Most wedding speeches are lame.

There, I said it. Somebody needed to.

We have a lot of listeners tuning into our podcast because they’re getting ready for marriage. If that is you, and if you are the groom, in particular, I would like you to heed the advice herein.

Your wedding speech is an opportunity to be legendary.

The competition is nearly non-existent (think, “…and I’d like to thank Betsy for ALL the work she did on the centerpieces…yawn).

Most wedding speeches are just a tiresome list of thanks spieled off after a reception that has already gone on too long.

My proposal is that you, the groom, think about how you can add a personal touch to your speech that will leave an impression that adds honour to the occasion.

Yes, She. She Who Must Be Obeyed. Lol.

Seriously: I want you to provide heartfelt testimony to the incredible attractiveness of your spouse in front of all who are in attendance.

If you can’t think of content for this testimony: think about how you can end the engagement as respectfully as possible.

But, if you’re like me and you sincerely believe you’re one of those guys who just landed the gal of his dreams then you’ll have plenty of content.

Tell them what she means to you.

This builds on #1 by providing your audience with real examples of the impact that this incredible woman has already had for good in your life.

Again, if she is the girl of your dreams you should be able to come up with some real examples and genuine commentary on what a blessing she has been to you.

Your relationship will unfold over years to come. It’s a journey.

But for where you are at today, your wedding day, I am calling on you to speak to why you cherish her at this moment. What are the values, attitudes, beliefs and character traits that make her so precious to you?

If you have been speaking about your wife, this is the point you turn to her and speak from your heart.

Tell her why you are so absolutely struck by her that there is nobody else in the world you would consider marrying.

If she’s not in tears (the warm fuzzy feeling kind of tears) this is where you just put the finishing touches on the speech in your own words.

Pause.

“{Her name}, I love you. Thank you for marrying me.”

Pause

Yes, you should do your thank you’s. But before that, turn to her parents for a moment and speak to them. Now, I don’t know what you think of your in-laws. But if it is all possible to honestly and authentically do so, you should thank them for their daughter. They’ve had a lot of influence on forming her character. They all say “We’re gaining a son today” but really, they’re losing their daughter. You’re setting up a new family unit with her and they know it’s going to be a new relationship for them. So thank them.

And then, last, but not least, the sincere thank you’s for all the other folks who made the day special. Be authentic but also be methodical.

Looking back, there’s one thing I wish I had done. I wish I had paused to thank God for Verlynda, for our marriage, and for all of our loved ones and friends who came to celebrate the day with us.

I’ve done it many times since, but if I could one thing differently that would be on the list for sure.

Those are my thoughts. Now, it’s your turn! What is (or was) the favorite part of your wedding speech?