How to Write a Best Man Speech for Your Brother

Not only do you get the pleasure of being the brother of the groom, but you also get to wear the best man title too. Now all that's left is to nail your best man speech.

Delivering a wedding speech can seem daunting at the best of times, but when you're tasked with writing a best man speech for your brother , the stakes are even higher.

But fear not, we're about to make your life  so much easier with a complete guide to best man speeches for a brother, or a friend so close, you feel like you're related. 

The best man speech is a highly anticipated one, as it's your job to get the guests laughing and give people additional insight into who the groom  really  is - keeping it light, of course. 

But when the best man is your brother, you have a whole new realm of stories, anecdotes and memories to use as material.

With so many years side-by-side, you're privy to so much more about the groom than just the college or university days, allowing you to write a best man speech for your brother that no one else could deliver. 

A Complete Guide on Writing a Best Man Speech as a Brother

Packed full of best man speech tips for brothers, here you will find examples  and advice to ensure you nail your big moment. 

How to Structure a Best Man Speech for a Brother

Tips on delivering a best man speech for a brother, best man speech examples for a brother.

When it comes to structuring a best man speech for a brother, the structure is very similar to a regular best man speech for a friend. Whether you're planning on delivering a short best man speech , or a longer one, these are the things you need to include and a baseline structure to follow. 

1. Introduce Yourself

Just because you're the groom's best man  and brother, doesn't mean you get away with not introducing yourself. Every speech, (unless you're a bride or groom) should start with an introduction. It doesn't have to be super long, in fact, we encourage you to keep it short and sweet. 

Tell the room who you are, and start with a bit of background about your relationship with your brother. Are you super close? Have you been attached at the hip since birth? Or has he asked you as more of a formality?

If the latter is the case, that's definitely something you can make light of, saying something like, "We all know [X] should have been best man, but being a blood relative means I take the win here. Although, I don't feel like much of a winner. [X] got to have fun planning the stag do, and I win the less sought-after prize of speaking in front of a room full of people I barely know. Thanks mate [looks at groom]. Anyway, about that stag do..."

2. Share Some Stories

All good speeches are centred around a small handful of brilliant stories and memories. The trick here is to remember 'less is more'. Pick one or two stellar stories, ones perhaps only you could tell as the best man  and brother. 

This is also a great moment to bring your parents into the fold. As a family member, you can speak to the groom's childhood and family set-up better than anyone. Lean into stories that make the groom who he is, but keep things funny versus embarrassing. You don't want anyone in the audience wincing now, do you? 

3. Congratulate the Couple

Congratulating the couple and raising a toast to the newlyweds is an important part of any best man's speech, but even more so when you're giving a best man speech as a brother. 

If you and your siblings are close, it's likely you'll have known your brother's partner almost as long as they have. If you're super close, you could touch on the fact that they've always felt like family and say something like, "As the groom's brother and best man, this is where I'm supposed to welcome [X] into our family, and tell you how happy I am to have gained another sibling, but the truth of the matter is, you've felt like family since the day [X] first brought you home."

For something a little funnier and a bit cheeky, you could say, "Tina, you're a really good person. You value a person's character and personality over the way they look. And if you're wondering how I know this, it's obvious isn't it? Because if you were into looks over personality, you'd have picked the other brother [points at self]."

With the structure down, here are some pointers on how to write and deliver a cracking best man speech for your brother. 

1. Avoid Too Many In-Jokes

As brothers, you're bound to have dozens of inside jokes and things only the two of you understand, and there's no harm in shedding some light on one or two of these, but the problem with including too many in-jokes in a best man speech is that, only the two of you are likely to find it funny. With this, you run the risk of losing the room. 

If you want to touch on more of these, consider writing a letter to give to your brother on the morning of the wedding instead and stick to jokes and stories everyone can relate to for the main speech. 

2. Keep it Clean

One of the biggest mistakes so many people make when delivering best man speeches is going dirty when it's not necessary. You don't have to be rude or crude to be funny, and if one guest feels uncomfortable with stories you're telling, it's one guest too many!

On that, it's bad enough when any of your pals stand up and tell sex stories or crude tales about you in front of your friends and family - so having someone related to you say things like that is  even worse . 

If you're unsure whether or not any of your stories cross the line, sense-check them with someone whose opinion you trust. 

3. Less is More

As the best man and brother, you will likely have more stories and memories than anyone in the room, but that doesn't mean you have to tell every single one. Pick two or three (at the most) to share with the crowd and only spend a minute or two on each.

4. Sentiment is Key

A bit of sentiment and emotion in any speech is golden, but even more so when you're giving a best man and brother speech about the groom. Jokes are great, but they land even better when a bit of emotion is peppered in-between. Trust us! Don't be afraid to say some sweet things too, we guarantee the audience will love it and so will your brother. 

5. Remember the Jokes

Like we said, a mixture of heartfelt words and funny one-liners is golden when it comes to best man speeches - but to nail that balance, you need jokes! Not every line needs to be a joke, but you need some in your introduction, one or two within the story, and one to end on. 

Jordanna Marston Photography

Need some practical inspiration for your best man speech as a brother? If so, you've come to the right place. 

No one can write a speech about your brother better than you can, but we can give you some starting points which you can build on. 

Best Man Speech for a Brother: Introduction Examples

  • If you’re a bit of a joker: “I’m Tom, Paul’s best man and also his big brother. I think it says a lot about a man when he chooses his brother to be his best man…. Mostly, of course, it says: 'I have no friends'.”
  • Another one for the jokers: “For those of you who don`t know me, I'm Andrew, Charlie's younger brother. It's great to be stood up here today because, after all these years, Charlie has finally admitted that I am the best man.”
  • If your brother has two best men: “For those who don’t know me, my name is Sam and I’m today’s best brother. I say best brother, as there’s less competition in that category than in the best man competition, and if you like Craig’s speech better then at least I still win at something.”
  • If two brothers are giving a speech: "Hi, I'm Callum and this is Cameron. We're Scott's brothers, [pause] and we know what you're thinking, how are his brothers  so much better looking than him. And trust us, we've been asking ourselves the same question for years."
  • If you’re feeling sentimental: “For those that don’t know much about mine and Steve’s relationship, let me fill you in a bit. I’m the older one, which means I’ve been about for his entire life. I’ve had the privilege of watching him grow into the best man I know, aside from our own father.”

 Best Man Speech for a Brother: Family Story Examples

  • “Our parents have always had an almost uncanny ability to know what’s going on in our lives. When Paul found me smoking in the back garden when I was 13, our parents were the first to know. When he spotted me setting off fireworks from my bedroom window, our parents were the first to know. When Paul saw me taking… Hey! Wait a minute! My brother’s a snitch!”
  • “Other than the couple themselves, I don’t think anyone here is more happy to see Paul getting married than our parents. They’ve been an amazing role model for me and Paul. They’ve been married for thirty years, and they are still as loving and loyal as ever. It’s their love that forms the bedrock of the happy, supportive and loving family before you now. The only thing that was missing, until today, was [brother's partner].”
  • “Brothers remember staying up late with dad and then rushing to bed when we heard mum come home. Brothers understand that what mum doesn’t know won’t hurt her and that nobody likes a turtle tail. Brothers understand that farting at the dinner table will earn you dish duty but then if you make it silent you can blame it on someone else. Andrew. Though if you blame it on mum, that will definitely earn you dish duty. Brothers share childhood memories and grown up dreams.”

  Best Man Speech for a Brother: Sibling Story Examples

  • “There's three of us brothers, I was planned, Jack was an accident and the groom, Mike, was the girl they always wanted, but never got.”
  • “Brian and I have been brothers for 35 years now. In the course of 35 years, you really get to know someone well. I’ve seen him go from an annoying little kid to the slightly less annoying guy you see today.”
  • “Michael took his role as my big brother very seriously when we were kids. He beat me up, stole my stuff, embarrassed me in front of my friends and told our parents whenever I did anything wrong. Anyway, it’s a real honour to be giving this best man’s speech today… or as I call it, pay back.”

 Best Man Speech for a Brother: Joke Examples

  • “A recent study has revealed that 66% of people in Britain are addicted to puzzles – which means at least two-thirds of you must be trying to work out what on earth Jack sees in Mark.”
  • “One of my earliest memories of Joe was him telling jokes that made absolutely no sense. Those of you who knew Joe as a kid will understand what I’m saying. He’d say something like… ‘Why did the chicken cross the road? Because granddad doesn’t like ice cream.’ FYI, Joe’s jokes today aren’t much funnier.”
  • “We all know [brother's partner] is a wonderful person who deserves the perfect guy. Too bad you don’t always get what you deserve.”
  • “Myself and Tom were lucky enough to be taken on lots of exciting holidays and day trips when we were younger. They’re where some of my most embarrassing stories come from…”

 Best Man Speech for a Brother: Examples Talking About the Partner

  • "[Partner's name], welcome to the family. You really have hit the jackpot, gaining the family surname, a season ticket to Crystal Palace and a lifetime supply of political debates at the dinner table. That's what dreams are made of!"
  • “I’m over the moon to be welcoming [partner's name] into the family. We all love you very much and I’m sure you’ll find us to be a warm and supportive bunch. Just – and I can’t stress this enough – steer clear of Monopoly. Seriously. If the box comes out, just run.”
  • “[Partner name] is something of a miracle worker. They took the misshapen lump of human Play-Doh that I call my brother, and moulded him into a man. Let’s hope it lasts. And if he does start to get brittle or droopy in his old age, just sprinkle him with water, roll him around a bit, and draw a smiley face on him with a sharp stick.”
  • “[Partner name], you look absolutely beautiful tonight, I can think of no-one else that I’d rather have join our family or who would be a better spouse to Brian than you. You are generous, selfless, loving and kind.”

To guarantee the laughs, check out these best man speech jokes - we promise, they're better than the ones you've heard before! 

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Writing A Best Man Speech For A Brother

Writing a best man speech for a brother .

Did you know that 1 in every 4 best men are also the brother of the groom? If this is the case for you then you’ll need this handy guide on how to write a best man speech for your brother to make the day a triumph !

A picture of a bride, groom and best man laughing together.

Diving into the world of wedding speeches can be a nerve-wracking adventure, especially if you’re the designated funny person in your group of friends. However, the true challenge lies in the best man speech . This eagerly anticipated moment holds the power to make or break the atmosphere of the day. It demands an astute blend of wit, humour, and heartfelt sentiments.

Now, if you happen to be the groom’s brother, you might feel like the odds are stacked against you. You’ve known him all your life, so people expect the speech of a lifetime. However, don’t feel overwhelmed. If you follow this ultimate guide, you can create a best man speech that pays tribute to your sibling and contains clever gags .

How To Write A Best Man Speech For Your Brother 

A picture of two brothers hugging.

As the brother of the groom, you’re at a massive advantage when writing a best man speech. You’ve seen him at the best of times and at the worst. And a lot of that might have been down to you! So, with an entire lifetime of fights, fraternal rivalry and fellowship to draw upon, where should you start?  

Introduce yourself

First, it’s important to let the wedding guests know your relationship with the groom from the outset. You’d be surprised how many people don’t know. So, establish you’re not his carer, a former work colleague or someone who’s just walked in off the street. You’re flesh and blood, and you’re not going to let this stop you from telling the glorious, unvarnished truth about your brother. Think he looks anxious? Yep. He has every reason to be…!

Early memories

Balance is everything in a speech, and you’ll want some heartfelt material to throw into the mix. Early memories can provide fertile ground. These might be occasions you love to reminisce about such as childhood holidays or family gatherings. Or perhaps it’s rites of passage like riding a bike for the first time, passing an exam or your brother treating everyone to a meal with his first salary. In a sense, writing a Best Man speech for a brother is like writing a letter to your younger selves.

If you are sharing Best Man duties with one of his friends, covering some stories from the early years is also a way to guarantee you do not go over the same ground. Your brother waiting to be seen in hospital with a toy bucket stuck on his head is unlikely to be a story a work friend brings up. At least, you hope not.

Mum and dad… what did they ever do for us?

Your parents raised your brother, clothed him and helped shape him into the unique individual he is today. You too! And they’re still waiting for the thank you note. So, a Best Man speech for a brother is also a wonderful chance to say thanks to your mum and dad for everything they’ve done. You don’t need to lay it on thick. A simple recognition of the sacrifices they’ve made is plenty.

Include some sibling rivalry 

Embracing your role as the groom’s brother offers an ideal opportunity to playfully tease him . After all, a best man speech devoid of jabs at the groom would hardly be worthy of the title. And everyone can relate to sibling rivalry.

How about when your garden or local street was transformed into a makeshift Olympic arena, where the pursuit of victory trumped all? 

Or those “play” fights that would have made Mixed Martial Arts look like a ballet lesson. Was your brother someone who always looked up to you… because you usually had him pinned to the floor?

Remember, it’s perfectly acceptable to indulge in a bit of self-promotion at your brother’s expense. The audience will love it, and – perhaps secretly – he will too.

Jokes Jokes Jokes

A picture of two men laughing together.

This is your chance to remember those delightful, slightly embarrassing stories from the archives of your shared experiences. Remember the times you had to share a room together or even a beloved toy? How did it pan out? Was it plain sailing or did the negotiations require a UN Peacekeeping Force?

Let’s be real here, your brother is well aware of what awaits him. The key is to ensure the spotlight remains firmly on him, while steering clear of any unexploded mines that may dampen the atmosphere.

How To Write A Best Man Speech As The Older Brother

A picture of 4 men together in wedding suits.

You could present yourself as the esteemed older brother by the younger man’s side. You could be self-deprecating and admit your younger brother is actually wiser and more mature than you. You could, of course, do both.

What’s key is to find those moments that resonate and fill the room with laughter.

For example, did you ever tell him any outrageous lies that would shame a 20 th century dictator? You know, like eating mud makes you run faster… if you eat an apple with the pips in it, a tree will grow in your stomach…

Or were you the one who broke it to him that Santa Claus doesn’t exist? If not, perhaps this wedding speech is the time to finally tell him!

Or, perhaps, you witnessed unforgettable milestones, like the night when your younger brother had his first drunken voyage. Stories of mischief go down a storm. And time will have healed any wounds… and his hangover.

Overall, writing a best man speech as the older brother allows you to express respect and admiration, while playfully reminding him that, no matter how clever, tall, successful, athletic, charming and handsome he is… he forever remains your little brother. So there!

How To Write A Best Man Speech As The Younger Brother 

A picture of a younger and older brother in wedding suits together.

If you are the younger brother delivering a best man speech, you have the chance both to pay huge respect to your brother and indulge in a little payback time.

For a good number of years, your brother was most probably stronger and bigger than you. Or laid claim to knowledge that you were pitifully too young to understand. So, how did this manifest itself? 

Were you always having to retrieve your possessions from him? Did he embody the saying: “What’s mine is mine, what’s yours is mine.”? Is there a toy you think you NEVER got back? Was your brother the co-author of your medical record? Could trips to the first aid room have been prefaced by: “This bruised rib was brought to you in association with, yep, my older brother again.”

But let’s not forget the times when your big brother swooped in like a hero, rescuing you from the clutches of a menacing bully, sparing you a smack round the head or a dead arm. Or the times he helped with your homework, consoled you, showed you a brilliant hack on a video game or was simply someone who deserves the name of guru, master, teacher, life coach, lode star and total inspiration?

  These stories hold immense potential, as they not only showcase the profound bond between you and the groom, but also infuse your best man speech with sentiment, nostalgia, laughter and love. You know what? You’re going to make your older brother proud.

Still Stuck? Choose A Professional Best Man Speech Writer To Help. 

Are you finding it tough to put your thoughts into words and write a best man speech for your brother’s wedding? Look no further! With my expertise as a seasoned wedding speech writer, I’ve honed my skills over the years to create tailor-made speeches that will not only captivate your audience but keep them hanging on to every word you say.

Why not get in touch with me today for all my speech writing services? 

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How to Write a Best Man Speech for Your Brother

Jan 4, 2018

How to Write a Best Man Speech for Your Brother

So here’s the thing about writing a best man speech for your brother – you will be able to give an insight into the character of the groom that dates right back to childhood. Even best men who have been mates with the groom since they went to primary school won’t have the depth of knowledge that you will have on your bro and this gives you an edge as it’s unique content.

Anyone who’s ever had a sibling will remember the tears, tantrums and tempers when they were a toddler and audiences love this stuff! For most, they only see the side of your brother that he portrays in everyday life, but little do they know about his antics growing up – but you do!

For that reason, I think this is a great angle to use when constructing your speech and can be really brought to the fore during ‘The Roast’ section – more on that in a bit.

The other thing you can play on is sibling rivalry. Gags about who is the best man are easy wins, and portraying your brother as a poor imitation of yourself is fair game! Indeed, because you’re brothers, you don’t need to be quite as mindful as other best men in your ribbing of the groom. It’s assumed that this is what has been happening your whole life and as such you have more creative license than many other best men.

So in short, the content you put in your speech is a little different from other best man speeches. To help you out, you can download real life examples of speeches that other best men have written for their brothers on the link below, or visit our other Best Man Speech Examples for Your Brother post. Both will hopefully give you a bit of further inspiration. 

How to Structure Your Brother’s Best Man Speech

My first best man speech wasn’t for my brother, it was for my best mate, but despite knowing him since we were at school I really struggled to write anything at all for quite a while. It was the classic, write something down, screw up the paper, and chuck it in the bin…over and over again. I felt overwhelmed as I had downloaded too much material and as a result my best speech man was a mish-mash of styles that just didn’t flow.

In situations such as this, like any big task or project, it can help to break down the task at hand into smaller chunks that can be tackled one at a time. That way, you know where you’re going, and how you’re progressing along the way. The way to do this when writing a best man speech is to use a framework or structure.

You’ll hear different opinions about what the best man speech structure looks like. In the beginning I was a little confused so I analysed literally hundreds and hundreds of speeches to look for commonalities that made the best ones really great. I then engaged with some of the best speech writers from around the world to validate and tweak the formula. The one I landed on is a 15 step structure that is used in the app I created for writing best man speeches, SpeechMate .

Below is a shortened version of that framework to help you out. And, for more help on how you can structure your speech, you might also find my video [insert link] on how to construct and deliver a speech helpful.  

Opening line

So the first thing you need is a solid opening line or two, the purpose of which is to break the ice with the audience and get them onside. In your case, as I mentioned earlier, you have license to make a joke about the groom off the bat because the majority of the audience will be fully aware you’re brothers. Here’s an example for you: “Good evening Ladies and Gentlemen – Today, I feel like I’m gaining a new sister and losing a brother. It is such a mix of emotions: happiness, joy… relief!”

SpeechMate.com has a whole bunch of content you about brother’s that you can choose from so check it out.

Introduction

After you’ve done your opening line and created a bit of rapport with the audience you should be looking to introduce yourself and do some acknowledgements. Here you’re looking to thank a few people. It’s worth bearing in mind that there will have already been a number of thank yous that will have been very sincerely delivered. Your job is to say yours in an amusing or funny way!

As best man, tradition dictates it’s your job to thank the bridesmaids on behalf of the groom and there are numerous ways to do this in a jokey manner, for example you can make a gag about the bridesmaids having to dance with you. Given your relationship to the groom, I always like to include a witty thank you to your folks as well. Again, there are lots of quips that you can make at your brother’s expense here!

In the bridge you’ll want to talk about how you felt when asked to be a best man. If you think you’ll be nervous on the day – which the majority of guys will be – then you can make joke of it here to take the pressure off. Everyone likes an underdog and admitting you’re nervous will get the audience rooting for you to do well. You can also use your responsibilities as best man to make a joke during this stage. For example:

“I can assure everyone that I have taken the role as best man seriously and one of my most important duties was to make sure that my brother got a good night’s sleep before the wedding day. Well I can reveal that last night Tom slept like a baby. He wet the bed and woke up every half hour crying and wanting his Mummy.”

Use this section to move on to the meat of the speech, which if you’ll pardon the pun what we call the roast . Ba-boom!

The roast is a light hearted assassination of your brother’s character and in this section you’re going to want to pick a few traits that he’s known for and poke fun at them. As I mentioned at the start, your USP here is that you’ve known him since childhood so I would drop a tale or two in about a particular incident from that time. It could be him being a mummy’s boy, bed wetting, pulling his pants down. Anything that is really quite childish tends to go down well in my experience.

After you’ve given the groom a bit of stick in the roast, move on to how he and the bride met. This part is optional depending on time, and how comfortable you feel talking about their courtship, but I think it’s a good idea as it brings the bride more into the picture and is therefore more inclusive – not just about you brothers. You may want to talk here about how head over heels the groom was when he met the bride, and some of the stupid stuff to win her over. Again more opportunity for gags that can be populated for you using SpeechMate .

In the course of my research in to what makes a great best man speech, I found that speeches with the strongest approval ratings featured some kind of sentiment in the final third of the speech. In your case this is a MUST. At the end of the day, blood is thicker than water and you should absolutely tell your brother how much he means to you.

There are broadly three things to cover off in this part. The first thing you want to do is to say how proud you are to be standing there as his brother, and best man. You should say, from the heart, how much you value the relationship and how honoured you are to have been chosen.

The second thing to talk about is the marriage and how happy you are for both of them. This brings the bride into the speech and makes it more inclusive. She is now part of your family and so welcoming her in a formal setting such as this will mean a lot not just to her, but also to her parents and friends.

And finally, you should look to mention the future.  Marriage is a big milestone in anyone’s life, and as such is a time to reflect on the past, but also to look forward. Here you are acknowledging that important step and giving heartfelt best wishes for the future.

Advice for Your brother

To round things off, a bit of marital advice always goes down well before giving a genuine and heartfelt toast. In total you should be looking for your speech to be around 10-12 minutes which is typically around 1,300 words in total. So that was a bit of a run through of how to use a structure to write your brothers best man speech.

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21 Best Man Speech Examples & Ideas for the Groom’s Brother

Your brother has just asked you to be his best man and you’re feeling honored, pumped, and a little bit nervous.

As a professional writer and speaker who gave a best man speech for my brother, I know how important this speech is to everyone at the wedding.

You want to nail it.

Therefore, here are 21 best man speech examples and ideas you can use to present a best man speech that your brother will never forget.

Best Man Speech Ideas for the Groom’s Brother

Man giving a best man speech - best man speech examples

Rather than let the nerves get the better of you, channel that energy into writing an amazing best man speech. Your brother entrusted you with this crucial job for a reason—he knows you’ve got his back.

So take a deep breath, relax, and let’s get started.

1) Start With a Theme

The first step is to come up with a theme or angle for your speech.

Are you going to focus on your brother’s childhood misadventures? His successes in work or love? His friends’ impressions of him?

Once you zero in on a theme, it will be much easier to write the rest of the speech.

Everything else in your best man speech should connect back to the theme.

2) Know the Mood You Want To Create

Next, think about the mood you want to create with your speech.

Are you looking to make everyone laugh? Bring tears of joy to people’s eyes? Both? Knowing the emotional tone of your speech will help guide the content and delivery.

For example, if you want people to laugh, sprinkling in a few light-hearted jokes is key.

On the other hand, if you’re aiming for more of a sentimental tone, sharing personal anecdotes or stories about your brother is a better bet.

3) Choose the Best Structure for Your Best Man Speech

You’ll want to use a clear structure or outline for your best man speech.

Are you going to tell a linear story from start to finish? Jump around chronologically? Use a mix of both? Once you settle on an approach, it’s time to start filling in the blanks with some killer content.

Keep in mind that regardless of what structure you choose, it’s important to start strong and end on a high note.

You want people to remember your speech long after the wedding celebrations have wrapped up.

4) Tell Your Favorite Stories

Be sure to include some of your favorite stories about your brother.

Whether it’s a funny story from childhood or a more recent tale of his antics, these stories will help to humanize your brother and give the audience a glimpse into what he’s really like.

Just be sure not to embarrass him too much!

5) Know How To Start Your Speech

One idea is to begin by thanking the groom and bride for allowing you to share in their special day.

You could also start by telling the audience a little bit about your relationship with your brother and what he means to you. Whatever you choose, just make sure it’s something that will grab everyone’s attention and establish the right tone.

Other ways you can start your speech:

6) Talk Up Your Brother

This is his big day, after all, so it’s important to say some nice things about him.

Talk about his strengths and what makes him an amazing person. You could even share some of your favorite memories of him.

Just be sure to keep it positive.

No one wants to hear a long venting session about all of his flaws and negative traits.

7) Speak Directly To Your Brother

The best man speech is meant to be a personal tribute to your brother.

This is his big day, after all, and your speech should reflect that. Thank him for asking you to be his best man and tell him how happy you are for him.

If you have any inside jokes or funny stories about your brother, this is the time to share them. However, don’t go too overboard – remember that his new wife is in the audience.

8) Speak Directly To The Bride

While your speech is mostly about your brother, you don’t want to leave out the other most important person at the wedding.

A personal address to the bride is a wonderful way to include her.

Welcome her to the family and say how happy you are that she has found happiness with your brother.

9) Recite the Story of How They Met

This is also a good opportunity to share a story or two about how your brother met his future wife.

The audience will love hearing about the early days of their relationship, and it will help to personalize your speech.

When my brother asked me to be his best man, I was committed to delivering a speech that would really capture the story of how he and his bride met. I had heard the story many times, of course, but I wanted to find a way to really bring it to life for the guests at the wedding.

To do that, I decided to share some of the “behind the scenes” details that my brother had confided in me over the years.

I started by recounting the first time they met, at a mutual friend’s party.

My brother had been instantly attracted to her, but he was too shy to make a move. I told the guests how he had agonized over whether or not to ask for her number, and how he had finally mustered up the courage to do it.

As I recounted his story, I could see my brother getting emotional, and I could tell that the guests were really connecting with him.

By sharing some of the more intimate details of their relationship, I was able to really bring my brother’s love story to life.

It was a beautiful moment and one that I will always treasure.

10) Use the Right Amount of Humor

Not only is a best man speech an opportunity to honor the groom, but it also provides a chance to share some light-hearted stories.

However, it’s important to strike the right balance with humor in a best man speech.

Too much humor can come across as insensitive or mean-spirited, while too little can make the speech seem dull. The key is to focus on funny stories that will resonate with the audience and shed some light on the groom’s personality.

11) Share a Meaningful Quote

One way to make sure your speech is both personal and meaningful is to use a quote that has special significance for the bride and groom.

Maybe there is a saying that your father always said to the two of you or something your grandmother mentioned to your brother before she passed.

Don’t just slap on a generic quote.

12) Wish the Best to the Bride and Groom

When giving a best man speech about your brother, give the bride and groom your best wishes.

They are embarking on a new chapter in their lives, and you want nothing but the best for them. Talk about how happy you are for them and how excited you are to see what the future holds for them.

Here is an example of what you might say:

On behalf of my brother and his new bride, I want to say thank you for coming to celebrate their special day. It means a lot to them that you are all here to support them as they start this new chapter in their lives. I know they are both extremely excited to begin this journey together, and I wish them all the best. I am confident they will make each other very happy and will always be there for one another through thick and thin. I am honoured to have been chosen as best man, and I know my brother is lucky to have found such a wonderful woman. So please join me in raising a glass to the happy couple – may they always be as blissfully content as they are today. Cheers!

13) End Your Speech On a Bright Note

A bright note can be a funny or sentimental story.

It could also be a quote, a toast, or a positive statement about your brother (the groom). A funny story will help to lighten the mood and leave everyone laughing.

Something heartfelt will leave everyone feeling warm and fuzzy.

14) Don’t Wing It

I know from experience that it’s tempting to wing it when it comes to the speech, but trust me, that’s not the way to go.

It’s much better to come prepared with a few key points that you want to make.

That way, you won’t get choked up, say something inappropriate, or go off on tangents. Plus, your brother will appreciate your efforts and know that you took the time to really honor him on this important day.

15) Read It Out Loud

One tip that can help you deliver a great speech is to write it down and then read it out loud.

This will allow you to catch any tricky pronunciations, awkward sentence structures, or words that don’t sound quite right when said aloud.

Not only will this help you deliver a more polished speech, but it will also help you feel more confident and prepared when the big day arrives.

16) Practice Giving the Speech 10 Times

Once you have a draft of your speech, it’s time to start practicing.

I recommend practicing your speech at least 10 times. This may seem like overkill, but it’s really not. The more you practice, the more comfortable you’ll be with the material.

And when it comes time to give the speech, you’ll be glad you took the time to prepare.

If possible, try to record yourself while you’re practicing. This will let you see how you sound and help you make any necessary adjustments to your delivery.

For example, if you notice that you’re using too many “ums” or “ahs,” try to cut back on them.

You also want to pay attention to your body language and make sure you’re not crossing your arms or fidgeting too much. Remember, the goal is to look confident and poised when you’re giving the speech.

17) Double-Check Everything on the Day of the Wedding

On the day of the wedding, make sure to double-check everything for your best man speech.

You’ll want to have a working microphone and speakers, and know where you’ll be delivering your speech. It’s also a good idea to check the room layout, so you know where your brother and his bride will be seated.

And finally, before you start your speech, take a quick moment to check the lights and echo in the room.

If you’re using notes, make sure they’re with you and easily accessible.

Best Man Speech Examples

One of the best ways to write your best man speech is to read and hear good examples.

So, this section is full of best man speech examples for every occasion:

  • Traditional best man speeches
  • Emotional best man speeches
  • Short best man speeches
  • Funny best man speeches
  • Religious or spiritual best man speech
  • Best man speech for an older brother
  • Best man speech for a younger brother
  • Best man speech for a step-brother
  • Best man speech for a brother-in-law
  • Best man speech examples for a twin brother

Traditional Best Man Speech Examples

Here is an example of a traditional best man speech:

My brother is one of the most important people in my life. He’s been my best friend since we were kids, and I can’t imagine going through life without him by my side. That’s why I’m so honored to be his best man today. I know my brother is going to make an amazing husband because he’s always been such a great friend to me. He’s always been there for me when I needed him, and I know he’ll be there for his new wife too. It’s an honor and a privilege to celebrate with you both, and I know I’ll never forget this day. I love you, brother – congrats on your big day!

Check out this second example of a traditional best man speech:

It’s my great honor to be your best man today. We’ve been through a lot together, haven’t we? I can’t even remember a time when you weren’t by my side. You’ve always been there for me, no matter what. And I know you’ll always be there for _ ____ too. She’s so lucky to have you as her husband. I know you’re going to make an amazing husband and father. You have all the qualities that matter most – you’re kind, you’re patient, and you’re so good with kids. _ is going to be one lucky family. So let’s raise our glasses to the happy couple! ______and ______, may your life together be full of love and happiness. Cheers!

Emotional Wedding Speech for Brother

This is a good example of an emotional best man speech for your brother:

I remember when I was younger, I used to always look up to my brother. He was always the smarter one, the better athlete, and the more popular guy. I was always trying to keep up with him and be like him. Even though I could never quite measure up to his accomplishments, he always made me feel like I was just as good as he was. He has always been my biggest supporter, and I know that he will be an amazing husband to his new wife. I am so honored to be standing up here today as his best man. My brother has always been a great example to me of what it means to be a good man. He is always so patient with everyone and he is always quick to lend a helping hand. I know that he will be a great husband to his new wife. I want to thank my brother for everything that he has done for me over the years. He has always been there for me, even when no one else was. I know that he will continue to be a great brother, husband, and father, and I am so proud of him. Congratulations, brother!

Watch this video of another great best man speech that is raw and emotional:

Short Best Man Speech Examples

Sometimes you just want to say a few quick words about your brother and his new wife.

Here are a few short best man speech examples:

Ladies and gentlemen, it is my great honor to stand before you today as the best man for my brother, (name). On behalf of (name) and his new wife, (name), I want to thank you all for being here to celebrate their special day. (Name) has been my best friend since childhood, and I am truly honored to be standing up for him on this important occasion. I know that he will make an incredible husband, and I am confident that (name) will be by his side every step of the way. So please join me in raising a glass to the happy couple. Cheers!

Here is another short best man speech example:

My brother is a big sports fanatic. Just like a successful football team, my brother and his new bride make a great team. They complement each other perfectly and they always have each other’s back. I know that they will always be there for each other, no matter what life throws their way. I’m so happy that my brother has found his perfect partner and I wish them all the happiness in the world. Congratulations!

Funny Best Man Speech Examples

If you or your brother are a natural-born comedian, then injecting humor into your best man speech is par for the course.

Here is an example of a funny best man speech:

First of all, I want to congratulate my brother on finding the woman of his dreams. As soon as I met her, I could see why he was so head over heels in love with her. She’s beautiful, intelligent, and has a great sense of humor. Her only flaw is her poor taste in husbands. But I guess nobody’s perfect. (Wink) I’m happy to say that she seems to be just as crazy about him as he is about her. I also want to congratulate my brother on making it through the wedding planning process without losing his mind. As anyone who’s been through it knows, wedding planning can be a nightmare. There are so many details to take care of and so many people to please. But my brother managed to stay calm and sane throughout it all. And that’s really saying something for a guy who wept like a baby during The Notebook. Seriously though, I wish all the best of luck and love to the happy couple. Cheers!

Best Man Speech Examples for Older Brother

If your brother is older than you, here is an example of a best man speech for him:

My big brother is a professional pilot, and I’ve always looked up to him – literally and figuratively. He’s always had a passion for flying, and he’s worked hard to turn his passion into a career. Today, he’s living his dream, and I couldn’t be happier for him. Just like my brother has dedicated his life to flying, marriage is a commitment that should be taken seriously. It’s not something to be taken lightly – it’s a journey that should be undertaken with care and consideration. Just like my brother has navigated through some turbulence in his career, marriage will have its ups and downs. But I know that he and his bride will weather any storm, because they’re committed to each other and they’re willing to work hard to make their marriage last. May their life together be as smooth sailing as my brother’s career in aviation!

Best Man Speech Examples for Younger Brother

Now let’s look at a best man speech for a younger brother:

In just a few short minutes, my little brother will be a married man. It’s hard to believe that the boy who used to follow me around everywhere is all grown up and starting his own family. But I couldn’t be more proud of him. He’s always had a sense of duty and honor, even when we were kids. And when he joined the military, I knew he was going to make an outstanding soldier. He’s already done so much for our country, and I know he’ll only continue his legacy of love and dedication. It’s my pleasure to toast the best man, my little brother. Congratulations, and may your life together be filled with love and happiness.

Best Man Speech Examples for Brother-in-Law

A future brother-in-law can be just as close and special as a biological brother.

Here is a best man speech to honor your brother-in-law:

It’s my pleasure to be here today to give the best man speech for my brother-in-law. I first want to thank everyone for coming and celebrating this special day with us. It means a lot to have you all here to support Mike and Jess as they start their married life together. I’ve known Mike for a few years now, and I can say without a doubt that he is one of the most genuine, caring, and fun-loving people I know. He’s always up for a good time, but he also knows how to be serious when the situation calls for it. In other words, he’s the perfect brother-in-law! (And I’m not just saying that because he’s my sister’s husband.) I know that Mike will make an amazing husband to Jess. He already treats her with so much love and respect, and I know he’ll only continue to do so as they embark on this new chapter in their lives. I couldn’t be happier for them both. So let’s raise our glasses to the happy couple – may your marriage be everything you’ve ever hoped for and more! Cheers!

Religious Best Man Speech Examples for Brother

Next, here is a best man speech example for a brother who is religious or spiritual:

Marriage is a sacred institution, and I am honored to be here today as my brother makes a lifetime commitment to his wife. I have known (name) all my life, and I can say without a doubt that he is a good man. He is kind, honest, and hardworking, and I know that he will make an excellent husband. (Name) is also a deeply religious man, and I know that his faith will guide him in this new chapter of his life. I am confident that he will cherish and respect his wife always, and I am proud to call him my brother. On behalf of the family, I would like to wish (name) and his wife all the happiness in the world. Congratulations!

Best Man Speech for Brother: Second Wedding

If your brother is getting married for the second time, check out this best man speech:

It’s been said that the best man is the person who knows the groom the best. And in that case, I think I’m uniquely qualified to give this speech. Because not only do I know my brother better than anyone else, but I was also his best man at his first wedding. But despite my experience, I’m still a little nervous about giving this speech. After all, weddings are a time for new beginnings, and I want to make sure that I get it right. So let me start by congratulating my brother and his new wife. This is a truly special day, and I know that you’ll be very happy together. I remember when my brother first told me that he was getting married again. I have to admit, I was a little surprised. But then I realized that it made perfect sense. After all, my brother is one of the most romantic people I know. He’s always believed in the power of love. And I know that he’s found true happiness with his new wife. So on this special day, I want to toast my brother and his new bride. May your life together be filled with love and happiness.

Best Man Speech Examples for Twin Brother

Here is a best man speech example for a twin brother:

It’s my pleasure to be here today to say a few words about my brother, the groom. First, let me just say how happy I am to be here with all of you to celebrate this special occasion. My brother and his new wife are a perfect match, and I know they’ll be very happy together. I’ve known my brother my whole life, of course, and there’s nobody I know better. After all, I see him everytime I look in the mirror. We’ve been through a lot together, and I’m so proud of the man he has become. He’s kind, he’s generous, he’s hardworking… in short, he’s everything you could want in a husband. And I know he’ll be just as wonderful a father when the time comes. I wish you both lots of love, good fortune, and good health always!

Best Man Speech for Step-Brother

Finally, here is an example of a best man speech for your step-brother:

While we have never shared the same blood, he has always been like a brother to me. From the time I can remember, he has always been there for me, whether I needed a shoulder to cry on or someone to help me celebrate a triumph. He has always supported me, even when I made mistakes, and I know that he will make an amazing husband. So please join me in raising a glass to the groom – a man who is not only my step-brother but my best friend.

Best Man Speech for Brother Quotes

I thought I would make a list of my favorite quotes you can use in your best man speech for your brother.

Just remember that the best quotes are personal and meaningful.

Best man speech for brother quotes:

  • “Love one another and you will be happy; it is as simple and as difficult as that.” – Michael Leunig.
  • “May the best day of your past be the worst day of your future.” – Anonymous
  • “Being his real brother, I could feel I live in his shadows, but I never have and I do not now. I live in his glow.” – Michael Morpurgo.
  • “I love you so much, and I really hope you’ll feel the same about me after you hear my speech.” – Anonymous
  • “Never go to bed on an argument. Stay up and fight. – Phyllis Diller
  • “Before you marry a person, you should first make them use a computer with slow Internet service to see who they really are.” – Will Ferrell
  • “A brother shares childhood memories and grown-up dreams.” – Unknown
  • “He is my most beloved friend and my bitterest rival, my confidant and my betrayer, my sustainer and my dependent, and scariest of all, my equal.” – Gregg Levoy
  • “A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” – King Solomon
  • “When you deal with your brother, be pleasant, but get a witness.” – Hesiod

Tools for Writing a Best Man Speech for a Brother

If you want to write and deliver an unforgettable best man speech, I highly recommend that you use a few of my favorite tools.

Final Thoughts: Best Man Speech Examples

Writing a best man speech may seem daunting at first, but if you take it one step at a time, before you know it you’ll be delivering an epic tribute to your brother that he—and everyone else—will remember for years to come.

We have lots of other great articles about weddings on this site. Check a few out before you go!

Related posts:

  • Can You Wear Chinos to a Wedding? (9 Things You Must Know)
  • Can You Wear a White Jacket to a Wedding? (Solved)
  • Can You Wear White Shoes to a Wedding? (7 Rules Explained)
  • Is Wedding Videography Worth It? (Yes, 13 Reasons Why)

Taylor and Francis Online (Research study on speeches)

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How to write a memorable Best Man speech for your brother

The Groom and his brother

Introduction

Being the Best Man at your brother's wedding is both an honor and a responsibility. Your speech is a highlight of the reception, a chance to entertain, celebrate, and touch the hearts of everyone present. As the groom's older or younger brother, you might feel the pressure to craft a speech that strikes the perfect balance between humor, emotion, and unforgettable memories. Worry not, we're here to show you how to create a Best Man speech for your brother that will make him beam with pride and leave a lasting impression on the guests.

If you're looking for assistance to make your speech truly amazing while saving time, try our AI-powered speech writing service . It's designed to help you craft a unique and captivating toast for your brother, allowing you to deliver an outstanding speech in just minutes.

Now, let's dive into this comprehensive guide for all you need to deliver an exceptional Best Man speech for your brother's special day. This guide includes expert advice, DOs and DON'Ts, answers to common questions, 15 handpicked quotes to enrich your speech, and a perfect template to build your speech upon. So, let's get started and make your brother's big day truly unforgettable!

Expert Tips for Your Best Man Speech for Brother

Tip 1: start with a plan.

The first step in writing a great brother of the groom speech is to plan it out. You don't want to just wing it and hope for the best. Take the time to think about what you want to say and how you want to say it. Start by brainstorming ideas for your speech, such as funny anecdotes or heart-warming memories. Don't do it alone - get your folks involved. This will help to get the ideas flowing and give you a sense of what ideas resonate or might get a laugh. Consider what kind of tone you want to strike, and whether you want to include any quotes or jokes. Once you have a rough outline, you can start fleshing out the details.

Tip 2: Introduce Yourself

The opening of your speech is the perfect opportunity to introduce yourself to the guests. Even if most of the guests know who you are, it's still a good idea to give a brief introduction that establishes your relationship to the groom. You can use this as a chance to inject some humor into your speech, such as a funny anecdote about growing up together or pointing out something funny about being the older or younger brother.

Tip 3: Share Some Childhood Memories

As the brother of the groom, you have a wealth of childhood memories to draw on for your speech. Think about some of the funniest, most embarrassing, or most heart-warming moments you shared growing up. Maybe you have a story about a family vacation or a special moment that the two of you shared. Sharing these memories can help to establish a connection with the guests and create a sense of nostalgia for the happy couple.

Tip 4: Acknowledge the Bride

Don't forget to acknowledge the bride in your speech. After all, she is the reason for the celebration! Share some kind words about the bride, her relationship with your brother and how she has positively impacted his life. You might also want to share a funny story or two about how the two of them met or what they're like as a couple. Just be sure to keep it light and positive.

Tip 5: Share Some Anecdotes in Your Brother's Best Man Speech

Everyone loves a good story, and you’ve got plenty to choose from when it comes to your brother. Share some anecdotes that show his personality or character, highlight some of his quirks, or just make the audience laugh.

Make sure you pick stories that are appropriate for the audience and don’t embarrass your brother too much. It's a balancing act and you want to get it right. Remember, you’re here to celebrate his special day, not to make him feel uncomfortable.

Here are some examples:

"Growing up, my brother was always the more responsible one. I remember this one time, when I was 10, I had climbed up the tallest tree in our backyard, and, of course, got stuck. Without hesitation, my brother climbed up and rescued me like a superhero. Little did I know back then that he would continue to be my hero throughout our lives, always looking out for me."

"One thing that has always stood out about my brother is his perseverance. I remember when we were teenagers, he taught himself to play the guitar. He practiced day and night, determined to become good at it. And sure enough, he did. This same determination is present in every aspect of his life, including his relationship with [bride's name]."

Tip 6: Toast the Bride and Groom in Your Brother's Best Man Speech

At the end of your speech, it’s customary to toast the newlyweds. Raise your glass and offer your congratulations and best wishes for their future together.

You might also want to say a few words about how much the couple means to you and how happy you are to see them together.

“Here’s to the happy couple. May your marriage be filled with love, laughter, and adventure. Paul, you’ve found your soulmate in Linda, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for you both.”

Tip 7: Keep It Short and Sweet

When it comes to delivering a great Best Man speech, less is often more. You don't want to bore the guests with a long, rambling speech that goes on and on. Keep your speech short and sweet, and focus on delivering a few key messages that will resonate with the guests. Aim for a speech that lasts around five minutes or so, and be sure to practice your delivery so you can deliver it confidently and without stumbling over your words.

Tip 8: Practice Makes Perfect

Finally, be sure to practice your speech before the big day. This will help you to get comfortable with the material and ensure that you're able to deliver it confidently and smoothly. Practice in front of a mirror or with a friend, and be sure to time yourself so you don't run over. The more you practice, the more comfortable you'll feel when the big day arrives.

The DOs and DON’Ts of Writing a Best Man Speech for your Brother

  • Personalize the speech : Share genuine anecdotes and memories that highlight your relationship with your brother and showcase his personality.
  • Focus on the couple : Be sure to keep the focus on the newlyweds, not yourself or others.
  • Balance humor and sentiment : Keep the audience entertained with some light humor, but also include heartfelt moments that convey the special bond you share.
  • Be concise : Aim to keep your speech between 5-7 minutes, ensuring it's engaging without being too lengthy.
  • Practice, practice, practice : Rehearse your speech multiple times to become more comfortable and confident in your delivery.
  • Express gratitude : Thank the newlyweds, their parents, and the guests for being a part of this special day.

DON'Ts:

  • Avoid controversial topics : Steer clear of politics, religion, or any potentially sensitive subjects that might make guests uncomfortable.
  • Don't overshare : Refrain from sharing embarrassing or overly personal stories that could make your brother or the audience uneasy.
  • Don't bring up ex-partners: Definitely don't bring up ex-partners or anything negative from the past.
  • Don't get too intoxicated : While it's natural to enjoy the festivities, ensure you remain composed and coherent for your speech.
  • Don't forget your audience : Remember that guests of all ages and backgrounds will be present, so keep your speech appropriate and inclusive.
  • Don't wing it : Take the time to prepare and organize your speech in advance to ensure a smooth and memorable delivery.

Frequently Asked Questions About Preparing a Best Man Speech for a Brother

How long should my best man speech be.

Aim for 5-7 minutes, which is long enough to engage the audience without overstaying your welcome.

How can I make my Best Man speech for my brother unique and memorable?

Focus on personal anecdotes and genuine compliments. Share stories about your relationship with your brother and his partner. Be sincere and speak from the heart.

Can I add humor to my Best Man speech for my brother?

Absolutely! Including humor can make the speech more enjoyable for the audience. Be careful to strike a balance between humor and sincere, emotional moments to create a well-rounded and engaging speech.

What is the appropriate structure for a Best Man speech?

Start with a brief introduction, share anecdotes about your brother, mention his partner, thank the couple and their families, and conclude with a toast to the newlyweds.

15 Exceptional Quotes for a Best Man Speech for Your Brother

Incorporate these carefully selected quotes into your Best Man speech to add a layer of depth, emotion, and thoughtful wisdom. To make your speech genuinely unforgettable, be sure to personalize it with cherished anecdotes and shared memories that celebrate your unique bond with your brother.

  • "A brother is a friend given by Nature." – Jean Baptiste Legouve
  • "There's no other love like the love for a brother. There's no other love like the love from a brother." – Astrid Alauda
  • "Because I have a brother, I'll always have a friend." – Unknown
  • "Brothers are what best friends can never be." – Unknown
  • "A brother shares childhood memories and grown-up dreams." – Unknown
  • "Sometimes being a brother is even better than being a superhero." – Marc Brown
  • "A brother is a gift to the heart, a friend to the spirit." – Unknown
  • "I sought my soul, but my soul I could not see. I sought my God, but my God eluded me. I sought my brother and I found all three." – Unknown
  • "The greatest gift our parents ever gave us was each other." – Unknown
  • "Brothers don't necessarily have to say anything to each other – they can sit in a room and be together and just be completely comfortable with each other." – Leonardo DiCaprio
  • "The bond that links your true family is not one of blood, but of respect and joy in each other's life." – Richard Bach
  • "A sibling represents a person's past, present, and future." – John Corey Whaley
  • "A friend is a brother who was once a bother." – Unknown
  • "Our paths may change as life goes along, but the bond between us remains ever strong." – Unknown
  • "Brothers are like streetlights along the road; they don't make the distance any shorter, but they light up the path and make the walk worthwhile." – Unknown

The Ultimate Best Man Speech for Brother Template

In this section, we'll provide you with a comprehensive template/example to craft the perfect Best Man speech for your brother. This guide covers key conventions while also offering tips on personalizing the speech, ensuring you deliver a heartfelt, engaging, and entertaining tribute to the happy couple on their special day. You can modify the anecdotes and personal details to suit your own experiences and relationship with the couple.

Brother of the Groom Speech Template:

Ladies and gentlemen,

1. Introduction: Introduce yourself and express gratitude Good evening, everyone. For those of you who don't know me, my name is [Your Name], and I have the immense honor of being [Brother's Name]'s Best Man today. I want to begin by thanking [Brother's Name] and [Bride's Name] for inviting us all to be a part of their special day. It's truly a privilege to be here, surrounded by so many loved ones.

2. Praise the couple: Compliment the bride and groom I must say, [Bride's Name], you look absolutely radiant today. And [Brother's Name], you've never looked better! I can genuinely say that the two of you make a perfect match, and we couldn't be happier for you both.

Share memories and anecdotes: [3. Share a story that highlights your brother's character] Growing up with [Brother's Name], we shared countless memories and adventures. One story that stands out in particular is when we were just kids, and we decided to create a secret hideout in the woods behind our house. Despite my initial doubts, [Brother's Name] showed unwavering determination and resourcefulness, transforming a simple idea into a haven for our childhood dreams. This memory has always reminded me of [Brother's Name]'s ability to make even the most ordinary moments extraordinary.

Acknowledge your brother's partner: [4. Share what you appreciate about the bride] When [Brother's Name] first introduced us to [Bride's Name], it didn't take long for us to see just how special she is. Her kindness, intelligence, and sense of humor have made her a cherished addition to our family. [Bride's Name], thank you for bringing out the best in my brother and for filling his life with happiness and love.

Highlight their relationship: [5. Share a story or observation about the couple] One thing I've noticed about [Brother's Name] and [Bride's Name] is how they truly bring out the best in each other. Watching them grow together, support each other, and face life's challenges hand in hand has been nothing short of inspiring. It's clear to me that their love is built on a strong foundation of trust, respect, and friendship.

Offer advice or well-wishes: [6. Share a piece of advice or a heartfelt wish for their future] As you embark on this exciting new chapter in your lives, my advice to you both is to always cherish the little moments, communicate openly, and never forget to laugh together. I have no doubt that your love will continue to grow and flourish in the years to come.

Toast to the couple: [7. Conclude with a toast] So, without further ado, I'd like to ask everyone to please raise their glasses in honor of [Brother's Name] and [Bride's Name]. Here's to a lifetime of love, laughter, and endless adventure. Cheers to the newlyweds!

Writing a Best Man speech for your brother can be a daunting task, but with a little bit of preparation and some creativity, you can deliver a speech that will be remembered for years to come. To make your speechwriting journey even smoother, try our AI-powered speech writing service .

When delivering your speech, it's important to remember to introduce yourself and get your parents involved, try some healthy sibling rivalry, crack some jokes, mention your new sister or brother, share some anecdotes, and toast the happy couple.

By following these tips and structuring your speech in a way that engages the audience, you’ll have everyone in the room laughing, crying, and cheering for the newlyweds. So, take a deep breath, raise your glass, and let the celebration begin!

For more comprehensive guidance on speech writing, preparation, and delivery, check out our article on Mastering the Art of the Best Man Speech .

Need help with your speech?

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6 Best Man Speech Ideas, Examples, and Tips

By wedding spot.

Need some help writing your best man speech? Thousands and thousands of distressed forum threads, alarmed Quora posts, and social media cries for help are dedicated to this very request every year. Whether you’ve got a few weeks or a few hours, we’ve got you covered with this guide on how to come up with a best man speech you and the happy couple will love. Keep reading to discover some important best man speech ideas, examples, and tips that will make the process simple and virtually painless. 

Do’s and don’ts every best man should know before drafting their speech:

Length: The most important thing to keep in mind is the length. Shorter is better, so shoot for less than five minutes. The most ideal time would be three minutes: 30-second introduction, two minutes on the main story, and 30 seconds to wrap up and give well wishes. 

Tone: Keep it classy for the older relatives and leave out expletives, raunchy jokes, and stories that you can’t un-tell. Professional storytellers for the Moth , a famous storytelling podcast and prestigious competition, say that a mix of funny and sentimental usually packs a punch as long as you do it in that order. Also, be sincere. Corny jokes get boring really quickly. 

Content: Stories will always be more entertaining than random jokes. Include a one-liner at the beginning of the speech, then bring it back to something that actually happened. The focus should be on the couple or your relationship with them, but not just you and your accomplishments. 

Explore 6 foolproof best man speech ideas, examples, and tips:

1. take inspiration from those who have gone before you..

Copy or get inspired by these real-world examples of best man speeches you can use to make people laugh, cry, or both.

Long best man speech example: Here’s a best man speech example from an older brother to his younger brother, which we edited for clarity and brevity.

“Good afternoon everyone, I’m the best man.

Before I start, I’d just like to say there is no flash photography during this event. The bride and groom are a very shy pair and we don’t want to startle them. If you look really closely at them, you’ll see they’re already starting to feel quite uncomfortable. Maybe they’d like me to just get on with my speech, but I really think it’s all the phones pointed at them right now. 

Oh, it’s the speech? Okay, I’ll continue. 

Ever since (he was born, he started at Boston University, etc.), (groom) and I have been (brothers, friends, etc.). Now, he’s not the best-looking guy, so it does make sense that he’d ask the older, fatter, and balder (friend, version of himself, etc.) to be his best man. And we’ve genuinely been told throughout our lives that we (look incredibly alike, are attached at the hip, etc.). I honestly don’t see it, but as I know, some people here still can’t tell the difference: (Groom’s mom or bride), I’m (best man), and that one’s (groom).

The bride and groom have asked that I don’t talk about any of (groom)’s mishaps, mistakes, or embarrassing moments, and instead do talk about the positive things in his life. I mean, you’ve made this incredibly difficult for me, but I’ll do my best.

*Get out a scrap of paper* (Groom)’s an amazing person. He’s funny, he’s kind, he’s incredibly clever. He’s even (studying to be an engineer, learning how to rollerblade, etc.)! Not only that, but he’s … wait … (groom), I can’t say that, man!

(Bride), you look lovely today; and (groom), you look sharper than ever in that suit! Cheers to a long, happy marriage for you both! But more so for (bride), because she’s really got her hands full now. Cheers!”

Key takeaway: Making fun of yourself more than you make fun of the groom will always be a hit. Also, don’t shy away from the roast-style “set ‘em up to punch ‘em down” jokes like the ones featured here. 

Make it your own: This speech runs less than two minutes. Make it longer and personalize it by adding a story about you and the groom growing up that you think says something about who he is today, either by contrast or extreme similarity. 

Short best man speech example: Get some quick laughs and an “aww” with a little something like this. 

“I really should have given my speech first since (maid of honor)’s speech was way better than mine, but this is all your fault (groom), so enjoy! Thank you all for coming and for those who helped make this wedding so beautiful. (Bride), you look absolutely stunning tonight. (Groom), well, you’re here tonight. All jokes aside, I’m really happy for you both. I always wanted (a sister, someone to help me wrangle the groom, etc.), and now I finally have one. So here’s a toast to the bride and groom!”

Key takeaway: A quick icebreaker, thank you, and joke followed by a sentimental thought is really all you need. 

Make it your own: Personalize the items in brackets to fit your sense of humor and situation. Reference real stories and moments at the wedding. 

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2. Use a template.

If memorizing a script feels like too much pressure, outline your main points, and improvise from there. Here’s a foolproof structure for any best man speech.

Introduce yourself and how you know the happy couple.

Thank the hosts or parents if they paid for the wedding.

Say something nice about their partner and something funny about them.

Tell a short, funny story about your relationship to the groom that ties into what makes the newlyweds’ relationship special too.

End on a sentimental note with your well wishes.

Pro tip: Brainstorm 3-5 anecdotes you like, sleep on it, then narrow down your options to your Top 2. 

3. Nail the opening line.

The most memorable opening line for a best man speech is funny, grabs the audience’s attention, and offers a twist at the end. For example: 

“(Groom) didn't have an easy decision in choosing his best man. First, he called his most successful friend, who said no. Then, he called his smartest friend, who said no. Then, he asked his most attractive friend, and he also said no. Then, he called me, and I said, ‘(groom), I can't say no to you four times.’” 

4. Tell great jokes.

Keep the slander to a minimum. Instead, focus on making fun of yourself or telling a story of which you’re both equally embarrassed. You can also take this opportunity to be comedically competitive, regardless of who comes out on top in your speech. 

For example, acknowledging how you’ve done better at something can be funny just as long as you then mention how they ended up being the winner anyway because they found their partner. 

You can also take this opportunity to let others know about an inside joke or a story of something you two did together that no one has heard before (as long as it won’t get you in trouble with their partner, of course). 

5. Sprinkle in one-liners.

Funny one-liners are a great way to get the audience’s energy up and keep them engaged before you end with a sentimental punch. Here are some examples that even grandma will appreciate.

(Bride), you look stunning. (Groom), you look stunned.

(Bride), you're so beautiful you make (groom) look ... (successful, famous, rich)?

(Bride), you’re the luckiest person in the world to lock down someone like my (friend, brother, etc.). (Groom) is so good looking, so considerate, so humble, so… (groom), I’m sorry, I can't read your handwriting here.

6. Consider your relationship.

The most impactful best man speeches take the relationship you have with the groom into account. Here are some tips for each major type.

Older brother getting married:

Limit yourself to one or two icebreaker insults. Any more and your speech turns into a roast. 

Highlight how much of an example the groom has set for you, for better or worse. 

Younger brother getting married:

Mention at least one meaningful way you’ve seen the groom grow over the years. 

Make a joke to their partner’s benefit about how the groom has “finally won” your sibling rivalry by finding them.

Dad getting married:

Incorporate an important life lesson your dad taught you and weave it into both your main story and your perspective on the wedding today. 

Express gratitude for all he has done for you. He’ll really appreciate it. 

Best friend getting married:

Mention a good quality you remember from the early days of your friendship such as their talent at field hockey or their love of knitting. 

Talk about what makes them special compared to the rest of your friend group in your eyes through the lens of a flattering story. 

If you don’t have a close relationship with the groom: Lean into their interests and use them as a metaphor for how you feel about their marriage. For example, a Star Wars buff might really appreciate a Luke and Leia comparison. Personalizing it like this will show how much you care by putting in more effort to get to know their interests and give you another thing to bond over long after the wedding is over. 

Hint: if it’s the groom’s second marriage, make sure you know who is in attendance before you start jokingly ripping into their ex. In fact, let them be the ones to make jokes about the situation.

Now you know how to give an amazing best man speech! 

Using the advice above, you now know everything about how to write and give a best man speech everyone will enjoy. Don’t be afraid to use borrowed examples, templates, or one-liners. As long as you personalize it and speak from the heart, your speech will be memorable. 

Up next, find other ways to leave your mark on the big day with some super fun and unique bridal party entrance ideas .

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Best Man Speech: The Definitive Guide to Smashing it

by Catherine D July 12, 2019

Here’s all you need to deliver an incredible and unforgettable best man speech.

Congratulations!

You’ve just been awarded the highest honor a bro can receive.  You’re the best man! And that’s an honor greater than being knighted by the queen. But I’m sure you know what comes with it.

You’ll have to give that best man speech brosef!

Though, you won’t want to give just any speech off the top of your head that nobody is going to give a damn about.

Just remember what Uncle Ben said to Spidey, “With great power comes great responsibility”. It’s that serious, man.

You’ve probably seen best man speeches like this before. The guy stands up, hits the glass and says something, uninspired, about how he’s bros with the groom, congratulates the bride-to-be, and then sits down.

Or maybe you’ve seen another kind of speech, where the best man stands up and talks about nothing for 10+ minutes, putting you to sleep, because who even cares?

During a reception, there are about a million different things going on. People will forget the things that do not grab their attention, especially at a reception.

Everyone there is busy talking, eating, laughing, and will not care or even remember a boring speech in a few days. But not yours, my friend, you’re going to be the star of the day.

In this guide, we give you everything you need to know in sequence - from the writing process, all the way to delivering that wedding toast. Get your notepad ready for some very important tips on giving your wedding toast!

Writing the Best Man Speech

So How Do You Write the Best Man Speech?

The hardest part is always just getting started. Here are some basic tips on how to write a best man speech so that you can be prepared and dominate when the time comes.

Be Prepared and Plan Ahead

Practice makes perfect. Creating a fantastic speech doesn’t happen overnight.

If you’re going to wow the audience, you’ll need to make sure you’ve done everything you possibly can and covered every base - and man, that takes time.

Generally, 2-3 months is the right amount of time to give yourself when writing for a best man speech to account for the overall writing process and potential rewrites.

Considering all of the events that follow, like the bachelor party and the suit fitting, you’ll be too busy in those final moments to prepare a killer best man speech that’s even half decent.

Record Every Thought

You might be on the bus or in your car and think of an incredible quote or one-liner to say in your wedding toast, but our memories are very limited.

It’s difficult to remember what you even had for lunch two days ago, much less something you thought up some random time.

No matter where you are, record your thoughts. You could write in a journal, use your iPhone’s “Voice Memos” app or an app like Evernote . Scratch them onto a napkin, carve them into a stone near you, just get those wedding toast ideas down!

As long as you start capturing your thoughts, you’ll eventually reach a gold mine.

Think of this more as ‘capturing’ than ‘writing’. It’s easier to capture your raw best man speech ideas than banging your head on the wall trying to ‘write’ something from scratch.

How to Write a Best Man Speech Tip

Keep a Positive Tone

When it comes to the best man speech, the main thing to keep in mind is the goal of what you want to accomplish - celebrating the bride and groom. Here are some things to focus on:

  • Your best experiences with the groom.
  • How great a pair the bride and groom are.
  • The best qualities of the groom.
  • Possible first thoughts on the bride when they met (If they were good thoughts!)

Focus on the best of times, and further expand upon those points the best you can and maybe you can use those for a few wedding jokes!

With that in mind, here’s what not to say:

What Not to Talk About in Your Speech

While you may be writing to make your groom laugh, you need to remember your audience is diverse. You have children, elders, and teenagers so you wouldn’t want to write something inappropriate.

Generally, it’s best to avoid things like these:

  • Any previous relationships.
  • Anything about drugs, alcohol, gambling.
  • Perverse topics, or anything of a sexual nature.
  • Harsh negativity.
  • Inside jokes that are too specific.

The idea is to avoid anything raunchy or disheartening during your speech, even if it might be hilarious in your head, you’ll have to avoid it in your best man speech.

Think about how upset Grandma would be if you happened to talk about how her little Jimmy actually hasn’t been saving himself for marriage - what horror!

How Long Should a Best Man Speech Be?

So you have a great speech, and you’ve covered every single talking point that fit. Everyone’s going to love this, right?

Wrong! When writing a best man speech, you’ll want to keep it way, way shorter.

The problem is that what you wrote is almost 30 minutes long! No bueno amigo. Nothing on this Earth could keep people engaged in a wedding toast that long.

You’re not going for a ‘F.D.R. Repairing the American Psyche During The Great Depression’ type of speech. What you want is more like an ‘I Love You, Man’ speech.

It seems like everyone from everywhere throws out an arbitrary number ranging from 1-10 minutes, but really, research shows our attention span is even shorter than a goldfish .

Which means you have 8 seconds to make an impression . Let that sink in.

The best man speech is usually between meals at a reception. That means you have to make your mark - and get in what you have to say in a short time. Meaning that short best man speeches are perfectly fine, you don’t have to overthink it.

It can be 1 minute, it can be 5 minutes.  Keep the audience engaged in your speech and don’t ramble off unnecessarily.

How do you do that? Practice!

It’s All About Practice

You know, it’s okay to feel unsatisfied with what you wrote. After all, you’re not the most accomplished writer in the world. You just want to prepare a great best man speech and get back to Netflix binging.

The writing process can be tough, so here’s an ideal approach that most people use when writing the best material:

  • Write a few pages of content just to get the speech ideas out.
  • Realize that you’ve written a movie's worth of material.
  • Take what you really like.
  • Edit until you stop hating it.

Being intimidated serves no purpose.

Get Interviewed Bruh

If you’re not the best writer (or capturer), the previous steps might seem a little intimidating to you. That’s fine. Not everyone can put pen to paper as well as they’d like, and if that’s you, consider having a friend interview you!

Getting a friend or family member to interview you about your experiences with the groom is a great way of getting wedding speech ideas. Here are a few topics to get interviewed on:

  • Where did you meet?
  • Did you like each other at first?
  • When did you become bros?
  • What kind of crazy experiences did you have together?
  • What kind of bad qualities does he have?
  • What kind of good qualities does he have?

Answering these questions with a recording device can help you when you need to put the best man speech together, and you can recall things you might never have just by writing!

Be (Relatively) Sober

Even if you have a Wade Boggs alcohol tolerance, it’s best to keep the drinks to a minimum.

( The guy drank 64 beers on one cross country flight, what the hell? )

Having one or two drinks is fine if it helps calm the nerves, but any more will mess up any chance of giving a decent best man toast, and you’ll just look silly slurring your words or acting strangely. Remember, all eyes are on you during your best man speech.

Best Man Speech Jokes

Try Some Best Man Speech Jokes or Quotes

So suppose you’ve got your speech together, but you have a placeholder like:

[ Put a joke in here! ] in 3-4 spots, and you really have no idea what to put in there.

We got you covered.

Here are some best man speech opening lines you could work with and personalize for whatever you may need, because the opportunity for wedding jokes is a rare thing! These make great icebreakers to warm your audience up.

“Well, where do I even start? [Groom] is just incredible. He’s brilliant, funny, caring… Anyway, I can’t really read your handwriting [Groom], so just tell me whatever the rest was after.”

“[Bride], you really are an incredible woman. You deserve an absolutely incredible husband, so I’m not going to stop until I figure out what’s wrong here.”

“Thank you everyone for bearing with me, I Googled ‘best man speech jokes’ and every site asked for my credit card before showing me any examples, so here goes nothing.”

Best Man Speech Jokes Tip

“For those of you who know the bride, she’s really a wonderful woman who deserves a wonderful man. So good job, [Groom], for marrying her before she found one.”

“For anyone who finds this speech particularly not funny, I got all of my jokes from [Groom] so please, blame that guy.”

“Ladies and gentlemen, I wasn’t given a microphone tonight and I deeply apologize. To anyone in the back, If you hear silence at the front, be sure that you’re not missing anything.”

“Ladies and gentlemen, before I begin this speech I’d just like to say I am absolutely thrilled that I beat the bartender at rock-paper-scissors twenty minutes ago for the honor of best man.”

Best Man Speech Outline

Putting Together a Best Man Speech Outline

Now that you have an idea of how to write a best man speech, it’s just as important to know how to structure it. While there are canned free best man speech templates out there, it's really best to get a bird's eye view on what you want to say and create a structure that works for you personally. Don't just take any random free speech template from online and fire it up. Not every outline or template will work for your needs, so get a good idea of your vision first then begin to structure it.

Flow matters, and it’s the most important thing in putting together great best man speeches. Without good flow, you’ll lose the crowd and people won’t follow what you’re saying.

Best Man Speech Outline Tip

Here are some great ideas to nail the best man speech structure and make your speech shine.

The Introduction

The introduction needs to serve a single purpose: Getting people engaged! This is the key aspect of any best man speech formula.

The One-Liner Approach

An incredible one-liner is a great way of getting started. A good idea for this would be to roast the groom a little bit, he probably wouldn’t mind.

For example, what faults does he have? You can take advantage of that to make slight jabs at him.

Or you can even make fun of yourself in the process, what do you both suck at? Maybe you want to talk about that awkward mullet phase you both had in high school. Live it up!

The Congratulatory Approach

Alternatively, you can open by showing gratitude to:

  • The bride and groom, for bringing everyone together.
  • The guests, for attending this incredible event.
  • The parents of the bride and groom, for bringing them into this world.

This approach is a good option at the beginning. You can use it as a Plan B if you think you can’t gather an appropriate one-liner.

It’s easy to get lost in thought about what to follow up a good opener in a best man speech, but nothing is safer than a good story to engage your audience.

The idea is to create a connection to the groom and then present it to the guests.

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

  • Where you met the groom.
  • What makes him a great guy.
  • Crazy stories that show who he is.
  • Why he’s an excellent fit for the bride.
  • How he changed for the better after he met the bride.

Really, anything goes, and they’re all sure to keep people interested. Focus on the organic story of your friendship and don’t be robotic.

You’ll want to accomplish this in a way that stays kosher, though, avoiding unsavory details mentioned in our #4 tip.

Congratulate the Bride

So, you don’t have to do this, but we definitely encourage it. The issue is, not everyone really knows the bride. Honestly, maybe you met her a month ago, or a week ago.

Who knows, you could have met her literally just now. When your buddy gets hitched, it’s quite common to not really know the lady herself.

If this is true, you can handle this two ways:

Stick to something like:

“I knew she was a great fit for you the moment I saw you together”.

“She really is the perfect match for you dude.”

Sure the groom will know you barely know her, but whatever, if he really is your bro, he’ll appreciate that you’re saving face like this.

2. Avoid it.

Look, you’re the best man, it means the groom chose you, he knows you. Which means that he’s most likely expecting your best man speech to be about your experiences together, so keep the content focused around your relationship.

This means that it’s okay to avoid any mention of the bride after the first few words when writing a best man speech.

It works in most cases to just congratulate her in the intro, and then continue on with your speech avoiding her entirely.

This might sound a little underhanded, but it works, and most likely, the audience won’t notice.

If you know the bride, then speak about her.

If you’re just as close to the bride as you are to the groom, then you need to take all of the prior steps to make a compelling speech for the bride too, which won’t make the best man toast easy but hey, you don’t want to piss her off.

You could share a story about her too, or you can talk about one where the bride and groom shared with you, which is always a safe bet.

How to End Your Wedding Toast

Here’s where you wrap up your thoughts, and keep this part short, you don’t have to stress it too much.

It’s as easy as saying something like,

“Jack, Jill, to a lifetime of good health, love, and joy!”

There are a thousand different things you can say here, but the main idea is to keep the tone positive, upbeat, congratulate their love and wish the best for them.

NOTE: It is absolutely acceptable to keep a paper copy of your speech on hand because you’re not remembering your speeches like a world leader at the U.N. You’re just a guy who’s happy for his bro.

Best Man Speech Examples

Best Man Speech Examples

Even if you have everything else down, it’s always best to have some speech examples of how to tackle your wedding toast.

People have done it before you, so why go in blind? Here are some different types of best man speeches for unique scenarios you may want to try for your best man toast.

Funny Best Man Speech (Example)

“Hello Everyone, I’m John, I’m the best man, and if you find this speech unfunny, [Groom] and I have the same sense of humor, so please blame him.

I’m just joking, of course, I promised [Groom] I wouldn’t roast him too much today or talk about anything too weird, so I’ll just talk about the good parts of his character...

...Thank you, everyone, have a great evening.

But really, [Groom] and I have been friends since before I knew how even to tie my own shoelaces. He’s a brother to me, even more than my actual brother, sometimes.

Sorry, Alex.”

Best Man Speech Examples Tip

Emotional Best Man Speech (Example)

“Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. I’m the best man, Chris. [Groom] and I go way back, all the way from high school. Through the years, he’s grown from a pain in the ass, into a fine man.

[Groom] was always shy when it came to meeting new people, and that’s sorta hard to hear considering how a guy like that could be such a perfect match with [Bride]. But I can’t imagine him without you, because I’ve seen what it looked like.

[Bride], you are both so dear to me, please take care of [Groom], please keep him out of trouble.”

Short Best Man Speech (Example)

“Good evening, everyone, from the moment that [Groom] met [Bride], I knew that this was going to be something special.

The way you two talk to each other, you’re so alike sometimes that honestly, it kind of scares me.

But to quote Mark Twain, ‘To get the full value of joy you must have someone to divide it with.’ May your love be timeless.”

Hopefully these wedding toast examples give you ideas on how to model your own best man speech!

How to Give a Best Man Speech

The Presentation - Delivering the Best Man Speech

You have the writing and the flow down. Great! Most of the hard work is all done.

But don’t forget, you’re delivering a best man speech. And grand statements are always accompanied by excellent speech etiquette.

Here are some best man speech tips that’ll help you deliver, so that you don’t look like an uncomfortable 4th grader at a talent show your Mom forced you into.

Practice Your Speech on Camera

You’re noticing a trend, right? Practicing the actual delivery of the best man speech in front of a camera is a great way to see what poor and good habits you have.

And then, you need to keep practicing to eliminate the bad ones. For example, do you notice that you slump too much? Do you happen to mumble? Do you look down a lot?

Take note of all of these when you look at the recording and then try the speech again while mindfully avoiding bad habits and watching out for awkwardly delivered wedding jokes.

Practice in Front of People

Sure, using a camera is an excellent way to correct issues, but there’s nothing better than getting an outsider opinion.

Getting a spectator to sit and watch you deliver your best man toast lets someone tear into your bad habits without any bias. It may be painful, but this is what you want, and a larger group of people is best.

That way, when it’s time to give the best man speech, the concerns an audience member might have are already known to you.

How to Give a Best Man Speech Tip

The Honest Truth Man

Remember that a best man speech is a celebration of the love and joy that the bride and groom share. You don’t have to stress about every minor detail, because the audience isn’t (and they’ll most likely all be drunk anyway).

They’re already lightened up, and in the mood for a good few words, so why spend your time being nervous? It’s not worth it. Enjoy yourself up there and just deliver that crushing best man toast.

After it’s through, you can start drinking again, which is what you’ll probably want to do anyway.

Say what you have to say, and raise a toast to the bride and groom. Use this guide as a helpful resource and come back to it as many times as you need to ensure a totally awesome best man speech.

Best man speech tips

Good luck on your best man speech!

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Best Man Speech: The Ultimate Guide (5 Examples & FAQs)

  • Magical Words

The Ultimate Best Man Speech Guide (Examples And Templates Included)

  • Posted by by Lisa Plaitt

Being picked to be the best man is such a great honor. You will feel blessed that the groom has thought of you, and considers you the best man and friend for the job.

But, as the wedding draws nearer, there’s one thing on your mind. No, it’s not the bachelor party… It’s the best man’s speech(see also: Best Ways to End Your Best Man’s Speech ). 

As the best man, you will likely have many responsibilities in the run up towards the wedding. You’ll have to try on suits, organize the bachelor party, but the best man speech is the thing that most look forward to, or dread!

Standing up in front of many guests, some of which you may not have met before can be nerve wracking to say the least. It’s such an important task, and a part of the wedding that many guests look forward to. 

A best man speech needs to hook the audience in, reveal some funny stories about the groom, and even the bride, but also wish the couple well, and spread some laughter amongst the audience.

But, you have to do all of this in one single speech that can’t be too long, and can’t be too short! 

So, how can you nail the best man speech? Well, that’s where we come in handy. We can offer you this ultimate guide to creating a best man speech, including tips, structure and examples you can take inspiration from. 

How To Structure A Best Man Speech

Not everyone is gifted with the ability to speak clearly and confidently to a crowd. It can be very nerve racking, and make you anxious to say the least.

If you’re unsure of how to go about planning your best man speech, then we can help you out with this simple structure to follow and keep yourself on track. 

This structure is a sort of guide, you don’t have to use it, but it’s a good idea to follow the structure so you cover all bases when doing the speech.

It can also help you when actually performing the speech, as you’ll know what needs to come next and in which order to go over your stories and anecdotes.

A good best man speech begins with:

  • An Introduction

Use the introduction to introduce yourself to the crowd. Not everyone will know who you are in the wedding, so it’s a nice way to break the ice and get rid of any awkwardness.

Try introducing yourself with a funny one liner about who you are and how you know the happy couple.

  • Talk About How You Met/Know The Groom

Next, it’s a good idea to briefly cover how you met the groom, or how long you’ve known each other. You can give a little history of how far back you go, and mention how honored you are to be the best man. 

  • Anecdotes About The Groom

Here comes the fun part! Now is the time to start telling a funny story about the groom. The emphasis here is on funny and not too embarrassing or gross. Choose two or three short anecdotes or stories, but don’t overdo it. 

  • Balance Poking Fun With Sincerity

After you’ve had your fun, balance this out by saying something meaningful and sincere about the groom, his qualities or your friendship. 

  • Briefly Talk About How You Know The Bride

In this section, you can talk about your first meeting with the bride, how she came into the groom’s life, and how great of a match you believe them to be. 

  • Wish Them All The Best

Finally, wish the couple all the best for their future together with a sincere, caring comment. Then, toast to the happy couple! 

Best Man Speech Do’s And Don’ts

Best Man Speech Do’s And Don’ts

There are definitely a few do’s and don’ts when it comes to speaking at someone’s wedding. You’ll want to keep it concise, funny, but not too over the top jokey. Here’s our recommendations of what to do, and what not to do. 

First things first, you’ll want to plan ahead, and write a few stories and anecdotes down that you can remember. Do this for a few weeks before the wedding, so it gives you time to come up with the right memories to share. 

Try brainstorming ideas with other members of the family or bridal party to come up with the best things to share about the groom and his bride. Then, you can narrow down the list and find the most impactful or most important things to talk about.

You should also consider who this speech is going to be said around.

If the groom’s very traditional great aunt or grandma is there, it could be a good idea to avoid any crass, rude stories that could make family members uncomfortable. Save those lines for the bachelor party! 

Do pause for reactions. You don’t want to talk too fast or fly through the speech as those who have laughed at the last line may miss the next one. Always leave small gaps or pauses for reactions, applause or responses. 

Finally, make sure you focus on the couple, not just the groom.

This day is about the two of them. While you are doing a speech because you are the best man to the groom, it is important that you bring in the bride/partner in your speech so that overall you are wishing both of them well on their new adventure. 

What Not To Do

Don’t wing it! You may have some liquid courage on the night, but you need this speech to be a crowd pleaser, so be sure to take your notes and go over the speech in your head just before you have to do it. 

Don’t use foul language, or inflammatory language. You don’t want to cause a dark cloud over the event by offending anyone or causing a scene.

The same goes for mentioning exes (who could well be at the wedding) or bringing up sore subjects during the speech. Keep it fun, lighthearted, and hilarious. 

Don’t use cliches like The groom is like a brother to me. Instead, demonstrate your close bond by telling a story or giving an example of when he treated you like family, and made you feel welcome.

This is far more impactful and will really get the audience involved in your speech. 

Finally, and this is an important one- don’t make it about you. This is not your shining moment, your time will come.

Ensure you’re not talking about yourself too much, and always bringing it back to the bride and groom, because that’s what the audience really wants to hear about.

It’s a chance for them to see the couple in a different light, from your perspective, not learn everything about you. 

Tips For Writing A Best Man Speech

Example Of Best Man Speeches

We’ve also got some brief tips for writing and performing your best man speech!

  • Practice before the actual speech
  • Don’t include inside jokes- they will fall on deaf ears
  • Keep it short and sweet – don’t go over the top with long stories/memories
  • Don’t use cringey cliches
  • Don’t mention exes- even as a joke
  • Use clean language
  • Don’t say anything political/inflammatory
  • Tell a story about the groom and the couple as a pair
  • Don’t just focus on the groom
  • Always end on a high – make a nice toast and comment about the couple

Qualities To Talk About In The Best Man Speech

Qualities To Talk About In The Best Man Speech

Throughout your speech, it is important to keep a running theme. If the joke you are telling is unrelated, it won’t have as much drive and impact.

For instance, if you’re talking about the groom’s thoughtfulness, use funny anecdotes that relate to this, and bring it back to that whenever possible.

Here are some other qualities that are worth mentioning:

  • Sense of humor: If the groom is known for his quick wit and humor, be sure to incorporate this into your speech. Share a funny story or two that showcases his sense of humor and make the guests laugh.
  • Generosity: If the groom is known for his kindness and generosity, talk about a specific instance where he went out of his way to help someone in need. This will show the guests the type of person he truly is.
  • Loyalty: Mention the groom’s unwavering loyalty to his friends and family. Talk about how he has been there for you and others in the past and how this trait is so important in a relationship.
  • Intelligence: If the groom is intelligent and knowledgeable, highlight this in your speech. Talk about his impressive achievements or interests that show his intelligence and passion.
  • Adventure: If the groom is someone who is always up for a new adventure, talk about his love for travel or exploring new things. This will show the guests his spontaneous and adventurous side.

For example, you could say:

Where do I begin with the groom’s sharp sense of humor? He’s a true master of wit, who can leave even the most experienced comedian in awe. A particularly memorable instance was when him and his bride went on a picnic; after he inadvertently dropped their sandwiches into a nearby pond, he remarked ‘Well, it looks like we’re having fish sandwiches today!’. The bride couldn’t help but laugh out loud at how quickly he turned an unfortunate situation into something humorous – that is simply the type of person this groom is. 

Groom has always had a very caring, loving nature. He would do anything for anyone. Except that one time I asked him to water my plants while I was on vacation. He brought all of the guys over to ‘water my plants’! Thanks for that, Groom. Just kidding, Groom is incredibly thoughtful and compassionate towards all who meet him, which is a quality I believe brought him closer to Bride. 

You want to talk about his great qualities, poke a little fun, or share a funny story, but then talk about how these qualities have translated into his relationship with his partner, or how they have brought them closer together. 

Best Man Speech Examples

Good evening everyone. For those of you who don’t know me, I’m Tom, younger brother and best man of the groom. For those of you that do know me…heeeeeeey! 

I have known Jack for…X years now (your age) and have always looked up to him. He had it all, the career, the intelligence, the sense of humor, and now the girl. Then again, I got the good looks. 

In all seriousness, I have always looked up to my big brother. He’s always had a flair for sports, and genuinely has a heart of gold.

Being the youngest of the two of us, Jack has made me a better man, mainly because of the character building he put me through as a child. Jack would love taunting me by stealing my favorite stuffed animals. 

I cherished my favorite, Mr. Snuggles, until one day Jack told me to come downstairs and see the new toy that our Rottweiler had been given.

I was so excited to see our little furry boy happy and playing with his toy until I realized that Jack had offered up Mr. Snuggles in sacrifice with a huge grin on his face. It was a day I won’t forget. 

Despite the taunting and the terrorizing, Jack has been the man that I’ve always aspired to be. In all of the years I’ve been around Jack, he’s always been tenacious and worked hard for what he wants. And he’s always gotten it.

After asking Jenny out the first time, and she said no , he didn’t give up. He knew she was the one for him! It’s a good thing he has the patience of a saint, as it took another 3 attempts to get the first date! 

With Jack being the older, but not often the wiser brother, he managed to get himself into some mishaps in the past.

When he did finally get a chance to take Jenny out on a date, he turned up at the wrong house, and managed to slip and break his shoulder all in one fantastic, first meeting with the parents.

Smoooth, brother. At least he made it an unforgettable start to their journey together. 

With Jenny at his side, Jack’s clumsy mishaps are less and less. You truly bring out the best in him, Jen. I would say welcome to the family, but you’ve been a part of our lives for some time already, and I am truly blessed to be able to call you my new sister. 

From day one, you’ve fit right in, as you too have taken on the role of teasing Jack just as I wanted. Let me tell you guys, there have been many pranks that Jenny and I have pulled off on Jack.

One time, we hid all of his left shoes, until the confusion nearly drove him to madness…and he had to deliver his board meeting like some kind of two right footed lunatic. 

Other times, we’ve hidden around the house just when Jack is coming home from a long day at the office, to ambush him with Nerf guns until he pleads for mercy! Let’s just say justice has been served for Mr. Snuggles. 

I quickly realized that Jenny and Jack were cut from the same mold. You two are a real example of what it means to marry your best friend, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for the two of you.

So everyone, if you could raise your glass…and toast- to the bride and groom! 

Show Emotion

Hi everyone! For those of you who don’t know me already, I am Zach, the best man of James! When James asked me to be the best man I felt like it was such an honor.

Then he reminded me that it’s not just about organizing the bachelor party and I have to actually come to the wedding so…here I am. 

I’ve known James for so many years now, having met him at high school. In those years, it’s become clear what a fantastic friend he is. He’s handsome, kind, brilliant, funny…and sorry (looks at Groom) mate I can’t read your handwriting here. I’ll just wing it. 

Just kidding. Me and James have been through thick and thin. I’ve watched him go from a weedy, awkward teenager to a less weedy, awkward adult!

Britney would probably argue with me over the adult part! James has always had that boyish sense of humor that’s often gotten us into trouble over the years. 

I remember James would always be the class clown in high school. But for some reason, it was always me getting in trouble. One day, I glanced over in class to see James scribbling away on his desk.

He’s probably carving out some obscenity in the wood I thought.

This is why it came as such a shock when later that day it was I who was called into the principal’s office, and as I walked with my head hung in shame to my fate, James smiled wide and proudly.

Little did I know it was my name he had carved into the wood, so I could sit in detention after class!   

Ever since that day, James and I have been at war with one another to get the other one back! But deep down, I know that James would do anything for me. If I needed someone at 4am, James is that friend.

Despite our differences, I know he’s as good as family to me, and all of the Henderson’s have welcomed me into their home on many occasions, and now Britney gets to have that same privilege. 

Britney brings out the absolute best in James, and has given us an incredible gift in bringing two wonderful boys into our lives. With Britney, James gets someone who is beautiful, smart, caring, and Britney…well, you get James. 

In all seriousness, if Britney gets half as much joy in being married to James, that I have had in being his friend over the years, then she will be incredibly lucky indeed. 

On behalf of all the groomsmen, bridesmaids and myself, I would like to thank James and Britney for having us be a part of their special day. I know how hard you’ve worked to make this a day to remember, and you’ve definitely succeeded. 

I wish you both all of the happiness, joy and good luck in the world, as you take these steps towards your future together. To the bride and groom, everyone! (Cheers). 

Hello everyone. My name is Joe and I’d just like to thank John for finally confirming that I am in fact – the best man, after 20 years of friendship. 20 years is a long time.

Just think, back then…Low rise jeans were in fashion, Spiderman was the favorite superhero, and Ben Affleck and J-Lo were together. So really, nothing has changed in 20 years, and the same goes for our friendship. 

If I ever needed building up, or bringing back down to earth, John was the man to do it. He’s always been there for me, through thick and thin. And let’s face it…during the college years, we were more thick than thin!

But, we had each other’s backs no matter what.

I remember one time in college, we decided that reading books and writing our own essays just wasn’t for us anymore. We decided to pay someone to write us an essay, and we would switch it up to pass the class.

From that day on a keen businessman was born- be careful everyone- you’ll probably get a bill for your food! 

It all would have gone swimmingly if John hadn’t forgotten to change the name on the essay, but he never took me down with him!

Since then, I’ve realized what a tenacious person, good friend and loyal individual John was, and it’s an absolute blessing to be up here with you tonight as your best man. 

There is one very important person who is not sitting on this top table with us today, and that is John’s mother, Cathy, who sadly passed away just last year.

I’ve joked a lot about John tonight, but I know that Cathy would be incredibly proud to see the man that you have become, and over the moon of how happy you are today with Mia.

So, if you wouldn’t mind joining me in raising a glass to John’s mom, who can’t be with us today, but is with us in spirit. Cheers. 

On behalf of the wedding party, I would just like to say a huge thank you to John and Mia, for including us in their special day.

It’s been a wonderful day so far, and all Mia’s hard work planning and prepping has truly paid off. John, you just sit there and look pretty. 

In addition, I’d like to thank both Mia’s parents, and John’s dad who have helped make this day extra special for the happy couple, which I’m sure they are eternally grateful for. 

I’d also like to say that the bridesmaids have done an incredible job helping Mia plan the perfect wedding, and for making sure that Mia looks every bit as beautiful as she does today.

They also had the difficult task of getting Mia to the church on time, which if you know Mia is a very big achievement, indeed. 

Finally, I’d like to thank the groomsmen for organizing and completing the best bachelor party Miami has ever seen. I only hope it was the send off John was hoping for before he begins the next stage of his life with Mia. (But I highly doubt it) 

John, I’ve loved being your best friend, and I thank you for bringing Mia into our lives. She’s a beautiful person, intelligent, and brings out the best in everyone she meets. Her only downfall is her taste in men! Just kidding. 

Seriously, I think everyone will join me in saying that we wish you only the best for your future together, and that we all can share one day in a love like yours. Cheers to the bride and groom! 

Ladies and Gentleman, I have an announcement to make. If there is anyone here tonight that is feeling nervous, apprehensive, or maybe even a little nauseous at what lies ahead…then it’s probably because you’ve just married Adam. 

For those of you who don’t know who I am, I am the best man, James. There are few words to describe Adam. Handsome, funny, but smart isn’t one of them. You see, Adam was my best man, at my wedding, and boy he did not hold back!

So, as we stand here today, know that my time has come for me to get you back!

Before I start the character assassination that is my best man’s speech, let me just thank Adam and Olivia for having us be a part of this very special day.

I know how much work has gone into making today as great as it has been, so thank you both for pulling it off! To be honest, I never thought Adam would find someone to marry, let alone someone as beautiful and amazing as Olivia!

I’ve known Adam for a very long time, all the way back to when he still had hair! We first met during our studies at X University. At first I thought we had nothing in common, but I quickly found out that we did. We would both likely fail our first year!

Our time at University was one of the best in my life, and I’ve far too many stories to tell you about our lovely Adam here. 

But, as the BEST man, I won’t do to him what he did to me. Instead, I’ll talk about his lovely qualities over the years. First up, is his beautiful singing voice. I can’t tell you how many times I heard the works of Marvin Gaye after he met Olivia.

We quickly banned singing in the shower at our dorm because of all the love songs he would belt out after going on a date with Olivia. To say he was smitten from the start is an understatement. 

And why wouldn’t he be? All those who know Olivia know what a lovely, and caring person she is. She deserves a good husband. Thank god Adam got there first before she could find one! 

Another defining quality that drew Olivia to Adam is his caring nature. We’re incredibly proud of Adam for working as an EMT and helping people every day.

I’ll never forget the time a few years back during a friendly soccer game where I slipped and fell over on my side, snapping and breaking my ankle.

Adam was at my side within SECONDS…to let me know he caught my fall on video. Emergency Medical Services *Scoff*. Only when he saw the angle of my ankle did his medical training kick in.

All jokes aside, Adam and Olivia have always been there for me, and I them. I’d like to think of them as family rather than friends, and can only hope that continues going forward.

Adam and Olivia…I’ve never met two people more perfect for one another. You are both kind, old souls, and you make each other incredibly happy. So, if you all could raise your glasses with me, and toast to this amazing couple…to the bride and groom!  

Example 5

Hello everyone. My name is Kane, and I am the best man, and longtime friend of Rob. I was, however, somewhat surprised to be asked to be the best man, as Rob has never been able to admit this over the years.

At first, I thought this was great. I get to plan a bachelor party for Rob, but then he reminds me I have to write a killer speech that would likely make everyone laugh. 

I had no idea where to start, so I decided to trawl the internet for inspiration. After a few hours, I found some really….really…great stuff. But then I remembered I needed to write a speech, so I got off YouTube. 

I asked friends and family for advice, and according to tradition, I am supposed to sing Rob’s praises and tell you all about his fantastic qualities. Well, sorry to tell you, but I can’t sing and I don’t lie. So that’s out of the window. 

But, Sophia told me I can’t say anything too rude or controversial about Rob. Instead, I can only say nice funny things, so with that in mind, thank you and goodnight all. 

Just kidding. Seriously, Rob is one of the most kind, funny, caring and compassionate people I have ever met. This is a quality that I think brought Sophia closer to him.

His willingness to do anything for anyone, without accepting anything in return is what makes Rob extra special, and a joy to be around. 

In turn, Sophia is one of the sweetest, and funnest ladies I have ever met! We’ve shared many great memories together, with my partner included, as Sophia and Rob are actually our children’s godparents. 

I’ve known Rob for years. We grew up only a few doors apart on our street. I thought there was no kid cooler than Rob. He had all of the best hot wheels, Pokemon cards, and I had a huge crush on his big sister, Natalie *winks at groom’s sister*.

Looking back, I was probably a big nuisance always wanting to go play over his house, but I had some of the best time of my life growing up with Rob by my side. We’ve been there for every big moment of each other’s lives.

Graduation, getting our first jobs, our first cars, and now I get to be here for the biggest day of his life, where he gets to marry the beautiful Sophia. 

Sophia and Rob, your love for each other shines through you. Sophia, I’m happy to step down as I can see that you two are truly best friends, and meant to be.

I can’t think of anyone better to look after my Rob here, and I know he will do everything he can to look after you for the rest of his days. 

Thank you both so much for a fantastic day. If the rest of your lives is half as good as today has been, then you are in for a joyful marriage indeed. Please join me everyone in raising a glass to the newly weds, Rob and Sophia. Cheers! 

Best Man Speech Frequentl Asked Questions

Does the best man have to do a speech.

The best man does not have to give a speech if he really does not want to, or if there isn’t enough time because there are other people doing speeches, but it is tradition and expected of the best man to do a speech. 

When Does The Best Man’S Speech Happen?

The best man speech will typically happen after the groom has said a few words. However, every wedding is different, and the bride and groom may organize the day differently depending on how they think the speeches should flow. 

How Long Should A Best Man Speech Be?

A best man speech should be short and sweet, but not too short, and not too long. A happy medium is about 5-6 minutes in length. You don’t want it to be shorter than 3 minutes as it may seem too brief.

The point is to keep the audience engaged, and deliver a few anecdotes, thank the bride and groom, and raise a toast. 

What Should You Include In A Best Man Speech?

There are a few things that you should include in the best man speech. This is who you are, and how you know the bride and groom.

In addition, you need a fun story about the groom and you, and why you think the bride and groom are an excellent match, followed by your best wishes for the couple and a toast to their future together. 

Who Should You Thank In A Best Man Speech?

In the best man speech, you should thank the bride and groom of course, but you can also thank the bridesmaids or groomsmen for their efforts, or say thank you to the parents of the bride and groom, especially if they have contributed a lot to the wedding.

To summarize, writing a best man speech is not all as bad as it seems.

With this ultimate guide, you’ve got all of the tools you need to succeed, and successfully deliver a hilarious, fun, lighthearted speech that is sure to wish the couple all of the best for the future.

Whether you are looking for examples, tips, what to do, or what not to do, we’ve covered it all in this handy guide.

Now, instead of stressing out about what you are going to say, how you are going to say it, you can look forward to the wedding planning process in the run up to the big day, and most importantly…the bachelor party!

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Hello, I’m Lisa Plaitt and I have been married to my wonderful husband for almost five years. We met almost a decade ago now and I love him more everyday. But on my wedding day - the day that was supposed to be about celebrating us - I was far too stressed to enjoy it. My husband proposed to me in spring and it was a very lowkey setting, in our backyard without anyone else around to see it. It was a perfect proposal. But then everything got real, and I was suddenly thrust into planning mode.

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Follow This Perfect Best Man Speech: Tips + Examples

Written by  Shutterfly Community Last Updated: Oct 12, 2018

You’ve been chosen as the best man. Congratulations! It’s a great feeling to know that your friend or relative wants you to take part as his right-hand man in one of the best days of his life.

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One of the most important duties as best man is the best man speech. Traditionally the speech is given during the reception before the guests eat. Whether you are great with public speaking or a little intimidated by standing in front of a large group, we have all the tools you need in order to be best prepared, so don’t sweat it.

how to write a best man speech for older brother

The Do’s and Don’ts For Preparing Your Best Man Speech

Don’t wing it..

Find a time a couple of months before the wedding to think about the things you want to talk about and write an outline. Most likely you’ll get caught up in best man activities with the groom and it will leave you with less time as the date approaches.

Do write a great intro.

The intro is the most important part of the speech because it grabs the audience’s attention. Try a funny one-liner, a story about you and the groom or even a compliment to his lovely new wife.

Don’t bring up past relationships.

Not only is it disrespectful to his wife but his wife’s family will also be there and will not want to hear about the groom’s litany of ex-girlfriends.

Do have a plan B.

Make sure you have the speech written down or outlined and have some jokes or points to cover if you are facing a tough crowd.

Don’t make negative jokes about marriage.

Even if you and the groom have an inside joke or if you have negative ideas about settling down, the audience doesn’t need to know. Also, don’t use curse words at any point during the speech, as you don’t know who in the audience you might offend.

Do practice.

Practice makes perfect. Going over the speech several times will ensure that you are comfortable with what you are saying and it will sound more natural.  Pro tip: record your speech on your phone’s voice memos and play back.

Don’t talk about the groom in compromising situations.

So you’ve seen the groom embarrass himself but you should keep that to yourself. You don’t want to make anyone uncomfortable or upset his wife.

Do congratulate the couple.

Make a toast, congratulate them and say what your wishes are for them in their new life.

Don’t make it longer than 7 minutes.

Although speeches are a fun part of the reception, making it too long can bore the hungry guests. If it’s a casual reception keep it to about three minutes, for a more formal setting seven minutes is more than enough time.

Do thank the guests.

As the groom’s right-hand man, make sure you thank everyone who attended and even the people working the event. It’s a nice gesture that will be appreciated.

A Simple Best Man Speech Outline

If you want a speech that is short, sweet and simple that is perfectly acceptable as well. This works well for smaller wedding receptions, weddings that will have more than two speakers or those that are a little more private. Following these simple steps will ensure a great and memorable speech:

  • Opening line
  • Introduce yourself
  • Talk about groom/Compliment bride
  • Propose a toast
  • Thank the couple

Short and simple speech

Since I have everyone’s attention I’d love to say a few words to this amazing couple sitting right in front of me. For those who don’t know me, I’m Ed. Mike’s closest friend and sidekick.  We’ve known each other for about 11 years and have been on many adventures together. During that time, I got to know him well and can honestly say, he is the most selfless and stand-up guy I’ve ever met. I am thrilled to be standing here and celebrating him and his beautiful bride, Linda.

I am sure this union between two honest and caring people makes you all smile. Let’s raise a glass for everlasting love! Thanks for making us all part of this beautiful day.

Best Man Speech Template

Typically, a best man speech should last about 4-7 minutes depending on the party. While short and sweet is welcomed, a best man speech can also include more details such as how you know the groom and the bride, funny jokes, heartfelt stories and your well wishes.

Whether you want your speech to make the crowd laugh or shed a little tear, you may be wondering how to get started. We’ve pointed out several tips in our template below. Remember, a speech should always come from the heart.

How to Write the Perfect Best Man Speech

1 Good afternoon ladies and gentlemen. It’s lovely to see some familiar faces. On behalf of the gorgeous bridesmaids and not so gorgeous groomsmen, we’d like to thank you all for coming. 2 It’s amazing to see how far people will travel for free cocktails.

3 For those who don’t know me, my name is Adam. I am the best man and Sam’s very best friend. It’s an honor to be here and to be part of such a beautiful event. 4 I met Sam 20 years ago. We grew up together as neighbors in San Diego and attended the same school all throughout college. 5 He was the nice kid on the block who would go home and do his homework while all of us were out doing, well, the things we shouldn’t be doing. Can you believe it took me two months to convince him to toilet paper Mrs. Carter’s house? Mrs. Carter isn’t here, is she?

Luckily, as we grew up, he started making better decisions; one of them being this very special day. He is marrying his best friend 6 and the most beautiful girl he’s ever laid eyes on. Sarah, he said this to me just the other night and I promise no more than three drinks were involved.

7 When Sam introduced us to Sarah , we knew right away she was the one. For starters, she made him get rid of that horrible, beer-stained couch that he had since college. That alone got our stamp of approval. But mostly, we saw how happy she made him and how every time he talked about her, he would have a huge smile. We started seeing a little less of him, but that’s okay because we were getting tired of buying his drinks anyway.

For that reason, and the reason we are all here today, 8 I’d like to raise a glass to Sam and Sarah. May you have the life you always dreamed of, continue to fight over the remote and cherish making beautiful memories together. Find joy in the small things like Portlandia and expensive coffee and may sparks continue to fly forever. 9 Thank you guys for allowing me to be part of this special day and for trusting me not to ruin this beautiful moment (phew!). I’d also love to give a huge thanks to the staff who have helped make this night memorable.

10 Cheers, everyone! Continue to have a great night and come hang out with me on the dance floor.

Always address the audience and welcome them.

A quick opening sentence to welcome guests helps everyone feel at ease.

Throw in a silly joke.

A wedding should be fun and enjoyable. A joke will help to break the ice.

Introduce yourself.

It’s best to not assume that everyone knows who you are. A short and simple introduction will allow everyone to get familiar with the wedding party.

Talk about how you know each other.

Whether you are a relative or friend, talk the audience through how you got to be a special person in the groom’s life.

Talk about groom’s personality.

Use this time to make a joke about the groom or share a sweet sentiment. Mention any sports, skills or funny stories that people will appreciate.

Compliment his bride.

Acknowledging the bride is a must, especially because she makes the groom so happy. A mention of her dress, personality or the first time you met her is ideal.

Talk a bit about them as a couple.

Share things you like about them as a couple. It helps the audience get to know their dynamic a little better and it will make the couple smile as well.

Give a toast.

Raise a glass and cheers to the new couple. Including a bit of tradition makes the speech much more special.

Thank the couple and staff.

Everyone spent a lot of time preparing for the special day. Make sure to thank the couple for allowing you to be part of it and the staff for making it all happen.

This closing allows for any sort of instruction such as dancing, dessert or simply to tell them to enjoy the party.

Best Man Speech for Brother

Good evening, hope everyone is having a good time tonight. I feel very privileged and honored to be standing here tonight celebrating this lovely union. Two years ago, Matt gave the best man speech at my wedding and made a lot of awkward jokes. So needless to say, I’ve been waiting for this moment for a really long time! For those who don’t know, I am Matt’s brother, Mike. I first met Matt when I was two years old at our parent’s house in Boston. To be quite honest, I wasn’t thrilled because I really wanted a sister. And I think he knew because Matt would do ridiculous things like throw my toothbrush in the toilet, pour water at me when I was asleep and run across the room naked when I had any friends over. This made me less popular than I already was.

Matt always excelled in school, was captain of the debate team (apologies to Cara, but he can argue his way out of anything!) and can make a mean steak. The truth is, despite him being an annoying brother at the time, I came out winning in the end. Because of him and this beautiful night, I am getting the sister I always wanted. Cara, you’re beautiful and our family loves you so much. Thank you for making my brother so happy.

Let’s celebrate this amazing union and raise a glass to the newlyweds! On behalf of the groomsmen and bridesmaids, we’d like to wish you a life full of love, happiness, and joy.

To everyone who made tonight happen, thank you. You’ve made this night very special.

Sentimental Best Man Speech

If I can have your attention everybody, I’d like to say a few words. Thank you all for being here to celebrate this lovely couple. Now I would like you all to take out some tissues, because you are going to need them after this. For those of you who have not met me I am Rich, Joe’s best man. Rich and I have known each other for over 30 years, we met when we were both just two years old. We lived on the same street and our mothers were friends so naturally we also became friends.

I am an only child so Joe was like a brother to me. We became inseparable. We played in T-ball together and then graduated on to baseball throughout high school. When we weren’t throwing the ball we were skateboarding, watching movies or challenging each other in video games.

Joe was always hanging out at my house and I grew up thinking he was just part of the family. I remember asking my mom why Joe never goes home and mom would always say “Rich, Joe is the brother you never had, take good care of each other.”

What my mom didn’t tell me at the time was that Joe’s mom was really sick and his dad worked double shifts just to stay afloat with all the medical bills. So, having Joe around was our way of helping out.

Even though we were only in high school, Joe made it very clear that he wanted to have a wife and family of his own. His mother’s death at such a young age was really challenging and in some ways, he learned to cherish the women he had in his life more.

He knew he wanted a strong, nurturing and kind woman to be his wife. When Joe met Sarah he almost broke it off with her because he was afraid of losing her. I remember Joe coming to me and saying, “I’m in trouble, I’ve met the one but don’t know what to do.” “Scared is good”, I said, “It means you won’t mess this up”.

Sarah’s greatest strength comes from losing her father to cancer at a young age. When Joe and Sarah met, their commonalities bonded them immediately. Both missing the connection with their parents and understanding each other’s experiences brought them very close. I’ve never seen two people more meant for each other. From the moment they met in college, there has been an incredible and magical bond.

When I look at both of you I can see how your experiences have led you to one another. It’s as if your parents were orchestrating this all along. Even though your parents are not here with us tonight, they are in spirit and will continue to guide you in the right direction and are so very proud of you.

As we all gather here to enjoy this dinner tonight, I’d like to make a toast to Joe and Sarah. Two souls meant to meet and fall in love. I want you to know that mom misses you hanging out at the house and she told me to tell you that you are always welcome in her home.

Joe, thank you for being my friend and brother all these years. You are the very best friend a guy could ever have and I love you so much.

Sarah, Thank you for loving this great man and for taking Joe to be your husband. I know you both will take care of each other and keep the memories of your parents alive together.

Now that our napkins need replacing, I’d like to thank all the staff and event coordinators for taking care of this beautiful event.

Cheers to everyone, enjoy your night and if you have a chance, come find me and say hi.

Funny Best Man Speech

Ladies and gentlemen if I can have your attention for a few moments, I would like to give a toast to Mark and Melissa. I was a little surprised that Mark asked me to be his best man, after all, he knows how much I love to embarrass him. I’m thinking, “what a great time to leave a lasting impression of who Mark really is” in front of all his closest friends and family. If for some reason you did not know, Mark was chosen as the class clown in high school. He even got his picture immortalized in our class yearbook for this very title. Let me tell you, having Mark as a best friend was very entertaining!

He was always laughing, pulling pranks, and sometimes getting us in trouble (I certainly won’t tell them how we barely made it out of jail because you thought streaking through the grocery store parking lot was a good dare). We all had a bit of clowning around within us, but the one thing Mark always had over any of us was his way of making girls laugh. And I mean really laugh, not just a quick chuckle but downright laugh out loud, spit-up-your-drink kind of laugh. While we were all worried about how we looked to girls, Mark’s concern was always how to make them crack up. I remember Mark saying “how come you get all the girls and I don’t?” I never had a straight answer for him. Looking back now though, my track record only lasted a few months and for Mark? Well, what he didn’t know was that his “clowning around” was preparing him for the show of his life.

When Mark introduced me to Melissa I knew she was special. I knew this was who Mark was going to marry. She not only has a very infectious laugh, but she gets Mark to laugh just as much.

They say a marriage can’t truly survive without laughter and I don’t believe there will be a shortage of that with these two. Mark, remember when you asked me why you don’t get all the girls? Well, the answer is right there next to you. While you were out figuring out jokes and funny one-liners, Melissa was saving up for the greatest show on earth!

If anyone tells you that you’re a bunch a clowns just smile and say….who’s got the last laugh now? Let’s raise our glass to Mark and Melissa! Here’s to a lifetime of love and laughter! You are both class acts and I am proud to call you my best friends. I love you both very much and thank you for having me here.

To all who were in charge of organizing this awesome night, great job on making this wedding shine. I challenge everyone to a dance-off later tonight.

Hopefully these tips will have you on your way to writing a heartfelt speech. If you still need a little more inspiration, don’t forget to check out our wedding quotes . These are great to incorporate into your speech, write in a card or simply share as advice to the newlyweds.

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gay groom wedding speech - fun & friendship

Brother Of The Groom Speech

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(*Of course, if you’re looking for more than ‘advice’, check out all the different ways the Speechy team can help you write & deliver a great speech. Or check out our new AI-powered team member, SpeechyAI .)

brother of the groom wedding speech template

Why Is A Brother of The Groom Speech Special?

It’s all about the ammunition you have. Yes, you’re the best man, so you inevitably have the drunken stories and questionable fashion sense to bring up. But you’ve also got the childhood anecdotes; the ones that will put the father of the bride’s potty training tales to shame.

Even if you live in different countries these days, you have decade’s worth of evidence on this dude, so your first job is to collect it.

Get your folks involved. Shove dad up the loft and get out the old report cards. Have a brainstorm with your mates over some Magners. Find his beloved old teddy. Consider yourself a Scandi-noir detective hunting down the most embarrassing anecdotes known to man.

Of course, ask yourself some probing questions…Did you grow up squabbling or were you always as thick as thieves? Was one of you ALWAYS the favourite growing up? Or who was it who got all the grubby hand-me-downs? Who was always the funnier / smarter / sportier brother? It’s time to dish the dirt and get your own back.

Of course, it’s not only an opportunity to tease your brother, feel free to also make fun of your parents and the way they brought you both up. Remember how they wouldn’t let you watch Hollyoaks or eat sugar after 4 pm? ‘Well, mum, there’s a three-tier cake over there with our name on it, and YOU can’t do anything about if we choose to shove our faces in it later.’

Best Man Speech

Brother of the Groom Etiquette

As a glorified, best man speech, there aren’t any of the boring, administrative speech things for you to concern yourself with.

The groom or father-of-the-bride will deal with welcoming the guests and thanking individual members of the wedding party. Yours is PURELY about the fun. You have almost free-rein to write the perfect, ten-minute toast to your brother.

Ignore the idea of ‘telegrams’ if you can. What can’t be said by text isn’t worth saying really.

Find out if the groom and the father are already mentioning the bridesmaids. If so, there’s no need to mention how gorgeous they are unless you fancy them.

Of course, there is a MUST DO for any best man. Compliment the bride and try to do it sincerely. Extra points if you can talk about her awesome personality, drunken party tricks, and ability to put up a tent quicker than you can, rather than just saying the normal best man cliches about her looking gorgeous (though she will appreciate that too!).

Gay Groom Speech

How To Structure Your Speech

Firstly, as there’s so much to learn from the typical best man speech, it’s more than worthwhile to read Speechy’s Best Man Advice Page on writing the ULTIMATE version. Here’s a summary…

  • Prove , don’t just tell. Don’t just use adjectives. If he’s a sensitive chap, reveal how he always cries at ET – even in his 30s.
  • Find the qualities that make him unique – his photographic memories of the Nando’s menu, his unusually short T-rex arms. It may seem like you’re taking the mick but that’s how us blokes show we care.
  • You don’t need to put every story in. You’ll hopefully f i nd a common theme , a narrative thread, so only use the ones that fit, rather than go off on several tangents.
  • About two-thirds of your speech should be roasting your brother, but that final section is when you get nice . Pay tribute to what a stellar bloke he is. Again, prove, don’t just tell. When you say he’s always there for you, remind him of the time he picked you up from the train station at 3 am after you lost your wallet. For the second time that year.
  • Of course, you have to talk about how pleased you are he’s got married and what a wonderful woman the bride i s . Don’t feel you have to pretend she’s a princess if she isn’t. Celebrate her for who she actually is – even if it’s a Jagerbomb fanatic with terrible taste in hip-hop music. As long as it’s said in a genuinely loving way, it’s okay.
  • Your speech, of course, needs to end with a toast . It should be directed to the bride and groom but make it personal if you can.   ‘Here’s to the bride and groom – and a love made from Jagerbombs’. Whatever suits it.

groom toast

The Do’s and Don’ts

DO – talk slower than seems natural

It will make you appear more confident and will allow people to get the jokes easier

DON’T – talk over the laughter

You’ve worked so hard to get the laughter, why would you cut it short?!

DO – Get some humour in within the first few sentences of your speech

It will immediately relax you and your audience.

Read our How To Make Your Speech Funny Guide to make sure you deliver original humour and don’t resort to wedding jokes or googled gags. 

DON’T – push it

While it’s tempting to roast your brother to the point of a nervous breakdown, remember to some this might come across as bullying. So, if you think you’re pushing things a little close to the edge, rein it in.

DO – use quotes

While you shouldn’t Google gags (even granny’s heard the one about honeymooning in Bangor these days!), you are allowed to use funny, witty or sentimental quotes from people smarter than you. Just make sure you credit the author or someone else will! Check out our best man quotes blog  for inspo. 

DON’T – make the bride cry

Unless it’s happy tears obviously. No ‘edgy’ humour directed at her. Nothing about your brother’s ex-girlfriends.

DO – keep an eye on the time

The speech should be around ten minutes long. Practice it a lot before the big day and if it feels like it’s dragging, don’t just speak faster. Edit your speech!

DON’T – resort to stag do stories 

Boring. All grooms are meant to be an utter embarrassment on their stag do. 

DO – prepare to deliver

A confident delivery is essential for your speech to be well received. Read our ultimate guide to delivering your speech like a pro .

The Speechwriting Experts

The Speechy team  are TV-trained scriptwriters/comedians by trade & we’ve helped 1,000s of speakers around the world deliver their dream speech.

Our advice has been quoted everywhere from  The New York Times  to  Grazia  and from Forbes to The Observer . Our founder has also featured on the  BBC Sounds’ Best Men podcast with Jason Manford and written ‘ The Modern Couple’s Guide to Wedding Speeches’ , published by Little, Brown.

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Home » Weddings

Top 17 Best Man Speech Ideas for a Younger Brother’s Wedding

how to write a best man speech for older brother

Being the best man at your brother’s wedding is quite an honor — and quite a big responsibility, especially for an older brother.

The biggest job, perhaps, is giving the best man’s speech at the wedding.

Your little brother has looked up to you all his life, after all, and you want to make his day more special.

The tradition of serving as best man to the groom is believed to have been around since the 1500s, [1] so you might be wondering how you’re going to make your speech stand out.

Below, we provide the list of unique things to say in a best man speech to a younger brother, as well as a few speech templates.

We also offer tips for creating your own best man speech to make sure you’re covered on the big day.

  • I’m [groom’s name]’s best man and also his big brother. I think it says a lot about a man when he chooses his brother to be his best man… Mostly, of course, it says: “I have no friends.” [2]
  • For those of you who don’t know me, I’m [groom’s name]’s older brother. It’s great to stand up here today because, after all these years, [groom’s name] has finally admitted that I am the best man. [2]
  • My name is [your name], [groom’s name]’s older brother and best man for the day. [Groom’s name] didn’t choose me in the traditional way. In fact, our other brother [brother’s name] and I drew straws… and just because I’m standing up here, don’t think for one minute that I was the winner. [3]
  • [Groom’s name], I am deeply proud to be your older brother, and truly honored to be your best man. In spite of our [number]-year age difference, we share a special closeness and friendship that I treasure. Maybe that’s got something to do with me acting [half the number of years in age difference] years younger than my age, and you acting [half the number of years in age difference] years older. But seriously, as your big brother, I’ve always tried to watch over and protect you. Just as often, though, it’s been the other way around. [3]
  • It’s the job of the best man to say a few complimentary things about the groom. Well, he’s handsome, intelligent, and naturally gifted at sports. Of course, none of this should come as a surprise — we do, after all, come from the same gene pool. [3]
  • It’s such a privilege to be [groom’s name]’s best man. For those of you who don’t know me, I’m his big brother [your name]. [Groom’s name] has always made me laugh. He cheered me up when I was down. Wedding titles aside, he’s the real best man in the room.
  • We all know [bride’s name] is a wonderful lady who deserves the perfect guy. Too bad you don’t always get what you deserve. [2]
  • To my little brother and the beautiful bride, tonight we celebrate you. We all wish you a lifetime of happiness, love, health, success, and laughter. May you continue to find humor in the bad and appreciation for the good. May your friendship continue to grow through the years to come. Cheers! [4]
  • I stand here today to toast my little brother and his new bride and to celebrate their new union together. All your joys will now be doubled because you can share them together. All your trials and tribulation have now been halved because you can now solve them together. In marriage, you promise to care about everything — the good things, the bad things, and the mundane. You promise each other that life will not go unwitnessed, because you will witness it with each other. Remember, you two, this is just the beginning. The best is yet to come. [4]
  • My kid brother [groom’s name] and I share a common sense of humor. So if this speech is in any way unfunny, feel free to blame him. [5]
  • I never thought this day would come. My baby brother somehow managed to find someone who can put up with him, and I couldn’t be happier. Here’s to [groom’s name] and [bride’s name]. May you share a wonderful life together.
  • Let me just start by saying to my little brother, I love you so much, and I really hope you’ll feel the same about me after you hear my speech. [6]
  • Seeing the happy couple walking down the aisle earlier today, I’m sure we’ll all agree that the bride looked simply stunning. [My little brother] the groom, on the other hand, simply looked stunned. [5]
  • As I stand here today and see my little brother with his new wife, [wife’s name], I can clearly see that my brother has finally won. [Wife’s name] is the most outgoing, fun, and kind-hearted person. He doesn’t have to roll the dice — he’s a winner just by being with her. [7]

Templates for Creating a Best Man Speech

Feel free to take pieces from each template to switch around or combine and create what works best for you!

Good morning/afternoon. I’m [your name], [groom’s name]’s big brother.

It’s such an honor to be his best man. We’ve had our ups and down, but he’s the guy who’s always had my back.

When we were kids [insert a story about something heroic your brother did].

I can’t imagine someone more deserving of such a lovely bride. I know that wherever life takes them, [groom’s name] will face it head-on and turn it into a great adventure.

Best of luck to the new bride and groom.

As [groom’s name]’s best man and big brother, I’m so happy for the newlyweds and grateful to be standing here today.

I have to say, I wasn’t the least bit surprised when they told me they were getting married. I can’t imagine two people more deserving and suited to each other.

[Groom’s name] and [bride’s name] are both [insert complimentary things they have in common]. I know they’ll share a wonderful life together.

[Bride’s name], I want to welcome you to the family. And [groom’s name], you are one lucky man.

Here’s to you both!

Hello, everyone. I’m [groom’s name]’s big brother, [your name], for those of you who don’t know me.

I’d like to start by saying, wow — these two sure do make a great couple, don’t they? [Pause for applause.]

Today, I have a quote to share that made me think of [groom’s name] and [bride’s name]:

“Love isn’t perfect. It isn’t a fairytale or a storybook, and it doesn’t always come easy. Love is overcoming obstacles, facing challenges, fighting to be together, holding on, and never letting go. It is a short word, easy to spell, difficult to define, and impossible to live without. Love is work, but most of all, love is realizing that every hour, every minute, every second of it was worth it because you did it together.” [8]

As the years go by, remember this day and why you chose each other. Embrace your happily ever after.

I truly love you both and wish you only the best.

Please join me in raising a glass to the bride and groom. Here’s to a lifetime of love and happiness.

How to Write the Perfect Best Man Speech

Once you’ve chosen a few options from the list, you may want to add to or change things up to make it your own.

Here are some tips for personalizing or creating your own perfect best man speech.

  • Throw in a memory. You’ve known the groom his whole life, so you’re bound to have some hilarious or meaningful experiences to share. Guests will enjoy your story, and the toast will be more memorable.
  • Wish him luck. This is a great opportunity to congratulate the newlyweds and share your best wishes. You may want to reference their future plans and reassure your brother that you have the utmost confidence in him.
  • Add some humor. People love to laugh! You could include a joke you and your brother have long shared or throw in a few puns. Just remember to keep it appropriate for the youngest guests.
  • Give yourself a structure with which to work. First, decide on what you want to include and in what order. This could be a thank you to guests or workers, a joke, a story, congratulations, family memories, etc. Write down keywords for what you want to include and organize it so that when you begin the official speech, you’ve got a simple structure to follow.
  • Practice, practice, practice. Once you’ve written your speech, practice on a friend or family member (besides your brother) and get some feedback. Hearing yourself say it out loud also allows you to make any changes necessary for a good flow of words.
  • https://www.rd.com/article/bridesmaids-groomsmen-history/ [ ↩ ]
  • “Best Man Speech Brother: Our Complete Guide,” Hitched [ ↩ ][ ↩ ][ ↩ ]
  • “Best Man Speech For A Brother,” The Best Man Speech [ ↩ ][ ↩ ][ ↩ ]
  • “Writing A Best Man Speech For Brother: 85 Speech Examples,” Her Way [ ↩ ][ ↩ ]
  • “51 Best Man jokes for a speech to win over any wedding crowd,” inews [ ↩ ][ ↩ ]
  • “25 Best Funny Opening Lines for Wedding Speeches,” One Fab Day [ ↩ ]
  • “12 Best Man Speech Ideas If You’re the Groom’s Brothers,” Katelyn’s Wedding Words [ ↩ ]
  • “Best funny wedding speech quotes,” PETV [ ↩ ]

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COMMENTS

  1. Craft a Best Man Speech for Your Brother (Template and 5 Examples

    10 tips for writing your Best Man speech. Here are 10 tips that will help you craft the best Best Man speech your brother and his spouse will remember for a lifetime: Don't wait until the last minute. Make it personal. Share defining moments of your relationship. Compliment the spouse. Thank the guests. Balance the wit and emotion. Keep it short.

  2. Best Man Speech Examples

    As Nigel and Kathy start their new life, please stand and toast the new husband and wife, If you would all be up standing in my toast. To the new Mr and Mrs Wood. Nigel and Kathy! 3. Best Man Speech for Twin Brother. There comes a time in every person's life when they meet their one true love, their soulmate, their destiny.

  3. 15 Tips For Your Best Man Speech (Brother Edition)

    Always err on the side of too short than too long or you will lose the attention of the audience. 2. Do focus on your opening. As the brother of the groom, you will likely be one of the first people to speak, so making your opening memorable is important.

  4. 5 Best Man Speech Examples (For Brothers and Friends)

    Speech 1 (Sentimental) Hi everyone, my name is Greg, the best man, best brother and best keeper of secrets for our groom and my younger brother Mason. He may regret giving me the microphone after an introduction like that, but Mason, I promise not to share all of your embarrassing secrets tonight. Your lovely bride Jocelyn told me I only had ...

  5. How to Write a Best Man Speech for Your Brother

    3. Less is More. As the best man and brother, you will likely have more stories and memories than anyone in the room, but that doesn't mean you have to tell every single one. Pick two or three (at the most) to share with the crowd and only spend a minute or two on each. 4.

  6. Writing A Best Man Speech For A Brother

    Writing a best man speech as the younger brother is an opportunity to show your admiration for your older brother on his special day. If you are the younger brother delivering a best man speech, you have the chance both to pay huge respect to your brother and indulge in a little payback time. For a good number of years, your brother was most ...

  7. Best Man Speech: The Ultimate Guide (5 Examples & Templates)

    Speech 3. "Hi everyone, my name is Greg, the best man, best brother and best keeper of secrets for our groom and my younger brother Mason. He may regret giving me the microphone after an introduction like that, but Mason, I promise not to share all of your embarrassing secrets tonight.

  8. Best Man Speech: Your Comprehensive Guide

    4. Tell a story-make a connection. The ideal way to structure a best man speech is to find a connection between a story about your friend and your support for the couple. Share a story about how your friend would always lament that he would never find a woman with x,y, and z qualities, but how he finally did in his new bride.

  9. How to write a best man speech for your brother

    The first thing you want to do is to say how proud you are to be standing there as his brother, and best man. You should say, from the heart, how much you value the relationship and how honoured you are to have been chosen. The second thing to talk about is the marriage and how happy you are for both of them.

  10. 21 Best Man Speech Examples & Ideas for the Groom's Brother

    13) End Your Speech On a Bright Note. A bright note can be a funny or sentimental story. It could also be a quote, a toast, or a positive statement about your brother (the groom). A funny story will help to lighten the mood and leave everyone laughing. Something heartfelt will leave everyone feeling warm and fuzzy.

  11. Best Man Speech for Brother: Ultimate Guide

    Expert Tips for Your Best Man Speech for Brother. Tip 1: Start with a Plan. The first step in writing a great brother of the groom speech is to plan it out. You don't want to just wing it and hope for the best. Take the time to think about what you want to say and how you want to say it.

  12. How To Write A Killer Best Man Speech (With Templates)

    A best man's speech traditionally takes place at the wedding reception after the maid of honor gives her speech. The best man's speech should be positive, respectful, and congratulatory. It can last 3 to 5 minutes and should focus on a central theme or story about the groom. Remember, a best man speech is not the time to "wing it."

  13. 6 Best Man Speech Ideas, Examples, and Tips

    Explore 6 foolproof best man speech ideas, examples, and tips: 1. Take inspiration from those who have gone before you. Copy or get inspired by these real-world examples of best man speeches you can use to make people laugh, cry, or both. Long best man speech example: Here's a best man speech example from an older brother to his younger ...

  14. How to Write a Best Man Speech

    A greeting and a hearty congratulations kick things off. Here are a few prompts to start your best man speech. Intro: "It's truly an honor to stand before you as [Partner's Name]'s best man. My name is [Name], and I've had the privilege of being [Name]'s partner in crime since [college, childhood, etc.].".

  15. Best Man Speech: The Definitive Guide to Smashing it

    Let that sink in. The best man speech is usually between meals at a reception. That means you have to make your mark - and get in what you have to say in a short time. Meaning that short best man speeches are perfectly fine, you don't have to overthink it. It can be 1 minute, it can be 5 minutes.

  16. The Ultimate Best Man Speech Guide (Examples And Templates Included)

    A best man speech should be short and sweet, but not too short, and not too long. A happy medium is about 5-6 minutes in length. You don't want it to be shorter than 3 minutes as it may seem too brief. The point is to keep the audience engaged, and deliver a few anecdotes, thank the bride and groom, and raise a toast.

  17. Follow This Perfect Best Man Speech: Tips + Examples

    How to Write the Perfect Best Man Speech. 1 Good afternoon ladies and gentlemen. It's lovely to see some familiar faces. On behalf of the gorgeous bridesmaids and not so gorgeous groomsmen, we'd like to thank you all for coming. 2 It's amazing to see how far people will travel for free cocktails.

  18. How To Write a Best Man Speech: Ultimate Guide With Tips

    How To Write The Perfect Best Man Speech. The best man speech is one of the most important speeches at a wedding. It is an opportunity to honor the groom, and to thank him for his friendship. The best man speech should be personal, and it should be something that the groom will remember forever.

  19. Brother Of The Groom Speech

    Brother Of The Groom Speech. The brother of the groom speech is the ultimate best man speech. You've grown up with him, lived with him, played with him, and now the big day is here. The day you get to make fun of him in front of all your family and friends. Of course, this isn't strictly true.

  20. Top 17 Best Man Speech Ideas for a Younger Brother's Wedding

    Template 1. Good morning/afternoon. I'm [your name], [groom's name]'s big brother. It's such an honor to be his best man. We've had our ups and down, but he's the guy who's always had my back. When we were kids [insert a story about something heroic your brother did].

  21. Brother's Best Man Speech Example

    Here is an example of an easy-to-follow brother of the groom speech outline. Introduce yourself and share your relationship with the groom. Thank other speakers, guests, and vendors. Congratulate the newlyweds. Say some favorable words about your brother's new spouse. Add in a joke or funny story about the groom.

  22. How To Write A Best Man Speech For Older Brother

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