How to Practice for a Best Man Speech

 Being tasked with a best man speech is a terrifying ordeal. Especially if you have no prior public speaking experience. It sucks quite frankly.

There you are, standing in front of (sometimes) hundreds of individuals, tasked with entertaining them for the next 5 minutes.

Here are 5 tips that will help you deliver the best speech possible.

1. Write from the heart

Too often we succumb to the pressures of trying to be funny in our best man speech and when jokes fall flat, the speech has nothing to fall back on.

The best strategy for winning over the crowd if you've got a broken funny bone is to write from the heart. Say something sincere to the couple. Wish them a prosperous future and be kind and truthful in your wishes for their happy life.

2. Practice out loud

The key to public speaking is knowing your content inside and out. Practice at home, in your basement or office and repeat the words of your speech until you've memorized its flow.

It's not required that you know the speech word for work. But definitely know the flow so you don't get lost as you are moving through it.

3. Tell a story

One of the most engaging ways to give a speech is through storytelling. It fills the content of your speech with delight for your audience. Retell a tale from the past - a memory of the couple that will bring a smile to those around you.

Learn the art of storytelling to help with the engagement of your audience.

4. Speak loud and slowly

Confidence will allow you to deliver your best speech possible. Temper your words with bravado and keep the delivery of your words measured and significant. No mumbling or trailing off.

Make strong eye contact with the crowd, scanning every couple of seconds throughout your audience.

Use strong body language as well. No fiddling with your hands. Hands should be expressive, open and aid in your speeches description.

5. Have fun

Recognize that this is a special occasion meant to be celebrated. The wedding crowd is rooting for you to speak well - everyone wants you to win. So, smile, take a deep breath and share your voice with the party.

It's a great honor to give a best man speech. Prepare thoroughly for weeks in advance and you'll give a beautiful presentation that will be a touching tribute to the couple.