A Guide to Planning Wedding Speeches

As a documentary wedding photographer based in London, I've had the privilege of capturing countless love stories. I love documenting the whirlwind of emotions and joyous celebrations that each wedding brings, but there's one aspect of weddings that never fails to leave a lasting impression on me – the speeches.

For me, the speeches are the highlight of the day. They are the moments when heartfelt sentiments are expressed, tears are shed, and laughter echoes through the room. As a self-professed sentimentalist, I must admit that more often than not, I’m using my camera to hide the fact I’m tearing up too!

However, I understand that for many couples, the prospect of planning wedding speeches can be daunting. Concerns about speeches going on too long or being boring often loom large. So here’s my top advice to make sure your day flows well and you can truly appreciate the words your nearest and dearest have written for you.

First and foremost, it's crucial to choose the right people to deliver the speeches. While it may be tempting to adhere to tradition and select the usual suspects, such as the best man, maid of honor, and parents, I encourage couples to think outside the box. Consider selecting individuals who know you both intimately, those who have shared in your journey and have meaningful stories to tell. Whether it's a close friend, sibling, or even a grandparent, prioritize authenticity over conventionality. After all, it's the personal touch that makes speeches truly memorable. Remember it’s also okay if someone doesn’t like public speaking! You want them to enjoy your day too, without it being a haze of nerves. If you know someone has something special to say but will struggle to make a speech, suggest they write you a letter instead and let someone else take the mic.

Next, communicate with your chosen speakers well in advance. Provide them with guidance on the length of their speeches, and encourage them to share heartfelt stories, humorous anecdotes, and words of wisdom that reflect your unique relationship. Remember, it's not about delivering a flawless performance, but rather about speaking from the heart.

Additionally, consider the timing and order of the speeches carefully. While it's traditional for speeches to take place during the reception, there's no hard and fast rule dictating when they must occur. Some couples opt to have speeches before dinner, while others prefer to intersperse them throughout the evening. Choose a timing that feels natural and allows for seamless transitions between speeches and other events.

Lastly, don't forget to capture these precious moments. As a documentary wedding photographer, I love immortalising the raw emotions and candid expressions that unfold during speeches. From tears of joy to fits of laughter, these are the moments that you'll want to cherish for years to come. Your wedding photography should transport you back to how you felt listening to those speeches every time you look at them.

So, that’s the scoop, planning wedding speeches doesn't have to be a source of stress or anxiety. By choosing the right speakers, communicating effectively, and prioritising authenticity, you can ensure that the speeches are a highlight of your special day. So, embrace the opportunity to share heartfelt sentiments and create lasting memories that will be treasured for a lifetime. And remember, if the speeches make you cry, I’ll be on hand to help you fix your make-up!