Doing the right things to give your speech a great start.

There are things you can do to help make your humor connect right from the beginning of your talk.

-Arrive early and meet people in the audience. This builds a rapport that will increase the receptiveness of the audience to your opening lines.

-Be physically and vocally warmed up. Sometimes I step outside for some fresh air or take a brisk walk in the hallway. Actors warm up before performing. Successful speaking and humor delivery requires the same. You either warm up before you speak, or you warm up in front of the audience.

-Know your opening. This will allow you to be more relaxed at the start of your talk and it will enable you to be more observant while you are waiting for your moment on the platform. The time you spend observing, rather than mentally rehearsing your talk, will be time you may connect with some fresh and spontaneous humor to spice up your opening.

-Smile as you approach the speaking platform.

-Eye contact is critical for a successful opening. Really connect and visit with one person at a time. Deliver your first three lines to one person.

-FFF! Find a funny face! Before you are introduced, study the faces in the audience. Deliver your opening lines to someone who is already having a good time; to someone who is smiling and laughing. Give your opening lines to someone who will give good energy back to you.

-Open with one of your better, tested lines. Insert untested, observational material later in the talk, after you’ve built a rapport with the audience.

-Don’t rush your opening. Take a moment to breathe and deliver your opening lines in a clean and deliberate fashion.

Taking these steps, you help ensure the opening of your humorous talk will get off to a good start and give your entire speech a solid foundation on which to build.

——-
By John Kinde, Humor Specialist speaker from Las Vegas. Copyright 2005 by John Kinde. More humor skills articles and free Ezine at www.HumorPower.com (702) 263-4363.

FRIEND OF THE BRIDE

Ladies and gentlemen, allow me first to thank you all for being here and sharing this wonderful occasion with us. I can't tell you how honored I am to be standing here to toast my best friend Sue and her husband Bob.

Sue and I like so many of us, met our first year in college and have been inseparable ever since. It's amazing how relieved I was when she and Bob finally got together. They'd been tap dancing around the idea of going out for almost six months before he finally found the, well, courage to make it happen. Asking her out may have been the roughest part of the journey, because ever since it's been nothing but sunny skies and smooth sailing for those two. I have never before watched two people fall so madly in love with each other, and I am so happy that I can share the celebration of their wedding with them.

Bob, it's been such a pleasure getting to know you the past couple of years. I know that you love Sue with all of your heart and will cherish her for the rest of your life. Of course, if that ends up not the case, you'll have me to answer too! Seriously, though, thank you from the bottom of my heart for making Sue the happiest she's ever been in her life.

Sue, you've been my best friend for six years, and I have never seen you smile as much as you did today when you said, “I do.” Well, maybe the day you showed me that nice rock Bob slid on your finger when he popped the question! You are the kindest, most caring person I have ever known in my life, and I know that that life you and Bob will share together will truly be something special.

I raise my glass, and ask everyone to join me in wishing you happiness, love, and longevity in this most perfect of marriages. Cheers!

Toasts have long been the centerfold of any wedding reception. Aside from the outfits, decor, and food, what’s said by the couple’s friends and family is often most talked about by guests, and certainly most remembered by the the newlyweds years later. It is any best man’s duty not only to acknowledge various important people at the ceremony, but also share insightful and often entertaining words about the bride and groom.

Think before you speak
Whether you plan to ‘wing it’ or read it, you should always give your toast a minimum amount of thought beforehand. Consider your relationship with the groom (and/or bride, as it may be), and try to identify one or two shared experiences that could liven up your toast. Humor is always a plus when speaking before a large audience, but keep in mind the spirit of the day and the fact that you are speaking to honor, not embarrass (at least too severely) the newlyweds. Poking fun at the couple is perfectly acceptable if it contributes to your message, but never stray within sight of that line between fun and insult.

First off the block
Traditionally, the best man gets the honor of toasting first. Usually the wedding planner will coordinate with you (and, if applicable, the MC) at what point during the reception you should begin the toasts and the order of the speakers. Technically, your toast is to the bride only because a formal toasting sequence would allow you a best man’s response later on to thank the groom and acknowledge the bridesmaids. However, fewer weddings these days follow such a rigid protocol. Rather, you’re opening (and, usually, only) toast would include your toast to the bride (and groom), acknowledgments of family and guests, and personal remarks. Sometimes the best man’s toast is saved for last, though, or next to last before the father of the bride. Always be sure to discuss with the groom and wedding planner before hand so you know exactly when to speak.

Honor the important people
As the best man, you are responsible for honoring various guests (depending on who else is toasting). If you are the only toast besides the father of the bride, you pretty much get to acknowledge everyone on the following list. If other’s are speaking, however, you may exclude some of these guests if they are already (or will be–talk to the other toasters beforehand if possible) recognized. Anyone in bold print should be mentioned in your speech regardless of who else is speaking:

* Bride and Groom * Parents of the Bride (especially if they are forking over the dough!) * Parents of the Groom (not as important as bride’s parents, but these days the groom’s family also contributes significantly to funding the ceremony and reception, plus there is a good chance that you know them well if you are the groom’s best friend, so be sure not to leave them out!) * Maid of Honor (more and more often she gives her own toast, but it’s still nice to mention her) * Groomsmen and Bridesmaids * other important guests (family, close friends, travelers from far away, and anyone else that might be giving a toast)

Group your acknowledgments together, ideally at the start of your toast so that you can focus the meat of your speech on the bride and groom. There are a lot of people contributing to the event, but it is first and foremost their day to be talked about.

Be nice and concise
Your toast should NEVER exceed five minutes, and that can be a bit on the long end. Say enough to effectively convey your love and appreciation for the newlyweds, but spare them and the rest of the guests of longwinded stories from your fraternity days. Quotes or anecdotes can be effective is used properly, so make sure whatever you say, be it original or borrowed, actually has something to do with the people to whom you are toasting. Try to avoid choosing a quote you like and forging some obscure tie between the words and the newlyweds. The more personal your words, typically the better your speech will be. Be sincere, speak slowly, and address everyone in the room. Don’t forget to mention how honored you are to be the best man, how happy you are for the couple, and how much happiness and good fortune you wish them in the future. At the conclusion of your speech, make your brief toast (i.e. “Will everyone please join me now to toast the bride and groom…”), raise your glass directly to the bride and groom, and share a drink with the rest of the guests.

Summary
Never get over worried about giving the toast. The groom chose you as his best man because you are just that, the best man for the job in his opinion. He’s not expecting anything profound or eloquent, just your honest expression of friendship and love. Be confident that you can convey that through words, and always remember that the toast is before friends and loved ones, not a panel of public speaking critics. Smile, and enjoy your part in the newlyweds’ celebration.

By Brad Montgomery, CSP Hilarious Motivational Speaker and Business Keynote Humorist. Using his own blend of Hilarious Humor, as well as his Award-Winning magic, Brad teaches, motivates and entertains. Great for opening or closing the convention, or even for the after-dinner entertainment. Believing that, “Life is Fun & Funny. And Filled with Magic,” Brad motivates his audiences using magic and humor to illustrate universal secrets for success. Keynotes, Breakouts, and Entertainment.

It is a true testament to Mark and Laura that you have taken time from your busy schedule to come and share this momentous occasion with them.

Mark and Laura do not come lightly into this marriage. They have each put their ambition to good use and led extremely successful lives on their own. However, nothing can compare to the energy and love they’ve invested in becoming the perfect couple. Mark, characterized by a fast-paced, busy life, has learned to love life for its own sake, and we have Laura to thank for that. I never truly thought I’d see him settle down for the married life, but after observing how his relationship with Laura has strengthened his ties with his own family, and I extremely happy that he has.

Laura is a fabulous woman. She never fails to brighten everyone’s day with her warm smile and limitless compassion. Thank god Mark found her as the yin to his yang. So, Laura, when you have the first child, remember, the spelling of his name should be B-R-A-D! In all seriousness, though, I couldn’t imagine too people better suited for each other as you two are today.

Now that they’re settling down and hopefully spending more time together than at work, they’ll have so much free time. Unaccustomed to unscheduled hours, I’m sure they’re wondering what on earth they’ll do. Well, they’re newlyweds…I’m sure they’ll figure something out!

I have always looked up to Mark as a brother, mentor, role model, and friend. When he wasn’t pummeling me in the backyard or lecturing me about how I should never, ever, ever show my face if he had a friend over, he was actually a pretty nice guy. I don’t have much advice for him and Laura, seeing as I have little to no experience in the world of marriage. But with two people who so clearly love each other and devote themselves to each other, little to no advice will ever be needed.

At this time I’d like to ask everyone in the room to please raise their glass in honor of my brother Mark and his wife Laura and share this toast to their happy, healthy, and long-lasting marriage. Cheers!

2. Friend of the Bride and Groom (shorter, but still sweet!)
I stand here as a friend of both Jack and Jill’s, and I am confident in saying that this marriage is founded not only on true love, but the best of friendships.

In fact, one might say that friendship and love are one and the same, and love is only the manifestation of the deepest, most intimate friendships. Jack and Jill epitomize that nature of relationship.

I must admit that I always warned Jill about Jack. She saw something in him that none of the rest of us could perceive though, and I’m happy to say that she found the love, caring, attentive man that I’d always hoped, though often times doubted, Jack would become. I feel honored to have known both of them for many years before they got together, and am extremely excited to anticipate the many years of friendship that awaits us with them as husband and wife.

Jack and Jill always have and continue to learn from each other, ever strengthening their friendship and love. Jill learned quickly that she just has to accept Monday Night Football without questions–it’s just one of those nonnegotiable issues about which a man must lay down the line. On the other hand, Jack picked up that the most frequent words out of his mouth will be “Yes, dear,” unless, of course, Jill has asked him if that dress makes her look fat! In all seriousness, though, the lessons they teach each other only serve to bring them closer and closer together.

Jack, Jill, it is with the greatest pride and honor that I stand here today to honor you both on your wedding day. I ask everyone to please join me in raising a glass to the bride and groom, and share my toast to them. God bless you both for many years to come.

By Brad Montgomery, CSP Hilarious Motivational Speaker and Business Keynote Humorist. Using his own blend of Hilarious Humor, as well as his Award-Winning magic, Brad teaches, motivates and entertains. Great for opening or closing the convention, or even for the after-dinner entertainment. Believing that, “Life is Fun & Funny. And Filled with Magic,” Brad motivates his audiences using magic and humor to illustrate universal secrets for success. Keynotes, Breakouts, and Entertainment.

Toasts have long been the centerfold of any wedding reception. Aside from the outfits, decor, and food, what’s said by the couple’s friends and family is often most talked about by guests, and certainly most remembered by the the newlyweds years later. It is any best man’s duty not only to acknowledge various important people at the ceremony, but also share insightful and often entertaining words about the bride and groom.

Think before you speak
Whether you plan to ‘wing it’ or read it, you should always give your toast a minimum amount of thought beforehand. Consider your relationship with the groom (and/or bride, as it may be), and try to identify one or two shared experiences that could liven up your toast. Humor is always a plus when speaking before a large audience, but keep in mind the spirit of the day and the fact that you are speaking to honor, not embarrass (at least too severely) the newlyweds. Poking fun at the couple is perfectly acceptable if it contributes to your message, but never stray within sight of that line between fun and insult.

First off the block
Traditionally, the best man gets the honor of toasting first. Usually the wedding planner will coordinate with you (and, if applicable, the MC) at what point during the reception you should begin the toasts and the order of the speakers. Technically, your toast is to the bride only because a formal toasting sequence would allow you a best man’s response later on to thank the groom and acknowledge the bridesmaids. However, fewer weddings these days follow such a rigid protocol. Rather, you’re opening (and, usually, only) toast would include your toast to the bride (and groom), acknowledgments of family and guests, and personal remarks. Sometimes the best man’s toast is saved for last, though, or next to last before the father of the bride. Always be sure to discuss with the groom and wedding planner before hand so you know exactly when to speak.

Honor the important people
As the best man, you are responsible for honoring various guests (depending on who else is toasting). If you are the only toast besides the father of the bride, you pretty much get to acknowledge everyone on the following list. If other’s are speaking, however, you may exclude some of these guests if they are already (or will be–talk to the other toasters beforehand if possible) recognized. Anyone in bold print should be mentioned in your speech regardless of who else is speaking:

* Bride and Groom * Parents of the Bride (especially if they are forking over the dough!) * Parents of the Groom (not as important as bride’s parents, but these days the groom’s family also contributes significantly to funding the ceremony and reception, plus there is a good chance that you know them well if you are the groom’s best friend, so be sure not to leave them out!) * Maid of Honor (more and more often she gives her own toast, but it’s still nice to mention her) * Groomsmen and Bridesmaids * other important guests (family, close friends, travelers from far away, and anyone else that might be giving a toast)

Group your acknowledgments together, ideally at the start of your toast so that you can focus the meat of your speech on the bride and groom. There are a lot of people contributing to the event, but it is first and foremost their day to be talked about.

Be nice and concise
Your toast should NEVER exceed five minutes, and that can be a bit on the long end. Say enough to effectively convey your love and appreciation for the newlyweds, but spare them and the rest of the guests of longwinded stories from your fraternity days. Quotes or anecdotes can be effective is used properly, so make sure whatever you say, be it original or borrowed, actually has something to do with the people to whom you are toasting. Try to avoid choosing a quote you like and forging some obscure tie between the words and the newlyweds. The more personal your words, typically the better your speech will be. Be sincere, speak slowly, and address everyone in the room. Don’t forget to mention how honored you are to be the best man, how happy you are for the couple, and how much happiness and good fortune you wish them in the future. At the conclusion of your speech, make your brief toast (i.e. “Will everyone please join me now to toast the bride and groom…”), raise your glass directly to the bride and groom, and share a drink with the rest of the guests.

Summary
Never get over worried about giving the toast. The groom chose you as his best man because you are just that, the best man for the job in his opinion. He’s not expecting anything profound or eloquent, just your honest expression of friendship and love. Be confident that you can convey that through words, and always remember that the toast is before friends and loved ones, not a panel of public speaking critics. Smile, and enjoy your part in the newlyweds’ celebration.

By Brad Montgomery, CSP Hilarious Motivational Speaker and Business Keynote Humorist. Using his own blend of Hilarious Humor, as well as his Award-Winning magic, Brad teaches, motivates and entertains. Great for opening or closing the convention, or even for the after-dinner entertainment. Believing that, “Life is Fun & Funny. And Filled with Magic,” Brad motivates his audiences using magic and humor to illustrate universal secrets for success. Keynotes, Breakouts, and Entertainment.