While the wedding ceremony is the moment when the union becomes official, it’s often the reception that guests remember the most. Amidst the celebrations, one of the standout traditions is the series of toasts given to honor the newlyweds. These speeches can enhance the emotional resonance of the event, offering personal insights into the couple’s relationship and their journey together.
So who exactly is supposed to give a speech at the reception? The great thing about speeches is that anyone the bride and groom want to speak can, but traditionally there are a few people that should speak.
Parents of the Bride and/or Groom
The reception often begins with a welcome toast, traditionally given by the father of the bride, who historically was considered the host. Today, any parent or significant guardian can fulfill this role, regardless of who foots the bill. This speech is typically brief, focusing on welcoming the guests and toasting the newlyweds.
Maid of Honor
A maid of honor has a lot of duties, and one of the most important ones is giving a wedding reception speech! This speech can either precede or follow the best man’s toast and is a unique opportunity to share touching stories and celebrate the bride’s new chapter in life.
Best Man
The best man‘s speech is one of the highlights of the reception, usually filled with humor, heartfelt moments, and sometimes a few playful jabs at the groom. Traditionally delivered post-meal but pre-dessert, this speech not only toasts to the couple’s future but also shares insights and anecdotes from the groom’s life.
The Couple
Increasingly, the newlyweds themselves choose to address their guests. This usually occurs toward the end of the evening, serving as a gracious acknowledgment of their guests’ support and love. Whether jointly or individually, their speeches can express gratitude to their families, wedding party, and all the guests for sharing in their special day.
Extra Speeches
Modern weddings often break from tradition, allowing the couple to tailor their event to their preferences, including who speaks at their reception. They might invite siblings, close friends, or other relatives to share their thoughts and well wishes, making the occasion even more personalized and memorable.
At AGI Studio, we specialize in capturing the genuine emotions that speeches evoke. From the laughter at a punchline to the tears during a tender moment, our wedding photographers and videographers are experts at documenting these heartfelt reactions.
Contact us to ensure your wedding memories are beautifully preserved, letting you relive your special day for years to come. Whether it’s capturing the warmth of a parent’s smile or the joy of friends and family during these speeches, we are dedicated to immortalizing your celebration in all its glory.
