Bride speech writer
More brides now give a speech, either on their own or together with their spouse. Like the groom’s speech, it thanks the people who got you here and ends with words for the person you just married.
- 3–5 mintypical length
- 390–650words at 130 wpm
- 5 partsthanks · your people · how you knew · to your spouse · the toast
- 1 Occasion
- 2 Your memories
- 3 Edit & rehearse
Your draft appears here, on the card, ready to edit.
Already have a speech? Paste it here and ask for feedback, a shorter version or a stronger ending.
The structure of a bride speech
Tap each part to see what it does and where it sits in this sample. The bar shows how the sample divides its time: the story gets the most room, the ending the least.
1. Thanks
Thank guests, families and anyone who helped.
In this sample: 23 words, about 0:11 spoken, 20% of the speech.
Hi everyone. I didn’t think I’d be brave enough to do this, but I couldn’t let today go by without saying thank you.
Mum and Dad, you taught me that love is mostly showing up. Grace, Ella and Mia, you’ve held my dress, my hand and my nerves all day. I love you.
Four winters ago I had the flu and mentioned it in passing on the phone. Three hours later Owen was at my door with soup he had made himself, badly. That’s when I knew.
Owen, you show up. With soup, with patience, with terrible puns. I promise to always show up for you.
So please raise a glass to my husband, Owen.
How to write a bride speech, step by step
- Decide whether to speak alone or with your spouse.
- Group your thanks.
- Pick the moment you knew.
- Write what you want your spouse to hear.
- Keep it under five minutes and rehearse.
- Coordinate with your spouse’s speech
- Thank your bridal party
- Be yourself
- Keep tissues handy
- Repeat your vows word for word
- Over-thank until it drags
- Forget the other family
- Rush the ending
Bride speech questions
Is it OK for the bride to give a speech?
Absolutely. Bride speeches are increasingly common, and many couples give a joint speech instead of two separate ones.
When does the bride speak?
Usually just before or after the groom, or together as a couple. It works well before the best man and maid of honor.
How long should a bride speech be?
Three to five minutes: about 400 to 650 words.