When it comes to keeping everyone happy, forgetting to thank someone is one thing for a groom or bride speech – but saying the wrong thing altogether in a maid of honor toast could be a complete disaster! I did my best to avoid this situation myself, so I wanted to show some great tips with you to help avoid an embarrassing situation.

Pleasing The Bride

Keep in mind that as a very close friend, one of the worst things you could do is upset the bride with something you say! So previous relationships is definitely a topic to avoid. Now that may seem obvious, but believe me there are women, and sometimes even grooms, that do it! Of course you should speak favourably of the bride at all times, and just make sure to keep your jokes in good taste for everyone in attendance (avoid sex, politics, or religion!). Remember, this is her most important day!

Alcohol

Now I’m sure you may well be more prepared for your speech than I was, but no matter how prepared you are your number one enemy may be alcohol. A few too many and this has the potential to bring just about anyone down, making them say the wrong thing. I may recommend one or two small drinks before the speech to take the edge off, but only if you’re used to having drinks, so keep yourself under control! I know I was glad I did!

A Few Other Tips

One thing that made the idea of maid of honor speeches stressful to me was the fact I didn’t plan ahead as much as I would have if I had to do it again. Take the time to practice your speech in front of a friend, and you’ll have a lot more control of what you say, and a lot less stress knowing you are prepared. Luckily there are now all sorts of sources of help online for those who want the perfect speech.

The last think I would like to mention is that no matter how well written your speech is, going on for too long is never a good idea. So keep that in mind as you prepare your speech, and work on it so it doesn’t take an hour to deliver!