Sample material: My secret is…

Wedding speech material for you to adapt, for when you want to share the key to matrimonial bliss

By the father of the bride

‘Anna, your mother and I are so pleased that you and Roger have finally tied the knot, and although you’ve never taken any advice from me in the past, I’m hoping that today you’ll make an exception. I’ve been married for thirty years, so believe me; I know what I’m talking about. The secret is simple: honesty, trust, love and affection.’

By the best man

‘Given that my own wife and I have been married for five years, I am in the rare position of being able to offer James advice, on something that, for once, he does not know more than me about: the secret to making a marriage last. Always tell your wife you love her after making love. Wherever I am in the world, I always make sure I call Lizzie and tell her how much she means to me.’

By the chief bridesmaid

‘When Jan and I were growing up, we often used to wonder who out of the two of us would get married first. Who would have believed that it would turn out to be me? And so, as chief bridesmaid, I thought today that I’d share my secret with you for a successful marriage. The trick is to treat your man like you’d treat a mushroom. Keep him in the dark for as long as possible and he’ll flourish.’