Speech, Sorted · 5 practical checks
5 steps to turn wedding stories into a speech you can deliver
Choose the stories worth telling, shape them into a short speech and rehearse from usable cue cards.
Write down three stories in your own words
For each one, name the moment and what it shows about the person. Pick the story guests can follow without needing to know every detail.
Build a simple beginning, middle and toast
Open with who you are, tell the story and say what you wish for the couple. Check that the toast still makes sense to someone hearing the story for the first time.
Read it aloud and keep the words you would say
Replace formal lines with your usual voice. Remove any story that would embarrass someone or needs a long explanation to work.
Prepare a shorter version for a busy running order
Mark the paragraph you can remove without losing the point. Time both versions, leaving space for pauses and laughter.
Use cue cards for the phrases you need
Put the opening line, story cues and toast on separate cards. Rehearse from them so you can find your place again if you pause.
Your next step
Bring three stories, your role at the wedding and the time the organiser has allowed.