When planning your speech, it’s a good idea to hit on four points:

- One: a quick story of your friendship, humorous or heartfelt
- Two: give some love to the groom, keep it simple and be nice
- Three: give a bit of inspiration or advice to the couple – quotes can be a big hit
- Four: wrap it up with a toast to their bright and happy future together

Since public speaking is the number one fear, this can cause a lot of anxiety for some.
There are a few ways to ease the butterflies… PRACTICE, PRACTICE, and PRACTICE! The
more you practice, the more comfortable you will feel. Remember that it’s perfectly
acceptable to use your notes if you need them. You will most likely have memorized your
speech from all of your diligent practicing, but it might make you feel better knowing you
can refer to them if you do get stuck. If you get nervous, just look at the bride and groom,
and speak directly to them. It doesn’t really matter exactly what you say, but rather the way
you say it and the emotion behind the toast. Just remember to keep it short and sweet,
speak from the heart and you can’t go wrong!