Speeches

Speeches made after the meal, normally follow this traditional order:

The father of the bride will speak first, toasting the bride and groom and saying a few words about his daughter.

Then the groom replies on behalf of himself and his new wife thanking everyone who has been involved in helping them plan their wedding. He proposes a toast to say thank you to the bridesmaids before moving on to talk about his new bride. (It is becoming more common-place for the bride to make a speech these days, and if she is going to do so it should follow the groom's).

Finally comes the best man's speech where he replies to the groom by thanking him on behalf of the bridesmaids. He will then read out any telegrams or cards from friends and relatives unable to attend the wedding. He will then go on to talk about the groom.