The daddy of all speeches

Making a speech is part of the father of the bride’s role

As father of the bride, your speech comes first so it's a kind of scene setter for the speeches to follow.

Usually, the father of the bride's speech is light-hearted and based on family recollections -- preferably not embarrassing ones -- and humorous asides, with a heartfelt helping of sentimentality. Sincerity and brevity are always much appreciated!

Your speech is also made on behalf of the bride's mother, unless she's going to make a speech herself. If she has died, then this may be the moment to say a few words in her memory.

From helping your daughter to plan her wedding to giving a great speech, our Father of the Bride's speech and Duties book is all you need to know about what to do and when to do it.

If you feel you you absolutely can't make a speech, then you can ask a very good friend or relative, possibly your daughter's godfather, to do it for you. Remember though, that weddings are occasions for family and friends and you'll have a hugely appreciative and sympathetic audience -- even just a few words from the father of the bride will go down a storm.

Whatever you have in mind, you'll need to give your speech some advance preparation. The confetti Speech Centre has all the ideas, advice, inspiration -- and material -- you need to make your speech a winner.