Writing and Delivering A Father-of-the-Bride Speech
Perhaps the most poignant speech of the wedding reception is the one given by the father of the bride. Whether it be of substance or not, it will most likely be the one that touches hearts the most. As every father experiences some reluctances in giving his daughter away, this speech is your opportunity to throw caution to the wind and bare sour heart to your daughter and her new husband.
Its your opportunity to express your feelings for your daughter and her new husband in a wedding speech.
Even before attending the rehearsal, you will want to think about what it is you intend to say, even if just in general terms. Some say the father of the bride has so few assignments in the wedding planning and implementing that he will have more time to set aside for speech writing.
The biggest caution anyone can give you is to avoid the temptation to give an impromptu talk. Be wary of joining the ranks of fathers who assume they can wing it and find themselves either wordless or wandering around between thoughts when the microphone is handed to them. You will also be more likely to be overcome by emotion. Planning a concise, well-constructed speech beforehand will help you avoid these pitfalls.
Do not be afraid to reveal your true emotions in your speech. You are, after all, talking to your beloved daughter. Reliving shared memories or growing-up events will be meaningful to not only her but also everyone in attendance. You may choose to prod her with a little humor, but keep it on the light side and concentrate instead of sincerity. Be respectful that she is now an adult and deserves your respect and consideration.
Be sure to include the groom in your speech, welcoming him to the family that you head up. This man will be the guardian of your daughter’s future, and you want to encourage him to be the best that he can be. Hide any misgivings you might have and focus on the positive things you wish for them from this day forward.
Oftentimes, the most anticipated and even memorable speech of the wedding day is that given by the father of the bride.
As that moment arrives, take a moment to compose yourself. Take a deep breath, get a drink of water, shake off your nervousness. You may anticipate having an easy time of it, but becoming emotional also may surprise you; it would be prudent to tuck a tissue into your pocket just in case. If you do feel a rush of tears, go ahead and indulge for a brief moment – don’t try and talk through it. This may even make your speech more memorable and moving.
Lastly, do not rush. You are not running a race with a need to finish first. Pay attention to your nervousness by intentionally slowing things down and delivering the speech at a constant pace. Your speech will appear much more professional and it will allow you to cover each point you wanted to make when you wrote it in the first place.
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