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Best Tips for Maid Of Honor Speech 2024: Samples & Ideas

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Crafting a memorable maid of honor speech can be both an honor and a daunting task. It’s a chance to celebrate the bride in a heartfelt way while engaging the audience. Whether you’re a seasoned speaker or feeling the nerves, this guide will walk you through simple and effective steps to create a speech that will leave everyone touched and smiling. Remember, the key to a great speech lies in authenticity and personal anecdotes – sharing genuine stories and emotions will make your words resonate with everyone present.

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Maid Of Honor Speech Examples

Best friend maid of honor speech.

After years of helping Maids of Honor deliver awesome speeches, founder of Speechy and author of ‘The Modern Couple’s Guide to Wedding Speeches’, Heidi Ellert-McDermott, shares her tips. The first three-fifths of the speech should include revealing, entertaining stories that give an insight into the bride and your relationship with her. Don’t be shy of some affectionate teasing. 

We’ve made a research and after surveying over 50,000 brides, the maid of honor choice was crystal clear: more than 51% of them chose their best friend as their maid of honor. This role isn’t just about tradition—it’s about an unbreakable bond. A best friend’s speech resonates deeply, filled with shared memories and heartfelt wishes.

“If you haven’t had the chance to meet me yet, my name is X. (Bride) and I have been best friends for about 10 years. We met in high school gym class, and we couldn’t stand each other at first. As you can see, things eventually changed for the better. When (Bride) first asked me to be her Maid of Honor I felt flattered. But as the big day approached, she also told me to give a speech and a toast. I’m kind of the shy type and tried my best to get out of it. But, as (Groom) can tell you, it’s almost impossible to tell (Bride) No and get away with it. I wanted to tell you both how absolutely spectacular you look today. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a better-looking couple (except for maybe my boyfriend and I). And I hope you’re all having a lovely evening and I’d like to I wish you two all the love and happiness in the world. How blessed you are to celebrate your love on this beautiful day. I know there are many happy years ahead for you. Let’s all raise our glasses to the bride and groom, and wish them a lifetime of love and happiness!”

“I never had a sister, but (Bride) has been like a sister to me for all these years. We have similar tastes, we like similar clothes… I knew (Bride) had found the one when (Groom) walked into her life. Well, I’m fine with that – she saw him first! Actually, you could see that it was love at first, second, and third sight. He is her Prince Charming and it seems to me he gives her all she needs – a strong arm, a sympathetic ear, and his credit card.”

“I met (Bride) 6 years ago, as we tried to survive in the concrete jungle of NY. To thrive there, your tribe is essential. We are quite protective of each other, so I was a bit skeptical of (Groom) when he first came into the picture. But as time goes by, I can’t imagine anyone else but him to be her one and only. They say that anyone can be passionate, but it takes a real pair of lovers to be silly. Well, together, (Bride) and (Groom) are two of the goofiest people I know.”

“Hello everyone, my name is X, and by my dress, you can tell that I am the Maid of Honor today. For many years, we have been through thick and thin, and we have shared many memories. Today is another great day to add to our collection of sweet memories, so I’m really looking forward to the cake! I know you will have challenges as all relationships do. But you know what’s great about love and relationships and marriages? It is learning to grow together. Caring and sharing, and lots of tenderness. And maybe a bit of patience, or maybe even a lot. So let’s raise our glasses to the power of love, that makes all these wonderful things happen! Today you start a completely new chapter of your lives. What can I say? Never forget the two most important replies: ‘you’re right, dear’ and ‘okay, buy it’. Love and cherish each other! These two are a rare find in today’s world. Here’s to the groom who has a bride so fair, and here’s to the bride with a groom who is so rare.”

How to write a maid of honor speech for best friend?

• Introduction: Begin by introducing yourself and expressing how honored you are to be the maid of honor for your best friend.
• Fond Memories: Share special and cherished memories you’ve shared together, highlighting the bond you both share.
• Praise and Qualities: Speak about your best friend’s wonderful qualities, accomplishments, and the ways they have positively impacted your life and the lives of others.
• The Friendship: Emphasize the strength and significance of your friendship, and how it has grown over the years.
• Love and Support: Show appreciation for the bride’s partner and express your excitement about their journey together.
• Gratitude: Thank the guests for being a part of this special day and acknowledge the couple’s families.
• Toast: Raise a toast to your best friend and their partner, wishing them a lifetime of love, joy, and happiness together.

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Sister maid of honor speech.

According to our research, the second most popular choice for the maid of honor role is the bride’s sister. While tradition often places the best friend in the spotlight, a sister brings a unique depth to the role. Their shared history, growing up together, and the intrinsic bond make a sister’s speech incredibly touching. With a wealth of childhood memories and a deep understanding of the bride, a sister’s words carry immense emotional weight. When delivering the speech, draw upon this shared journey, express genuine emotions, and celebrate the love that binds not only siblings but also the newlyweds.

“As you may know, I am the bride’s younger sister. As we were growing up, I always wanted to be like her. Do the things she did, have the things she had –  I was probably a bit annoying, I always wanted to tag along. She taught me how to care, how to share, and how to try to reach for the stars. And as I grew up I wanted to be just as beautiful, caring, smart, and successful as her. (Bride) has always set an example for me to follow. Over the years she has shown me how to love and care. Today she shows me how to find a best friend, a partner, and a true lover, all in one person. I hope that I am just as lucky someday. It’s a great happiness to find someone who loves you as much as (Groom) loves my sister. Today, I want to thank both of you for being a part of my life, and to celebrate the love you both share. Like many sisters, we weren’t always best friends. I remember fights, screaming, and door-slamming, but I couldn’t have picked a better sister and a friend. Now that we are older, I can finally admit how happy I am to have grown up with such a great sister. Having a sister is one of the greatest things in life. Having a little sister is even better because I liked to be bossy. (Bride) always wanted to be a bit more like me… But actually, there is so much that I admire about her! I have watched her grow into the gorgeous woman that she is. It is a great honor for me to be her big sister!”

“First of all, I want to thank you all for being here with us today. As most of you know I am (Bride’s) sister. As we grew, we were as close as can be. We were always in trouble and I remember wondering if there will be a guy brave enough for someone as wild as my sister is. Well, here he is!My sis has just tied the knot. And I do believe that (Groom) is her perfect match. And today I realize that all she needs is a guy who will love her just the way she is, with all her craziness. Their commitment to each other inspires all of us because that’s what we call true love. So let’s raise our glasses to this amazing couple!”

“I want you to know that it took me 3 weeks to write this speech over and over again. And I couldn’t think of anything perfect enough to describe just how much I love you. I couldn’t find words to define the kind of sister you are to me. This is your big day and there is so much I want to say… I Googled a lot of maid of honor speech examples. The one piece of advice I kept finding over and over again was to start off with a quote. I did some research and I think their love is best described by Dr. Seuss: “You know you’re in love when you can’t fall asleep because the reality is finally better than your dreams.”

“Love, be true to her; Life, be dear to her; Health, stay close to her; Joy, draw near to her; Fortune, find what you can do for her, Search your treasure house through and through for her, Follow her footsteps the wide world over – And keep her husband always her lover. – By Anna Lewis, from “To the Bride”

How to write a maid of honor speech for sister?

• Introduction: Start by introducing yourself and your relationship with the bride, emphasizing your sisterly bond.
• Anecdotes: Share heartfelt and funny stories that highlight your sister’s qualities, achievements, or memorable moments you’ve shared together.
• Praise the bride: Compliment her personality, kindness, and the positive impact she has on others.
• Address the groom: Welcome him into the family and share a warm message about their relationship.
• Express gratitude: Thank the guests for attending and acknowledge your parents and other family members.
• Toast: Raise a glass and propose a heartfelt toast to the newlyweds and their future happiness together.

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Funny Maid Of Honor Speech

As a close friend of the bride, you would have a lot of material for wedding speeches bridesmaids, you just need to know how to put them all together. A few sample wedding speeches would give you the right kind of inspiration to get you on your way.

“Well, for those of you who I haven’t had the chance to meet yet, my name is [NAME]. [BRIDE] and I have been best friends for around the last 10 years. We first met at work one day, when she stole my carrot cake out of the fridge in the lunchroom and I threw away her pineapple yogurt cartons in revenge. I never had a sister, but [BRIDE] has been my stand-in sister for all these years. You could say we are even closer than sisters. We don’t fight like sisters, but we do wear each other’s clothes. Somehow she can still fit into my clothes but I can’t fit into hers anymore. I’m sure that is just because her dryer must be shrinking them. I knew [BRIDE] had found the one when [GROOM] walked into her life. Sure, she dated a few guys…after I was done torturing them. But [GROOM] was different. Unlike those jerks, he was kind and thoughtful. And he had a job. You could see that it was love at first, second, and third sight. Clearly [GROOM] is charming and it seems to me he offers her what she needs – a strong arm, a kind ear, and an American Express Black Card. I trust [BRIDE] and [GROOM] completely. I remember the time I asked them to watch my dog Benji when I went skiing in Europe. They were so nice to help out. I got back and Benji was so happy to see me. He was 40 pounds lighter and now he sees a therapist twice a week. Of course, we are having fun today. The test of this relationship will be over the long term. Will she still love [GROOM] when he leaves his underwear on the floor and cuts his toenails at the dinner table? The answer is no. God, please, disgusting. No, seriously, I know they will have challenges as all relationships do. And [GROOM] will learn what all men learn eventually. Keep your wife happy! Happy wife, happy life. No, really, what’s great about love and relationships and marriage is learning to grow together. The communication it takes to keep a marriage going is massive. But half the fun is working things out, talking, communicating, and launching kitchen appliances at each other – real love. Today has been a great day. Family and friends are here, the sun is shining and the champagne is flowing. And we’ll need it to get through this chicken dinner.”

Sometimes the hardest part of being a maid of honor to your bestie might be writing the wedding speech. Speaking with your friend face to face is always easy, however, making toasts or speeches in front of a group of people would be totally different and not as easy. This is why anecdotes and funny wedding speeches maid of honor could help you cruise through your speech while giving the wedding guests a laugh at the same time.

Funny Lines For Maid Of Honor Speech

• “I did some research on how to give the perfect maid of honor speech, and the first tip I found was to imagine everyone in their underwear. So, here we are, ladies and gentlemen, welcome to my nightmare!”
• “Being the maid of honor is like being a ninja. You have to be quick on your feet, prepared for anything, and ready to attack at a moment’s notice. But instead of throwing shurikens, I’m armed with embarrassing stories about the bride.”
• “As the maid of honor, I’ve been given the responsibility of keeping the bride calm and relaxed throughout the wedding planning process. Which is why I’ve been slipping her Xanax in her coffee every morning.”
• “When the bride asked me to be her maid of honor, I was thrilled. But then I realized it meant I had to give a speech in front of all these people. So if I faint halfway through, just drag me off stage and make it look like part of the act.”

Bridesmaid Wedding Speech

A list of example wedding speeches maid of honor could act as a template of sorts, helping you figure out just how to structure your speech.

Some of the best wedding speeches maid of honor, shine a light on the friendship between the bride and her maid of honor, as well as the beautiful personality of the bride. Most introductions begin with the story of meeting the groom for the first time. The intro is usually a good time to inject a funny quote, poem, or actual occurrence.

“Hi everyone, I am one of the bridesmaids at this wedding and I just wanted to say how happy and lucky I am to be here to celebrate [bride] and [groom’s] wedding with everyone. Today, everything looks effortless. From the beautiful wedding ceremony to the food, music, and decorations at this venue, every little detail was planned by [bride] and [groom.] And lots of time was spent shopping for dresses and doing fittings. When you get to peek behind the scenes, you see how much work really gets put into planning a wedding. There were a lot of late nights and hours spent working on this wedding and I have to say that it all turned out quite beautifully. Let’s all give a round of applause for [bride] and [groom.] [Bride] and [groom,] thank you for such a wonderful day. I raise my glass to the two of you and wish you nothing but the best in your life together. May each day be full of love and laughter between the two of you.”

Speeches are generally not as difficult as we imagine. So, you can relax, go through these samples, and create one of the best wedding toast speeches made of honor.

Short Maid Of Honor Speech Examples

“Greetings to all of you. I’m [Name], the maid of honor. I would like to express a few words about the lovely bride and groom. [Bride] has always been a wonderful friend to me, and it’s an honor to be her maid of honor today. And [Groom], I am delighted that you are joining our family. You two are a perfect match, and I wish you all the happiness and love in the world. Let’s raise a glass to the happy couple!”

“Hello, everyone. I’m [Name], the maid of honor. [Bride], you look breathtakingly beautiful today, and I feel grateful to be a part of your extraordinary day. [Groom], you’re a fortunate man! [Bride] is intelligent, gorgeous, and has a heart of gold. I am confident that you both will have a lifetime of love and happiness together. Congratulations on your special day!”

“Good evening, all. I’m [Name], the maid of honor, and for those who don’t know me, it’s lovely to meet you. I have known [Bride] for several years, and I have never seen her as happy as she is with [Groom]. You two bring out the best in each other, and it’s evident that you are destined to be together. It’s an honor to stand here today as a witness to your love and commitment. Congratulations to the joyful couple!”

“Hello everyone, I’m [Name], the maid of honor. [Bride], you’re my best friend and I couldn’t be happier to see you marry [Groom]. You two are perfect for each other and I wish you a lifetime of love and happiness. Congratulations!”

“Good evening, all. I’m [Name], the maid of honor, and I’m honored to celebrate [Bride] and [Groom]’s special day. [Bride], you’re my best friend and I’m so happy to see you with someone as wonderful as [Groom]. Wishing you both a lifetime of love and happiness. Congratulations!”

“Hi everyone, I’m [Name], the maid of honor, and I’m thrilled to celebrate my best friend [Bride] and her groom [Groom]. [Bride], I’m so proud of you and I know that [Groom] is the perfect partner for you. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness and love. Congratulations!”

“Good evening, everyone! For those who don’t know me, I’m [Your Name], and I have the incredible honor of standing by [Bride’s Name]’s side today as her maid of honor. First and foremost, I want to say how breathtakingly beautiful she looks tonight. As I stand here, I can’t help but reflect on the journey that led us to this moment. [Bride’s Name] and I have been inseparable since childhood, and I am beyond grateful for the memories we’ve created together. We’ve laughed together, cried together, and supported each other through life’s ups and downs. And now, as I watch her embark on this new chapter with [Groom’s Name], my heart overflows with joy. I’ve witnessed the love between them grow and flourish, and it’s truly something special. [Groom’s Name], thank you for making my best friend the happiest she’s ever been. To [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], may your love continue to blossom and may your journey together be filled with laughter, love, and adventure. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness. Cheers!”

“Hello, everyone! I’m [Your Name], and I have the honor of being [Bride’s Name]’s slightly crazy, but totally awesome, maid of honor! When [Bride’s Name] asked me to take on this role, I knew it would be an adventure. From choosing the perfect dress to planning wild bachelorette parties, we’ve had our fair share of laughs and tears. And let’s not forget about all the emergency wedding dress fittings! But in all seriousness, I couldn’t have asked for a better friend. [Bride’s Name] is compassionate, hilarious, and always there to lend a helping hand. She lights up every room she enters, and I know that [Groom’s Name] feels incredibly lucky to have her as his partner in crime. [Groom’s Name], welcome to the family! We’ve all been waiting for someone to take on the challenge of dealing with [Bride’s Name]’s terrible dance moves, and it looks like you’re up for it. To the happy couple, may your love be as endless as the dance floor at the reception. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness, laughter, and love. Cheers!”

“Ladies and gentlemen, distinguished guests, and most importantly, the beautiful couple of the day, [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]. I’m [Your Name], and I have the privilege of being [Bride’s Name]’s maid of honor. Today, I stand here with a heart full of emotions, for I’ve had the honor of witnessing the love between [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name] blossom into something truly extraordinary. Their love is like a gentle breeze, calming our souls and reminding us of the beauty in life. [Bride’s Name], you’ve always been the ray of sunshine in my life. Your kindness, grace, and unwavering love inspire all who know you. And now, as you embark on this new journey with [Groom’s Name], I know that you’ll be a guiding light in his life as well. [Groom’s Name], thank you for cherishing and loving [Bride’s Name] with all your heart. Your dedication to making her happy is evident in every glance you share. Let us all raise our glasses to the newlyweds. May your love continue to grow, like the mighty oak standing tall through the changing seasons. May your days be filled with laughter, and your hearts forever intertwined. Congratulations, and here’s to a lifetime of happiness and love!”

When delivering a speech, remember to speak from the heart, keep it concise, and maintain a positive tone. Make sure to customize the speech to fit your relationship with the couple and the overall vibe of the wedding.

How to write a short wedding speech?

• Start by introducing yourself and briefly mentioning your relationship with the bride. This will help the audience understand your perspective and why you were chosen to be the maid of honor.
• Take a moment to express your gratitude for being a part of the special day and your well wishes for the newlyweds.
• Say a few words about the bride and groom, highlighting their qualities and how they complement each other. You can talk about their journey as a couple and your hopes for their future together.
• End your speech by raising a toast to the newlyweds.

Maid Of Honor Toasts

One of the tips for giving good wedding speeches – to use a good toast. A toast is basically well wished to the newlyweds and their family, followed by a signal for guests to raise their glasses.

If you are unsure what exactly to say, here are some beautiful maid of honor toast examples to inspire you.

• “And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight. – Philippians 1:9”
• “Be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you. – Ephesians 4:32”
• “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Here’s to love, laughter and happily ever after. – Romans 12:10″
• “As (Groom) and (Bride) start their new life together, Let’s toast to the new husband and wife!”
• “Here’s to the husband And here’s to the wife; May they remain Lovers for life.”
• “Here’s to the health of the happy pair; may good luck follow them everywhere; And may each day of wedded bliss be always as sweet and joyous as this.”
• “May you grow old on one pillow. May their joy be as bright as the morning, and their sorrows be shadows that fade in the sunlight of love.”
• “Let’s drink to love, which is nothing—unless it’s divided into two with someone you love. May your joys be as sweet as spring flowers that grow.”
• “As bright as a fire when winter winds blow; As countless as leaves that float down in the fall; And as serene as the love that keeps watching over us all.”

As the maid of honor, you need to find the one speech, that is short and sweet, and resonates with you! Great Maid of Honor wedding speeches often includes great quotes . Famous quotes have a way of painting a picture that our own words can’t seem to do on their own.

The Maid Of Honor Speech Template

Infographic.

The biggest worry that most maids of honor have is freezing and forgetting the speech. A great solution is breaking your speech into sections and writing them down on cards that you carry with you. As you practice your speech it will be easier to memorize, and having all the words with you will keep you from panicking.

To get you started, stick to our basic Maid Of Honor Speech Outline:

• Introduce yourself (your name, your relationship to the bride, and how long you’ve known each other)
• Thank everyone involved in the wedding planning for their hard work
• Talk about the bride (why she’s a good person and friend, share a story to illustrate it)
• Tell the love story (The most romantic version of how the bride and groom met)
• Talk about the groom (Compliment him, why he’s great for your friend, what he does for her etc)
• Celebrate the couple (Why they’re so good together)
• Wish the newlyweds wonderful things for the future You could also insert a quote or a poem.
• Toast to the bride and groom – Raise your glass, say: “Here’s to the happy couple”, take and sip and voila! You’ve nailed it!

How To Write The Best Maid Of Honor Speech Ever

We’ve all seen when speeches go wrong, so how you do you get it right? After years of helping Maids of Honor deliver awesome speeches, founder of Speechy , Heidi Ellert-McDermott, shares her tips.

• Introduce yourself & explain how you know the bride.
• Include humor throughout. Yes, your speech should be a loving tribute to a true friend, but it’s also meant to entertain a crowd.
• Once you’ve written your speech, try to edit it in half. Promise, your speech will be better the punchier it is. No one ever wished a speech was longer!
• Pay tribute to the bride’s partner with than a cursory platitude. Prove you genuinely know and like them!
• Rehearse as often as you can but use notes on the day. Delivering the speech shouldn’t be a memory test.
• Remember to smile throughout your delivery. It’s a powerful (and infectious) communication tool.

Don’t

• Resort to cheesy cliches about love and friendship.
• Google gags.
• Thank anyone. It’s not your job.
• Take up more than 10 mins mic time.
• Pretend the bride is perfect. Instead cherish the crazy character she truly is, with all her quirks and eccentricities.
• Talk over laughter when you deliver your speech. If you’ve written a funny line, leave a pause after you’ve said it to allow your audience to get the joke and respond. Don’t start talking till the last giggle has died down.
• Drink more than a glass of bubbles prior to your speech. Alcohol actually increases the stress hormone.

How to Get Started Maid of Honor Wedding Speech

• Know Your Audience: Consider the bride and groom’s personalities, the formality of the event, and the sensibilities of the guests. Tailor your speech to the audience.
• Start Early: Begin writing your speech well in advance. This allows time for revisions and practice. Don’t wait until the last minute.
• Personalize It: Share anecdotes and stories that reflect your relationship with the bride. Highlight special moments and inside jokes.

Examples of How to Get Started:

• Opening with a Quote: Start with an inspiring or humorous quote related to love or marriage. For instance,

“Maya Angelou once said, ‘Love recognizes no barriers.’ Today, we’re here to celebrate a love that knows no bounds.”

• Anecdotal Introduction: Begin with a personal story about your friendship with the bride.

“As I stand here today, I can’t help but think back to the time we met in kindergarten. Who would’ve thought that our friendship would lead us to this beautiful wedding?”

• Express Your Gratitude: Begin by expressing your gratitude for being chosen as the maid of honor.

“First and foremost, I want to thank [bride’s name] for giving me the honor of standing by her side today as her maid of honor.” Remember, the key to a memorable maid of honor speech is sincerity and a touch of humor, sprinkled with personal anecdotes that capture the essence of your relationship with the bride.

How To End A Maid Of Honor Speech

When figuring out how to write a maid of honor speech, keep in mind that the latter part of the speech should be where you talk about the couple. In that vein, it’s also important to know how to end the speech flawlessly. Here are a few tips.

• Keep it short and sweet. While you might have a lot to say, there are time slots for each speech, so keeping things short would be best.
• Use sentimental wedding quotes. You might have a maid of honor speech template you follow but adding inspirational quotes to your speech is a great way to wrap things up.
• Finish with a toast. At the very end, it is customary to raise a toast to the happy couple.

10 Maid Of Honor Speech Tips

After years of helping Maids of Honor deliver awesome speeches, founder of Speechy and author of ‘The Modern Couple’s Guide to Wedding Speeches’, Heidi Ellert-McDermott, shares her tips.

Planning Your Speech

• Think of the speechwriting process as writing a dissertation (only this time, don’t leave it till the night before your deadline!).
• Firstly, jot down all your ideas and favourite stories and then construct a central idea (narrative theme) that you stick to through. It could be that your friend is always right, or maybe the newlyweds prove that opposites really do attract. Whatever it is, make sure your speech flows from one idea to the next, rather than being a list of random thoughts.

Speech Structure

• Remember to introduce yourself and how you know the bride at the start of the speech and try to include humor within the first 30 seconds. Resist the urge to include any of those tired googled-wedding-gags and ensure your line is original and relates to the couple themselves or the surroundings you find yourself in.
• The first three-fifths of the speech should include revealing, entertaining stories that give an insight into the bride and your relationship with her. Don’t be shy of some affectionate teasing.
• Towards the latter half of the speech, introduce her partner and explain why the couple are suited. Again, make sure to include some good-natured humour here.
• The final fifth of your speech could be a full-on love-bomb of a tribute to your friend. Make sure you avoid the usual cliches and platitudes about friendship and instead, try to nail the bride’s individual characteristics and quirks that make you love her.

Edit Your Speech

• When you’ve finished writing your speech, try to edit it in half. You may not achieve it but once you get editing, you’ll be surprised by the amount of needless waffle that’s in there.
• Remember, a speech is better punchy, so be brutal. A good maid of honour speech is generally between 700 and 1,100 words. No more than 10 minutes airtime!

Choosing Quotes for a Memorable Maid of Honor Speech

Talking about love and trying to sum up a friendship, can be hard. Luckily, some other clever people have already done it and we can all exploit their genius! Whilst plagiarism isn’t ever cool, finding the perfect quote to supercharge your speech is a great idea. Founder of Speechy (the bespoke speechwriting service), Heidi Ellert-McDermott, shares her tips for hunting the perfect quote to honour your bestie.

How to Use Quotes

• Don’t resort to a generic ‘marriage advice’ quote. They’re over-used.
• Don’t overload your speech with quotes. One, maximum two.
• Quote recognisable names – or at least provide some context. Don’t quote someone you need to Google or someone who’s a random ‘relationship coach’.
• Once you add the perfect quote to your speech, script a comedy back ref or put it into the context of the couple’s real-life relationship.
• Remember, quotes can be used to add the necessary humor, as well as the sentiment.

Where to Find Quotes

• Don’t just search for ‘wedding quotes’ on Pinterest.
• Quotes become more meaningful if they come from somewhere that means something to the couple. Could the quote come from the bride’s favourite book, her partner’s favourite film, or maybe it’s from that song you play when you’ve both had a few too many dirty martinis.
• Quotes can be found everywhere from children’s books to rom-coms, from hip-hop classics to the great philosophers, from historical icons to classic sitcoms so enjoy the search!

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the maid of honor have to give a speech.

It’s definitely customary for the maid of honor to give a toast to the newlyweds at the reception, but usually, she gave a sweet speech.

How long should a maid of honor speech be?

A maid of honor speech should ideally be around 3 to 5 minutes in length. This timeframe allows you to convey your message effectively without losing the audience’s attention or making other speeches feel rushed.

What should be avoided in a maid of honor speech?

When delivering a maid of honor speech, there are a few things to avoid to ensure it is memorable for the right reasons:

• Avoid embarrassing or offensive stories: You shouldn’t share anything that may make the bride uncomfortable or might be inappropriate for the audience.
• Steer clear of inside jokes: Inside jokes may exclude or confuse other guests who are not familiar with the context. Keep your speech inclusive and relatable for everyone present.
• Don’t overshadow the couple: Avoid making the speech all about yourself or unrelated topics that detract from the celebration of the couple’s special day.
• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption can impair your ability to deliver a coherent and meaningful message.
• Don’t go on for too long: Avoid rambling or dragging out the speech, as it may lose the interest of the audience.

Remember, the maid of honor speech is an opportunity to celebrate the couple and express your love and support for them.

We hope that now you have everything you need for your perfect maid of honor speech. So just keep all of this in mind as you prepare and deliver your maid of honor speech, and you will be amazing. Make the bride proud she chose you!

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A Step-by-Step Guide to Nailing Your Maid of Honor Speech

• Chapelle writes articles for The Knot Worldwide. She covers all things wedding-related and has a personal interest in covering celebrity engagements and fashion.
• Before joining The Knot Worldwide, Chapelle was an editorial intern for Subvrt Magazine.
• Chapelle has a degree in English writing from Loyola University New Orleans.

As a wedding party member, you'll likely be asked to speak at the wedding. In fact, giving a maid of honor speech is one of the most important maid of honor duties to complete on the big day. You may be a gifted orator, which means writing (and giving) a speech will be a breeze. But if the thought of speaking in front of a crowd makes you a little nervous, don't panic. With the help of Heidi Ellert-McDermott, professional speech writer and founder of Speechy , we've provided you with everything you need to know about the matron of honor speech. Learn what to say, how to say it and exactly how to get rid of any nervous butterflies. Use these tips, template, outline and more to write a perfect maid of honor speech that'll bring the house down.

In this article:

Printable Template | How to Write | Examples | Tips | FAQs

Printable Maid of Honor Speech Template

For those looking for a quick and simple reminder of how to write a maid of honor speech, bookmark this template. You could even save it as your phone or laptop wallpaper while you're writing to keep you on task.

How to Write a Maid of Honor Speech Outline

So, how do you write a matron of honor speech? It helps, but you don't need to be a professional speechwriter to write a special toast for the newlyweds. Use this guide to create a heartfelt message that'll make everyone laugh, cry or both.

1. Reflect on your relationship with the couple.

Think about your relationships with each person in the couple. This is your time to write down any personal moments you shared with them. These moments can bring some tears or laughs, but they show the wedding guests how you know the happy couple. Maybe you and one of the newlyweds went on an epic trip to Europe together. Or you and the newlyweds have known each other since high school and have plenty of silly and embarrassing stories from that time. No matter which memory you choose for your maid of honor speech, pick your favorite (appropriate) story and have fun with it.

2. Celebrate the couple's relationship.

Another part of your matron of honor speech should be dedicated to the couple's relationship. You can talk about when they first met, when you knew they were in love, or how you knew they were meant to be. If some details are a little fuzzy, talk with the other honor attendants or close friends of the couple to help refresh your memory. Overall, you want to paint a picture of how the couple was when they first met, how they've grown together and why they complement one another.

3. Avoid taboo topics.

There are certain topics you shouldn't have in your maid of honor speech. It doesn't matter how you try to deliver it. These taboo subjects are liable to offend someone:

• Negativity about marriage in general.
• Past relationships.
• Previous marriages/divorces.
• Drinking, drugs, gambling.
• "Adult" humor or any other mention of sex.

Remember, you don't want to cause any drama. Keep the focus of your speech on uplifting the happy couple and celebrating their love for one another.

4. Add jokes—but not too many.

Feel like you have a comedic gift? Consider adding some jokes, one-liners or funny marriage quotes to your maid of honor speech. Ensure you don't use any inside jokes or references only you and the newlyweds would understand. Your speech should be something every wedding guest can appreciate and laugh at. This also means your jokes shouldn't be too harsh or bring up any taboo wedding speech topics we previously listed.

Be deliberate about where you put your jokes and spread them out. You want them to add comedic relief to a sentimental toast, not seem like a stand-up routine. Start your speech with a funny opening line so the guests can laugh and get an idea of what kind of person you are—plus, laughs give you time to overcome any nerves you might have.

5. Create your maid of honor speech outline.

Get creative and personalize your maid of honor speech as much as you want. A customized script is much more endearing for guests. But when it comes down to it, a great wedding toast will include the following remarks:

• Start with an introduction—along with an explanation about your connection to the happy couple.
• Next, give a word of thanks to the couple for inviting you to be part of their special day.
• Say one or two personal anecdotes, like a favorite memory, joke or sweet sentiment that most guests will understand.
• Provide encouraging advice or a thoughtful quote about the newlyweds' future.
• Finish with a closing remark and an invitation for guests to raise their glasses.

Maid of Honor Speech Examples

Need more than a maid of honor speech template to help you? Then choose your favorite sample maid of honor speech below and use it to help get your creative juices flowing.

Funny Maid of Honor Speech

Hello! For those of you who haven't had the chance to meet me yet, my name is [Your Name]. [Newlywed's Name] and I have been best friends since high school, which means we've been on each other's top eight friends list for a while. That's for my old Myspace users out there.

Typically, public speaking makes me beyond nervous, but I knew I had to make a speech for one of the most important people in my life. I've known [Newlywed's Name] for a long time and have appreciated every special moment we've shared over the years. [Newlywed's Name] has a beautiful soul, and I'm so happy that [Newlywed's Name] has found someone who complements it.

As everyone probably knows [Newlywed's Name] isn't a shy person, so the fact that [Newlywed's Name] would always giggle and blush whenever referring to 'the hot coworker' and I knew something special was going to come out of it. I've gotten to know [Spouse's Name] really well over the years, and I can honestly say [Spouse's Name] is one of the most genuine and caring people I've ever met.

Everyone aims to find their one true love, their soulmate, the person that's going to love and cherish them for the rest of their lives. And that moment came for [Newlywed's Name]...when they met me 18 years ago. But in all seriousness, I wish you and [Spouse's Name] a long and wonderful marriage. Congrats to you both, and I hope you find a lifetime of happiness together. Cheers!

Find your kind of venue

Maid of honor speech for best friend.

Good evening everyone! I thought the most nerve-wracking part of being a maid of honor was giving the speech, but fixing [Newlywed's Name] shoe malfunction before the wedding ceremony is high on the list.

I think I've calmed down by now, so I'll continue. My name is [Your Name], and I've known [Newlywed's Name] since college. We sat next to each other one time in an eight A.M. Spanish class and have been inseparable ever since. We've known each other for so long I would consider us siblings now, and I'm so blessed to have such a wonderful person in my life.

[Spouse's Name] is charming, intelligent, thoughtful and to quote [Newlywed's Name] after their first date, 'sooo cuteee.' I consider myself a top-notch wingwoman and matchmaker, but even I couldn't have picked a better person for [Newlywed's Name] to fall in love with. Anyone can take one look at them together and see that they're a perfect example of 'meant to be.'

I'm honored that you both have not only chosen me to be a significant part of your big day but also a significant person in your lives. I'm excited to watch you two enjoy this new chapter in your lives as a married couple. I love you both so much!

Maid of Honor Speech for Sister

Hello everyone! If you couldn't tell already from our almost identical faces, I'm [Bride's Name] sister. We're only two years apart, so we've always been really close. We would do everything together, like that one time we got gum stuck in our hair on the same day and spent hours combing peanut butter into each other's hair to help get the gum out. Unfortunately, this didn't work out, and we had to chop a lot of hair off.

Regardless of all the trouble we've got ourselves into, I can't imagine sharing such fun memories with anyone else. I've always looked up to [Bride's Name] and continue to think of her as a great role model to me and many others. I feel so happy and proud to call [Bride's Name] my sister.

[Spouse's Name], you've come into our lives seamlessly, and I've never seen my sister happier. You're such a funny and loving person, and to this day, every time my sister talks about you, she gets giddy. I really do think you guys are perfect for one another, and I can't wait to see how you grow even more as life partners.

Everyone raise your glass to congratulate [Bride's Name] and [Spouse's Name]. May each day be full of love and laughter!

Maid of Honor Speech for Cousin

Shout out to Ellert-McDermott for writing the passionate maid of honor speech below.

Ladies and gentlemen, friends and family and all you lucky souls who scored an invite to the wedding of the century. My name is [Your Name], and I have the pleasure of being the maid of honor today, or as I like to call it, the 'official party planner, the emergency dress fixer and human tissue dispenser.'

You all know [Bride's Name] as this gorgeous, successful, brilliant person you see before you today, but I know her as my little cousin. And I don't care how many promotions she gets, how many exotic countries she visits or how married she gets, that's who she'll always be to me. Yes, the girl who, for several years, ate nothing but chicken nugget sandwiches and had a special tree she liked to wee behind when we visited Grandma.

Being the only girls in our tribe of siblings, we quickly became best friends and partners in crime. We loved playing dress-up, but rather than pretending to marry our Prince Charmings, we'd pretend to be lawyers or scientists. And we wonder why no one wanted to hang out with us.

Our geekiness lasted well into our teens and developed into a mild addiction to One Direction, "Glee" and astronomy. We'd spend hours staring into our telescopes, wondering what we would say when we became the first astronauts to land on Mars. Sadly, that dream never came to fruition, but [Bride's Name], as we all know, did become a lawyer—an incredibly successful one at that.

But seriously, watching [Bride's Name] achieve her dreams has been a delight because she's quite simply one of life's special people. I feel incredibly lucky to have been blessed with such a fun-loving, wise and caring cousin––a special type of friend who's duty-bond to be in my life forever.

I always knew that [Bride's Name] deserved to be loved by someone special, and I'm delighted to say that person is [Newlywed's Name]. I've had the privilege of getting to know [Newlywed's Name] well over the last three years, and I must say, you're a brave soul for marrying into our family and having to cope with our crazy Christmas traditions. But I think you've figured out our secret. The louder we are, the more we like you. And just to clarify, we like you very much.

You have a kind heart, a wonderful wit and you're willing to dance to One Direction after we've had a few beers. I can also see how much you love my cousin. I can see that you 'get her;' that you know just how she likes her coffee, that you understand her sarcasm is a sign of affection and that you appreciate how intelligent she is even if she insists on watching "Selling Sunset" at every opportunity she can.

You're an incredible couple, and I've no doubt your love will continue to grow with every passing day. As your maid of honor, I couldn't be happier for you, and I look forward to sharing more happy memories with you guys in the future. And with that, everyone please join me in a toast to the happy couple and a life filled with love and laughter.

Short Maid of Honor Speech

I would like to quote the famous American author, Mark Twain, who once said, 'To get the full value of joy, you must have someone to divide it with.' This perfectly explains why [Newlywed's Name] and [Spouse's Name] have always radiated so much joy since they've met each other.

I do not doubt [Newlywed's Name] has found the person they will spend the rest of their life with. You both make a beautiful couple and may you continue to get the full value of joy out of life with one another.

Congratulations, [Newlywed's Name] and [Spouse's Name]!

Maid of Honor Speech Tips

Completing your matron of honor speech is a big accomplishment, but the work doesn't stop when you write the closing line. The right delivery is what makes it. Here are confidence tips for your maid of honor speech and other speaking engagements.

Don't procrastinate.

We recommend you start writing your maid of honor speech at least two months before the wedding day. As an honor attendant, you're expected to attend and plan numerous prewedding events, like dress fittings, the bach party and the rehearsal dinner , which means you won't have much time to write as the wedding day approaches. Also, it doesn't hurt to write a few drafts and ask someone you trust to edit your work. By preparing in advance, you'll be able to focus on writing a toast you're excited to read in front of a crowd and not have to worry about leaving a wedding event early so you can go home and write.

Add stories, not adjectives.

"Adjectives are just white noise in wedding speeches. Describing the newlywed as 'kind,' 'fun' or 'beautiful' is nice but doesn't really add much. Illustrate their characteristics and qualities by sharing the evidence of them in action," Ellert-McDermott, author of "The Modern Couple's Guide to Wedding Speeches," says.

Be true to yourself.

This is the time to open your heart and share a few favorite memories or silly stories that capture your relationship with the newlyweds. So don't feel pressured to write a maid of honor speech that sounds overly professional. A great maid of honor toast is about speaking honestly and naturally, so write how you generally speak. Don't forget this isn't the time to use inappropriate language since you'll be speaking to the couple's nearest and dearest. Your writing should feel like a natural extension of the way you talk. A genuine speech from the heart is impactful.

Remember to mention the partner.

"Yes, the focus of your speech is your friend and your relationship with them, but don't forget what the day's actually about. Try to make your tribute to their partner seem like more than a cliched afterthought," Ellert-McDermott advises.

Write it down.

Yes, you're expected to make an amazing speech, but that doesn't mean you must memorize it. Writing the entire speech word for word or just jotting down bullet points of your speech's outline can work wonders for your confidence. We suggest you read your maid of honor speech on index cards instead of reading it off your cell phone. Phones are more convenient, but the phone screen light that washes over your face as you're reading your speech distorts wedding photographs. To avoid ruining any wedding images, write your speech down instead. ( Psst. People say handwritten notes boost brain activity and optimize memory.)

Practice in front of an audience.

Practicing your speech is just as important as writing it. As with any public speaking gig, you'll become more comfortable with the material as you practice it. Read your toast aloud a few times to catch any spelling or grammar errors. This will also help you find a rhythm—you'll know exactly when you want to pause for reactions and emphasize certain points, which is key for staying within a designated time frame. You can also read your words to another wedding party member for feedback. When the time comes to stand up in front of the crowd, you'll be grateful for the pre-performance audience.

Stay calm, cool and collected.

Whether this is your first time giving a wedding speech or you're a pro, it's normal to feel a little nervous beforehand. Take a few deep breaths to calm your nerves and collect your thoughts. Speak slowly and clearly, and remind yourself that guests are excited to hear what you're saying. As nerve-wracking as it might feel to give a big speech at your loved one's wedding, their heartfelt reaction to your words will make your efforts worth it. As soon as your speech is over, you'll be free to celebrate with the newlyweds and the rest of the wedding party.

Don't forget to smile.

"Because they're nervous, speakers often forget to smile as they deliver their speech, but it's a simple and effective way to create a good vibe in the room. A smile is literally infectious, so make sure it looks like you're actually enjoying your time on the mic," Ellert-McDermott says. Putting on a soft smile also helps the photographer capture stunning pictures of you killing your speech.

Maid of Honor Speech Frequently Asked Questions

Delivering a unique maid of honor speech can seem daunting, but we're here to help you take the stress out of it. Here are answers to common questions regarding the maid of honor speech.

Does the maid of honor have to give a speech?

It's expected for a maid of honor to give a speech, especially if the other honor attendants are planning on giving one, but it's not required. Giving a maid of honor speech can be a fun experience, but it isn't for everyone. If public speaking makes you nervous, you can express yourself in other ways, like through song, dance or by creating a sweet love story presentation about the happy couple.

How long should a maid of honor speech be?

In addition to the matron of honor speech, there might also be a best man speech , toasts from the couple's parents or even a thank-you message from the newlyweds. Since there are several speeches to fit in with meal courses, dancing, games and additional reception activities , keep your salutations short and sweet. Aim to make your maid of honor speech a minimum of four minutes and at most six minutes—Ellert-McDermott suggests anything between 700 and 1000 words.

Wedding guests will be excited to hear your well-wishes and funny stories, but a long MOH speech can lose the wedding guests' interest (especially if it's full of too many personal inside jokes). A four-minute speech gives you enough time to speak about the couple's love story, offer a personal anecdote or two and finish with encouragement for married life.

How to Start a Maid of Honor Speech

"Like every other speaker, the maid of honor should say a quick hello and introduce themselves to the guests. They should explain how they know the bride and try to add some humor early on too. Tailor your speech to suit the style of the wedding. Is it a rock n roll affair or a traditional bash with children present? Consider your audience and decide if 'ladies and gentlemen' is necessary or overly formal (generally, it's the latter)," Ellert-McDermott notes.

How to End a Maid of Honor Speech

"Towards the end of the speech, the maid of honor should reiterate their joy in seeing their friend getting married. They may refer back to special memories they share with the bride and explain why she is such a great friend to them. The final few lines should be about wishing the couple well in their future life together and proposing a toast to them both," Ellert-McDermott suggests. Here is an example of a personal maid of honor toast ending from Ellert-McDermott:

Here's to a lifetime of drinking mojitos and dancing on tables. To Sophie and Taylor.

When does the maid of honor give a speech?

If the couple is following the traditional wedding speech order , the maid of honor gives her speech after the newlyweds' parents. Typically, following the maid of honor is the best man. That wedding speech order isn't for everyone since a couple's wedding party size and reception timeline impact the order too. Also, sometimes couples opt to have all the wedding speeches delivered during the rehearsal dinner. So check with the to-be-weds about the order to confirm your spot in the toast lineup.

What to do if there are multiple maids of honor?

If you are one of the multiple maids of honor , you and the others should keep your maid of honor speeches to three to five minutes long. Before delivering your speeches, we suggest you and the other maids of honor go over them together to make sure they aren't too similar (and if they are, to adjust accordingly). If you and the other maids of honor have a close relationship, want to create only one speech or you don't want to give your speech alone, consider doing a joint maid of honor speech. By doing a combined speech, you have more opportunities to be creative, like setting each other up for jokes or performing a heartfelt song together.

How to Write a Maid of Honor Speech—Template Included

Wondering how to write a maid of honor speech? This guide covers everything you need to know and includes a template to help you get started.

Your best friend is getting married , and she’s asked you to be her maid of honor—one of the most meaningful and important roles in helping your best friend bring her wedding daydreams to life. With this honor comes a number of important duties, and at the top of that list is delivering the maid of honor speech.

The maid of honor speech traditionally takes place at the wedding reception , but it’s possible you might deliver it at the rehearsal dinner. Regardless of when the speech will take place, it’s best to get started writing it at least three weeks before the wedding day. After all, a meaningful maid of honor speech isn’t something you can write up on your phone the morning of the wedding—it requires some thought, preparation, and maybe a round of edits or two.

If the task of giving a moving speech to a room full of people feels a bit nerve-wracking, don’t panic. We’ve broken down everything you need to know to craft the perfect speech from start to finish, along with how to keep your nerves at bay when it comes time to deliver it.

6 Tips to Prepare for Your Maid of Honor Speech

You don’t need to be a professional writer or orator to create a meaningful maid of honor speech. Use the tips below to get an idea of what to include and get an idea of the overall structure of a solid speech.

1. Introduce Yourself and Express Thanks

Begin your speech by introducing yourself and your relationship with the bride. Then, share a word of thanks for those who had a hand in planning the wedding —the bride’s family, the groom’s family, and anyone else who you feel should be mentioned.

2. Talk About the Bride

Now it’s time to get personal about the bride and your history together. You might share an anecdote about how you two met, what her friendship has meant to you over the years, or any other endearing story that illustrates why she’s so special. It’s best to focus this section of the speech on the bride before her partner came into the picture, which you can lead into in the next section.

3. Talk About Her Partner

Now is a good time to discuss the bride’s spouse. While you’re certainly the designated right-hand woman to the bride, remember that the focus of a maid of honor speech should be on celebrating the couple , the beauty of their relationship and their future together as newlyweds.

When thinking about what to say about her partner, you can share any number of special sentiments that you feel illustrate who they are and what they mean to the bride. You also might decide to talk about what you love about her partner, mention their greatest characteristics, or share a story about how much he or she means to the bride.

4. Talk About the Couple

While the last section focuses on the bride’s partner as an individual, use this section to talk about who they are as a couple. If you’re close friends with both partners, you might have some special memories to share looking back on the journey of their relationship. If not, you might talk about the impact the bride’s partner has had on her and how you saw her grow as their bond grew over time. Whatever you choose to speak about, be sure to keep the focus on the beauty of their relationship.

5. Share Encouragement or Advice for the Newlyweds’ Future

As you near the end of your speech, try closing with a word of encouragement or advice for the couple and their future together as newlyweds. After all, the whole point of the maid of honor speech is to celebrate the couple! You might include an inspirational quote or poem if you feel like it fits, but be sure to keep it short and sweet to avoid a long-winded reading.

6. Closing Toast

The closing of your speech should be short and sweet—simply share a closing remark to commemorate the happy couple. Then, invite the guests to raise their glasses in a toast to the newlyweds.

How to Nail Your Maid of Honor Speech

While the steps above are helpful in nailing the structure of your speech, there are a few additional tips to keep in mind that will help you write a compelling and meaningful speech.

Set Aside Reflection Time

Before you even attempt to write your speech, it’s a good idea to carve out some time to simply think and reflect. This can help kick off the creative process and get you into the right headspace as you ideate what you might want to include. Spend this time reflecting on the memories you share with the bride, and try to pinpoint any ideas or emotions that come to mind when you think of her. This way, you come away with a road map of all the major points you want to touch on in your speech.

Define Your Objective

As you’re planning your speech, it’s helpful to define your overall objective before you dive into the nitty gritty details and stories you’ll share. Think about the goal you want your speech to accomplish: is it to make the wedding guests laugh, cry, maybe both? Is the couple known for their sense of humor? Perhaps you add some comedic flair to your speech.

If you’ve been through a lot with the bride or want to touch on some more serious memories, perhaps you craft your speech to be more emotionally moving. In the end, defining your objective will help you find the direction your speech will take.

Don’t Go Overboard with Anecdotes

If you have a ton of history with the bride, you might have a miles-long list of heartwarming stories you want to share. However, one key to a compelling speech is keeping it short and sweet. A standard maid of honor speech should only be three to four minutes long, and you don’t want to risk boring the guests or taking the focus off of the celebration. To avoid this, choose one or two must-have memories or anecdotes that you know you want to include, and nix the rest.

Develop Your Story

Along with keeping things short and sweet, another key to writing a compelling maid of honor speech is to tell it like a story. Any story worth hearing has a defined beginning, middle and end. While you’re in control of the details that fill the story, you want to ensure that every detail aligns with the main point of your speech. Whatever you talk about should clearly tie back to the overall focus of the speech, which is celebrating the bond the couple shares and wishing them well for their new future together.

Be Authentic

The bride chose you as her maid of honor for a reason, so you shouldn’t feel like you have to be anything but yourself when you give your speech. Throw off any pressure you might feel to sound a certain way if it doesn’t ring true to you and your connection with the bride. A great maid of honor speech is about speaking openly and honestly about the bride and her partner—remember to write in the same way you’d speak to avoid sounding stiff or robotic.

Practice, Don’t Memorize

If you feel like you need to memorize your speech word for word, don’t! Instead, focus on practicing your speech in the weeks leading up to the wedding day. This way, the main points will be well committed to your memory and you won’t need to memorize it line by line. However, it’s still helpful to use a bulleted list of the main points when it’s time to give your speech—this way you don’t have to worry about losing track mid-speech.

When you’re practicing your speech, make sure you’re practicing out loud so you can get a feel for the overall flow and rhythm of what you plan to say. It’s also helpful to read it aloud to a friend or the other bridesmaids to get some outside perspective on how your speech sounds and any tweaks that might help it shine.

Maid of Honor Speech Template

Your maid of honor speech should be authentic and personal, and there’s a number of directions you might choose to take your speech in. If you’re stuck on where to begin, the template below is a great starting point to give you an idea of the general structure and flow of a maid of honor speech. Fill it in with your own words to personalize it according to you and your unique relationship with the bride!

“Hello everyone, I’m [name] and [bride’s name] maid of honor. I met [bride’s name] X years ago when [how you met]. When [bride] and I became friends, it was [personal anecdote about your relationship with the bride]. I’ll never forget [personal memory between you and the bride].

When [partner’s name] came into the picture, [personal anecdote about how you met their partner]. [Partner’s name] was [personal anecdote about the partner’s characteristics or favorite memory].

Watching their relationship grow over time has been [personal sentiments about the couple’s bond. I’ll always remember how [personal anecdote about the journey of their relationship]. Ever since then, I’ve seen [bride’s name] [sentiment about the impact of the couple’s relationship].

It’s a privilege to join with you all in honoring the marriage of [bride] and [partner], and I know I speak for everyone when I say we’re thrilled to stand by your side today and support you both as you enter your new life together. If there’s one piece of advice I’d share, it’s [word of advice or encouragement for the newlyweds]. Thank you both for showing us what it means to love unconditionally. Please raise a glass to [bride] and [partner]! May you two never stop loving each other, growing together, and showing up for each other today and every day. Cheers!”

Whether this is your first wedding speech or your 20th, feelings of nervousness are normal! With some dedicated time and practice (and a few deep breaths beforehand) you’ll be more than ready to nail your maid of honor speech. All that really matters is that your words come from the heart. After all, the couple might not remember every single word you share, but they’ll always remember the love and care that went into it.

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Free Maid of Honor Speeches

Kate Esposito is a professional freelance writer.

Learn about our Editorial Policy .

Flatter the bride by giving a memorable maid of honor speech at the reception. Examples can provide the inspiration you need to help you write your own when you're mentally blocked due to the pre-wedding stress from your duties.

Sample Maid of Honor Speech Templates

There are two different ways to go with your speech. You can either be sentimental or funny . To decide which is best, consider the bride and what she would likely prefer. It can depend on the tone of the wedding as well. Edit the templates using Adobe Reader . Fill your own information in with the details requested between the brackets to personalize the speech you select.

• Free Wedding Speech Examples to Celebrate the Big Day
• Maid of Honor Speech Examples for the Sister of the Bride

Short and Sweet Speech

If you have fond memories from your youth with the bride, use the sentimental sample. This short and sweet maid of honor speech template allows you to share how you met and what the bride meant to you through the years. It also allows you to share the bride's first thoughts upon meeting her groom, something that is sure to be special to him and everyone listening.

Funny Speech

A funny speech, like the one in the template to the right, is perfect if the bride has a great sense of humor and some cute quirks she wouldn't mind you sharing with everyone. For example, you could share a couple silly stories about how the bride likes cheese snacks dipped in dressing or that as a child, she tried to make toast in a VCR. The silliness continues as you share a couple impersonal dating tidbits and how you knew it was different with the groom. Pick this speech template if you know the bride wouldn't mind a few chuckles at her expense.

Writing Tips

If you want to write the speech yourself, it helps to have preparation time instead of stressing to put something together at the last minute. Gather your thoughts and ideas, and write them down. You'll find that if you refer back to and edit your thoughts over a period of time, your speech may almost write itself. Popular things to include are as follows:

• Introduce yourself and state your relationship to the bride and how long you've known her. Some of the guests may not have met you before.
• Thank the bride for asking you to be the maid of honor.
• Talk a little about the couple. How did they meet? What were your first impressions? When did you realize that they were meant for each other?
• Start in the past and end in the future. Begin speaking of your history with her and end with a mention of her bright future with her new husband.
• Use a quote or a poem from someone famous regarding relationships.
• Finally, end the maid of honor speech on a happy and upbeat note, and express good wishes for the couple.

Make your speech about five or so minutes long. It will be easier for you to remember, and it will leave enough time for others to toast the couple as well. Don't mention religion or politics unless it is imperative to the speech; for example, if the couple met at the Democratic National Convention. Keep humor PG so that you do not embarrass the bride or offend anyone. Remember to invite the guests to lift their glasses if you want to end with a toast, and don't forget to bring your own drink as well. It does not have to be alcoholic .

Additional Free Resources

When you're looking for speech resources, consider ones that are specific to your situation. For example:

• Use a maid of honor speech for sisters if you're the bride's sibling.
• A short maid of honor or matron of honor toast is appropriate if you want to keep the reception moving along.
• A free wedding speech that personalizes things and incorporates the history of the position is appropriate.

More Speech Advice

Once you've written your speech, practice it a few times before you have to give it at the wedding and ask others to listen and give their input. If you're more comfortable with it, this can help banish some jitters. Don't worry about memorizing it completely. It's perfectly fine to use note cards or even a full sheet of paper. Most likely, you will not be the only one doing so. It can be nerve wracking to be asked to make a wedding speech, but after checking out different maid of honor speeches you can become inspired to share your thoughts and congratulations with the happy couple in a comfortable and meaningful way.

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Maid of honor speech examples

Two unique maid of honor speeches to help you prepare a perfect maid of honor speech of your own

By:  Susan Dugdale  | Last modified: 10-06-2023

What's the best way to share the happy couple's love story at the wedding reception on their big day?

The bride's your great friend, an amazing person. You love her to pieces which is why you said 'yes' when she asked you to speak on her wedding day.

However, maybe this is the first time you've given a maid of honor toast. Perhaps, in addition, you find public speaking, talking in front of a crowd and making eye contact as you do, a little bit nerve wracking.

You're in the right place. The goal of this article is to empower and enable you to write and deliver the best maid of honor speech you can. Begin by reading the speeches!

What's on this page

• 2 unique maid of honor speech examples - a heartfelt maid of honor speech - a light-hearted maid of honor speech
• how to begin - suggestions for getting started on your own MOH speech
• a link to ' How to end a Maid of Honor speech: 20 examples '
• a link to a maid of honor speech template
• how to test and rehearse your speech
• links to other resources to help you give the best maid of honor speech you can

A heartfelt Maid of Honor speech example

This example is written from the point of view of a childhood friend: someone who's shared the best and most difficult of times with the bride. The friendship between them is enduring and the speech is sincerely heartfelt: full of personal stories everybody will relate to.

Said aloud, it is approximately 5- 6 minutes long. 

Maria's MOH speech at Sonja & Mark's wedding

"Some one very wise, and obviously someone who knew Sonja and Mark said, “Don't marry a person you can live with. Marry somebody you can't live without."

That's what we're witnessing today – the union of two people who belong together. A perfect match!

My name is Maria and I'm delighted to be the Maid of Honor for my very dear friend Sonja.

We've been close friends since we were little girls and, as we are hitting our 30s, it feels like forever. I can scarcely remember life without her.

Sonja and me, we've gone from crayons to perfume together, with stops in between for learning to read and write, ride a bike, play with dolls, dress up, climb trees, scrape our knees... We’ve done our high school homework, got into trouble for staying out late, turned 21 together… And now here we are, all grown up.

A big night these days is a glass of wine, staying in and watching Netflix together.

From the time we were 13 and had to run to escape a mad, snarling, barking dog I knew Sonja was truly there for me. I was slower than her but she did not leave me behind. And she's been there to pick me up ever since.

Like when I've misplaced my confidence and haven't been able to find it. (Is it under the sofa? No! Behind the kitchen door? No!)

Or when I’ve needed someone to talk to about a personal life situation, for instance, another crappy boyfriend.

Over the years Sonja has been my touchstone, my wise go-to sister, and although there have been times when we have been physically apart that has never been true of our hearts. She is part of my identity, of who I am.

So when she asked me to be her Maid of Honor, the honor was all mine. Naturally I said yes.

Another “yes”, a previous and much more important one, is the reason we're here today.

Mark, that was one you received.

All Sonja's family members and friends, like me, take her best interests to heart. They look out for her, and I know, that like me, they are delighted that you and she have agreed to live your lives together.

Mark, your care, and love of Sonja over the last few years has demonstrated to us all you are indeed the right man, who was in the right place, at the right time. We've seen the good times you've shared together but most importantly we've also witnessed how you handled the tough ones.

You were there to shelter, cherish and nurture her through the period when her Father passed. And I know that meant everything to her. I feel certain not only he but also her brother, Matthew, would willingly give their blessing to your union from up above.

As for me, you definitely had my wholehearted approval when you asked one of my “ boyfriends”, (now very much past tense), aside for a man-to-man chat about respect and loyalty. From that time, I knew I have gained a brother.

In Sonja you have a hard-working, forgiving, loving big-hearted woman. As her friend, her sister, I am grateful you see, appreciate and know that.

I searched for a special gift of wisdom to pass on and found this – a recipe for love and marriage. It makes sense to me, and I hope it does to you too.

"As you walk through life together remember even though you both share many qualities that are very much the same, you are each unique, and it is your differences that helped bring you together.

Give your love openly and honestly. Always respect and accept what the other has to say, even when you do not agree. Take time to enjoy everyday and share together, and remember that each day is a new beginning."

Sonja, I am looking forward to all the celebrations we're going to have together down the years because although we no longer live on the same street, our roots are very deep.

Please make a note that I intend to speak at your 50th anniversary!

Cheers to the newly weds! Best wishes! I love you guys!"

A light hearted Maid of Honor speech example

To be successful this maid of honor speech relies heavily on its delivery.

Along with stories establishing the depth and importance of the relationship between the bride and her Maid of Honor it includes a good natured, gentle 'roast' of the groom.

The MOH has taken it upon herself to poll guests and family members on his suitability for the bride. She is now making the results public.

Although the groom is being teased we know he's respected, admired and loved by those who know the couple well, which includes the person delivering the speech, the bride's best friend.

The speech will take between 5-6 minutes to deliver.

Felicity's MOH speech at Sarah & Sam's wedding

Once in a while, in the middle of an ordinary life, love gives us a fairy tale.

That's what we're celebrating today: a story of true love, a dream come true, the union of two people who belong together.

My name is Felicity and it's my privilege to be Sarah’s Maid of Honor.

Sarah is my Best Friend. I know it's a cliché. However clichés become clichés for a very good reason, because they're true. She's my BFF: Best Friend Forever.

For her I would wear the gaudiest, frothiest taffeta maid of honor dress possible and still smile. Fortunately I don't have to.

Through Sarah I've learned that being a best friend isn't a competition between those who have been in your life the longest.

Neither is it about regular daily contact. Or about talking, Or being under the same sky, in the same city. Or even sharing the same tastes.

But it is definitely about sharing the same heart space.

Over the years she's been my touchstone, always encouraging me to be the best of myself: a work still in progress. I look forward to checking off the score card with her when we're much, much older.

We've seen each other through all those milestones of growing up: the ones we want to remember, as well as the ones we'd prefer to forget but don't. Amongst them are memories I'll always cherish: going on a bike tour of Paris in the rain, getting completely soaked and laughing about it, gorging ourselves on gastronomic delights in Greece. And ticking off the typical tourist “when in Rome” items: walking up the Spanish Steps and tossing coins in the Trevi fountain together.

Sarah you know, and see me clearly. Just like I know and see you. And today you've changed the course of your life forever with two words: I do.

Sam, you'll have understood by now just how much this woman is loved, not just by me but by all of us here. Inevitably that means when a suitor comes along they have to pass not just one test, but multiple ones.

There's the initial hurdle, getting her on your side. Once that's safely over there's more and these, as anyone married knows, can be quite formidable.

Friends, mothers, fathers, family, don't share quite the same blinkered infatuation. We stand back. We watch, and yes, we judge.

We have a “not-so-little” check list and we want every point on it passed, with honors.

Now I'd done a comprehensive survey of the interested parties and tallied the scores. They read like this.

On the “always has her back “ index you did extremely well. This one was a very important indicator. Knowledge of what it is “to have someone's back” is paramount. You passed with flying colors on the sub-set, “has spine” too.

Availability. The question behind this point had two parts, both equally weighted. Are you there for Sarah when she needs you? We looked at physically, as well as emotionally, present. Again, top marks.

Positive influence. Does this man extend and enhance the best in Sarah?

Now this one was a little trickier. Separating the vested interests and keeping ourselves honest is a challenge when so much is at stake. Change can be confronting even if it is for the better. But yes, we agreed, that Sam definitely brought Sarah more of all that is good. His presence enables her to grow.

Health. Really? Need we go there? Look at them! They eat so well, exercise so well – we're thinking of setting up a charity to donate the excess health they generate to those who need it. These two are the ultimate King and Queen of eating green. Their example inspires!

Our last was “laughter”.  Does this man make this woman smile, make her laugh with joy and share her humor? Sam, no one makes Sarah laugh the way you do.

In conclusion, you are quite simply, the best. We thank you for understanding, valuing and loving her as we do.

I want to acknowledge someone else in the line up looking out for Sarah, someone very dear to her who, although not physically present, is here in our hearts: Betty, Bette, her grandmother. I'm sure she would approve too.

And now a toast. Please raise your glasses.

To Sarah and Sam, and a lifetime of love! May your happily ever after begin here.

Content suggestions for your own MOH speech

Often the hardest part of preparing a speech is getting started.  These prompts will help you find the right words to say about the bride and her new husband on their special day.

Grab a piece of paper and answer the questions as quickly as you can. Let you mind go. Don't stop to edit, to check your spelling or to write full sentences. You can do all of that later.

Focus, for now, on generating ideas.

Maid of Honor speech writing prompts

• When, and how, did you first meet the bride?
• When did she become a close friend?
• What makes her a good person?
• What 3 or 4 words best describe her character?
• When did you realize (the groom's name) was the love of her life? What was your first impression of him?
• What hobbies or interests do they share as a couple?
• What do you admire about them as a couple? What makes them unique or special?
• What challenges or hardships have they faced and overcome?
• What funny moment or funny stories can you share about them?
• What do you want to say to wish them a happy future together? Is there a quote you'd like to use as a toast? A line from a song? A verse from a poem?  

What NOT to put into your speech

Before you go ahead in the writing process check the content you've generated.

Remove any:

• stories that would embarrass the bride and anyone listening: eg. tales about past relationships, wild nights out, participating in illegal activities of any sort...
• inside jokes or references that only a few people will understand
• comments or stories that make yourself the principal focus of attention. The most important people are the bride and groom.
• references to money or the costs involved in the wedding
• critical comments about the wedding planning, the people involved with that, and any of the lead up activities
• language or crudity (for instance, off-color jokes or sexual innuendo) that may offend the wedding guests
• strings of clichés. For example: she's most beautiful bride in the whole wide world. The groom swept her off her feet. It was true love at first sight and now they will live happily ever after...

How to get from notes to speech

Click the link for: a 5 part maid of honor speech outline, with examples, step-by-step guidelines and a complete maid of honor speech for a sister.

How to end a Maid of Honor speech

If you find yourself stuck, not knowing how to conclude your speech have a look here: how to end a Maid of Honor speech .

There are twenty example endings of varying types. Some are funny. Some use Biblical and other quotations and some are straight from the heart.

Find one you like, and then adapt it for your own use.

Test and rehearse your speech

It's vital to allow enough time to thoroughly test and rehearse your speech before you deliver it: that's about three weeks.

How to test your speech

Testing has two parts.

The first part is making sure the content covers all you think it should and flows easily from one segment to the next. This is where another pair of ears are very useful. Sometimes what we think we're saying and what we actually are is quite different. Get the opinion of someone whose judgment you trust.

The second part is testing your speech for timing. Set a timer and say it out loud at about the pace you would use if you were delivering it for real. Ideally you want it between 3 - 6 minutes long. If it's too long, look for places to cut it.

For more about how many words in a 3 minute, 4 minute, 5 minute, 6 minute...speech and speech rate .

Rehearse your speech

Once you have the words sorted, it's time to work on how you'll deliver them.

Delivery makes all the difference between an average, ordinary performance, and an extraordinary one. Please make the time to rehearse.

Trying to 'wing it' without preparation leaves you wide open for all sorts of unnecessary glitches to suddenly pop up and throw you sideways. Don't tempt it! How to rehearse a speech well: 7 steps to brilliance! ☺

More resources

Classic wedding poems and readings : find a segment of a poem or a quote to use

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Maid of Honor Speech [What to Say + Outline + Template]

Jim Peterson has over 20 years experience on speech writing. He wrote over 300 free speech topic ideas and how-to guides for any kind of public speaking and speech writing assignments at My Speech Class.

Giving a maid of honor speech is an honor – and also a responsibility.

If you’re invited to be maid of honor at a family member or friend’s wedding, you have a huge role in the wedding ceremony. Writing the perfect wedding toast or speech can often seem like the hardest part.

Coming up with the perfect toast for this special day is much easier when you have sample speeches to be inspired by. We’ve compiled an essential list of maid of honor speech examples, from roast to religious.

Read on for our step-by-step guide to writing a maid of honor speech, and then watch the examples below. Now you’re ready to prepare a great speech with confidence.

In this article:

How to Write a Maid of Honor Speech

Maid of honor speech topics blueprint, maid of honor speech outline, maid of honor speech examples.

Can We Write Your Speech?

Get your audience blown away with help from a professional speechwriter. Free proofreading and copy-editing included.

The Maid of Honor, sometimes also called the Bridesmaid or even the Matron of Honor, speaks after the Best Man. Remember, the audience has to listen to lots of speeches before and after you.

So, my tip number one is: Keep it brief and simple; for your own utility and the convenience of the guests.

Maid of honor speeches can take many different forms. They might be funny or sweet, creative or traditional . Often, the speech will incorporate different elements, like humor and nostalgia, to hit all the right notes. Most speeches are 5 to 10 minutes long, but wedding speeches can also take many shapes, from short toasts to extended performances.

These simple tips will help you write a maid of honor speech that’s a perfect fit for the wedding day.

Begin Early

When you need to write a maid of honor speech, you’ll want to start early.

Begin the brainstorming process as soon as you’re asked to be maid of honor or bridesmaid. This might involve jotting down fun memories or an embarrassing story you’ve shared with the bride. You can also consider talking about the groom, the bride and groom’s relationship, or how they met.

Write down some ideas early on and then take a few days or weeks to let them percolate. When you come back to your ideas, the speech outline will start to become more clear.

Try a Quote

A great way to start or end your speech can be with a beautiful quote that has meaning for the wedding day. It can be funny, emotional, or poignant. Just make sure it’s something that has meaning for the newlyweds and that wedding guests can resonate with as well.

Tell Stories

The best speeches combine quotes or big ideas about love with real stories. Stories are fun for guests to listen to, and give your speech a solid foundation.

Choosing the right stories about the bride, or the bride and groom, is important. Do you want your speech to be funny, inspiring, or touching? The stories you tell will help set the tone. Think about details: the sights, sounds, or sensations you remember will keep the audience’s attention. Just don’t let it get too long – most speeches should be 10 minutes or less.

Be Prepared

Your speech will go much better if you’ve practiced ahead of time – more than once. The more you practice, the more confident you will feel when the big day comes.

Practice reading your speech, and time yourself to make sure it’s the length you want. Keep in mind that at the wedding ceremony or reception there will be pauses for laughter or applause, which will make your speech a few minutes longer.

You might want to videotape yourself practicing, or even practice in front of a friend or family member to get some feedback on your delivery. Just make sure not to give it to the bride ahead of time – your speech should come as a surprise on the wedding day.

Don’t forget to bring notes, too. Even if you never actually look at them, they will help you feel more comfortable when you take the microphone, and can save you if you draw a blank when it’s time to start.

A heartfelt speech is better than a perfect one.

Don’t be afraid that you’re going to stumble over a word or mess up somehow. If you’ve practiced ahead of time and drafted your speech early, you’ve done all the preparation you need.

Take the stage with confidence, knowing that little mistakes and imperfections can sometimes make a speech that much more meaningful because it’s genuine. If you laugh or cry, the wedding guests are probably going to laugh or cry with you. Keep your sense of humor if the mic cuts out or you stumble over a word. Enjoy the moment!

Here are our maid of honor speech tips in a sample template plus the speaking do’s and don’ts in a matrimonial ceremony based on their complimentary life styles. You are invited and do not know what to say?

Use our template for outlining thoughts, ideas and facts about the bridal couple. I will show you what you should mention and what the text should focus on. If you are not an experienced talker: relax, you do not have to say much, less is more is often said and well put!

But always: public speeches should be from the heart! Be enthusiastic and sincere, but do not exaggerate.

Maid Of Honor Speech Template

INTRODUCTION

• Tell who you are for the ones who don’t know.
• Thank your friend for asking you to be in this wedding.
• How long have you known the bride and groom?
• Why were you selected to accept the honor giving the oral?
• Why did you accept the invitation?
• How did the two of them met?
• What did you think when you saw their friendship became more serious? Reflect on their complimentary life styles. Approach this from the female side. Be tasteful. The best man is at the grooms’ side … so his job is to cover that part, not you 🙂
• Can you come up with a funny story that illustrates the personality of the wedding couple? Think about characterizing sweet, inspiring, exciting or just average daily events or moments.
• Can you come up with a hilarious anecdote based on a real life situation?
• Conclude this part of this special wedding address with letting them know that’s why you were so happy when they announced their wedding. As I said before: keep it short. Stick to one funny story. Ask others if they really like it, if it’s funny enough to share.

THE CEREMONY

• Stress the importance of the matrimonial ceremony. Give your personal view.
• Use a famous quote about marriage, love or the future.
• Relate a short poem to the couple. Quotes and poems are a good starting point for inspiration.
• Wish the bride and groom a long and happy life.
• Express your love and best wishes for the future.
• If they have had hard times, then mention it briefly in one poetic sentence. Not more. Focus on this happy day!
• You can thank and toast to the bride and groom on behalf of the bride, but only if she asked you to do so.

Do’s And Don’ts

• Bring notes, know what you want to say. Too much improvisation can lead to babbling, stumbling or a too long maid of honor speech.
• Do not get too personal. Ask others if the stories you want to tell will not embarrass the bride and groom or the guests. Check double check is the motto.
• Do not come up with negative or depressing speech topics. Kee it nice and friendly for all.
• Avoid sexual tinted expressions, political engagement or religion issues and hold back your horses when you want to mention actual news or political stories.
• Read a draft out loud in front of somenone else and ask for opinions. Alter with the recommendations in mind.

Although maid of honor speeches can take many forms, having a classic speech outline will help you get started. If you’re not sure what to write, follow these simple steps and you’ll be able to write a beautiful, traditional speech.

1. Introduce Yourself

You can’t count on all the wedding guests knowing who you are or how you know the bride. Make time early in your speech to mention your name, what your relationship to the bride is, and how long you’ve known each other.

2. Thank People

Weddings can be expensive, stressful, and difficult to plan. It’s good to take a moment in your speech to thank the parents and other notable guests who helped make the wedding day happen.

3. Tell Stories

Next, you can launch into a story of your choice. There are many different directions you can take this part of the speech. An embarrassing story you share with the bride can get guests laughing, while a touching anecdote about the newlywed couple’s relationship might make happy tears flow.

4. Add a Quote

You can add a meaningful quote anywhere in your speech. The quotes you choose should have meaning to both you and the bride (and maybe the groom as well), and also be relatable to the other guests in attendance. If it’s an inside joke or an obscure reference that not many people will get, you may want to leave it out.

5. Give Heartfelt Emotion

Even the funniest roasts of the bride often have a moment when the speech becomes touching. No matter what the tone of your speech is, it doesn’t hurt to take a moment and recognize the beauty of the day. The best speeches often aren’t all funny or all sentimental – they’re a mix of both.

6. Finish Strong

Your ending will be the part of the speech guests are most likely to remember. Give a strong ending, whether it’s a quote, a final story, or proposing a toast to the bride and groom.

Sister Maid of Honor Speech

This sister wedding speech celebrates all of the fun of watching your family get married. The bride’s sister starts out with humor, telling family memories through a funny lens. However, she quickly gets emotional as she recounts how much her sister means to her.

“You’ve been a great mentor. You’ve been a beautiful impact on my life, and you taught me that there’s beauty in everyone no matter what they do.”

Best Friend Matron of Honor Speech

The best friend of the bride for over 10 years, this matron of honor has nothing but praise for the bride. She recounts how she approved right away upon meeting the groom, and how excited she was upon learning of their engagement.

“You have really, truly become like my sister. I knew I’d be telling you how beautiful you looked, but seeing you next to your handsome groom, you really are absolutely breathtaking.”

Short Matron of Honor Speech

This short speech starts with a funny memory of the bride talking about the groom years before their engagement. In just a minute and a half, the matron of honor brings both laughter and heartfelt emotion to her speech.

“Speaking from experience, marriage is a wild ride. But when you find that right partner, you never want the ride to end.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SRniSDMhWgM

Maid of Honor Toast

In a fun, beautiful toast to the bride, this bride’s sister thanks guests for coming, and then launches into memories of growing up together. She shouts out to both the bride and the groom for being important parts of her life.

“Katie is so much more than a big sister to me  – she’s my best friend, my mentor, and the unfailing reminder that sometimes being a sister is even better than being a princess.”

Matron of Honor Speech

This matron of honor gets guests laughing by pulling out a scroll to read from at the beginning of her speech. She recounts the embarrassing story of how the bride stole her spot on the varsity team when they first met. However, their friendship quickly blossomed, and the matron of honor touches on many of the fun things they did together as kids.

“I had the time of my life growing up with you.”

Funny Maid of Honor Speech

In a funny, lighthearted speech, this maid of honor recounts growing up with the bride, and even planning her wedding as little girls. The maid of honor also turns to the groom and thanks him for being the perfect partner for her friend. She fills the speech with memories, from embarrassing to sweet, and ends with a song for a truly memorable wedding moment.

“You’re all the things I hoped for my best friend and more, and I’m so grateful you found her and that you love her the way she really deserves.”

Roast Speech

This maid of honor kept guests laughing with her deadpan delivery of jokes in this short speech. Her stand-up comedy is perfect for the occasion, and she pokes fun at everyone from the bride to the groom to herself.

“When I first sat down and started thinking about what I want to say here tonight, I kept thinking to myself, ‘I can’t believe Erin’s getting married…in less than an hour. No, I’m kidding, I had it written before breakfast.”

Christian Maid of Honor Speech

A sweet speech from the bride’s best friend hits the right notes in a short amount of time. She compares the couple’s love to being like the love of Christ because it is so strong and so beautiful.

“The love that these two share is so strong, it doesn’t need a thousand stories, it doesn’t need a thousand words; it just radiates from these two.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AKKwOBW_8xY

Creative Maid of Honor Speech

This fun maid of honor speech starts with the bride’s sister recalling dancing to pop songs as a kid with her mom, who was pregnant with the bride. Then, she uses a musical interlude to tell the story of the bride’s life from a sister’s perspective. In a mashup of pop music covers, the maid of honor gives a great performance that gets the wedding guests clapping in time.

“[My mom and I] danced around the house to Cyndi Lauper’s ‘Girls Just Wanna Have Fun. And lo and behold, 9:30 am on day 9…DeeDee arrives. Apparently she also just wanted to have fun.”

Bridesmaid Speech

In this genuine, sweet speech, the bridesmaid’s excitement about the happy couple’s new marriage is truly evident. Her fun while holding the microphone is contagious to all the guests.

“I’m just so excited to be here, to witness the true love that is so evident between Taylor and Niko.”

Touching Maid of Honor Speech

This heartfelt, emotional maid of honor speech was given by a college friend of both the bride and the groom. She recounts the story of how she first met the bride, and then tells the bride and groom’s love story as she saw it unfold.

“It was obvious there was something truly amazing between the two of them. Four months of courting and a very, very, very confused Mark later, Mara finally accepted his proposal to be boyfriend and girlfriend – and the rest is history.”

Bridesmaid Toast

These bridesmaids toast the bride in song form. They celebrate the happy couple in their own words, and then shout out to notable wedding guests, keeping everyone entertained the entire time.

“Love is the reason we’re all here – that’s what you toasted for.”

Maid of Honor Speech

The maid of honor speech can be just as hilarious and emotional as the best man speech . Amusing, creative speeches like this one might get a standing ovation. The maid of honor uses a numerical countdown to format her speech, ending with the number one which is, of course, the bride.

“At the end of the day, you’re always gonna have that one person who’s in your corner, who’s your personal cheerleader.”

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• Who Gives a Speech at a Wedding Reception? How to Write a Wedding Toast Tips for the Father of the Bride Speech How to Write a Best Man Toast Advice for the Maid of Honor Speech What to Know About a Newlywed Toast Public Speaking Experts' Wedding Speech Tips 60 Quotes to Use for Your Wedding Toast

How to Write a Maid of Honor Speech

Follow these expert tips to knock your maid of honor speech out of the park.

Photo by Janine Licare

In This Article

You've been asked to play a huge role in your best friend's wedding—maid of honor! But, the job comes with a slew of important tasks , including giving the maid of honor speech. While this is a moment to celebrate your friendship, the idea of getting up in front of a crowd can be nerve-wracking if you're not used to giving speeches.

As staunch advocates of BFF love, we've taken it upon ourselves to create a go-to guide for penning the perfect speech to see your bestie off on their new life with their partner. With a few tips and tricks along with plenty of practice, your maid of honor speech will go off without a hitch.

With expert insight from professional speechwriter Katelyn Peterson—founder of vow- and toast-writing company Wedding Words —and examples of real-life speeches, we have all the details you need. Read on for helpful tips and guidelines to deliver an absolutely unforgettable maid of honor speech .

Meet the Expert

Katelyn Peterson is a speech writer and the founder of vow- and toast-writing company Wedding Words .

Maid of Honor Speech Template

While every maid of honor speech will be different, we've put together an outline to get you started on yours.

Start with the bride; end with the couple.

Of everyone at the wedding, you have the best insight into how much your bestie's partner has changed them for the better. Your maid of honor speech needs to be about the friend you knew long before meeting their soulmate and then pivot to what role they have played in their life. Maybe your friend is even funnier now, or maybe you've simply never seen your BFF so happy. This is also a great way to incorporate their new spouse into the speech if you don't really know them that well; speak to the way that they complement each other or how your BFF's new spouse has made them a better person.

Pepper in anecdotes.

Stories do a better job of getting your point across than blanket statements do. "Each anecdote you share should have an underlying theme that ties all the short stories together," says Peterson. "Reveal that theme near the end of your speech , and you’ll achieve a strong emotional impact."

End with a positive outlook.

The nature of this speech is not so much about your relationship with your friend, but the bond the couple shares. Make sure all of the separate components of your toast draw a positive conclusion, ending in how happy the couple is together and your best wishes for their marriage .

Maid of Honor Speech Tips

Keep in mind these helpful tips from professional speechwriter Katelyn Peterson to ensure you nail your maid-of-honor toast .

Kick-start the creative process by writing down any memories , emotions, or ideas that make you think of your BFF. "I recommend free-writing for 20 minutes," says Peterson. "When you’re done with this exercise, you should have some quality material that you can weave into the form of a speech." This allows you to create a blueprint of all the major points you want to make—more or less creating a roadmap for your ideas—and then fill it in with supporting information.

Ditch Generic Praise

"Use entertaining and engaging stories to show the bride’s personality ," advises Peterson. There's a big difference between simply saying, "She is such a great friend!" versus telling a story that illustrates just that.

Half the guests may not know your BFF all that well, so use this moment to paint a picture of how amazing they are. Bring their character to life with details only you could know.

Remember it isn't about you.

While a lot of the anecdotes should be about your time with your friend, you should not be the focal point. After you briefly introduce yourself (remember: most of the people probably won't know who you are or your relation to the couple), you shouldn't be making any additional references to yourself. You're simply the vehicle to explain why the newlyweds are so fantastic.

Do not mention exes.

No one wants to be reminded of past relationships , particularly in front of their family, friends, and new life partner. Keep the tone of your speech positive, and it will reflect positively on you also. You don't want to come across as though you're trying to roast your friend.

Keep it short.

The longer your speech, the more opportunities you'll have for people to start losing attention. "Keep your speech under five minutes," suggests Peterson. "Anywhere between two to five minutes is great."

Be sure to pause for a few seconds after each joke to let the audience laugh. When you immediately start speaking right afterward, you won't give people a chance to laugh or even understand the next line. Keep in mind that starting the speech on a funny note can help you capture the attention of the audience for a minute or two, but it's the meaningful content that will keep them enthralled until the end. "Your goal should be to have guests laughing and wiping tears away by balancing humor with sincerity," says Peterson.

If you experience public-speaking jitters, try looking just above everyone’s head. This can minimize your anxiety while allowing guests to think you're looking right at them.

Don't use inside jokes.

If the joke or situation is something other wedding guests would have to be there to understand, avoid using it. If people don't understand the context behind it, it will probably go over their heads. It's okay to poke a little bit of fun at your friend, but keep it light. Don't say anything that would be embarrassing or make them feel uncomfortable.

"The more you recite your speech out loud, the more comfortable you’ll become," notes Peterson. Practice your speech twice a day, starting at least a week beforehand, and record yourself a couple of times so you can hear your pacing and tone. Rehearse the speech in front of friends, too, in order to see if your jokes get a laugh, and try practicing in a mirror to nail your physical presence.

How to Get Started

Here are a few questions to ask yourself to start brainstorming ideas for your speech.

• Who will be speaking before or after you, and how will this affect the content of your speech? (You might want to include a reference to their toast in your speech, thank them for an introduction, or introduce the next speaker.)
• What would your friend want their in-laws and newly acquired family to know about them, and how can you attest to those qualities or characteristics from your own experiences with them?
• What's a warm memory of the newlyweds that always makes you smile? (Ask yourself: If their relationship were a Hollywood movie trailer, what key moments would be featured?)
• When you picture the couple's life together in a few years (or from this moment forward), what do you see? Is there any advice you can give them for their lifelong journey ahead?
• Is there something you want to say to your bestie's new spouse? (Perhaps a few lighthearted tips on how to handle more trying situations that you've learned from your own experiences with them.)

Maid of Honor Speech Examples to Make Your Own

If you're feeling stuck, here are three examples of speeches from real bridesmaids to inspire your own.

"Good evening, everyone. I’m Cami, the maid of honor and the bride’s best friend. Over the past 15 years, I’ve witnessed Madison prioritize everyone else’s happiness, but today, we get to honor hers. With Madison being my most fun-loving friend, I knew she’d be down to join me on a two-week adventure traveling throughout Europe. We lived together, but nothing cements a friendship quite like sharing a full-size bed in dingy hostels from the Netherlands to Spain. Madison’s luggage kept breaking, and she went through four suitcases in 14 days! There we were, strolling down a busy street in Madrid and Madison’s clothes were falling out of her over-packed suitcase, painting the path behind us with her sundresses and socks. But she never let her rundown luggage ruin the trip. She just kept rolling with it. Literally. I can always depend on Madison to roll with any situation, to show up for the people that she loves, and to have a good time.

But the truth is everyone in this room is better for knowing you, Madison. You love so deeply, selflessly, and unconditionally. And I know that Pete is the best partner for Madison because I’ve seen him mirror these traits for her. No matter what may come your way, your combined patience, resilience, and love will make you an unstoppable team. And most importantly, I know you two will continue to keep rolling with it . Cheers!" —Cami

"I’m Ashley and welcome! I was introduced to Sarah through a mutual friend to evaluate if she would be a fit as my future roommate. I showed up to that first dinner wearing a casual sundress and flats. Meanwhile, Sarah walked in with voluminous curls, smoky eyes , red lipstick, and a smile that showed me she deserved that Miss Florida title in ’04. I just thought, 'Who is this girl?' Over the next two hours, I learned that this girl was the coolest, funniest person and that I had to live with her. We moved in and it was truly an immediate fit from watching the same shows to downing bottles of the same wine. Despite our homebody nature, we did enjoy our Saturday nights running around the city. One night after several margaritas, Sarah and I found ourselves locked out of our house. So we came up with the best plan we could imagine: Let’s cannonball into our pool. There we were: Two tequila-loving girls cannonballing to see who could create the biggest splash. From that night on, whenever we went out, we’d ask ourselves one key question: 'Is it going to be a cannonball in the pool kind of night?'

And just like she’s always filled the gap in our friend group—we know that John has entered her life to level her out in the best of ways, too. Let’s raise a glass to Sarah and John! May your life together be full of cannonball-in-the-pool kind of nights." —Ashley

"Hi, my name is Makena and I’m the bride’s younger sister and maid of honor . As I look at Winnie and Miles today, I see two people in the most loving, trustworthy, and nurturing relationship I’ve ever witnessed. It shouldn’t come as a surprise to me that even on her wedding day, Winnie is teaching me about life and love. Because the truth is Winnie has been my lifelong teacher. She’s the one who taught me how to read and how to ride a bike, but my most memorable teaching moment was when I was 11 years old.  We had this mutual understanding—or so I thought—that we would not read each other’s journals. But I, of course, read hers and naively assumed she did not read mine. I learned the truth when I opened my journal one day to see an entire page filled with Winnie’s handwriting. There in the middle of my journal was a critique from my sister detailing out how I could improve my writing.

I know that if it weren’t for my sister, I would not be the person I am today. I’m inspired daily by the woman she is. Her confidence is unshakable, her excitability is contagious, and her determination is awe-inspiring. Winnie will finally get to experience what I’ve felt like my entire life with her. She’ll be cared for, unconditionally loved, and will learn every day with Miles as her lifelong teacher through love. Please raise a glass to Winnie and Miles! May you two never stop learning from each other as you continue to love each other." —Makena

First things first: Don't overcomplicate it! Stay authentic to yourself and keep it simple by telling a story, sharing why you love the bride, and toasting the newlyweds.

Keep it short and sweet! Having a two to five minute speech that is both sentimental and humorous is the best way to honor the couple in a way that is engaging and memorable .

Close out your speech with a simple, light-hearted joke and a toast to the newlyweds . This will create the perfect opportunity for a combined cheer and chuckle from the crowd .

A Guide to Wedding Reception Toasts

Who Gives a Speech at a Wedding Reception?

How to Write a Wedding Toast

Tips for the Father of the Bride Speech

How to Write a Best Man Toast

Advice for the Maid of Honor Speech

What to Know About a Newlywed Toast

Public Speaking Experts' Wedding Speech Tips

60 Quotes to Use for Your Wedding Toast

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How to Write a Maid of Honor Speech

A flawless maid of honor speech can't be hastily written on your phone at the reception—it takes time and a lot of practice. Here's how to write a maid of honor speech that will garner a standing ovation.

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As a maid of honor in your BFF’s upcoming wedding, you're likely pretty thrilled about all that's in store for you, from the awesome maid of honor duties , to the epic events to plan ( hey bachelorette party !) to that maid of honor speech — but it's also normal to be a bit nervous, too. As we said, the maid of honor has lots of responsibilities, which include writing and delivering the maid of honor speech. The maid of honor speech usually occurs during the wedding reception, but you might be asked to deliver it at the rehearsal dinner instead. If you’re comfortable speaking in front of a crowd or have a background in acting or performing, the maid of honor speech should be a breeze . But, considering that public speaking is a very common fear, you might be anxious . And even if giving the maid of honor speech doesn’t worry you, figuring out exactly how to write a maid of honor speech likely does. It’s an important moment for both you and the bride, and of course you want to make it special.

How do you prepare the most amazing maid of honor speech she’s ever heard and alleviate some of your anxieties? We’re here to help.

When to start writing a maid of honor speech.

Presuming you haven’t procrastinated too long, you should give yourself as much time as possible to prepare — start at least three weeks to a month before the wedding. This may seem like a lot of time to write a short maid of honor speech, but the longer you wait to write, the more stressed you’ll become.

Choose a time when you’re feeling inspired by your friendship with the bride and/or couple. If you’re feeling extra sentimental after the bachelorette party brought up a plethora of stories you had forgotten about, write them down. Don’t underestimate the power of free writing, during which you unleash all of the thoughts and anecdotes about your bestie that cross your mind onto the page. That way, you’ll be able to see all of your feelings and memories all together at once. From there, who knows? More likely than not, you’ll discover some sort of inspiration within these reflections.

The maid of honor speech outline.

1. how to start the maid of honor speech..

First off, introduce yourself and mention your relationship with the bride, and the couple. Next, be sure you thank whomever you feel is important enough to mention, depending on the circumstances and who paid for or planned the wedding — parents, other family members, wedding party members, etc. Congrats! You have two lines of your speech out of the way.

2. Talk about the bride. 

Now things start to get more personal. If you were just going to express gratitude, it would be a toast, not a maid of honor speech. One crowd-pleasing story you might consider including is how you met the bride. If it’s not a particularly appealing or appropriate story, you might also consider a story about the two of you the really exemplifies your friendship, or a time when you knew you were going to be friends forever. If the two of you share a bond over food, maybe you could talk about that time the two of you tried (and failed) to make your own recipe from scratch. Maybe you were really frustrated at first when you were assigned to be partners in class because you didn’t think you were going to get along, but as fate would have it, you became inseparable. Get creative and get sentimental. And don’t be afraid to be funny .

3. Talk about her partner. 

After talking about you and the bride, it might be a good idea to include how you first met her almost-spouse in the maid of honor speech. I once witnessed a maid of honor that had been friends with the bride for many years, and during her speech she recalled that the bride actually had set her and the groom up on a blind date at first. The maid of honor and the future groom talked about their common friend for the entire date—and the rest was history. You’re the bride’s right hand woman, but a wedding is all about celebrating the couple, so it’s a nice transition from talking about you and the bride into talking about the bride and her partner. It also shows your solidarity and support for their relationship. No matter how you truly feel about her partner, keep a happy face on.

4. Talk about them as a couple. 

Speaking of which, after you explain how you met the bride’s new spouse, talk about the two of them as a couple. This works even better if you’ve known both of them for a long time. Maybe you were the bride’s roommate when they had their first date, and you witnessed her giddy nerves beforehand. Maybe you witnessed the very prolonged will-they-or-won’t-they period of their relationship. What did she tell you after they said "I love you," for the first time? At one wedding, the groom’s sister told a story that took place about three months before the groom and bride had gotten together. The sister was teasing her brother about his love life, when he said, “I’m in love with my best friend, but it will never happen, she’s not interested.” Her brother wouldn’t give any names — but three months later, she figured it out for herself when they started dating.

5. Keep it short and sweet.

In thinking about how to write a maid of honor speech, remember that it should only be about two to three minutes long. That’s just long enough to tell a few stories about the beloved couple and toast to a happy future. Everyone will probably be anxious to start dancing (or eating!) at this point, so there’s no need to drag on. We tend to talk more quickly when we’re nervous, so be extra aware to speak slowly. 

6. Practice.

Be sure to practice your speech in advance — whether it’s in front of a mirror, your cat, or a family member or friend. You can even time yourself to make sure the speech is an appropriate length.

7. End with a toast.

Don't forget to toast to the happy couple at the end! Raising your glass is a great natural finisher to your maid of honor speech, and a guaranteed crowd pleaser. You can add a few words, like "Now, let's all raise a glass to the newlyweds!" or something similarly concise and to the point.

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What to NOT say in a maid of honor speech

Here's what to avoid when writing your maid of honor speech.

1. Exes, drunken nights or anything else remotely inappropriate. 

It should go without saying, but exes or drunken debauchery should not be included in a maid of honor speech. A wedding is a family event, after all. Don’t talk about anything the bride wouldn’t mind her grandmother hearing. 

2. Anything that could even potentially cause tension.

Don’t mention the high divorce rate — even jokingly. It will not be received well.

3. Don’t feel pressured to be anything but yourself.

If humor isn’t your strong suit, it doesn’t have to be a hilarious maid of honor speech. You can be nostalgic, sweet, or sentimental — but not drunk. Wait to drink until after your maid of honor speech .

Whatever you write in your maid of honor speech, the most important thing is that your words come from the heart. Even if you’re not a natural-born performer , speak with feeling and emotion — not like you’re reading a classroom assignment—and talk directly to the couple, rather than focusing on the many other faces in the crowd. Your bestie may not remember the exact words you said during your maid of honor speech, but she’ll remember the care and love behind it.

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How to Write a Maid of Honor Speech: Wording Examples and Ideas

As a maid of honor, you’ll need to juggle several important duties – from organising an epic bridal shower to going wedding dress shopping and holding the bride’s bouquet.

But the most daunting task of all? Writing and delivering a maid of honor speech at the reception!

We totally get how terrifying this can be, which is why we’re here to help. Keep reading for our ultimate guide on writing the perfect maid of honor speech below, including some brainstorming prompts and wording examples to get you started.

How Long Should a Maid of Honor Speech Be?

Let’s get the good news out of the way first: your maid of honor speech doesn’t have to be long! Remember, you probably won’t be the only one speaking at the reception, so you’ll want to keep your speech short and sweet. We’d say the perfect maid of honor speech should ideally be between 2 to 4 minutes, and definitely no longer than 5.

What Should a Maid of Honor Speech Include?

Simply put, a maid of honor speech should be based around two key things: celebrating your relationship with the bride and celebrating her relationship with her new husband or wife. 

Maid of honor speeches usually includes a mix of personal anecdotes, compliments to the happy couple, and well wishes for the future. Your speech can include your favourite memories with the bride, but it should also strike the right balance by including some sentiments towards her partner and their relationship, too. Usually, you’ll start your speech by talking about the bride and wrap it up by talking about her and her partner as a couple.

So, what does this look like in action? If you’re looking for a helpful framework to follow, consider this tried and tested formula for a winning maid of honor speech below:

• Introduce yourself. It might seem obvious, but introducing yourself is important to give your speech context and explain your relationship with the bride. Don’t forget, there may be guests at the wedding who have no idea who you are!
• Talk about the bride. Begin your speech by complimenting the bride. What do you love about her? What makes her such a good person/best friend/sibling? Be specific with your compliments, too – rather than saying, “She’s such a generous friend”, share a specific moment that demonstrates this.
• Include a favourite anecdote. Do you have a favourite memory that sticks out when you reflect on your relationship with the bride? This is a good time to share one or two short anecdotes. They can be funny stories or more sincere and heartfelt moments.
• Compliment their partner. Now it’s time to bring her partner into the speech. What are your favourite qualities about them? What was your first impression of them? Why are they such a good match for the bride?
• Celebrate the couple. This is where you’ll want to highlight the relationship between the happy couple. Talk about what makes their relationship so special, what you admire about them as a couple, and how their lives have changed for the better.
• Share your well wishes. Tie it all together by offering your best piece of marriage advice, favourite quote, or some warm wishes for the future.
• Share a toast. Finally, raise your glass to toast the happy couple (and reward yourself with a sip of champagne, too!).

Things To Avoid In Your Maid of Honor Speech

Now that you know what to include in a maid of honor speech, is there anything you should strictly avoid? When it comes to correct etiquette, keep the following suggestions in mind to ensure your speech is well-received: 

• Sharing funny stories or gently “roasting” the couple is totally fine if that suits your relationship with them, but steer clear of anything inappropriate, rude, or embarrassing. Remember, there will likely be elderly relatives and important family members in the room, so keep it PG-rated.
• If you’re not comfortable using jokes or humour, then don’t! It’s better to keep your speech genuine and heartfelt, rather than trying to be funny. Of course, it’s completely okay to include some comedy, but don’t force it unless it’s true to who you are.
• While you and your BFF probably have a lifetime of inside jokes between you, try to avoid referencing these in your speech. If the majority of wedding guests won’t understand it, it’s probably not worth including.
• Finally, don’t bring up any old boyfriends or ex-partners! It probably goes without saying, but your maid of honor speech is about celebrating the happy couple – not bringing up unwanted memories from the past.

Maid of Honor Speech Writing Prompts

Still feeling stuck? The best place to start crafting your maid of honor speech is usually with a good brainstorming session. Use these questions and writing prompts to help you get the inspiration flowing:

• How did you meet the bride? 
• What was your first impression of her?
• How has your relationship evolved over the years?
• What’s your favourite memory with the bride?
• What’s your funniest story about the bride?
• What are the bride’s best qualities? How does she demonstrate this?
• How would you describe the bride in 3 words?
• How did you meet her partner?
• What was your first impression of her partner?
• What are her partner’s best qualities? How do they demonstrate this?
• How would you describe her partner in 3 words?
• How did you know her partner was “the one”?
• How did her partner propose?
• What do you admire most about the couple?
• What milestones have the couple celebrated?
• How has their relationship evolved over the years?
• Have they overcome any challenges or hardships together?
• What makes their relationship unique?
• What’s your favourite memory with the couple?
• How have they made an impact on your life?
• What are your hopes for their future together as a married couple?

Once you’ve spent some time answering these prompts, you should have plenty of fantastic material to work with. 

Maid of Honor Speech Examples and Ideas

Now, it’s time to start pulling everything together! Use these maid of honor speech templates and examples below to be inspired:

Maid of Honor Speech Example For Sister:

“Hi everyone. I wanted to start by thanking you all for being here today to celebrate this amazing couple. As most of you know, I’m (Bride’s) little sister, (Name). 

I think we can all agree that (Bride) has a personality like no other. She’s outspoken, feisty, and stubborn – but also the most caring, loyal, and funniest person I’ve ever known. Growing up, we were like two peas in a pod. We were always getting into trouble and causing mischief together – and truthfully, not much has changed! I’ll never forget the time we (insert relevant anecdote), or the time we (insert relevant anecdote). It’s memories like these that make me so thankful to have (Bride) as a sister.

I used to wonder if there would ever be a guy brave enough to handle (Bride). Well, my sister has just tied the knot, and I think she’s found her perfect match in (Partner). (Partner), I couldn’t have chosen anyone better for my big sister. You’re kind, patient, and just the right amount of crazy to fit into our family – as demonstrated by the time you (insert relevant anecdote). Most importantly, you love my sister for who she is – stubbornness and all.

Your commitment to each other inspires me every day, and watching your relationship grow over the years has been so special to witness. I wish you both nothing but the best for the future, and I know you’re going to have some unforgettable adventures together. So, with that, I’d like to invite everyone to raise their glasses for a toast. Here’s to the happy couple!”

Maid of Honor Speech Example for Best Friend:

“Hi everyone. For those who haven’t yet had the chance to meet me, I’m (Name). (Bride) and I have been best friends since college, where we quickly bonded over our shared love for (insert hobbies/interests). 10 years later, and I couldn’t be happier to be standing here today to celebrate the amazing person (Bride) is, and the amazing life she and (Partner) have created together.

There are so many traits that I love about (Bride). First, her wacky sense of humour and ability to find the funny moment in any situation – like the time she (insert relevant anecdote). Secondly, her thoughtfulness and generosity, especially when she (insert relevant anecdote). And finally, her ability to light up any room she walks into. (Bride), you look so beautiful tonight.

Now, onto (Partner). My first impression of (Partner) was that he was incredibly kind, friendly, and humble. All of these things are still true, but as I’ve gotten to know him better, I’ve also seen how hilariously goofy he can be. I’ll never forget when he (insert relevant anecdote). It was then I knew that he was “the one” for my best friend.

(Bride) and (Partner), you complement each other perfectly, and it’s easy to see how crazy you are about each other. I’m so honoured to call you my friends, and I can’t wait to see how you navigate this exciting next chapter together. I’ll leave with you a quote to take with you through marriage: (insert relevant quote). Here’s to (Bride) and (Partner)!”

Nailing Your Wedding Speech

Finally, don’t forget that practice makes perfect. Once you’ve crafted your maid of honor speech, spend some time rehearsing it before the day until you’re comfortable with your delivery. The more prepared you are, the more confident you’ll feel when the big moment comes!

And while the thought of writing a maid of honor speech can definitely be daunting, try not to put too much pressure on yourself. Simply speak authentically from the heart, and you can’t go wrong.

Want to be the best maid of honor ever? Read these 13 important maid of honor duties you can’t forget to do !

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How to Write a Killer Maid of Honor Speech: The Ultimate Guide

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To us here at Modern MOH, the writing and delivery of the maid of honor speech is the most sacred duty of them all. We feel this is your true time to shine and the greatest opportunity to show your bestie just how much her happiness means to you. By taking the time to construct a heartfelt and well-written speech, then delivering it to the best of your ability, you will help make your bride’s wedding day all the more perfect.

And while we doubt we were your first stop on the “ how to write a maid of honor speech ” search train, we do hope to be your final destination. You see, unlike most articles you’ll find on the subject of maid of honor speeches, we’re actually going to give it to you straight. No vaguely basic outlines or generically boring examples, just the cold hard facts.

Because we have some serious experience in the toast department, and if there’s one thing we’ve learned about writing a killer maid of honor speech, it’s this: there is no secret formula, no one best way . How could there be? Each and every relationship between a maid of honor and a bride is different from the next, just as each and every memory is uniquely yours. 

Lastly, we know the thought of having to give a wedding toast in front of a large group of people may be terrifying for most, that’s why we’re here to teach you a thing or two to ease those nerves. From start to finish, we have all the tips and tricks you need to know to bring the house down.

How to Write a Maid of Honor Speech in 5 Simple Steps

1. define your overall objective.

Before you begin writing your maid of honor speech, you must first define your objective. In other words, you need to have a goal you’re looking to accomplish. For example, are you hoping to make wedding guests laugh? Cry? Both? Do you want to talk about your history with the bride, about how you met the groom, or what their relationship as a couple means to you?

Knowing the answers to these questions will help you figure out the direction you should take when writing your wedding toast.

If you find yourself struggling to define your objective, simply think of your relationship with both the bride and groom. Do they have a great sense of humor? Is your time together spent mostly joking around and laughing? If so, try taking a comedic approach to your toast by cracking a few funny jokes along the way.

Or maybe you and your bride have been through some very serious times together that you want to share, in which case your speech may be much more emotionally moving. The great part about this objective is that it’s your own, so there is no one right or best way to go about it.

MODERN MOH TIP:  Touch on a little bit of everything. Start strong with a joke or two and finish out with a sentimental toast.  While there is no exact formula to it, a truly good maid of honor speech is both funny enough to get wedding guests laughing and moving enough to bring a tear to their eye. Secondly, don’t spend so much time talking about your history with the bride that you forget to talk about the groom. Even if you don’t have your own personal memories with your best friend’s new hubby, that doesn’t mean he should be left out of your speech. Instead, talk about their relationship as a couple and what it means to you, including your wishes for the bride and groom’s future together. 

2. Decide on Your Point of View

The key to writing a killer of maid of honor speech is to not think of it as a speech, but instead a story. And as the narrator of this particular story, it’s up to you to determine the point of view from which you tell it. While it may seem obvious that you’d write from the first-person POV, there are definitely some benefits to switching it up.

To begin with, writing from a third-person POV will give your toast a unique twist and a more story-like feel. For example, instead of saying “Taylor and I met on the school bus in the third grade and she’s been my best friend ever since” , you could say “When Taylor was in the third grade, she met a little girl on the school bus who remains her best friend to this day” .

Like the idea, but don’t think you can write an entire speech that way? No problem. Unlike what you were taught in grade school, you have the freedom to switch between differing points of view when telling your story. If you haven’t caught on yet, let us reiterate: there is no right or wrong when it comes to writing your speech.

MODERN MOH TIP: Take advantage of switching up points of view. Start with narrating from the first person point of view, especially if it’s easier for you to tell the history between you and the bride that way. When it comes time to talk about the couple, tell their story from an outsider’s perspective. If you do decide to go this route, don’t get so crazy with it that you start confusing your audience. The whole point of using different points of view is to enhance your maid of honor speech, not complicate it.

3. Determine Your Must-Haves

Now that you’ve defined your objective and decided on your POV, it’s time to determine your must-haves. By must-haves, we mean the anecdotes you absolutely want to include in your maid of honor speech. For instance, is there a particularly good memory you have with the bride that you definitely want to share with wedding guests? Or maybe you were there when the bride and groom met and you want to tell your side of the couple’s story?

Determining your must-haves before you begin writing your toast will guarantee you don’t forget to feature them. Not to mention, it will keep you from going off track when it comes time to put pen to paper. If you’re having trouble narrowing it down, keep this in mind: it’s much better to have one or two epic stories than a mix of mediocre ones.

MODERN MOH TIP: Don’t be that maid of honor that goes on and on about memories and “funny” inside jokes you have with the bride (no wedding guest wants to hear it, trust us). Instead, tell one or two really good stories that portray your friendship and then move on to her relationship with the groom and their history as a couple. Too many MOHs make the mistake of making their toast all about them and not enough about the couple whose wedding they are supposed to be celebrating. If you want to talk about yourself in front of a big audience, try Youtube.

4. Develop Your Story From Beginning to End

As we mentioned before, the key to writing a killer maid of honor speech is to tell it like a story. And just like any good story, you must develop it from beginning to middle to end (think along the lines of “ once upon a time ” to “ they lived happily ever after ”). While it’s entirely up to you to decide what constitutes the beginning, middle, and end of your particular story, you should avoid big jumps in time. In other words, do your best to develop it in chronological order so you don’t confuse wedding guests.

For instance: Start by telling the story of how you and the bride met, continue on with a memory you have of the bride and groom, and finish with a toast for the couple. Again, there is no magic formula when it comes to writing a maid of honor speech, but having a clear and concise storyline is highly suggested.

MODERN MOH TIP: Don’t be predictable. Chances are you and your best friend didn’t cross paths in some epic way (especially if you’re sisters), so skip the generic “this is how we met” story. Instead, dive right into a funny/crazy/holy s*$&! moment to get the crowd’s attention. And don’t be boring with your finale either. No generic “cheers to the Mr. & Mrs.” toast, we know you can do better than that. Your goal should be to receive a standing ovation from the couple and their wedding guests, not a polite golf clap.

5. Describe Your Characters in Detail

We can’t stress how important this final step is when it comes to writing your maid of honor speech. Seriously, taking the extra step to describe your characters in detail is what differentiates the bland from the bomb. And just so we’re clear, by characters we mean the bride and groom, and by detail we mean elaboration. For example, instead of saying “Taylor is such a great friend, she’s always been there for me whenever I needed her” , you should say “I’ve never met a more loving and loyal person than Taylor, she truly exemplifies what it means to be a best friend” .

These extra tweaks may seem insignificant to you, but they’re exactly the lines that will resonate with your audience and more importantly, the couple. And if writing isn’t your strong suit, don’t worry. Simply speak from the heart, you’ll be surprised at how well your final product turns out.

MODERN MOH TIP: Use a thesaurus (seriously, we do it all the time). It’s a good way to spice up your word choice and will stop you from repeating yourself. On the flip side, don’t feel like you have to use a ton of fancy words- you want to sound like yourself after all, not Shakespeare. Lastly, don’t be afraid to throw a bit of alliteration in there. It brings character to your writing and will make your toast much more memorable ( see what we did there? )

How to End a Maid of Honor Speech

Now that you’ve got the beginning and middle of your speech outlined, it’s time to work on your ending. As this will be your final moment with the mic, your goal should be to make it a memorable one.

One hard-fast rule on ending any maid of honor speech is to address both the bride and groom as a newlywed couple and offer your best wishes for a happy marriage. The easiest way to accomplish this is by raising a toast.

As far as the contents of your toast, it’s up to you if you want to use your own words or prefer to recite a heartfelt quote . To help you decide, ask yourself the following question:

If the answer is yes, by all means, write up your own personal toast. If the answer is no, start searching for the perfect quote.

MODERN MOH TIP:  Select a few possible endings for your maid of honor speech and do test runs through them all to see which flows the best. Oftentimes it’s easier to decide based on how you deliver the words than how they sound in your head.

Have you checked out all our tips and still need help writing the perfect Maid of Honor speech?

Not to worry, Bridesmaid for Hire can help you craft an amazing, personal speech instantly!

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21 Comments

Suggestions for the maid of honor when she’s the mother of the bride…? I don’t wanna get too mushy I want to keep it lighthearted and fun but I want it to be special.

What a super special time for you and your daughter!

I would definitely recommend starting with some funny childhood stories, especially if you they feature any family members or friends who are attending. Pulling the audience in is the best way to capture their attention!

I totally get not wanting to get too mushy, but as her mom, you definitely have the opportunity for an extra hard tug at the heartstrings (and I absolutely suggest doing so!) Whether you talk about how you’ve envisioned this day since she was a little girl, or how you felt when you realized your daughter had met ‘the one’, speaking from the heart as her mom will add the perfect sentimental touch to your speech.

Good luck with everything- I have total faith that you’ll knock it out of the park 🙂

What should I write when I’m the step daughter of the bride

Hi Charlotte,

That is so sweet of your stepmother to ask you to be her maid of honor! During your speech, I would be sure to tell her how much your relationship as stepmother and stepdaughter means to you, as well as what her relationship with your father means to your family.

You are in a unique position that you have been such a close part of their relationship, so I would use that to your advantage!

Good luck 🙂

What if I’m the maid of honor and need to write this speech, but really dislike the groom?

Unfortunately, this situation is more common than you may think and my advice is always the same- do not under any circumstances let your feelings about the groom be known during your speech.

Even if you can’t find it within yourself to say something nice specifically about the groom, this does not mean you should ignore him altogether. Simply include a few lines about the two as a couple, keeping it light and positive.

I’m the sister of the groom and barely know the bride! She and my brother live several states away and have visited a total of about 6 days (2 long weekends)- so there are no real stories or experiences about us. How do I pull this off?? Any tips would be wonderful!!

This is definitely a difficult position to be in, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still deliver a great speech!

My best recommendation would be to reach out to your brother and future SIL’s closest friends to ask for any stories they may have about them as a couple (e.g. how they met, a favorite memory, etc.) Just because you don’t have your own experiences to share doesn’t mean you can’t speak to their relationship through the voice of their loved ones.

Also, don’t make a point to say you don’t know the bride very well. Instead, say something along the lines of “I know that living far away from each other makes it difficult to spend time together, but I truly look forward to getting to know you better as not just a sister-in-law, but a friend.”

I hope this helps in some way! Good luck 🙂

Help! What if I’ve never met the groom? We’ve been long distance best friends for a while now.

For those MOHs who have never met/don’t know the groom very well, I always recommend that they talk to the bride for some insight. Start by asking your BFF about how they met, her favorite memories as a couple, and their hopes/dreams as husband and wife.

You can also reach out to the best man or other groomsmen to get their perspective of the groom and his relationship with your friend. Just because you don’t have your own experiences to share doesn’t mean you can’t speak to their relationship through the voice of their loved ones.

Hope this helps! Good luck 🙂

So, the bride and myself have only been friends for about a year and a half. We are so close though, it feels like we’ve known each other forever. How do I go about talking about our friendship when most of the suggestions are childhood memories or having known the bride for so long. Thanks!

Hi Brittany! I think the fact that you’ve only known each other for a year and a half, but are close enough to be playing such an important role in your friend’s wedding is so special. I would totally highlight that in your speech as a way to show the audience how welcoming and obviously lovable the bride is.

And just because you don’t have a long history together does not mean that you and your friend don’t have fun memories for you to reminisce on during your speech. You can also talk about your hopes and plans for the future of your friendship!

I hope this helps and good luck! 🙂

I feel like writing this speech for my sister’s wedding should be so easy, but I am struggling hard. I have so many funny stories but can’t figure out how to tie one or two of them together to create a wonderful speech. Please help!

Sometimes writing such an important speech for someone you love is the opposite of easy because you put so much pressure on yourself to make it perfect! I would recommend choosing stories that the audience can easily follow along with without feeling totally left out or lost. In other words, don’t rely on stories that feature an inside joke between you and your sister or you’ll be the only two laughing at the end.

I hope this helps! Good luck 🙂

Help!! My sister is getting married next September so I have some time but of course she asked me to be her MOH but her best friend had her as her MOH and I thought she was going to have her be hers in return since they are basically sisters and have known each other since they were very little. I love that I’m her MOH but is it possible to have two?? How should I go about bringing it up? I’m 6 years younger than my sister so her best friend knows more about her and her friends and the groom even since she was there watching them fall in love. I feel like I’m at a disadvantage. I don’t want to not be her MOH but I also rather share the title with her best friend that way we could make a killer speech??

Hi Kait, this is a tough position to be in! If you are simply worried about not making a great MOH speech, you could just let your sister know your fears and ask her if she would mind you bringing her friend in for some insight and inspiration.

On the other hand, if you truly feel that you could be a better MOH all around with your sister’s friend’s help, then I think it’s totally ok to let your sister know this. Just be sure to emphasize that it’s not because you don’t want to be her MOH at all, but that you really could use the support of her very close friend to make her wedding experience the best that it can be.

I hope this helps! If you have any more questions or concerns, feel free to let me know.

My big sister is getting married in September and she asked me to be here MOH. I’m struggling to write my speech for her because I dont have any fond memories with her, and we weren’t exactly the closest due to past occurrences. I’m very nervous with public speaking as is, so this is adding a lot more stress than I’d like. I’m lost of how to write a speech that’s short but meaningful.

Hi Beth, so sorry to hear that you’re stressing out about your speech! It can definitely be challenging to write a speech when you don’t have a lot of fond memories to touch on, but it’s certainly not impossible.

Since you and your sister have had a difficult past, my advice would be to instead focus the speech on the relationship she has with the groom. Keep it short by telling one good story about them as a couple, and wrap it up with your well wishes for their future as husband and wife. As long as you speak from the heart and sound sincere, your speech will be very meaningful!

Hi! I’m such a procrastinator and I’m the MOH of my best friend of 21 years and she is getting married this weekend! How do I make my speech a short and sweet one but also adding a few memories? I feel like there is just SO much to say lol

Hi Leslie, How lovely that you’ve been friends for so long! I can imagine that you must have a ton of stories that you can share, so your challenge will be sorting through all the memories! Maybe start by jotting down some of your top stories that you’d like to share, keeping in mind to avoid inside jokes.

If you’d like to keep things short, you can start with one of your funny childhood memories with your BFF to get the audience engaged. Perhaps then move on to discussing the bride and groom as a couple – think about how they met, perhaps? Then you can end things off with a toast for the future of the couple.

I hope this helps! Best of luck with the wedding!

Some great points, thank you! It could be good to edit the article to be open to bride-bride; groom-groom etc so the wording is more inclusive.

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How To Write A Maid Of Honor Speech (Examples And Advice)

Some of the best speeches at weddings are the maid of honor speeches. You’ve been chosen for this special role because you know things about the bride that her parents don’t (and maybe some that should stay that way..ahem). You’ve also probably been through thick and thin together. 

You may want to share some kind words about the groom, but it’s what you say to the bride during your speech that will matter the most at this time of transition in her life.

She needs to know you’re her Girl Friday, and you’ve got her back through every milestone. Your maid of honor speech is one of the best ways to deliver that message. 

So, bearing all of the above in mind, you might be feeling apprehensive about your speech. After all, she chose YOU to be her best bestie on her big day and everyone’s going to be waiting with bated breath for your words of wisdom and hilarious anecdotes from the times you’ve spent together.

Well, we’re to tell you there’s zero reason to worry about your speech. It’s your best friend’s wedding day and all she wants is to have you by her side. No one is expecting you to deliver a Shakespearean soliloquy or do a stand-up comedy act. Just deliver heartfelt words and you’ll be golden. We promise. To help you put together a great speech, we’ve put together this handy guide. Keep reading for useful advice, a template for your speech, and some inspiring examples of maid of honour speeches.

Rules and Etiquette

Before you get started on your cue cards, there are a few things to get out of the way in terms of etiquette.

Keep it clean

We put this one first because sometimes it’s soooo hard to keep it PG when we’ve got so much hilarious dirt on our best girl (especially after a few drinks at the open bar). 

Try to refrain, though. Obviously, her parents are there, his parents are there, and who knows how many other family members with ears on you. 

It could make it super awkward if everyone heard about what happened at the bachelorette party. Let the best man commit that faux pas; it’s entirely possible that he will. 

Do your homework

You probably already know who is on the guest list, but you may not know some of the guests’ plus ones. If you can, find out about who’s coming that you don’t know. You don’t want to run the risk of offending someone or making them uncomfortable if the subject matter steers toward one of the big four topics to avoid. Keep reading for more on those.

Watch out for touchy topics

Best to steer clear of money issues unless they flatter the bride and groom. Definitely best to steer clear of politics. And definitely, definitely leave family dirt in the ground. 

There’s nothing more awkward than accidentally (or purposefully) calling someone on the carpet for family strife. Everyone there probably already knows that her dad’s new wife threw a tantrum and made a scene at Thanksgiving. But leave it unsaid. No matter how funny it was.

Suppose the wedding had a religious ceremony, and the bride/groom’s families are religious. In that case, that may be something to mention if it is relevant to you, too. Just be sensitive and keep it as inclusive as possible. 

So to recap. Money, politics, religion, and family drama – the BIG FOUR no-go topics. 

IF YOU REMEMBER NOTHING ELSE, REMEMBER THIS:

NO jokes about divorce.

NO jokes about exes. 

All righty, beyond that…

Keep the comedy coming

Everyone loves a funny wedding speech, and you’re among the top three who have the best opportunity to give one. If you’ve had any fun together at all (which obviously you have, or you wouldn’t be the maid of honor), you’ll have a virtual goldmine of funny stories about the bride. Again, as long as they’re PG, serve ’em up.

If comedy isn’t your strong suit, no biggie. A moving tribute to her, her new husband, and how great they are together is just as entertaining when it’s well-spoken. 

Watch your time

Unfortunately, no matter how many great stories you could tell, you’ve only got a short time to speak. Time yourself after you’ve written out your speech to make sure it’s no longer than seven minutes. An ideal speech will be five minutes or less. 

Don’t get too emotional- you’ve got mascara to think about!

Oh jeez, this one will probably be harder than keeping it PG. Keep some hankies tucked away, but try to laugh through the tears of joy. Some people get awkward and just don’t know how to deal with it when other people cry. 

Make An Outline

Right. Standard etiquette out of the way. Time to start writing it all down. Start with an outline, then round out the details after you’ve got the bones to your speech figured out. 

Introduce yourself

This is an important opener, as not everyone may know you yet. Superfast: who you are, and how you are related to the bride and groom.

If there’s a person or two you feel deserves special recognition and would like to thank, go ahead, but make it quick. Usually, it’s up to the parentals and groom to thank everyone for coming. 

Include a little bit about how you met. Were you friends right out of the gate? Is there a funny story about how you didn’t gel at first?

Talk about what makes you so tight close and what you bond over. Tell stories about some of the adventures you’ve shared. 

Talk about the groom

Make sure you take some time to talk about her new husband! Share a recollection of your first time meeting and your impressions of him. This is an excellent time for funny stories too, and it’s also the perfect time to outline what you love about the groom and how happy you are that he makes her happy. 

Talk about the bride

Now is when the waterworks will probably begin. Try to keep it together as you talk about all of the things that make her extraordinary. Let her know how much you appreciate her. Tell everyone what she means to you and what a great friend she is. 

If there are things you’re particularly proud of her for, things like accomplishments, acts of selflessness, all those great things, now is the time to let her know. 

Share some thoughts about them as a couple

Why are you so glad they’re together? What makes them so great for each other? What is your wish for them in the future? 

If you’re already married, you can talk about all the things you love about marriage and impart those wishes on her. 

Raise a toast

Here’s an excellent opportunity to let her know (briefly) how honored you are to be chosen as maid of honor and invite everyone to raise a toast to the newlyweds. If you’ve got a closer for this one, leave it with the toast, or you could say something simple like “To happily ever afters. Thanks for sharing yours with us.” 

Maid Of Honor Speech Examples

You’ve got your outline done and now you just need to put the final touches on your speech and master the delivery. Easy peasy! Hey, you’ve got this sista, we know it and you should too. But if you need some extra confidence-boosting inspiration, we strongly suggest you check out these awesome maid of honour speeches. If these gals can do it, we know you can too! 

Sisterly Love and Laughs 

Love this sister’s speech. It’s so funny and heartfelt, it was fantastic. And it was all a smidge over four minutes. Masterful. 

Hilarious and So Well Delivered! 

This speech is nothing short of awesome. Not to mention entertaining. 

An Epic…Performance

Somehow this fabulous maid of honor has managed to get by breaking the divorce rule (kind of, in a way) like a BOSS. She’s hilarious and fun, and someone better recognize that daring karaoke remix for the glorious thing it is. 

Parting Advice

You’re gonna have a blast writing your maid of honor speech, particularly if you had a bachelorette party for her where everyone reminisced over your years together. 

When your best friend gets married, you inherit with her all the good times (and sometimes bad) she’ll experience in married life. Let her know you can’t wait to be there for the next part of her life’s journey. 

Wedding Planning

Elena & Daniel: husband and wife team behind Love and Lavender. Read Our Story

30 Best Maid of Honor Speech Examples in 2024

Hello and welcome to our blog, where we’ve got a special treat for anyone stepping into the critical role of a maid of honor this year. Crafting the perfect speech isn’t easy, but we’re here to help. In this post, ’30 Best Maid of Honor Speech Examples in 2024,’ we’re bringing diverse speech samples to cater to various styles and preferences.

So, if you’re looking for inspiration to create a memorable speech for your loved one’s big day, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into these examples and get you started on your speech-making journey!”

Here are the best maid of honor speech

Speech 1: childhood memories.

Good evening, everyone! I’m delighted to be here as [Bride’s Name]’s maid of honor. We’ve been mates since childhood, and I’ve enjoyed witnessing her incredible journey. We’ve shared countless memories, from building pillow forts in her living room to helping her choose the perfect wedding dress.

One of my favorite childhood memories with [Bride’s Name] was when we tried to bake cookies for the first time. Let’s say we created cookies that could double as hockey pucks! But what that day taught me was [Bride’s Name]’s determination and her ability to turn any mishap into a joyful adventure. I can’t wait to see the incredible adventures she and [Groom’s Name] will embark on together in the coming years.

So, here’s to [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], a couple whose love story inspires us all. I wish you a lifetime of love, laughter, and endless adventures! It’s one of the best maid of honor speech examples.

Speech 2: Love Story

Ladies and gentlemen, standing here as [Bride’s Name]’s maid of honor on this beautiful day is an honor. As we all know, love stories are unique and magical, and theirs is no exception. [Share how the bride and groom met and fell in love.]

Their love story is a testament to the power of destiny and love, and I do not doubt that their journey together will be filled with even more love, laughter, and beautiful memories. Let’s raise our glasses to [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name] as they begin this incredible new chapter in their lives. I hope your love continues to blossom and shine as brightly as it does today. It’s one of the best maid of honor speech examples.

Speech 3: Shared Adventures

Hello, everyone! I am grateful to be here today as [Bride’s Name]’s maid of honor. It’s been a pleasure to share adventures with youIt’s been a pleasure to share adventures with you over the years. We’ve been there from epic road trips to navigating the peaks and valleys of life.

One unforgettable adventure was when we decided to take a spontaneous road trip. We got lost, ran out of gas, and ended up at the quirkiest diner in the middle of nowhere. But that’s the thing about [Bride’s Name]; she turns any situation into an adventure. I do not doubt that her marriage to [Groom’s Name] will be the most incredible adventure ever. May your journey be filled with love, joy, and countless adventures. Here’s to the newlyweds! It’s one of the best maid of honor speech examples.

Speech 4: Anecdote About the Groom

Ladies and gentlemen, I’m [Your Name] pleased to be [Bride’s Name]’s maid of honor today. I’ve had the chance to get to know [Groom’s Name] quite well, and there’s a story I’d like to share about him. [Share a funny or heartwarming anecdote involving the groom.]

This story is just one example of how much [Groom’s Name] has become integral to our lives. His love and dedication to [Bride’s Name] are genuinely inspiring. To [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], may your life together be full of love, laughter, and many more beautiful stories. It’s one of the unique maid of honor speeches.

Speech 5: Wishes for the Future

Hello, everyone! Today, I am honored to stand by [Bride’s Name]’s side as her maid of honor. It’s hard to put into words how special she is to me. Looking at [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name] today, I see an inspiring love, a love that’s destined to last a lifetime. I wish you the best of luck, love, happiness, and joy. May your journey be as beautiful as this day, and may you create countless magical memories together. Cheers to [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]!

Feel free to adapt and modify these speeches to suit your own experiences and the personalities of the bride and groom. Adding personal anecdotes and inside jokes can make the speech more meaningful and memorable. It’s one of the unique maid of honor speeches.

Speech 6: The Power of Friendship

“Ladies and gentlemen, family and friends, today I stand before you as [Bride’s Name]’s maid of honor, and I am deeply honored to have been given this role. Our journey together has been incredible. We’ve laughed, cried, and shared the most amazing moments of our lives.

Seeing [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name] together reminds me that love is powerful. It’s the force that brought us together, and it’s the force that has brought them here today. I am joyful, knowing that [Bride’s Name] has found someone who cherishes and loves her just as we all do.

To [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], your love inspires us all. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness and shared moments even more incredible than those we’ve experienced together.” It’s one of the unique maid of honor speeches.

Speech 7: A Sister’s Love

“Good evening, everyone. As [Bride’s Name]’s younger sister and maid of honor, I’ve witnessed her growth and transformation throughout our lives. She’s been my mentor, my confidant, and my best friend. And today, I couldn’t be happier for her as she begins this new chapter with [Groom’s Name].

Seeing [Bride’s Name] so radiant today makes my heart swell with pride. She’s not just my sister; she’s my role model. She has shown me what it means to be strong, compassionate, and full of love.

May your love story, [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], be as beautiful and enduring as the bond I share with my sister. To love, laughter, and the incredible journey ahead.” It’s a great example of an emotional maid of honor speech.

Speech 8: Unwavering Support

“Dear friends and family, as [Bride’s Name]’s maid of honor, it’s an immense honor to speak on behalf of our tight-knit group. We’ve been through thick and thin, and our bond with [Bride’s Name] is unwavering. I’ve seen [Bride’s Name] at her best and her most vulnerable, and it’s during those moments that I’ve come to admire her even more. Her strength, kindness, and ability to love unconditionally have inspired me beyond words.

And today, as we celebrate her love with [Groom’s Name], I can’t help but feel overwhelmed with happiness. You both deserve the world, and I do not doubt that your love will withstand any test that comes your way. Here’s to a love as deep and beautiful as our bond.” It’s a great example of an emotional maid of honor speech.

Speech 9: Cherished Memories

“Good evening, everyone. Today, I am honored to stand by [Bride’s Name]’s side as her maid of honor. It’s a role close to my heart, just like the bride. Over the years, [Bride’s Name] and I have collected a treasure trove of remembrances. From childhood mischief to the challenges of adulthood, we’ve been each other’s unwavering support.

Today, I’m reminded of all those moments that have led us here as we celebrate [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]’s love story. It’s a story intertwined with the best chapters of our lives. And it’s a love that I have no doubt will continue to inspire and bring joy to us all. To the happy couple, may your journey be filled with more beautiful memories than we can count.” It’s a great example of an emotional maid of honor speech.

Speech 10: Gratitude and Love

“Ladies and gentlemen, as [Bride’s Name]’s maid of honor, I feel profound gratitude. I am grateful for the friendship that has defined my life and grateful to be here today to witness the love between [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name].

[Bride’s Name] is more than a friend; she’s family. She’s the one who’s laughed with me during good times and held me during the tough times.

And today, as we celebrate this extraordinary love story, I can’t help but be moved by the power of love, support, and friendship. To [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], may your journey be blessed with all the love and happiness in the world. You both deserve nothing less.”

Speech 11: The Traveling Souls

“Good evening, everyone! Today, I stand as [Bride’s Name]’s maid of honor, but I also stand here as her travel buddy, her partner in wanderlust. Our adventures have taken us to places that have filled our hearts with memories that last a lifetime.

Just as we’ve explored new destinations together, today marks the beginning of [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]’s journey to explore the boundless adventures of marriage. To the couple about to embark on the greatest journey, may your love story be as thrilling as all the places we’ve been.”

Speech 12: The Music of Love

“Dear friends and family, today, I want to celebrate [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]’s love story in a different way. Just as the harmonious blending of different notes creates a beautiful symphony, their love story has become a masterpiece. [Share anecdotes and memories that parallel musical metaphors.]

To the couple whose love story is the most beautiful composition we’ve ever witnessed, may your life together be filled with sweet, harmonious melodies.” It’s the best maid of honor speech.

Speech 13: The Book of Love

“Ladies and gentlemen, imagine life as a book and every day as a new page. [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]’s love story is like a captivating novel, each chapter more riveting than the last.

Today, they start a new chapter loaded with love, laughter, and shared dreams. To the couple authoring a love story that belongs on the best-seller list, may each page of your journey together be filled with happiness and adventure.” It’s the best maid of honor speech.

Speech 14: The Starry Night of Love

“Hello, everyone! [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]’s love is like a starry night sky, filled with countless moments that sparkle like stars. [Share stories and experiences related to stargazing or celestial themes.]

Just as the stars have guided them to this moment, may they continue to light each other’s way on this incredible journey of love.” It’s the best maid of honor speech.

Speech 15: The Culinary Connection

“As [Bride’s Name]’s maid of honor, I’ve enjoyed sharing countless meals and culinary adventures with her. Just as every dish blends diverse ingredients, her love story with [Groom’s Name] is a beautiful fusion of two unique souls. [Share anecdotes about food-related memories.]

To the couple whose love is a perfect recipe, may your life together be seasoned with love, and may your love be as delicious as the finest cuisine.”

Speech 16: The Art of Love

“Today, we celebrate a beautiful wedding and a masterpiece of love. [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]’s love story is a canvas painted with vibrant emotions, bold strokes of laughter, and intricate understanding details. [Share stories related to art or creative endeavors.]

Just as a great artist meticulously crafts their work, may you continue to create a love story that’s nothing short of a masterpiece.”

Speech 17: The Adventure Awaits

“Good evening, everyone! We all know that life is an adventure, and [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name] have already set out on the most incredible journey of all – their journey of love. [Share stories and experiences related to adventure and exploration.]

To the couple who’s already begun their adventure, may your path be filled with joy, excitement, and the thrill of discoveries.”

Speech 18: The Seasons of Love

“Dear friends and family, [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name] have weathered the seasons of life, and now they stand at the precipice of a new season – a season of love. [Share stories and metaphors related to seasons and transitions.]

Just as the seasons change and bring new beauty to the world, may your love continue to evolve and flourish with each passing season.”

Speech 19: The Puzzle of Love

“Ladies and gentlemen, love is often described as a puzzle, and I believe [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name] have found the missing pieces to complete each other’s hearts. [Share stories and metaphors related to puzzles or games.]

To the couple whose love is a perfect fit, may your life together be a beautiful, intricate puzzle filled with shared experiences and love that completes each other.”

Speech 20: The Dance of Love

“Hello, everyone! Just as [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name] have embarked on the beautiful dance of life together, their love story is a dance of its own. [Share stories and experiences related to dancing or movement.]

To the couple whose love is a graceful waltz, may your journey be filled with elegant steps, perfect harmony, and an endless dance of love.”

Speech 21: The Ocean of Love

“Dear guests, we often say love is like the vast, endless ocean, and today we celebrate [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]’s love that’s as deep and boundless as the sea. [Share stories and experiences related to the ocean or beach.]

To the couple whose love flows like the tides, may your life together be a beautiful voyage, with love as your compass and happiness as your destination.”

Speech 22: The Garden of Love

“Good evening, everyone! Love is often compared to a garden, where we plant the seeds of affection and nurture them as they grow. [Share stories and experiences related to gardens or flowers.]

Just as a beautiful garden requires care, may your love blossom, bloom, and thrive with each passing day.”

Speech 23: The Cosmic Connection

“Ladies and gentlemen, let’s think of love as a cosmic connection where two souls align in the vast universe of emotions. [Share stories and experiences related to space or astronomy.]

To the couple whose love is written in the stars, may your connection be as enduring as the galaxies and your love as infinite as the cosmos.”

Speech 24: The Puzzle Pieces of Life

“Hello, everyone! Life is often seen as a puzzle, where each piece contributes to the bigger picture. [Share stories and experiences related to puzzles or games.]

Just as every piece has a role in completing the puzzle, may your life be an intricate yet beautiful mosaic where every moment, every challenge, and every joy comes together to form your love story.”

Speech 25: The Love Train

“Dear friends and family, love can be compared to a journey on a never-ending train ride, with surprises at every station. [Share stories and experiences related to trains or travel.]

Just as a train ride takes you on an exciting journey, may your love journey be filled with adventure, excitement, and beautiful destinations.”

Speech 26: The Musical Harmony

“Good evening, everyone! Love is often likened to a symphony, where different notes combine to create a harmonious composition. [Share stories and experiences related to music or musical instruments.]

To the couple whose love is a beautiful melody, may your life together be filled with perfect harmonies and sweet, sweet music.”

Speech 27: The Timeless Love Story

“Ladies and gentlemen, love has a way of transcending time, and today, we celebrate a love story that feels both timeless and modern. [Share stories and experiences related to history or time.]

To the couple whose love knows no bounds, may your story be written in the annals of time, and may your love be an everlasting tale.”

Speech 28: The Culinary Connection

“Hello, everyone! Love is a beautiful blend of flavors and ingredients, like a well-crafted dish. [Share stories and experiences related to food or cooking.]

Just as a chef creates a perfect recipe, may your love be a delicious mix of laughter, trust, and the sweetness of shared moments.”

Speech 29: The Treasure Hunt of Love

“Dear friends and family, think of love as an exciting treasure hunt, with each moment bringing you closer to something precious. [Share stories and experiences related to treasure hunts or adventures.]

To the couple who has found the most priceless treasure, may your life together be filled with the joy of discovery and the thrill of adventure.”

Speech 30: The Literary Love Story

“Good evening, everyone! Love is like a beautifully written book; today, we celebrate a love story that’s like an enchanting chapter in the grand novel of life. [Share stories and experiences related to books or literature.]

To the couple whose love story is a page-turner, may your life be a narrative filled with suspense, romance, and happy endings.”

In conclusion , exploring these 30 unique maid of honor speech in 2024 reminded us that love is a boundless, ever-evolving journey. Each speech is a testament to our deep and enduring connections with the bride and groom. Whether celebrating adventures, embracing traditions, or embracing the quirks that make each love story unique, one thing is clear: love is the thread that weaves these stories together.

As you craft your speech, remember that your words can touch hearts, evoke laughter, and bring tears of joy. May your speech, like the love it celebrates, be truly unforgettable, leaving a lasting impression on the hearts of those who hear it.

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How to Write a Maid of Honor Speech in 7 Steps

By wedding spot.

Whether you’ve never written a speech before or you’re a toast-giving pro, writing a maid of honor speech can present some unforeseen nerves, which is completely understandable. After all, public speaking is one of the most widely-felt fears across the world. That being said, it’s important to remember that the moment isn’t about you; it’s about your best friend/sibling/etc. marrying the love of their life. To make things easier, we compiled a step-by-step guide on how to write a maid of honor speech, as well as some do’s and don’ts to help you feel confident on the big day.

Learn how to write a maid of honor speech in 7 simple steps:

The beginning.

Step 1: Begin your speech-writing journey with some brainstorming. Whether that’s creating an outline, scribbling down a stream of consciousness, typing out specific stories that come to mind when thinking of the bride and their partner, or anything in between, brainstorming is a helpful first pass of getting your ideas in order.

Here are a few writing prompts to get your creative juices flowing:

What words best describe the happy couple and their relationship?

What is your favorite memory with the bride?

What do you remember about the time period when the couple first met?

What do you picture when you think of the newlyweds in five years? Ten years? Fifty years?

What is a story that epitomizes their relationship?

Step 2: Once you have a bit of a road map, begin writing out the actual speech. Start by getting all of the “business” out of the way. Start by introducing yourself and how you know the bride. Make sure to thank whoever hosted both the rehearsal dinner and the wedding, as well as any showers /parties that you’ve been to throughout the course of the engagement. 

Step 3: Spend some time talking about the bride and your relationship with each other. Paint a vivid picture of what things were like when you first met. Tell a lovely anecdote of your friendship — maybe there’s a funny story of an adventure the two of you went on together. Embrace the authentic nature of yourself as well as the bride. If your friendship is more sentimental, make this part of the speech sentimental. If your friendship is more wild and funny, add some humor to this section. But most importantly, make sure to keep it more about the bride than about you!

Step 4: Next up, the bride’s partner. Whether you know them well or not, use this as a moment to talk about what makes them wonderful. This is the perfect segue into the next section of your speech, which is about the couple together. 

Step 5: Now it’s time to talk about the newlyweds as a couple. You can tell the story of their first date from your perspective. How they’ve both grown into incredible people as individuals and as partners. Maybe something you admire about them or a quality of theirs that inspires you as a person. This should be the meat of your speech. Add jokes. Flourish with detail. Spill your heart. But remember, if you’re adding humor to your speech, make sure you don’t include a bunch of super-inside jokes that guests won’t understand. Also, be sure to leave pauses for laughter. You don’t want to talk over any laughs, because it will make it hard for some guests to hear what you’re saying next.

Step 6: Now it’s time to tie your whole speech up. If you can, summarize everything you’ve said up to this point with a few sentences. The theme of your speech, in other words. For example, “Rachel and Jackson exemplify what it means to be a supportive partner.” No matter what you do here. try to avoid any cliche phrases to keep your speech fresh and unique.

Step 7: End the speech with a toast. It’s important that you signal to everyone your speech is coming to a close, and a toast is a perfect way to do it. Something as simple as, “Here’s to the newlyweds! May you never stop loving and never stop growing. Cheers!” is all you need to say.

Do’s and don’ts of maid of honor speeches:

Do: Stay authentic to your true self! If you’re funny, make a joke. If you’re nostalgic, reminisce on the past. If you’re bold, add something unique. If you stay true to yourself, you can’t go wrong. Remember: You were picked for this role for a reason!

Don’t: Use a pre-written speech you found online. It may be tempting if you’ve never written a speech before, but we promise it will feel fake and won’t be in line with the unique beauty of the special couple.

Do: Practice! Some people say it’s best to practice in front of a mirror. Others say to recite your speech to a trusted friend or family member. But either way, make sure you practice your speech out loud .

Don’t: Mention any exes. There are some rare instances that this is OK, but it’s something you should run by the couple/their parents/etc. first no matter what.

Do: Speak slowly and articulate your words, both when practicing and on the big night. Many people have the tendency to talk much faster when they’re nervous . Try to be cognizant of this before, and during, your speech.

Don’t: Drag on forever. Short and sweet is better than long and boring.  The ideal running time for a maid of honor speech is between 2-3 minutes. The goal is to keep it short, but impactful.

Do: Use quotes and passages that mean something to you and the couple.

Don’t: Drink too much before having to give your speech.

Do: Use notecards to help you remember your speech. It’s best not to write the entire speech on note cards if you can avoid it. That way you can make eye contact with guests and be fully present. 

Don’t: Put too much pressure on yourself. This should be a wonderful moment of love. When you feel yourself getting anxious or feeling not good enough, remember that it’s all about love.

Do: Have a fabulous night filled with joy, excitement, and memories to come!

Put this guide on how to write a maid of honor speech to use!

Now that you know seven foolproof steps on how to write a maid of honor speech, along with tips and essential do’s and don'ts, you’re ready to help usher in the couple’s entry into wedded bliss. Keep in mind that being chosen as the maid of honor is a complete honor, and it comes with its own list of responsibilities. To make sure you’re completely prepared, we’ve compiled a maid of honor duties checklist to keep you on the ball and eliminate any anxiety you might be feeling. Above all else, remember: This is a celebration of love! You’re going to be great.

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If you're the maid of honor and have been asked to give a toast, then the bride and groom are expecting you to "say a few words" and not just a four line quote!

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A Handful of The Things That Help You Grow

10 Steps to Writing the Most Personal & Heartfelt Maid of Honor Speech

September 10, 2020 by Heather Garges Leave a Comment

Note: This post may contain affiliate links.

I was asked to be my baby sister’s Maid of Honor on a Sunday in December exactly five months before her wedding. She popped the question in the laundry room of our mother’s home and the hum of the washer and dryer couldn’t keep rhythm with my excitement. But then I thought, “Maid of Honor comes with a Maid of Honor speech!”

Excitement Turned Scattered Mental Chatter:

• “How long is my speech supposed to be?”
• “What things am I ‘allowed’ to talk about? And what’s a ‘no-go?’
• “How am I going to be able to talk on her fiance when I have so many more memories with my sister?”
• “Is there anyone I can call on for help with writing this?”
• “I’ve never been a bridesmaid, let alone a Maid of Honor; where do I even begin?

It was a 2 month whirlwind of questioning, typing, and coffee but I made my first (and best) Maid of Honor Speech and am here to share my list of 10 Steps to help you write the most personal and heartfelt Maid Of Honor speech ever .

Table of Contents

1. Abide By General Rules of Speech Formation

• Start writing at least 3 weeks before the wedding (it took me 2 months to perfect mine)
• Do not bring up their ex’s or drunken nights
• Do not curse. Confession : I intentionally said “Damn” once
• Do not use inside jokes; they leave the other guests confused & they may start asking questions to neighboring friends during your speech if they felt they’ve missed something
• Do not mention the high divorce rate
• Avoid comments / memories that could cause tension between either the bride and groom, parents of the bride or groom, or the attendees
• Avoid cliches; they never summarize the special marriage you’ve come together to celebrate
• Most commonly between 2 – 5 minutes long
• Mine was 9 minutes long but if it is written, organized, and presented well, family and friends will not mind and most likely will start to interact at key points

2. Gather Memories

This can be from any source that has a collection of information you personally kept or posted. Here are some examples for information inspiration:

• Journal Entries : I personally have been keeping a journal since 2009 so I had the advantage when it came to specific moments in time dealing with my sister & her fiance. If this isn’t applicable to you, move on to “Instagram Posts.”
• Instagram Posts : Swipe through their profiles on Instagram and write a little list of recurring values or hobbies, memories they have posted whether with each other or with you, and any nostalgia you felt while looking at old photos or videos throughout the years.
• General characteristics that comes to mind when you think of either the bride or groom. This is the most important part of the “Research” because it will illicit the most up-to-date, current emotions regarding the newlyweds. Here is an excerpt from my Maid of Honor Speech formulated around the single characteristic of “Generosity”

Alone, you have always been one of thee most generous people I have ever met. Now I’m not talking, “here let me lend you a hand,” I’m talking you could call her up saying you’re anxious at a location an hour away or that your old car broke down in the middle of the road in below freezing temperatures, and she would be there. It might not be in the time frame she outlined (probably because she has to finish up helping the person before you) but she will be there.

3. Follow an Outline

Once you have all the information you need; it’s time to organize it. I personally followed this outline below. Start by typing up the title to each portion of the speech into a document (Introduction, Bride, etc.). Then, one by one move the collected memories to be under the respectable section given the criteria described for each below. Then, turn it into sentences… paragraphs… a speech.

• Show appreciation to those who made it to the wedding and thanks those who helped prepare the beautiful event (bridesmaids, groomsmen, parents, etc.)
• Tell the audience who you are & how you know the bride
• If you’re comfortable, tell a joke to set the mood for your speech
• How did you meet the bride? Or a story that exemplifies your friendship / sisterhood? Or do you two share a bond over something? Write about it.
• Talk about memories of the bride whether from your perspective or a general public perspective. Be sentimental.
• When I think of the bride I think of…
• How did you meet the groom? First memory you recall with him? Best memory you have had with him?
• When I think of the groom I think of…
• Describe why he has your blessing to be your sister / friend’s “person” (even if it means replacing you as that person).
• Talk about how they compliment one another. How the things the bride is not good at are balanced by what the groom is good at.
• Talk about the love between them that you have witnessed. Is there a memory you can share that will make it clear you’ve witnessed their true love first hand.
• At the end of the day, you main job as the Maid of Honor is to take care of the bride; make sure she gets a plate of food, her dress doesn’t take a dip in the toilet, and that you can make her laugh when called upon by the photographer. I think this care-for attitude should include making sure her husband knows how to do so too.
• How can the groom be the best husband to someone like the bride?
• My personal advice went as so:

Here is my expert, marriage-saving advice from the unwed, but wise older sister who loves you both dearly (even more so together). If you have to drive away, make sure it is to buy her ice cream. Even if $5 doesn’t fit into the budget; even if you have to pay in all quarters. Even (ESPECIALLY) if you’re mad at her. She is worth it. That damn ice cream is worth it. And this marriage is worth it. Right?

4. End it With a Toast & State the Bride’s New Last Name

Make it clear when it is time to cheer, hoop and holler, clink glasses, and/or throw confetti. This is the part where the audience gets to show “Hey, I agree with everything you said & I want to show the Bride and Groom we are over-the-moon for them.”

Now, everybody could you please join me in raising a glass to the happily, newly married, young lovers, Mr. and Mrs. Joshua and Brianna S——.

5. Take Out Unnecessary Details

In the beginning stages of my speech I was under the impression I would start with the beginning stages of my sister and her high school sweetheart’s relationship. It started as so:

October 5, 2015. It was a Monday just like any other for me working on my homework for my Physiology of Large Animal course but for Brianna it was anything but…

Why did I need to include the course I was working on? Does this add anything to who the bride and groom are as a couple? Will it maybe become important later in the speech? No. No. And no.

It was omitted. As should any detail that does not serve the purpose of the speech: to make the happy new couple feel seen and appreciated by their hand selected Maid of Honor.

Just the same, if you are writing about something that does serve a purpose to the speech, only share the important content, not unnecessary descriptions. It doesn’t matter that you saw Phil Vassar together in a rinky dink theater in Sellersville .

You aren’t writing a book, you are expressing a feeling .

6. Don’t Trail Off

The guests want to be considerate to who is speaking. If they believe the off-topic story is important to you, they will listen. But if “the point” doesn’t come quick enough, they may strain to see its relevance and lose interest. Only tell stories that have relevance to the marriage today .

If you trail off for too long, you will be the only one following. You follow me? This may mean re-wording long-winded stories in a way that doesn’t take so long. Be concise.

7. Read Your Speech to a Friend & Record it

I have a good friend who had a whole recording system passed down to him and when I asked if I could read my speech to him, he asked if he could record it. We recorded my reading as well as the hour and a half conversation following so I could have his feedback to listen back on when I went to make the appropriate edits.

• Give Them a Piece of Paper and a Pen . They can write whatever they want. “Change this,” “I didn’t understand this,” etc.
• Don’t Let Them See it as You Read It ; no one else at the wedding would be able to read as you spoke, so have them focus on how you present it. This is especially important since you may use grammar to help dictate intonation in presenting it, even though grammatically it is not correct
• Don’t Critique Yourself as you are reading it the first time through to someone. You may just be bringing to their attention things they wouldn’t have noticed on their own.
• Once it has been read aloud and initial opinions were shared, set them up with a visual of the speech so they can go through step-by-step with you. Copy and paste the exact same speech into a new document to be shared so changes can be made by your friend but you’ll still have the original if you’d want to go back to it.
• Take Their Creative Criticism with Grace ; be thankful they are giving you a guide of how a guest will perceive your writing. Have a growth mindset, not a fixed.
• Was that too long? Too short? Were you bored?
• Was I using superfluous content?
• Do you think it’s sappy enough ?
• Were there any specific spots when I was reading that you want to say something but wanted to wait until I was finished reading?
• Do you like the fact that I say…? Did you understand what I was getting at when I said…?
• Do you think you’re being as critical as I need or how much you think I can handle?

8. Questions to Ask Yourself When You Think You’re “Finished”

I was lucky enough to have a wonderful friend help in chiseling my original speech. If you aren’t so lucky I have comprised a list of all the questions he had asked me during our close to 2 hour recorded conversation

• Where do you want to go from there?
• What is the amount of time you are looking to be speaking for?
• Have you ever been to a wedding? Do you remember the Maid of Honor speeches?
• Have you talked to ( insert name of mutual friend who was a Maid of Honor before ) about this? They can give you tips on how they created their speech and could share very helpful incite.
• I liked the tying back into previously mentioned content, but is there a way to do it without being out of order?
• Where will you be standing in relation to the bride and groom when presenting your speech? Are there any points during your speech that physical touch with the bride or groom could be beneficial, funny, sentimental, etc.? Don’t force it but if it feels right, do it.
• What’s the point of this section? (Ask yourself this before each section). If your answer brings light to something meaningful that wasn’t reflected in the section, revisit and add it in
• Tell me about their relationship? How do they handle frustrations? Level-minded? How do they help each other? Willingly?
• Do you think that what is written accurately conveys what you feel about the bride/groom/their relationship? If not, change it.
• Are you toasting?

9. A “Fresh Start” Exercise:

For this exercise, lose the speech you have in your mind right now. Don’t delete; we will come back . Try “starting from scratch with raw emotion.”

Record a Maid of Honor speech with nothing in front of you (including the speech you’ve been working on). You can take long pauses in between but don’t pause the recording, delete, and restart . Once you get the ball rolling, you may start to say things about the bride, groom, or couple that may not have entered your mind and ultimately your speech yet. Try not to spend the recording remembering what you wrote in the one you’ve been working on. Try and have a “ fresh start, spoken speech .” Once you have finished, you may have more, from-the-heart material to add to the speech you’ve been working on.

Questions to try & keep in mind while free-formulating your speech:

• What do you want to say to the bride & groom?
• What do you want to say to the audience about them?
• What’s the thesis? What’s the purpose? – I personally wanted to hit on the fact that they are young, while making people laugh, and talking about how good the bride and groom are for each other

10. Mean Every Last Word

The most magnificent part of being asked to be a Maid of Honor is knowing there is a reason you were picked to be that person. Whether because you have the most memories with the bride or because you’re the bride’s strongest childhood facet, there was a meaningful reason you were chosen as one of the two VIPs in the bride and groom’s wedding day.

Use that. As long as you mean every last word, even if not perfectly written, you will accomplish exactly what all speeches should set out to do: show your love for the relationship that is now bonded forever as well as the two people it encompasses. Well done, I’ll toast to that .

Above is the a video of the Maid of Honor speech I wrote for my sister’s wedding. If you enjoy it, these “10 Steps to Writing a Personal and Heartfelt Maid of Honor Speech” were written using my course of action and speech as a guideline. Thank you for watching / reading & good luck in writing your beautiful account of beautiful people,

What is, or was, the hardest part in writing your Maid of Honor Speech?

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How to Write a Maid of Honor Speech

Noah Williams is a passionate writer focusing on matters of the heart and mind. He emphasizes the importance of honesty, communication, and self-love for relationships.

In This Article

Weddings come with monumental significance —and it’s not only the bride that may have butterflies in her stomach. For everyone involved, there is an important role to play, very few as important as rendering the maid of honor speech. 

As a maid of honor, you have a list of essential tasks, including the maid of honor best friend speech you deliver during the wedding ceremony. Even though this speech is given before loved ones and friends, writing and delivering the perfect maid of honor best friend speech may be nerve-wracking! 

Wanting to fit all your nostalgic and memorable moments into a few paragraphs may be more daunting than you initially thought. Suddenly, the idea of facing such an audience may no longer sound pleasurable. 

Therefore, we shall thoroughly discuss writing a maid of honor speech in this discourse, and further maid of honor speech tips will come in handy. 

Before you put ink to paper, you can watch this epic maid of honor speech that can get your creative juices flowing:

How do you write a maid of honor speech?

If you’re struggling to write a maid of honor speech, you’re not alone. In the section below, we’ll provide you with helpful tips to create a memorable speech for the bride and guests together.

1. Brainstorm

How to write a maid of honor speech? Kick up a storm of emotions, fun memories, and pleasurable nostalgia to spur your creative process. It is important to note that perfection is not key on the first try. 

Therefore, allow yourself to engage in free writing for at least twenty minutes. Doing this will enable you to weave intricate memories into words, which you may refine later in the speech. Brainstorming will allow you to create a blueprint that guides the birth of a perfect maid of honor speech. 

2. Avoid generic praise 

You aim to come off as a true friend with meaningful connections with the bride. Therefore, ensure that while writing the maid of honor speech, you craft meaningful stories that speak to the depth of your friendship with the bride. 

Essentially, this maid of honor speech tip advises against vague praises that bounce off as lacking depth in memories or pleasurable events.

3. Don’t make your speech about you 

Almost all short maid of honor speech examples fixate on the bride and her relationship with the person reciting the speech. Your anecdotes should paint a picture of beautiful moments with you and your friend. Therefore, avoid languages that paint you as the focal point of the ceremony. 

Briefly introducing yourself to the audience should be the only reference to yourself since some of the bride’s family members may not know you. Remember that you are not the reason why the newlyweds are fantastic –you are the vehicle for explaining why the newlyweds are great people. 

4. Refrain from mentioning past romantic relationships 

Not mentioning past relationships is a no-brainer while writing a maid of honor speech. On such joyous occasions, past relationships should remain where they are —in the past. 

Therefore, the tone of the maid of honor best friend speech must be positive and not a vain attempt to 

roast the newlyweds.  

5. Keep it Short

The best maid of honor speeches are short. The longer the speech, the shorter the audience’s attention span. Therefore, experts have always recommended that maid of honor speeches be kept under five minutes.

6. Practice

‘Practice makes perfect’ , people say, and this philosophy applies even to writing a perfect speech. 

The more you write and refine the maid of honor speech, the more your creativity flows into the speech. This also helps with your rendition of the speech at the wedding ceremony.

What do you say in a maid of honor speech?

The maid of honor speech is too important to just wing it. Unless you are J.K Rowling, you should use the following as a roadmap of things you can say in the speech. 

1. Introduction

The formalities are necessary to ensure everyone is acquainted with themselves. However, as the maid of honor, your introduction should be minimal, as you don’t want to steal the show at someone else’s wedding.

2. Always start with the bride 

How to start maid of honor speech? As we mentioned, you should not lather your maid of honor best friend’s speech with vague compliments about the bride. Instead, always ensure that you employ storytelling in your reminisces, detailing how the bride is a good person. 

3. Share the love story of the newlyweds 

Share your version of how the two newlyweds met. You can briefly highlight how the bride knew she had met “the one.”

4. Compliment the groom 

Always politely compliment the groom. Talk about how the groom is the best partner for the bride. However, be generous in your compliments. Keep it light and respectful. 

5. Celebrate the couple

When writing your maid of honor speech, always talk about how the couple looks good together. Also, speak to the impact the newlyweds have had on each other. 

6. A word of advice for the newlyweds

Before rounding up your maid of honor speech, you can wish the newlyweds fantastic things ahead and offer some pearls of wisdom that will serve as premarital counseling to the newlyweds.

7. Toast to the newlyweds

Finally, toast the latest couple in town. You can browse cool wedding quotes to round the speech up like a pro. 

When does the maid of honor give her speech?

Firstly, you need to note that there are two places where a maid of honor may deliver her speech: the dress rehearsals and the wedding reception. 

In a typical wedding setting, the maid of honor gives her speech after the newlyweds’ parents have rendered their speeches. 

However, the order of the speech can be altered by several factors, including the wedding’s party size and the reception timeline. 

Nevertheless, it is essential always to confirm the line-up with the newlyweds.

What NOT to say in a maid of honor speech?

Just as important as knowing what to say is knowing what not to say. The following are no-go areas: 

1. Do not mention past romantic relationships 

As earlier mentioned, romantic relationships should not be the meat of your maid of honor best friend speech. You need to ensure that your speech elevates the moods of the newlyweds and not otherwise.

2. Do not employ inside jokes

It’s ok to poke the newlyweds with a joke or two. However, using inside jokes that the context may not be appropriately understood should be avoided. 

Also, do not make jokes that will cause the newlyweds to go red in the cheeks from embarrassment. Always keep the maid of honor speech light-hearted and fun.

3. Not-so-legal activities of the newlyweds

The audience doesn’t need to know how the bride was the ‘Bonnie Parker’ of her youth before she met her partner or the groom’s college shenanigans. Even though such stories may sound comical in light of the occasion, they do not fit the occasion’s context.

4. Bachelorette party shenanigans

As they say, whatever happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas. Likewise, whatever may have occurred during the bachelorette party should not be disclosed to the wedding guests . The audience does not need to know the details of the occasion. 

5. How bad the wedding planning phase was

Understandably, the entire planning phase of the wedding may be stressful. However, the awful and hectic planning phase details should not feature in your maid of honor speech. 

Instead, you should focus more on the pleasures of the entire phase and blot out grievances you may nurse towards the newlyweds and their wedding. 

6. Embarrassing tales of the bride’s past

Being the bride’s maid of honor implies that you have seen her in her best and worst times, having known her for a long time. 

However, these embarrassing stories should not only be the subject matter of the maid of honor speech. You must reciprocate the honor the newlyweds have bestowed on you by keeping off the embarrassing stories. 

7. Anti-marriage beliefs

Finally, your antagonistic views about marriage should not feature in your maid of honor speech. Giving your maid of honor speech is not an avenue for your opposition to the essence of marriage.

When writing the maid of honor speech, the focal points should remain the newlyweds, how they fit perfectly, and how awesome the wedding ceremony has been.

Some more questions

Still have questions about writing a maid of honor speech? Our additional questions on the topic have got you covered with more helpful tips and answers to come in handy when the need arises.

How long is a good maid of honor speech

One recurring theme throughout this discourse is the length of a maid of honor speech. We have advocated for your maid of honor speeches to be short and sweet. A maid of honor speech should be between three and five minutes tops. 

The audience will love to hear about the fun times you and the bride may have had before the wedding. However, you should do it in moderation to ensure you retain the audience’s interest until the end.

What do I do if there are multiple maids of honor?

Where there are multiple maids of honor, each maid of honor should ensure that the maid of honor speeches are kept between three to five minutes. 

However, before you and the other maids of honor give your speeches, it may be profitable to discuss with the maids of honor to ensure that the speeches are not vastly similar. 

Therefore, engaging in a joint maid of honor speech gives you space for creativity. For instance, all the maids of honor may perform a song for the newlyweds. 

What should a maid of honor do first?

Before a maid of honor faces the audience to give her maid of honor, there are certain duties or tasks that she has to carry out. As mentioned, a maid of honor has many functions to perform. They include: 

• Assuming a leadership position concerning the wedding preparation

As a maid of honor, you supervise and organize the other housemaids. 

You also control and monitor all the plans for the wedding —from the bachelorette party to the wedding itself. In addition, you must ensure that you lend a listening ear to the other bridesmaids. 

• Support the bride during the wedding shopping 

When the bride decides to go shopping for wedding dresses, the maid of honor must ensure she is on hand to accompany the bride and offer her honest thoughts and opinions. 

Support can be in the form of accompanying the bride to her salon bookings and other appointments. 

• Assist in planning the bridal shower  

Although the conventional routine is for the bride’s mother or mother-in-law to accompany the bride to her bridal shower, the maid of honor may be needed to assist the bride in whatever function is required in that specific context.

• Planning the bachelorette party 

Being the maid of honor means that you take charge of the events that will eventually comprise the bachelorette party. 

However, a word of caution should be stated –the maid of honor should never forget that it is the bride’s wedding, not hers. Therefore, choosing a location and events that befits the bride’s personality is a must-do for the maid of honor. 

The maid of honor needs to envisage the budget of the other bridesmaids in planning the pre-wedding functions , as the other bridesmaids should not stretch themselves too thin to keep up with the functions. Crucial considering the bridesmaids are responsible for some of the bride’s costs.

• Be there for all her pre-wedding needs

A maid of honor picks up the bits and pieces the bride may have overlooked. The maid of honor ensures that no stone is left unturned.

These may range from ensuring that the precious bouquet is well-preserved to ensuring that personal requests from the bride are attended to. 

• Supervising the bridesmaids at the wedding  

Finally, the maid of honor needs to ensure that the activities, such as getting the bridesmaids ready for the honor sessions, helping the bride hold her wedding dress when she needs to use the restroom, etc. 

Essentially, the maid of honor needs to ensure she is an invaluable asset in the hands of the bride. 

It’s about pouring your heart out in an amicable way

In the end, the maid of honor is a vital role that the bride’s friend or sister must take with utmost seriousness. Writing and delivering the maid of honor’s speech is the icing of a long-lasting friendship. 

Therefore, writing the maid of honor’s speech should encompass all the “sugar and spice” of such friendship. 

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Noah loves to write on matters of the heart and mind. His experiences have taught him that being an honest friend who communicates well and giving importance to self-love can go a long way in maintaining loving relationships. When Read more he’s not writing or advising people on how to thrive in their relationships, he loves exploring new places with his partner, working out, and pretending that he’s good at cooking exotic stuff. Read less

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How to Write a Maid of Honour Speech: A Wedding Editor's Guide

Been asked to give a maid of honour speech? Our Editor explains how to give the perfect speech as a bridesmaid, with expert tips from speech writing pros

Mark Horton Photos

I’ve been working in weddings now for over 10 years, and in that time, I’ve read more wedding speeches than I dare to count. I’m fluent in cheesy puns, sentimental toasts and eye-roll inducing anecdotes, but I don’t get to see many maid of honour speeches .

I love everything about weddings - except for how silent women usually are during them. Give me bride speeches , give me maid of honour speeches and a tribute from the mother of the bride! So when my sister asked me to give a maid of honour speech at her wedding, I was delighted.

Just one problem - I didn’t know where to start. How do you write a maid of honour speech? I’m going to tell you everything I learned about giving a maid of honour speech, including expert tips from pro speech writer Heidi Ellert-McDermott from Speechy . 

Does the Maid of Honour Give a Speech?

Traditionally, the maid of honour doesn’t give a speech at a wedding - but what is tradition, really? Just peer pressure from dead old guys - the kind of dead old guys who didn’t like it when women spoke up.

So you can absolutely give a maid of honour speech! And you should, even if it’s just to annoy the dead old guys. 

How to Write a Maid of Honour Speech?

The hardest thing I found about writing a speech as a bridesmaid was that there wasn’t a template. Don’t get me wrong, we have lots of lovely maid of honour speech examples to inspire you, but unlike the speeches for the best man , the groom etc., there’s no formula in place for who you thank, or who you’re supposed to toast.

In fact, it’s all so neatly divided up in the order of wedding speeches for the men, that actually if you go into that territory, you’re probably stepping on someone’s toes and usurping their speech.

So, with that in mind, I asked to go first - that allowed the traditional wedding speech order to remain mostly unchanged, and it meant that I got the floor first for all the jokes. Sneaky, I know. 

Wedding speech expert Heidi advises: “Discuss the length of your speech with the nearlyweds before you start writing it. You never want to go over ten minutes (about 1,300 words including room for laughter) but you may want to go significantly shorter if there are more than the usual three speakers at the wedding and the speeches are scheduled one after the other.

“Of course, while you always want to leave people wanting more, you’re probably short-changing the bride if your speech is less than 750 words. You need enough time to be sentimental, humorous and tell a few classic anecdotes.”

How to Start a Bridesmaid or Maid of Honour Speech

“Don’t get sucked into thinking you need to go overly formal. No need for a ‘Good evening, ladies and gentlemen’; a ‘hello everyone’ sets a friendlier tone,” recommends Heidi.

I did introduce myself as the sister of the bride when giving my speech, but actually as I looked around the room I realised I probably didn’t need to as I knew everyone there - if it's a smaller, intimate setting or there’s an MC, you don’t need to waste your word count on this. 

I followed Heidi’s advice to not bother “mentioning the lovely venue, or any other wedding-waffle,” as I knew that would come in the later speeches.

What to Include in a Maid of Honour Speech

Heidi recommends that a good maid of honour or bridesmaid speech should include the following: 

Stories: Think about a couple of classic anecdotes that illustrate the bride’s funniest and best qualities and quirks in action.

Humour: You might not think you’re a naturally funny person but that’s still no excuse for not trying to get some giggles. While you don’t have the pressure of the best man, having a few funny lines in your speech makes it more entertaining and memorable. Humour also makes people like you more – especially self-deprecating humour.

Meaningful Tributes: Observe your friend in action and spot the behaviours that make you love her as much as you do. As well as paying tribute to your friend, make sure you also pay tribute to their spouse. Talk about why they make the perfect couple and your hopes for their future together.

Making Your Maid of Honour Speech Funny

mark horton photos

I started my maid of honour speech for my sister with a funny but sentimental tribute to her and her partner - I talked about how much I’d enjoyed my experience in a jokey, light-hearted way (saying I got to walk down the aisle with a nice dress and flowers, but no wedding planning stress or financial burdens), and led into how I’d finally got the brother I’d always wished for in my new brother-in-law, which resulted in a surprise round of applause breaking out. 

As I knew going too sentimental would make me well up - and I had expensive false lashes to think of - I very quickly pivoted into a funny story from our childhood, complete with a retro 90s prop I’d sourced from eBay to lean into the gag. 

I made sure the anecdote had a purpose though - as well as making everyone laugh, it did demonstrate some of my sister’s character traits, and I was able to link them to her relationship, and use it as a basis for some marriage advice. 

Don’t believe the rumour that only the best man can have a funny speech - people at weddings want to have a laugh, so you can put some wedding jokes in there, or hilarious personal anecdotes, as your audience will be keen to laugh with you.

How to End a Maid of Honour Speech

It’s traditional to end your maid of honour speech with a toast - obviously all wedding speeches have set people you’re meant to toast, but I didn’t really mind if I stepped on anyone’s toes here, after all, the newlyweds can’t be toasted too much on their wedding day!

I couldn’t resist a little cheesy gag (they’re for everyone, not just best men!) so I urged everyone to stand, ‘for my standing ovation,’ before asking them to raise their glasses to the bride and groom. 

I tied the toast into my anecdote to make it more personal, choosing to say: “May you always admit when you are wrong, and may you never share a bath. To Sops and Sam!” You’ll have to read my maid of honour speech to get that joke…

Personalising the toast and bringing it back to something you’ve spoken about it your speech is a great way to set it apart from all the toasts that will follow, or have come before. 

Reflecting on my experience of giving a speech as a bridesmaid, I’d say the part I thought would be the hardest - not having a template - actually turned out to be the most liberating bit. 

You don’t have to get tied up in thank yous and compliments, instead, you can speak from the heart. And let’s face it, for all the funny stories a best man can tell, we just know the female best friend or sister of the bride is sitting on an absolute goldmine.

Discover the absolute best wedding toasts here, now you know how to write your speech!

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Maid of honor who missed wedding goes viral for pre-recorded speech

Ally Lothman told "GMA" her speech was written the night before the wedding.

When Michelle Levenson married Matthew Levenson, there was one special person missing at their Jan. 20 wedding in Athens, Georgia -- Michelle Levenson's maid of honor , Ally Lothman.

The two have been best friends for the past three decades and Lothman wouldn't have missed her close friend's nuptials had it not been for the fact that she had just given birth to a baby girl just days earlier.

"Our friendship has just meant so much to each other and it really was such a blow to both of us that I couldn't be there because of how recently I had just given birth," Lothman told "Good Morning America."

Though she couldn't attend in person, the 30-year-old knew she could still be there for the Levensons in spirit and shared a pre-recorded message that their wedding DJ could play during the reception.

"I actually wrote this speech the night before her wedding, at 3 a.m. during a diaper change," Lothman explained to "GMA." "It's really crazy because the whole basis for the speech and the concept just was like pinged down into my brain from like, I don't know, the heavens above."

Lothman's speech ended up being a hit at the wedding, and after the Levensons' videographer, Woodell Productions, shared it on TikTok , it quickly went viral, picking up over 17 million views since it was first shared last Friday.

MORE: Bride shares mom's hilarious wedding photo book fail

In her funny and nostalgic speech, Lothman referenced a trip to Italy, one of her "most favorite memories" with Michelle Levenson over the course of their longtime friendship.

"I'll never forget my first evening in Cortona, Italy. In true Michelle fashion, she had whisked me up and down the incredibly steep, windy roads that Tuscan city was perched upon," Lothman began, as she took wedding guests and the Levensons on a trip down memory lane during her four-minute speech, before ending by saying the Levensons couldn't be "more perfect for one another."

The two best friends said they couldn't help but get emotional at the time.

"At the wedding, [Ally's speech] killed. It brought the house down," Michelle Levenson said.

Both Michelle and Matt Levenson said Lothman's maid of honor speech was simply "perfect."

"I think she like nailed it, picking that moment," Michelle Levenson said. "I felt so lucky in the moment and I couldn't believe that it was happening, what I was hearing, and all the inside jokes and references brought so many memories flooding back. It was perfect."

Matt Levenson agreed, adding, "What was important to me was that Michelle had her moment and felt special and loved, because she is, and Ally accomplished that and more than I could have ever imagined at that moment."

MORE: Groom goes viral at wedding for a very funny reason

Lothman said she was shocked her heartfelt speech went viral on TikTok but is happy to see the enormous and positive reactions to the video clip.

"It was so special to share such an intimate memory of [our] friendship with first her wedding and now with the whole world, and it's been such a joy to have everybody be so supportive of our female friendship," she said. "It's been a blessing to have everybody kind of be along for that and to recognize that, just like she and I have for the past 30 years."