Delivering Your Speech
"As a married man I’m not used to speaking without interruption so you’ll be pleased to hear this speech will be a short one."
Despite the temptation of drinking before your speech this will not help calm the nerves. No one wants to see the bride’s father swaying as he stands or looking noticeably drunk (which happens surprisingly often). If you do feel the need of something to give you Dutch courage keep it to a minimum.
Relax. Everyone there is hoping for a great speech and willing you to do well, they are a friendly audience who are on your side, after all you just bought them all dinner. Mostly they are just hoping you won’t drag it out too long as the father’s speech is usually viewed as the longest and least interesting so if you throw in a few well aimed gags and keep it light then to balance out the important words you want to say to your daughter you’re already on to a winner.
Take a deep breath to steady yourself.
Even if you feel your mouth getting dry don’t keep taking sips of water, this will only let people know how nervous you are and this could make them nervous.
Keeping your speech printed out is a good idea but use it as a reference rather than something to hide behind or simply reading it word for word off the page.
Cue cards are a good idea, they are easier to hold and you can simply highlight the relevant points or gags.
Make eye contact, don’t get so lost in reading that you forget to look at your audience.
Speak loudly and clearly. Try not to rush through your speech, give pauses for the laughter (hopefully in the right places), don’t be afraid to acknowledge anyone who shouts out but you’re not a stand up comic so best to avoid any witty put-downs or ad-libs. And make sure you are speaking loudly enough for everyone to hear you.
Most of all enjoy it. It’s a wonderful and truly memorable occasion so take the time to enjoy every moment.
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