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Writer's pictureSean o connor

How To Write A Best Man Speech: Examples, Format, Jokes & Tips

Updated: Jul 8, 2023




Congratulations, dear best man! As you stand in the spotlight, tasked with delivering a memorable best man speech, it's crucial to navigate the fine line between comedy gold and potential catastrophe. Buckle up and get ready for some laughter-filled advice that will make your speech the highlight of the wedding!


Best Man Speech Dos And Don’ts

Let’s start with the ultimate do's and don'ts guide to best man speeches'.

Do's:

  1. Do Be Prepared and Practice: It's crucial to prepare your speech in advance and practice it multiple times.

  2. Do Start with a Bang: Grab the audience's attention right from the start!

  3. Do Include Funny Anecdotes: Inject laughter into your speech by including funny anecdotes and stories about the groom.

  4. Do Keep It Short and Sweet: Remember, brevity is the soul of wit!

  5. Do Express Genuine Emotion: While humor is the main ingredient in a best man speech, don't forget to include sincere and heartfelt moments.

  6. Do Toast with Flair: End your speech with a memorable toast that honors the newlyweds and their future together.

Don'ts:

  1. Don't Wing It: Resist the temptation to wing your best man speech.

  2. Don't Be Offensive or Inappropriate: While humor is essential, tread carefully to avoid being offensive or inappropriate.

  3. Don't Mention Past Relationships: No matter how tempting it may be, avoid bringing up the groom's past relationships or any potentially awkward encounters.

  4. Don't Overindulge in Inside Jokes: While inside jokes can be entertaining for a select few, they can leave the rest of the audience feeling excluded.



How To Write A Best Man Speech Outline

Next, we'll take you through the process of crafting an outline that ensures your speech hits all the right comedic notes. So grab your pen and get ready to outline your way to speech stardom!


1. Grabbing Attention and Setting the Tone

The first step in your best man speech outline is to create a captivating introduction. Start with a humorous opening line or a funny anecdote that grabs the audience's attention and sets the tone for the rest of your speech. Remember, a strong start will immediately establish you as the comedic star of the evening.


2. Introduce Yourself and Your Relationship with the Groom

After capturing their attention, briefly introduce yourself and establish your relationship with the groom. Share a funny story or a memorable experience you've had together. This will help the audience connect with you and set the stage for the laughter that's to come.


3. Share Endearing and Funny Stories about the Groom

Now it's time to dive into the meat of your speech. Share a mix of endearing and funny stories about the groom. These tales should showcase his quirks, embarrassing moments, or humorous adventures. Remember, the goal is to make everyone laugh, including the groom himself!


4. Highlight the Bride's Positive Qualities and Their Love Story

Shift the focus to the bride and highlight her positive qualities. Share heartwarming anecdotes that showcase their love story and the reasons why they are perfect for each other. This part adds depth and sentimentality to your speech, balancing the humor with genuine emotion.


5. Deliver Memorable Punchlines and Jokes

Now it's time to unleash the comedic genius within you! Sprinkle your speech with clever punchlines, witty one-liners, and well-timed jokes. Make sure the jokes are light-hearted, inclusive, and appropriate for all audiences. A good mix of observational humor and playful teasing will have everyone rolling in the aisles.


6. Express Well-Wishes and Toast to Their Happily Ever After

As you reach the end of your speech, express your well-wishes to the couple. Deliver a heartfelt and uplifting message, highlighting their journey together and expressing your hopes for their future. Raise your glass and offer a toast that celebrates their love and happiness, leaving everyone filled with joy and excitement.



We've compiled a treasure trove of best man speech templates that will unleash your comedic genius and ensure a roaring success. So grab your pen and get ready to dive into the world of side-splitting toasts!


Best Man Template 1: The Comedic Storyteller

"Good evening, ladies and gentlemen! Let me take you on a journey through the hilarious life of [Groom's Name]. Picture this: it was a sunny day, and [Groom's Name] decided to conquer Mount Dishwashing... only to discover that dish soap is no match for his enthusiasm!"


Best Man Template 2: The Banter Master

"Ah, weddings, the grandest gathering of friends, family, and cheeky banter. As we raise our glasses to [Bride's Name] and [Groom's Name], let's not forget the time [Groom's Name] attempted to outdrink the entire Guinness factory. Needless to say, it was a heroic effort, but the pint glass had the last laugh!"


Best Man Template 3: The Movie Spoof Master

"As we gather here today, it feels like we're in a romantic comedy starring [Bride's Name] and [Groom's Name]. But instead of "When Harry Met Sally," it's more like "When [Bride's Name] Met Her Prince Charming and Danced the Night Away!"


Best Man Template 4: The Musical Maestro (Sung to the tune of "My Girl" by The Temptations)

"I've got sunshine on a wedding day, With [Bride's Name] and [Groom's Name] leading the way. Oh yes, life is sweet, can't you see? [Best Man's Name] here to serenade, comedy guaranteed!"


Best Man Template 5: The Good-Natured Roaster

"When I first met [Bride's Name], I knew she was the perfect match for [Groom's Name]. She's got a wicked sense of humor and can drink any lad under the table, including our esteemed groom! It's a match made in comedy heaven, and we're here to celebrate!"


Best Man Template 6: The Top 10 Countdown

And now, ladies and gents, hold on to your Guinness pints as we present the top 10 reasons why [Groom's Name] and [Bride's Name] are the true embodiment of Irish and British humor. Number 10: They can turn any awkward situation into a laugh. Number 9: Their ability to keep the banter flowing, even on the rainiest of days!"



“Good evening, everyone! As the best man, it's my duty to keep this speech short and sweet, just like the groom's attention span when it comes to DIY projects! [Groom's Name], my brother from another mother, it's an honor to stand by your side today.


We've been through it all together, from childhood mischief to college shenanigans. I still remember the time we convinced Mom that our pet goldfish went on a vacation to the Caribbean. Sorry about that, Mom!

But let's focus on the real star of the show tonight, the beautiful bride, [Bride's Name]. You've not only captured [Groom's Name]'s heart but also our entire family's. Your infectious laughter and kind soul have brought an extra sparkle into his life, and for that, we're forever grateful.


So, let's raise our glasses to the newlyweds. May your love be as unbreakable as Dad's old Nokia phone and as enduring as the British obsession with tea. Here's to a lifetime of adventures, laughter, and endless love. Cheers!”


“Ladies and gentlemen, if I can have your attention, please. Today, I stand before you not only as the best man but also as the proudest brother in the world. It's an emotional moment for me to see my little brother, [Groom's Name], all grown up and ready to embark on this incredible journey with [Bride's Name].


We've shared a bond that goes beyond blood. From sneaking out of the house to avoid Mom's broccoli casserole to surviving the infamous sibling rivalry wars, we've been through it all. And here we are today, celebrating the love between [Groom's Name] and the woman who has stolen his heart.


[Bride's Name], I must say, you've passed the ultimate test of joining our family: enduring our crazy Sunday dinners filled with overbearing aunts and endless debates about football. You've not only won our hearts but also become the sister I never had. Welcome to the madness!


To the happy couple, I wish you a lifetime of love, laughter, and shared adventures. May you never lose sight of the love that brought you together and may you continue to support each other's dreams with unwavering enthusiasm, just like we've always supported each other's questionable life choices!


So let's raise our glasses and toast to the love that brought us all here tonight. May your journey be filled with unforgettable moments, joyous laughter, and an abundance of love. Cheers to [Groom's Name] and [Bride's Name], the perfect match made in sibling heaven!”


Unforgettable Best Man Toasts Examples

Example 1: The Laugh-Out-Loud Opener

"Ladies and gentlemen, let's raise our glasses to the lovebirds, [Bride's Name] and [Groom's Name]. They say that love is blind, but let's be honest, [Groom's Name] must have been wearing some serious beer goggles when he fell head over heels for [Bride's Name]. Cheers to finding love in the most unexpected places!"


Example 2: The Quirky Anecdote

"As the best man, it's my duty to share a little secret about [Groom's Name]. Did you know that in his spare time, he practices his dance moves in front of the mirror, perfecting the art of the 'awkward dad dance'? But then [Bride's Name] came into his life and turned his moves from 'awkward' to 'adorable.' Here's to the couple who knows how to dance through life together!"


Example 3: The Heartfelt Tribute

"Today, I stand before you all to honor not just the love between [Bride's Name] and [Groom's Name], but also the incredible individuals they are. [Groom's Name], you've always been there for me, even when we were knee-deep in trouble as kids. Now, seeing you commit to spending the rest of your life with [Bride's Name], I couldn't be prouder. May your love always shine as brightly as your unwavering friendship."


Example 4: The Movie Reference

"Raise your glasses, folks, as we celebrate the real-life romance between [Bride's Name] and [Groom's Name]. Their love story has all the elements of a blockbuster movie: laughter, adventure, and a happy ending. So here's to the couple who proves that love is better than any Hollywood script!"


Example 5: The Poetic Flair

"With every word, every touch, [Bride's Name] and [Groom's Name] paint a masterpiece of love. They are the artists, and their love is the most vibrant of colors. Let's raise our glasses to the couple who creates a masterpiece with every step they take together."


Example 6: The Inside Joke

"To [Bride's Name] and [Groom's Name], may your love be as strong as [Groom's Name]'s obsession with [Bride's Name]'s cooking. You two are the perfect recipe for a lifetime of happiness, love, and delicious meals. Cheers!"



The Best Man Speech Format: A Guide to Captivate the Crowd!

  1. Open with a Bang: The first rule of a killer best man speech is to grab everyone's attention right from the start. Start with a witty icebreaker or a hilarious one-liner that will instantly put a smile on everyone's faces. Remember, a strong opening sets the tone for the rest of your speech.

  2. Share a Memorable Story: Next up, it's time to delve into some memorable stories. Share an amusing anecdote about the groom that highlights his funny quirks or showcases your bromance. The key is to keep it light-hearted and relatable, ensuring the audience is thoroughly entertained.

  3. Compliment the Bride: Now, let's show some love to the blushing bride. Offer heartfelt compliments about her beauty, charm, and the positive impact she has had on your friend's life. Add a funny twist by sharing a humorous story that demonstrates how she's managed to tame the groom's wild side.

  4. Tease the Groom (with Love!): No best man speech is complete without a bit of playful teasing. Lightly poke fun at the groom's quirks, funny habits, or even his fashion sense. Just make sure to keep it good-natured and avoid embarrassing him or causing any discomfort. The goal is to have everyone laughing, including the groom himself!

  5. Raise a Toast with Humor: When it's time for the toast, seize the opportunity to deliver a memorable line that combines humor and sentiment. Craft a clever rhyme, a witty pun, or a funny twist on a famous quote. This will not only make the crowd laugh but also leave a lasting impression.

  6. Express Genuine Emotion: While humor is the star of the show, don't forget to sprinkle some genuine emotion into your speech. Express your heartfelt happiness for the couple and share your admiration for their love and commitment. This will add depth and create a well-rounded speech that resonates with the audience.

  7. Keep it Concise and Engaging: Last but not least, keep your best man speech concise and engaging. Aim for a duration of around 5 minutes to ensure you hold everyone's attention without testing their patience. Avoid rambling or going off on tangents. Focus on delivering funny and impactful moments that will be remembered long after the wedding.



Best Man Speech One-Liners: Hilarious Examples to Leave Them in Stitches

One-Liner 1: "They say marriage is like a deck of cards. In the beginning, all you need is two hearts and a diamond. But after a few years, you're hoping for a club and a spade!"


One-Liner 2: "I asked [Groom's Name] if he was ready for marriage, and he said, 'I've been ready since she said, "I do."' I think he misunderstood the timing a bit!"


One-Liner 3: "Marriage is a lifelong journey, and [Bride's Name] and [Groom's Name] are embarking on it together. Remember, [Groom's Name], in this journey, you're the one who has to ask for directions!"


One-Liner 4: "I've known [Groom's Name] for a long time, and I must say, I've never seen him look so nervous. It's like he's auditioning for the lead role in 'Wedding Jitters: The Musical!'"


One-Liner 5: "They say the key to a successful marriage is compromise. [Groom's Name], I hope you're ready to compromise on things like choosing the color of the curtains or accepting that you'll never be the one to control the TV remote again!"


One-Liner 6: "I have to say, [Groom's Name] is a lucky man. Not only did he find the love of his life in [Bride's Name], but he also found someone who can finally make sure he eats his vegetables!"



Best Man Speech Opening Lines: Hilarious Hooks to Start with a Bang!

Best Man Opening Line 1: "Good evening, ladies and gentlemen! I must say, being the best man feels a lot like being the opening act for a rock star. So, [Groom's Name], get ready for the show of a lifetime!"


Best Man Opening Line 2: "I stand before you today as the best man, also known as the person responsible for keeping the groom in check and hiding any evidence of his questionable fashion choices. Believe me, it's been a tough job!"


Best Man Opening Line 3: "I have a confession to make: when [Groom's Name] asked me to be his best man, I thought he was pranking me. But now, as I look at him standing here in his wedding attire, I realize he was serious. And I couldn't be more honored."


Best Man Opening Line 4: "They say being the best man is like being a referee, except the players are drunk and the rules are made up on the spot. Well, tonight, let the games begin!"


Best Man Opening Line 5: "As the best man, it's my duty to share some embarrassing stories about [Groom's Name]. But let's be honest, his entire life is an embarrassment, and that's why we love him!"


Best Man Opening Line 6: "Picture this: it's a sunny day, birds are chirping, and there's an overwhelming sense of love in the air. And then there's [Groom's Name], sweating like a marathon runner at an all-you-can-eat buffet. But hey, love does crazy things to people!"



The Ultimate Best Man Speech Checklist

  1. Start with a Bang: The first item on our checklist is to kick off your speech with a bang. You want to grab everyone's attention right from the start. Consider starting with a funny and relatable anecdote about the groom or an amusing story that showcases your friendship. Remember, the goal here is to make people laugh, not put them to sleep!

  2. Praise the Bride (but not too much!): Next on the list is praising the bride. After all, she's the reason you're all gathered here today. However, be careful not to go overboard and make the groom feel inadequate. A little teasing about his luck in finding such an amazing partner can lighten the mood and keep things humorous.

  3. Avoid Embarrassing Stories (or maybe not!): Ah, the golden rule of best man speeches: the embarrassing stories! While you may want to dig up some hilarious and embarrassing moments from the groom's past, make sure they are in good taste and won't cause any discomfort. Remember, you still want the groom to thank you afterward, not plot revenge!

  4. Keep it Short and Sweet: Nobody likes a never-ending speech, especially after a few glasses of champagne. Keep your speech concise and to the point. Aim for a duration of around 5 minutes, as it's the perfect length to maintain everyone's interest without causing restlessness.

  5. Use Humor as Your Superpower: Humor is the key ingredient to a memorable best man speech. Incorporate funny one-liners, witty observations, and clever puns to keep the audience entertained. However, be mindful of your audience's sensibilities and avoid any jokes that could be offensive or inappropriate. You don't want to be remembered as the best man who went too far!

  6. Share Genuine Sentiments: While humor is essential, don't forget the sentimental side. Express your genuine feelings about the couple's love and how happy you are for them. Touching moments can add depth to your speech and create a perfect balance between laughter and heartfelt emotions.

  7. Practice, Practice, Practice: The final item on our checklist is all about practice. Rehearse your speech multiple times to ensure smooth delivery and confidence on the big day. Practice in front of a mirror, gather some friends for a mock audience, or record yourself to analyze your performance. The more you practice, the better you'll become at delivering an unforgettable best man speech.



Best man Speech FAQ

1. How long should my best man speech be?

Finding the right length for your best man speech can be tricky. Typically, aim for a duration of around 5 minutes. This allows you to deliver a memorable speech without dragging it out too long.


2. What should I include in my best man speech?

Your best man speech should strike a balance between humor, sentiment, and personal anecdotes. Include funny stories about the groom, heartfelt wishes for the couple, and a toast to their happiness. Remember to keep it appropriate and avoid embarrassing or offensive content.


3. How can I make my best man speech funny?

Humor is a crucial element of a best man speech. Inject funny anecdotes, witty one-liners, and clever jokes that showcase the groom's personality or highlight amusing situations you both have experienced. Tailor your humor to the audience while keeping it light-hearted and positive.


4. Should I rehearse my best man speech?

Absolutely! Rehearsing your best man speech is essential for a smooth and confident delivery. Practice in front of a mirror, record yourself, or gather a small group of friends to act as your audience. This will help you refine your timing, gestures, and overall performance.


5. How can I overcome nervousness when delivering my speech?

Feeling nervous is natural, but there are ways to manage it. Prepare well in advance, practice your speech thoroughly, and take slow, deep breaths before going on stage. Remember, the audience wants you to succeed and is rooting for you. Embrace the excitement and focus on the joyous occasion.


6. Should I mention ex-partners or past relationships in my best man speech?

It's generally best to avoid mentioning ex-partners or past relationships in your best man speech. While it might seem humorous to some, it can potentially make others uncomfortable or create tension. Stay on the safe side and keep the focus on celebrating the couple's love and future together.


7. Can I use props or visual aids in my best man speech?

Using props or visual aids can add an entertaining touch to your best man speech, but use them sparingly and appropriately. Props should enhance your storytelling or humor rather than overshadow your words. Make sure they are visible to everyone in the audience and won't cause any disruptions.



Concluding Thoughts

Congratulations, maestro of wit! You've reached the end of our SEO-optimized guide on creating the ultimate best man speech outline. By following these steps, you're now armed with the tools to deliver a hilarious and unforgettable speech. Remember, practice makes perfect, so rehearse your outline to ensure a flawless performance. Get ready to take the wedding stage by storm and leave the couple and guests with memories they'll cherish forever. Now, go forth and let your comedic brilliance shine!



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