3. DELIVERING THE SPEECH

Keep an eye out during the ceremony for observations worth commenting on during your speech. This is the only required bit of improvisation in your speech, but it is a nice touchit lets the wedding planners know that their work is appreciated. It can be something simple, but specifics work the bestthe soloist, the music selections, the floral arrangements, the brides dress are all good things to compliment.

Its important to keep your cool as you anticipate giving your speech, but there is a wrong way and a right way to do that. Dont get drunk. Youre giving a memorable speech at your best friends or son or daughters wedding, not trying to gain courage to hit on girls at the bar. Being noticeably hammered in pictures or on viceo is not the best way to deal with your nervousness.

Instead, take time to talk to as many guests as possible before your speech. Work the room and have a few laughs with some of the people you are going to be delivering a speech to. Encountering your audience one-on-one informally will boost your confidence for the formal speech you are about to give.

Right before its speech time, excuse yourself and visit the restroom. Straighten out your clothing and make sure your hair is kempt and there is nothing in your teeth or on your face. Take a deep breath then go out and give the speech youve been rehearsing all week. Remember to smile, laugh and cry if you feel like it. This is a big day heartfelt emotions are appreciated.