and your future son-in-law or daughter-in-law, of course you want to crush it.

Below, we've included some guidance in the form of some father of the groom speech examples, as well as some clever jokes you can incorporate into your toast.

Father of the Groom Speech Examples

It's finally time for your important speech. Just relax, take a deep breath and talk about some of the memorable moments you've shared with your son. Then, welcome your new daughter or son and close your speech with some meaningful words of wisdom or advice for the new couple.

[Couple's names], while you have loved and cared for one another for a long time, today makes it official: You are now a married couple. I give you all of my congratulations and I hope you feel the outpouring of love and support for the both of you that is in this room today.

[Couple's names], separately you are two wonderful people, but together, you are even better. You finish each other's sentences and can communicate without saying a word. You know how to make each other laugh and smile, and you know how to comfort each other as well. You are two peas in a pod—there is no question at all that you were always meant to be together. I have so much love and respect for the two of you, for the lengths that you would go to in order to make each other happy. Never lose what you two have, because it's priceless. Let us all raise a glass to the wonderful couple, my son [groom] and his spouse [spouse's name].

It's official, [couple's names] are now newlyweds. What does this mean, exactly? Well for starters, you are family now. You have your parents, siblings and friends, but at the end of the day, you must come first for each other. From this point forward, you will be inseparable. You are not just living side by side—now you will be living as one team, a unit that will make important decisions and meaningful memories together. Remember to be kind to each other. Be patient and understanding. Don't forget to communicate, to laugh and to love each other. Do these things and you will have a great recipe for a happy, long and successful marriage .

As [groom's] father, I have always made it a point to let him know how loved and appreciated he is. He knows how much he means to me and how important he is in my life. So I thought that I would take this opportunity to instead sing my praises for my newly coined [daughter-in-law or son-in-law]. [Son's spouse's name], you are such a wonderful person, and I'm so glad my son found a partner in you. As of today, you are officially my [daughter or son].

Father of the Groom Speech Jokes

"The couple has requested that I don't share any embarrassing stories... so that's it from me. Thanks for listening!"

"[Son's name], I love you so much, and I really hope you'll feel the same about me after you hear my speech."

"I was trying to figure out the perfect wedding gift for you, and it's this speech."

"Gosh, what an emotional day it's been. Even the cake is in tiers."

"The couple actually had a bit of trouble finding someone to make a speech today. They started by asking their funniest friend, and they said no. Then they asked their most charming friend, and they said no. After that, they asked their best-looking friend and, again, they said no. Then they asked me, and after already turning them down three times, I decided I couldn't refuse again."

"I think we can all agree that it's been a fantastic day. But unfortunately that ends right here with my speech."

"Loyal. Kind. Honest. Generous... That's enough about me, I'm here to talk about [son's name]."

What NOT to Say in a Father of the Groom Speech

Although you can craft your father of the groom speech any way you'd like, there are some things you should avoid saying: Don't tell embarrassing or hurtful stories about your son.

Don't make negative or cynical comments about your new daughter or son; Focus only on the positive.

Don't over-imbibe before delivering your toast. This could derail your speech and cause you to say things you didn't intend to say.

Don't make inappropriate or off-color jokes. You don't want to offend anyone during your speech.

How to End the Father of the Groom Speech

It's up to you how you'd like to end your speech. You can share advice, speak loving words or end with a joke. As you wrap up your speech in front of the microphone, a brief and meaningful introduction to the next speaker in line (if there is one) is always appropriate.

Good luck, pops! You got this.

Craft a Memorable Father of the Bride Speech with Our Guide

Introduction.

A s a father, your daughter's wedding day is one of the most significant moments in your life, something you've eagerly anticipated since the day she was born. But while you may have imagined walking her down the aisle, nothing compares to the reality of that moment. The father of the bride speech is essential to any wedding, but getting it right can be daunting. You want to strike the perfect balance between humor, emotion, and sincerity while avoiding cringe-worthy moments. 

But fear not because this article will guide you. From what to say to the dos and don'ts, and even some sample father of the bride speeches to help you get started, this article is your true friend when it comes to creating a unique and memorable father of the bride speech.

The Father of the Bride Speech : What to Write, Say & Do

We've got you covered, whether you're a pro or feeling the jitters. Stick to our tips and give a father’s wedding speech that will make your daughter beam with pride.

Father Of the Bride Speech Template

Wondering how to write the best father of the bride speech? Here's a breakdown of a simple yet impactful speech. 

1. Breaking the ice

Start your father of the bride speech with a quick introduction and a funny joke to break the ice. While everyone knows who you are, it's always better to set the tone of the speech and welcome the guests. However, don't take too much time thanking them; it's the groom's responsibility.

2. Remembering fond memories

This is your daughter's big day, so highlight her life journey. Share some endearing anecdotes from her childhood that reflect her personality today. You can be funny, but avoid any stories that could make her uncomfortable. After all, it's her special moment

3. Praising your daughter 

Use this day to show how proud you are of your daughter. Add to it the memories from her childhood - elaborate on how she has always been a source of joy and inspiration. Express your love and admiration for her without holding back.

4. Welcoming the new family member

The speech is also ideal for welcoming your son-in-law to the family. Focus on the positive aspects of his personality and how he complements your daughter. If you don't know him well yet, share your daughter's thoughts and feelings about her new spouse.

5. Humor in moderation

Share a funny story about the newlyweds that will make everyone laugh. It could be about how they met or your first impression of your daughter's spouse. Just make sure it's not too embarrassing or inappropriate for them. After all, you want to keep the mood light and enjoyable.

6. Gratitude and acknowledgement

It's important to acknowledge and thank the bride's mother and new in-laws in your speech. Thank your wife for raising an amazing daughter, and embrace your new family members with open arms. Show your appreciation for their support and participation in this special day.

7. Parting words of wisdom

As the eldest of the speakers, you can share some wisdom and advice for the newlyweds. Share your insights on maintaining a healthy and happy marriage or living a fulfilling life. Make the most of this moment, and inspire the newlyweds to create their beautiful journey together.

What Should A Father Of The Bride Speech Include? Tips and Pitfalls to Avoid.

With the father of the bride speech templates in consideration, let's discuss what to include and avoid to ensure a successful speech. Avoid the 7 common pitfalls and deliver a speech your daughter will cherish forever.

Pick a theme

Select a meaningful theme for your speech that reflects the occasion and your relationship with the couple. A well-chosen theme will make organizing your thoughts and delivering a cohesive message easier.

2. Keep it short

Aim for a five-minute speech. Stick to the main points and share heartfelt anecdotes to keep your audience engaged.

3. Stay positive

Remember that a wedding toast is not the time to bring up negative stories or air grievances. Keep your speech uplifting and focus on positive memories and wishes for the couple's future together.

4. Personalize your message

Make your speech unique and personal by sharing stories and memories that showcase the couple's love and commitment. Speak from the heart and avoid cliches or generic advice.

5. Practice makes perfect

Prepare and practice your speech well in advance to ensure you feel confident and comfortable delivering it. Practice in front of a mirror or with a friend, and aim to memorize your speech if possible.

6. Be yourself

Don't try to be someone you're not in your speech. Speak authentically and from the heart, and let your personality shine through. Remember, your words should reflect your relationship with the couple.

7. End on a high note

Conclude your speech with a memorable and heartfelt message that leaves a lasting impression on the couple and guests. Wish the couple well and raise a toast to their future happiness together.

Kick Start the Brainstorming 

It's normal to feel unsure about what to say in your speech. If you're struggling, try using these questions to get your creative juices flowing.

• What's your earliest memory of your daughter? - Asking this question can bring heartwarming and nostalgic memories that you can incorporate into your speech.
• What qualities do you admire most in your daughter's partner? - Focusing on the positives of your daughter's partner can help you build a connection and show your support for their union.
• What advice would you give your daughter for a successful marriage? - Drawing from your own experiences and mistakes can provide valuable insight and guidance for the newlyweds.
• How has your relationship with your daughter changed over the years? - Reflecting on the changes and growth in your relationship with your daughter can add depth and emotion to your speech.
• What message do you want to leave with your daughter and her partner on their wedding day? - A clear message can help you stay focused and deliver a meaningful speech that will resonate with the couple and guests.

Father of the Bride Speech Examples

Get inspired by real-life father of the bride speeches, as they have been tried and tested. These excellent examples showcase what has worked for others and can help you craft your speech.

Simple father of the bride speech example

My dear daughter, today is a day I have both looked forward to and dreaded. As I stand here, watching you radiate with joy and beauty, I feel proud and nostalgic. It seems like only yesterday when I first held you in my arms, and now you are, all grown up and getting married. You have been the light of my life.

Today, I am thrilled to welcome my new son-in-law into our family. I am so glad to see that he makes you happy and loves you so much. I do not doubt that together, you will build a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories.

Looking back, I see how much I've learned from you. Your tenacity, courage, and kind heart have taught me valuable life lessons; I am grateful for that. It is an honor to walk you down the aisle and give you away to your beloved.

Lastly, I want you to know that no matter what, I’ll always be there for you. You will forever be my little girl, and I will forever be your proud dad. Congratulations, my dear daughter, and cheers to the happy couple!

Funny father of the speech example

Hello everyone, I am thrilled to have you here today to celebrate the marriage of my beloved daughter. As a father, it's hard to let go of your little girl, but I'm happy to see her in good hands with her charming groom.

When my daughter first brought her future husband home, I was relieved that he wasn't covered in tattoos or piercings. Instead, I found a kind-hearted and successful man who loves my daughter unconditionally.

Marriage is a journey, not a destination. There will be moments when you'll want to scream and other times when you'll laugh until you cry. But always remember to be each other's biggest supporters and love each other fiercely.

As for myself, I'll be retiring as a "Dad" today and promoting myself to the "Father-in-law." But don't worry; I'll still be here to offer unsolicited advice and embarrass you in front of your friends.

Cheers to the newlyweds, and may your love be as strong and vibrant as your wedding day!

Sentimental father of the bride speech example 

Dear guests,

As I stand here before you today, watching my beautiful daughter start her journey with the love of her life, I am filled with overwhelming emotion. From the moment she was born, I knew she was destined for greatness, and seeing her marry the man of her dreams only confirms that belief.

Daughter, I'm so proud of the person you've grown up to be. You have become an independent, caring, and intelligent person, and it has been a privilege to watch you blossom over the years.

And to the groom, I want to thank you for being the perfect partner for my daughter. Seeing how you love and support her makes me grateful that she found someone like you to share her life with.

I do not doubt that the future holds wonderful things for both of you, and I am honored to have been a part of this special day. Congratulations to the happy couple, and may your love continue to grow stronger with each passing day.

Short father of the bride speech example 

Ladies and gentlemen,

On this beautiful day, I feel grateful to have gained a son-in-law and a new friend. As a dad, I've watched my daughter grow into a beautiful, independent woman, and it brings me so much joy to see her this happy. It takes a special person to win over my daughter's heart, and I am glad you have done so with flying colors. To the happy couple, I wish you a lifetime of love and happiness. Cheers to a new chapter in your lives, and may your love continue to flourish and grow.

Thank you. 

As your daughter's wedding day approaches, crafting a heartfelt father of the bride speech can be overwhelming. But with the right tools and techniques, you can deliver a speech that will leave a lasting impression on your daughter, her new spouse, and guests. From templates to start with to questions for brainstorming, to tips for avoiding common pitfalls, this article has provided you with everything you need to know. And with the help of some real-life father of the bride speech examples, you can add your personal touch to create a speech that will be treasured for years to come. Congratulations on your daughter’s wedding! 

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