Weddings can be complex events that have more much “going on” than is evident at the surface. This is part of the reason that the groom’s wedding toast is more important than many might initially find it to be. The groom must remember to thank a wide-array of people ranging from his guest to, of course, his wife. The wedding speech process can be all the more daunting for those who are afraid of public speaking. Not to worry, however, as there are some easy and simple ways that any groom can write a great groom’s wedding toast. With a little planning and thought your groom’s wedding speech can make you look like a funny and original guy who also has a sense of humor!

One of the first facts you should know about the groom’s wedding toast is that the father of the bride’s speech usually precedes it. Don’t let this intimidate you. Hopefully your father-in-law had a couple of good things to say about you, but if not, carry on soldier.

Above all else, remember to thank people for being at your wedding. If you do this, you truly have won much of the battle. Your groom’s speech needs to focus on thanking all of those people who helped make your wedding possible. It’s a good idea to write down who those people are as it will help you write your speech. Once you have written down who helped make your wedding possible look and see if there are any funny or heart-warming short stories about those individuals and their contribution to your wedding. Find those stories and you have a big chunk of your speech. Now, just keep in mind that a good groom’s speech should probably not exceed five minutes. Why only five minutes? Because there will be many other speeches at your wedding as well.

Of course, try not to leave anyone out of your speech. Wedding mistakes of this nature can often wound ego, but no pressure.

The Parents. Early in your speech it is essential that you thank your bride’s parents. This is most certainly the case if they have paid for the wedding. Make sure that you thank them for their support and for accepting you as a part of their family. Even you if hate them and the feeling is mutual, make sure that you acknowledge them early in the speech.

All of Your Guest. Sometimes guests have to travel a considerable distance to be at your wedding. Make sure you acknowledge guests who have traveled to join you on this special day. Another obvious reason to thank your guests is that, hopefully, they have given you some pretty nice gifts.

Thank Those Who Went the Extra Mile. Anyone who lent an extra hand in making sure that your wedding was a success should receive a special thank you as well. Often those who fall into this category include your best man and maid of honor, but may also include groomsmen, bridesmaids and even wedding planners. Any funny or poignant moment revolving around these contributions should be acknowledged and will make your speech all the more personable.

Some Other Tips:

Basic Tips:

-Don’t act like someone you are not.

-Keep a cheat sheet on hand and don’t be afraid to look at it.

-It’s a great idea to make a “cheat sheet” of your speech and keep it handy.

-Write out your speech and practice reading it out loud, over and over.

Milton Kelly is a writer who prides himself on offering would-be grooms the best advice on everything from etiquette to groomsmen gifts.