Wedding Speeches
To speak or not to speak..that IS the question 💀
As planners, we all get warned about that ONE uncle who is planning to steal the mic three beers in…
You think we are joking here, but I literally could name about five family members I was warned against throughout weddings just this year. Haha! The thing is, and our couples know this too, it they mean well. The various family members want to be included, feel inspired, get carried away, etc. The best way to prevent an unwanted improv sesh is to be really clear with your planner up front who is speaking. That way, the planning team can coordinate with the MC , DJ, or Band lead to be sure no one gets added or “jumps in” to the set list.
Now, the example above is for unplanned speeches, but what about what Lara is talking about here in her Hot Take; planned speeches that go too long or off course?
Keep all speeches capped at the 3 minute mark. Make it a universal rule “for purposes of staying with the timeline” and that way no one will take it personally or feel called out.
Implement speeches at the rehearsal dinner. As Lara said, it is more laid back and therefore less pressure on “the perfect speech”.
Include family members and dear friends in ways that are more suited to their skillsets if public speaking isn’t. Could they design something for the welcome party? Bake something for a favor? Play music at the reception? Even recording a video in advance is a great way to help ward off the public speaking anxieties.
Or, cut speeches all together…
Why does omitting this tradition feel more radical then others such as the garter toss or cake cutting? It does but that is likely because it is a great way of including family and friends and also adds a personal touch to the day.
However, if it doesn’t feel right to your and your fiancé you can choose to cut speeches all together and find other ways to personalize the experience and include your loved ones.