best man speech examples for younger brother

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6 Younger Brother Bestman Speech Examples

The big day is here. Your older brother’s tying the knot, and he’s picked you as his best man.

It’s quite an honor!

Now comes the tricky bit – crafting that perfect speech.

You’re aiming to hit just the right mix of humor and heartfelt sentiment, nostalgia and forward-looking joy.

Younger Brother Bestman Speech Examples

No need to worry, though.

We’ve got some great examples to spark your creativity.

Whether you’re going for brief and punchy or long and detailed, these speeches will help you kick off your preparation for the big moment.

Ready to make your brother proud? Let’s get started!

Short and Sweet

Ladies and gentlemen, family and friends, I’m Tom, the younger brother and best man of our groom, Jack.

Growing up with Jack was always an adventure. From building forts in the backyard to sneaking midnight snacks, he was my partner in crime. But he was also my protector, my guide, and my biggest cheerleader.

Jack, you’ve always been there for me, and I couldn’t be happier to stand by your side today. Sarah, you’re not just gaining a husband, you’re getting the world’s best big brother. Trust me, I know from experience.

To the happy couple: May your love story be as epic as our childhood shenanigans, and may you always find reasons to laugh together. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness!

— END OF SPEECH —

Commentary: This speech balances humor and sentiment nicely. It fits well in a relaxed wedding reception where the speaker wants to keep things light-hearted but still express genuine emotion.

Mid-Length Charm

Good evening, everyone. For those who don’t know me, I’m Alex, Jack’s younger brother and best man.

You know, being the younger brother isn’t always easy. You’re constantly trying to keep up, to prove yourself. But with Jack as my big brother, it was different. He never made me feel like I was just tagging along. Instead, he always made sure I was included, whether it was in his games, his friend group, or his crazy schemes.

I recall this one time when we decided to “renovate” our treehouse. Jack was 12, I was 8, and we had no idea what we were doing. We ended up with more splinters than improvements, and Dad wasn’t too thrilled about his missing power tools. But you know what? Jack took all the blame, saying it was his idea. That’s the kind of brother he is – always looking out for me.

Jack, you’ve been my hero, my tormentor (in the best brotherly way), and my best friend. You’ve taught me so much – how to throw a perfect spiral, how to talk to girls (although your advice didn’t always work), and most importantly, how to be a good person.

Sarah, I’ve got to hand it to you – you’ve managed to snag one of the good ones. But I think you already know that. The way Jack looks at you, it’s clear you’re his whole world. And seeing how happy you make him, well, that makes you pretty awesome in my book too.

To my new sister-in-law, welcome to our crazy family. Fair warning: holiday gatherings can get a bit wild, especially when Uncle Bob breaks out his karaoke machine. But I promise you’ll never be bored.

Jack and Sarah, as you start this new chapter together, I wish you all the love and laughter in the world. May your marriage be filled with adventure, growth, and endless support for each other. And Jack, just remember – I’m still faster than you, so don’t even think about trying to outrun me at the family reunions.

Let’s raise our glasses to the happy couple. To Jack and Sarah – may your love story be even better than the fairy tales. Cheers!

Commentary: This speech mixes heartwarming anecdotes with gentle teasing, creating a warm and humorous atmosphere. It’s great for a wedding where the brothers share a close bond and the audience enjoys a mix of sentiment and light-hearted jokes.

Lengthy Laughter and Love

Good evening, everyone. I’m Danny, Jack’s younger brother and best man. And let me tell you, I’ve been waiting for this moment for years – not just to see Jack happily married, but to finally have an audience that legally can’t walk out on my speech.

First off, I want to thank all of you for being here to celebrate Jack and Sarah’s special day. And a special shoutout to Sarah’s family – I promise we’re not always this well-behaved. You’re catching us on a good day.

Now, for those of you who don’t know me, I’m the younger, funnier, and objectively better-looking brother. Jack might disagree, but hey, he’s not the one with the microphone right now, is he?

Growing up with Jack was… an experience. He was the classic big brother – part tormentor, part protector, and full-time partner in crime. I can’t count the number of times we got into trouble together, but I can tell you this – it was always worth it.

There was this one time when we were kids, Jack decided we should build a “waterpark” in our backyard. Sounds fun, right? Well, it involved a tarp, our dad’s ladder, and the garden hose. Let’s just say it ended with a broken sprinkler system, a flooded yard, and two very grounded brothers. But you know what? Even as we were cleaning up the mess, Jack was already planning our next adventure.

That’s the thing about Jack – he’s always been a dreamer, always looking for the next exciting thing. And Sarah, I think that’s why you two are so perfect together. You don’t just support his dreams, you dream right alongside him. And occasionally, you’re the voice of reason that stops him from turning the living room into a mini-golf course. Trust me, we’re all grateful for that.

Jack, watching you grow from my annoying big brother into the man you are today has been incredible. You’ve always been there for me, whether it was teaching me how to ride a bike, helping me with my homework, or bailing me out of my first disastrous date (Sorry, Emma from 10th grade, if you’re out there).

You’ve shown me what it means to be kind, to work hard, and to never give up on your dreams. And now, you’re showing me what true love looks like. The way you look at Sarah, the way you talk about her – it’s clear she’s the missing piece you’ve been looking for all along.

Sarah, where do I even begin? You’re smart, you’re beautiful, and somehow, you find Jack’s dad’s jokes funny. I’m not sure if that last part is a good thing, but it certainly makes you perfect for our family. You’ve brought out the best in my brother, and for that, I’ll be forever grateful.

Welcome to our family, sis. I hope you’re ready for chaotic family dinners, competitive game nights, and the annual “Who can eat the most at Thanksgiving” contest. Spoiler alert: it’s usually me.

To the happy couple: May your love continue to grow stronger with each passing day. May you always find reasons to laugh together, even when times get tough. May you always cherish this moment, surrounded by the people who love you most, as you embark on this amazing journey together.

Jack, I couldn’t be prouder to call you my brother. Sarah, I couldn’t be happier to welcome you as my sister. Here’s to a lifetime of love, laughter, and happily ever after.

Ladies and gentlemen, please raise your glasses to Jack and Sarah!

Commentary: This speech skillfully weaves together humor and heartfelt moments, creating an engaging narrative that celebrates the couple’s love while entertaining the audience. It’s perfect for a lively wedding reception where the crowd appreciates a good laugh alongside touching sentiments.

Sentimental Journey

Good evening, everyone. For those who don’t know me, I’m Michael, Jack’s younger brother and best man.

Standing here today, looking at my big brother about to embark on this new chapter of his life, I’m filled with a whirlwind of emotions. Pride, joy, nostalgia – they’re all swirling around in my heart as I think about the journey that’s brought us to this moment.

Jack, from the day I was born, you’ve been my guardian, my guide, and my best friend. You were the one who taught me how to tie my shoelaces, how to stand up to bullies, and how to always, always have each other’s backs.

I recall when we were kids, and I was terrified of the dark. Every night, without fail, you’d check under my bed for monsters. You’d assure me that even if there were any, you’d protect me. As I grew older, I realized that there weren’t any monsters under the bed, but you never stopped protecting me.

Through the years, you’ve been my constant. When I scraped my knee, you were there with a band-aid. When I had my first heartbreak, you were there with ice cream and terrible jokes. When I doubted myself, you were there to remind me of my worth.

But it wasn’t just the big moments. It was the little things too. The way you’d save the last cookie for me, even though I know you wanted it. How you’d let me win at video games sometimes (though you’d never admit it). The countless times you covered for me when I broke curfew.

Jack, you’ve shown me what it means to be a good man, a good brother, and a good friend. Your kindness, your integrity, your unwavering loyalty – these are the qualities that make you who you are. And these are the qualities that I know will make you an amazing husband.

Sarah, from the moment Jack introduced you to our family, I knew you were special. The way his face lit up when he talked about you, the spring in his step whenever you were around – it was clear you had stolen his heart. And as I got to know you, I understood why.

You’re not just beautiful on the outside, but on the inside too. Your compassion, your wit, your strength – they complement Jack perfectly. You challenge him to be better, support him in his dreams, and love him unconditionally. I couldn’t have picked a better partner for my brother if I tried.

To see you two together is to witness true love in action. The way you look at each other, the way you support each other, the way you make each other laugh – it’s beautiful to watch. Your love story isn’t just about romance; it’s about friendship, partnership, and mutual respect.

Jack and Sarah, as you start this new chapter together, I want you to know this: Love isn’t always going to be easy. There will be challenges, there will be tough times. But I’ve seen the strength of your bond, and I know that together, you can weather any storm.

Always communicate, be patient with each other, and never lose your sense of humor. Keep dating each other, keep surprising each other, and keep falling in love with each other every single day.

Jack, my brother, my friend, my hero – I’m so proud of the man you’ve become, and I’m honored to stand beside you today. Sarah, my new sister – thank you for making my brother so happy, and for being such a wonderful addition to our family.

To everyone here tonight, please join me in raising a glass to Jack and Sarah. May your love continue to grow stronger with each passing day. May your home be filled with laughter, your hearts with joy, and your lives with endless adventures.

To the happy couple – here’s to a lifetime of love, happiness, and beautiful memories. Cheers!

Commentary: This deeply emotional speech takes the audience on a journey through the brothers’ relationship, culminating in a heartfelt celebration of the couple’s love. It’s particularly suited for a more formal or traditional wedding where genuine sentiment is highly valued.

A Toast to Love and Laughter

Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests, family, and friends. Good evening! For those who don’t know me, I’m Charlie, Jack’s younger brother and best man. And yes, before you ask, he is the better-looking one. But only by a very small margin.

First off, I want to thank you all for being here to celebrate this momentous occasion. It’s not every day you get to see your big brother tie the knot. Especially when for years, we all thought his only true love was his Xbox.

Jack, my brother, my friend, my ATM when we were in college – where do I even begin? From the moment I was born, you’ve been my role model, my protector, and occasionally, my arch-nemesis. But mostly, you’ve been the best big brother a guy could ask for.

Growing up with Jack was like having a built-in best friend, personal bodyguard, and life coach all rolled into one. He taught me all the important things in life: how to throw a perfect spiral, how to sweet-talk Mom into extending our curfew, and most importantly, how to always have each other’s backs.

I recall this one time when we were kids, Jack decided it would be a brilliant idea to “borrow” Dad’s car for a joyride. I was 12, he was 16, and we thought we were invincible. Spoiler alert: we weren’t. We ended up with a dented fender, a grounding that lasted until we were 30, and a story that Dad still brings up at every family gathering. Sorry, Dad!

But you know what? Even as we were facing the wrath of our parents, Jack took full responsibility. He’s always been that way – fiercely protective and willing to take the fall, even when it wasn’t entirely his fault.

As we grew older, our adventures became slightly less illegal but no less memorable. From road trips where we got hopelessly lost (turns out, Jack’s sense of direction is about as reliable as a chocolate teapot) to late-night gaming sessions where we swore we’d stop after “just one more game” (Narrator: They did not stop after just one more game).

Jack, you’ve been my constant through it all. The good times, the bad times, and all the crazy times in between. You’ve seen me at my best and my worst, and somehow, you still decided to make me your best man. I’m not sure if that’s a testament to your good judgment or a sign that you’ve completely lost it. Either way, I’m honored.

Now, let’s talk about the real star of the show – Sarah. Sarah, when Jack first told me about you, I thought he was making you up. Is someone smart, beautiful, and willing to put up with his terrible jokes? It seemed too good to be true. But then I met you, and I realized – you’re real, and you’re even more amazing than he described.

Sarah, you’ve not only captured my brother’s heart, but you’ve become a cherished part of our family. You balance Jack out perfectly. Where he’s impulsive, you’re thoughtful. Where he’s chaotic, you’re organized. And where he’s hopeless in the kitchen, you’re a culinary genius. Thank goodness for that, because I was getting tired of pizza at every family dinner.

Watching you two together is like witnessing a real-life rom-com, minus the predictable plot twists and cheesy background music. The way you look at each other, the way you support each other’s dreams, the way you laugh at each other’s jokes (even the bad ones) – it’s clear that what you have is special.

Jack and Sarah, as you embark on this new chapter of your lives, I want you to keep in mind a few things:

• Love isn’t always going to be easy, but it’s always going to be worth it.
• Communication is key. Even when Jack tries to convince you that leaving his socks on the floor is a new form of interior decoration.
• Never go to bed angry. Unless it’s because Jack ate the last slice of pizza. Then, all bets are off.
• Keep laughing together. Life’s too short for seriousness all the time.
• And finally, family is always here for you. Even when that family includes a slightly annoying but incredibly handsome younger brother.

To my big brother, Jack – thank you for being my guide, my protector, and my friend. You’ve shown me what it means to be a good man, a loyal friend, and now, a loving husband. I couldn’t be prouder to call you my brother.

To my new sister, Sarah – thank you for making my brother so happy. Welcome to our crazy family. I apologize in advance for all the embarrassing stories you’re about to hear over the years.

And to everyone here tonight – please join me in raising a glass to the happy couple. May your love continue to grow stronger with each passing day. May your home be filled with laughter, your hearts with joy, and your lives with endless adventures.

To Jack and Sarah – here’s to a lifetime of love, happiness, and maybe a few more ill-advised adventures. Just make sure to invite me along for the ride. Cheers!

Commentary: This speech skillfully blends heartfelt sentiments with humorous anecdotes, creating a warm and entertaining atmosphere. It’s perfect for a wedding where the couple and guests appreciate a good mix of laughter and touching moments.

A Journey Through Brotherhood and Love

Good evening, everyone. For those who don’t know me, I’m David, Jack’s younger brother and proud best man. I’ve got to say, standing up here today feels surreal. It seems like just

yesterday we were building pillow forts and arguing over who got to be Player 1 in our video games.

Jack, my big brother, my partner in crime, and now the groom. Where do I even begin? From the moment I came into this world, you’ve been there, showing me the ropes, teaching me the important things in life – like how to sneak cookies from the jar without getting caught, and how to convince Mom that staying up past bedtime was good for our education.

You know, folks, being the younger brother isn’t always easy. You’re constantly trying to keep up, to prove yourself. But with Jack, it was different. He never made me feel like I was just tagging along. Instead, he always made sure I was included, whether it was in his games, his friend group, or his wild schemes.

I recall this one summer when Jack decided we should build a treehouse. Now, neither of us had any carpentry skills whatsoever, but Jack was determined. We spent weeks planning, gathering supplies, and attempting to hammer things together without losing any fingers. The result was… well, let’s just say it was more “abstract art” than “functional treehouse.” But you know what? It didn’t matter. Because for Jack, it was never about the result. It was about the journey, the time spent together, the memories we were creating.

That’s the thing about Jack – he’s always been able to find joy in the process, not just the outcome. And Sarah, I think that’s one of the reasons you two are so perfect together. You don’t just support his dreams, you dream right alongside him. You find excitement in the planning, laughter in the mishaps, and celebration in the achievements, big or small.

Jack, as we’ve grown older, I’ve watched you change from my goofy big brother into the incredible man standing before us today. You’ve taught me so much over the years – how to stand up for myself, how to be there for others, and how to face challenges head-on with a smile on my face.

I’ve seen you tackle life’s obstacles with grace and determination. Whether it was studying for those tough exams in college (even though we both know you’d rather have been anywhere else), or working tirelessly to build your career, you’ve always given it your all. And through it all, you’ve never lost your sense of humor or your ability to light up a room with your infectious laugh.

Sarah, what can I say? From the moment Jack introduced you to our family, it was clear you were something special. The way his face lit up when he talked about you, the spring in his step whenever you were around – it was like watching my brother become the best version of himself.

You’ve brought out sides of Jack I never knew existed. Suddenly, my brother who couldn’t boil water without setting off the smoke alarm was attempting to cook gourmet meals. The guy who used to think a romantic gesture was sharing his last slice of pizza was now planning elaborate date nights. It’s been amazing to watch.

But more than that, Sarah, you’ve become like a sister to me. Your kindness, your wit, your ability to put up with our family’s particular brand of crazy – it’s all made you an invaluable addition to our clan. And let’s be honest, your fashion sense has significantly improved our family photos.

To the two of you together – watching your love story unfold has been like witnessing a real-life fairy tale, but better. Because it’s not about grand gestures or dramatic declarations. It’s about the quiet moments of support, the inside jokes only you two understand, and the way you handle life’s ups and downs as a team.

I’ve seen you weather storms together, celebrating the sunshine and dancing in the rain. I’ve watched you push each other to grow, to chase your dreams, to be the best versions of yourselves. Your love isn’t just about romance – it’s about partnership, friendship, and unwavering support.

As you begin this new chapter of your lives, I want you to keep a few things in mind:

First, never stop laughing together. Life is going to throw curveballs your way, but if you can face them with humor and a shared smile, you can get through anything.

Second, keep adventuring. Whether it’s traveling to new places or trying that new restaurant down the street, never stop exploring the world together.

Third, always have each other’s backs. You’re a team now, officially, and forever. Stand by each other, support each other’s dreams, and be each other’s biggest cheerleaders.

And finally, never forget the love that brought you here today. In the chaos of everyday life, it’s easy to get caught up in the little things. But take a moment each day to look at each other and think about this feeling, this moment, this love that’s so strong it’s noticeable to everyone in this room.

Jack, my brother, my friend, my hero – I couldn’t be prouder to stand beside you today. You’ve always been there for me, showing me the way, picking me up when I fell, and cheering the loudest for my successes. Today, it’s my turn to cheer for you. I’m so incredibly happy for you, and I can’t wait to see all the amazing things you and Sarah will accomplish together.

Sarah, my new sister – thank you for loving my brother so completely, for bringing so much joy into his life, and by extension, into all of our lives. Welcome to our family, officially. We’re a bit crazy, and a lot loud, but we love fiercely and unconditionally. You fit right in.

To everyone here tonight – please join me in raising a glass to Jack and Sarah. May your love continue to grow stronger with each passing day. May your home be filled with laughter, your hearts with joy, and your lives with endless adventures. May you always find comfort in each other’s arms and excitement in each other’s dreams.

To Jack and Sarah – here’s to a lifetime of love, happiness, and beautiful memories. May your love story be even better than the fairy tales. Cheers!

Commentary: This heartfelt and engaging speech takes the audience on an emotional journey through the brothers’ relationship and the couple’s love story. It’s ideal for a wedding where deep, genuine sentiment is appreciated, while still maintaining a touch of humor and lightheartedness.

Creating the perfect best man speech as a younger brother is a challenge.

It’s a careful mix of humor, sentiment, and personal stories that highlight your unique bond while welcoming your new sister-in-law to the family.

Whether you choose a short and sweet toast or a more detailed trip through your shared history, the key is to speak genuinely.

Keep in mind, your speech is a tribute to your brother and his new spouse, as well as a reflection of your relationship.

Don’t hesitate to add your flair to it – after all, that’s what makes your connection special.

And most importantly, savor the moment.

This is a rare chance to publicly express your love and support for your brother as he starts this new chapter of his life.

So, take a deep breath, raise that glass, and get ready to make your brother proud.

With these examples as inspiration, you’re well-prepared to give a best-man speech that will be talked about for years to come.

Here’s to love, laughter, and lifelong bonds!

Home » Weddings

Top 17 Best Man Speech Ideas for a Younger Brother’s Wedding

Being the best man at your brother’s wedding is quite an honor — and quite a big responsibility, especially for an older brother.

The biggest job, perhaps, is giving the best man’s speech at the wedding.

Your little brother has looked up to you all his life, after all, and you want to make his day more special.

The tradition of serving as best man to the groom is believed to have been around since the 1500s, [1] so you might be wondering how you’re going to make your speech stand out.

Below, we provide the list of unique things to say in a best man speech to a younger brother, as well as a few speech templates.

We also offer tips for creating your own best man speech to make sure you’re covered on the big day.

• I’m [groom’s name]’s best man and also his big brother. I think it says a lot about a man when he chooses his brother to be his best man… Mostly, of course, it says: “I have no friends.” [2]
• For those of you who don’t know me, I’m [groom’s name]’s older brother. It’s great to stand up here today because, after all these years, [groom’s name] has finally admitted that I am the best man. [2]
• My name is [your name], [groom’s name]’s older brother and best man for the day. [Groom’s name] didn’t choose me in the traditional way. In fact, our other brother [brother’s name] and I drew straws… and just because I’m standing up here, don’t think for one minute that I was the winner. [3]
• [Groom’s name], I am deeply proud to be your older brother, and truly honored to be your best man. In spite of our [number]-year age difference, we share a special closeness and friendship that I treasure. Maybe that’s got something to do with me acting [half the number of years in age difference] years younger than my age, and you acting [half the number of years in age difference] years older. But seriously, as your big brother, I’ve always tried to watch over and protect you. Just as often, though, it’s been the other way around. [3]
• It’s the job of the best man to say a few complimentary things about the groom. Well, he’s handsome, intelligent, and naturally gifted at sports. Of course, none of this should come as a surprise — we do, after all, come from the same gene pool. [3]
• It’s such a privilege to be [groom’s name]’s best man. For those of you who don’t know me, I’m his big brother [your name]. [Groom’s name] has always made me laugh. He cheered me up when I was down. Wedding titles aside, he’s the real best man in the room.
• We all know [bride’s name] is a wonderful lady who deserves the perfect guy. Too bad you don’t always get what you deserve. [2]
• To my little brother and the beautiful bride, tonight we celebrate you. We all wish you a lifetime of happiness, love, health, success, and laughter. May you continue to find humor in the bad and appreciation for the good. May your friendship continue to grow through the years to come. Cheers! [4]
• I stand here today to toast my little brother and his new bride and to celebrate their new union together. All your joys will now be doubled because you can share them together. All your trials and tribulation have now been halved because you can now solve them together. In marriage, you promise to care about everything — the good things, the bad things, and the mundane. You promise each other that life will not go unwitnessed, because you will witness it with each other. Remember, you two, this is just the beginning. The best is yet to come. [4]
• My kid brother [groom’s name] and I share a common sense of humor. So if this speech is in any way unfunny, feel free to blame him. [5]
• I never thought this day would come. My baby brother somehow managed to find someone who can put up with him, and I couldn’t be happier. Here’s to [groom’s name] and [bride’s name]. May you share a wonderful life together.
• Let me just start by saying to my little brother, I love you so much, and I really hope you’ll feel the same about me after you hear my speech. [6]
• Seeing the happy couple walking down the aisle earlier today, I’m sure we’ll all agree that the bride looked simply stunning. [My little brother] the groom, on the other hand, simply looked stunned. [5]
• As I stand here today and see my little brother with his new wife, [wife’s name], I can clearly see that my brother has finally won. [Wife’s name] is the most outgoing, fun, and kind-hearted person. He doesn’t have to roll the dice — he’s a winner just by being with her. [7]

Templates for Creating a Best Man Speech

Feel free to take pieces from each template to switch around or combine and create what works best for you!

Good morning/afternoon. I’m [your name], [groom’s name]’s big brother.

It’s such an honor to be his best man. We’ve had our ups and down, but he’s the guy who’s always had my back.

When we were kids [insert a story about something heroic your brother did].

I can’t imagine someone more deserving of such a lovely bride. I know that wherever life takes them, [groom’s name] will face it head-on and turn it into a great adventure.

Best of luck to the new bride and groom.

As [groom’s name]’s best man and big brother, I’m so happy for the newlyweds and grateful to be standing here today.

I have to say, I wasn’t the least bit surprised when they told me they were getting married. I can’t imagine two people more deserving and suited to each other.

[Groom’s name] and [bride’s name] are both [insert complimentary things they have in common]. I know they’ll share a wonderful life together.

[Bride’s name], I want to welcome you to the family. And [groom’s name], you are one lucky man.

Here’s to you both!

Hello, everyone. I’m [groom’s name]’s big brother, [your name], for those of you who don’t know me.

I’d like to start by saying, wow — these two sure do make a great couple, don’t they? [Pause for applause.]

Today, I have a quote to share that made me think of [groom’s name] and [bride’s name]:

“Love isn’t perfect. It isn’t a fairytale or a storybook, and it doesn’t always come easy. Love is overcoming obstacles, facing challenges, fighting to be together, holding on, and never letting go. It is a short word, easy to spell, difficult to define, and impossible to live without. Love is work, but most of all, love is realizing that every hour, every minute, every second of it was worth it because you did it together.” [8]

As the years go by, remember this day and why you chose each other. Embrace your happily ever after.

I truly love you both and wish you only the best.

Please join me in raising a glass to the bride and groom. Here’s to a lifetime of love and happiness.

How to Write the Perfect Best Man Speech

Once you’ve chosen a few options from the list, you may want to add to or change things up to make it your own.

Here are some tips for personalizing or creating your own perfect best man speech.

• Throw in a memory. You’ve known the groom his whole life, so you’re bound to have some hilarious or meaningful experiences to share. Guests will enjoy your story, and the toast will be more memorable.
• Wish him luck. This is a great opportunity to congratulate the newlyweds and share your best wishes. You may want to reference their future plans and reassure your brother that you have the utmost confidence in him.
• Add some humor. People love to laugh! You could include a joke you and your brother have long shared or throw in a few puns. Just remember to keep it appropriate for the youngest guests.
• Give yourself a structure with which to work. First, decide on what you want to include and in what order. This could be a thank you to guests or workers, a joke, a story, congratulations, family memories, etc. Write down keywords for what you want to include and organize it so that when you begin the official speech, you’ve got a simple structure to follow.
• Practice, practice, practice. Once you’ve written your speech, practice on a friend or family member (besides your brother) and get some feedback. Hearing yourself say it out loud also allows you to make any changes necessary for a good flow of words.
• https://www.rd.com/article/bridesmaids-groomsmen-history/ [ ↩ ]
• “Best Man Speech Brother: Our Complete Guide,” Hitched [ ↩ ][ ↩ ][ ↩ ]
• “Best Man Speech For A Brother,” The Best Man Speech [ ↩ ][ ↩ ][ ↩ ]
• “Writing A Best Man Speech For Brother: 85 Speech Examples,” Her Way [ ↩ ][ ↩ ]
• “51 Best Man jokes for a speech to win over any wedding crowd,” inews [ ↩ ][ ↩ ]
• “25 Best Funny Opening Lines for Wedding Speeches,” One Fab Day [ ↩ ]
• “12 Best Man Speech Ideas If You’re the Groom’s Brothers,” Katelyn’s Wedding Words [ ↩ ]
• “Best funny wedding speech quotes,” PETV [ ↩ ]

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10 Best Man Brother Speech Examples to Make Your Speech Memorable

Discover heartfelt and humorous best man brother speech examples to make your toast unforgettable. Perfect for celebrating your brother's big day!

By Juan C Olamendy · Updated: June 28, 2024

Ever found yourself standing in front of a crowd, heart pounding, palms sweaty, and mind racing, all because you have to deliver the best man speech at your brother's wedding? You're not alone! Crafting the perfect best man brother speech can feel like a daunting task, but fear not—we've got you covered. In this article, we'll dive into some of the best man brother speech examples that will not only make your brother proud but also leave the audience in stitches and tears (the good kind, of course).

Why are we writing this? Because we know the pressure is real, and we want to help you shine on this special day. By the time you finish reading, you'll have a treasure trove of tips, anecdotes, and templates to craft a speech that’s heartfelt, humorous, and unforgettable. So, let’s turn those nerves into confidence and make your brother’s big day even more memorable!

Best Man Brother Speech Examples

Introduction.

Delivering a best man speech is a significant honor and responsibility, especially when you're the brother of the groom. The best man speech is a cherished tradition that adds a personal touch to the wedding ceremony. It’s a moment where you can share your unique bond with the groom and offer heartfelt wishes to the newlyweds.

The Importance of a Best Man Speech

Why the best man speech matters.

The best man speech is more than just a formality. It’s an opportunity to celebrate the groom and his journey to this special day. A well-crafted speech can set the tone for the wedding reception, making it memorable for everyone involved. It’s a chance to share stories, express emotions, and connect with the audience on a deeper level.

The Unique Role of a Brother as Best Man

As the groom's brother, your role as the best man carries extra weight. You’ve shared countless memories, both good and bad, and your speech can reflect this unique relationship. Your perspective is invaluable because you’ve seen the groom grow and evolve over the years. This makes your speech not only personal but also deeply meaningful.

Preparing Your Best Man Speech

Tip #1: take a walk down memory lane.

Start by reminiscing about your shared childhood. Think about the moments that define your relationship. These memories will form the backbone of your speech and make it relatable and engaging.

Tip #2: Remember How You Played Together

Recall the fun times you had growing up. Whether it was playing sports, video games, or just goofing around, these stories can add a light-hearted touch to your speech. They also highlight the bond you share with your brother.

Tip #3: Remember How You Fought Together

Sibling rivalry is a natural part of growing up. Sharing a story about a memorable argument or fight can add humor to your speech. It also shows that despite the disagreements, your bond has only grown stronger.

Tip #4: Discover Themes

Identify recurring themes in your relationship. Is there a particular trait or habit that defines your brother? These themes can help you structure your speech and make it more cohesive.

Tip #5: Follow an Outline

Having a clear outline can make the writing process easier. Start with an introduction, followed by anecdotes, and end with a heartfelt toast. This structure ensures that your speech flows smoothly.

Tip #6: Hire Help to Write Your Best Man Speech

If you’re struggling to put your thoughts into words, consider hiring a professional speechwriter. They can help you craft a speech that captures your emotions and stories perfectly.

Tip #7: Don’t Procrastinate Writing Your First Draft

Start writing your speech as early as possible. This gives you ample time to refine and perfect it. Procrastination can lead to unnecessary stress and a rushed speech.

Tip #8: Embrace Editing

Editing is a crucial part of the writing process. Don’t be afraid to make changes to your speech. Cut out any unnecessary details and focus on the key points you want to convey.

Tip #9: Phone a Friend

Get feedback from a trusted friend or family member. They can offer valuable insights and suggestions to improve your speech. Sometimes, an outside perspective can make all the difference.

Tip #10: Print Your Speech—Do Not Read it From Your Phone

Reading your speech from a printed copy is more professional. It also reduces the risk of technical issues that can arise from using a phone. Plus, it shows that you’ve put thought and effort into your preparation.

Tip #11: Make Sure There’s a Microphone For You

Ensure that there’s a microphone available for your speech. This ensures that everyone can hear you clearly. It also adds a level of formality to your delivery.

Tip #12: Practice Reciting Your Speech

Practice makes perfect. Rehearse your speech multiple times to get comfortable with the content and delivery. This will help you deliver your speech confidently and smoothly.

Structuring Your Best Man Speech

Introducing yourself.

Start by introducing yourself to the audience. Mention your relationship with the groom and express your gratitude for being chosen as the best man. This sets the stage for your speech and helps the audience connect with you.

Pulling His Leg

A little humor goes a long way. Share a funny story or a light-hearted joke about the groom. This can break the ice and make your speech more engaging.

Sibling Rivalry

Talk about the sibling rivalry you shared growing up. These stories can be both funny and relatable. They also highlight the bond you share with your brother.

Meet the Parents

Mention your parents and their role in shaping the groom into the person he is today. This adds a sentimental touch to your speech and acknowledges their contribution.

You Have a Sister Now

Welcome the bride into your family. Express your happiness and excitement about gaining a sister. This shows your support for the newlyweds and strengthens the family bond.

You've Had Your Fun, Now Be Nice

After the jokes and funny stories, shift to a more serious tone. Share a heartfelt message about your brother and his journey to finding love. This adds depth to your speech and makes it more meaningful.

Wrapping Up

Summarize the key points of your speech. Thank the guests for being part of this special day. This brings your speech to a natural conclusion.

Ending with a Heartfelt Toast

End your speech with a heartfelt toast to the newlyweds. Wish them a lifetime of happiness and love. This leaves the audience with a positive and uplifting message.

Best Man Speech Examples

🎸 example 1.

"Good evening, everyone. For those who don’t know me, I’m [Your Name], the groom’s brother and best man. Growing up, [Groom’s Name] and I were inseparable. We shared everything from toys to secrets. One of my favorite memories is when we formed our own little rock band in the garage. We were terrible, but we had the time of our lives. Today, I see that same joy and excitement in [Groom’s Name] as he starts this new chapter with [Bride’s Name]. Let’s raise a glass to the happy couple. May your love be as enduring as our garage band dreams."

🃏 Example 2

"Hello everyone, I’m [Your Name], the groom’s brother. I’ve had the pleasure of knowing [Groom’s Name] my entire life. We’ve had our fair share of adventures, from building forts in the backyard to pulling pranks on each other. One time, [Groom’s Name] convinced me to dress up as a clown for Halloween, and let’s just say it didn’t end well. But through all the laughter and mischief, I’ve seen [Groom’s Name] grow into a wonderful person. And today, I’m thrilled to see him marry [Bride’s Name]. Here’s to a lifetime of love and laughter."

🥑 Example 3

"Good evening, everyone. I’m [Your Name], the groom’s brother. Growing up, [Groom’s Name] and I were like two peas in a pod. We did everything together, from playing sports to sharing our love for avocados. Yes, you heard that right—avocados. We even had an avocado-themed birthday party once. Today, I see that same passion and enthusiasm in [Groom’s Name] as he embarks on this new journey with [Bride’s Name]. Let’s raise a toast to the happy couple. May your love be as strong as our love for avocados."

🏕️ Example 4

"Hello everyone, I’m [Your Name], the groom’s brother. I’ve had the privilege of watching [Groom’s Name] grow from a mischievous kid to a loving and caring man. One of my fondest memories is our camping trips. We’d spend hours exploring the woods, telling ghost stories, and roasting marshmallows. Today, I see that same sense of adventure in [Groom’s Name] as he starts this new chapter with [Bride’s Name]. Here’s to a lifetime of love, adventure, and happiness."

Tips for Delivering Your Speech

Tip #1: don’t wait until the last minute.

Start preparing your speech well in advance. This gives you ample time to refine and perfect it. Procrastination can lead to unnecessary stress and a rushed speech.

Tip #2: Make it Personal

Share personal stories and anecdotes. This makes your speech more relatable and engaging. It also highlights your unique relationship with the groom.

Tip #3: Share Defining Moments of Your Relationship

Talk about the moments that define your relationship with the groom. These stories can add depth and meaning to your speech. They also help the audience connect with you on a personal level.

Tip #4: Compliment the Spouse

Don’t forget to compliment the bride. Express your happiness and excitement about gaining a sister. This shows your support for the newlyweds and strengthens the family bond.

Tip #5: Thank the Guests

Thank the guests for being part of this special day. This shows your appreciation and gratitude. It also makes the audience feel valued and included.

Tip #6: Balance the Wit and Emotion

Strike a balance between humor and sentiment. A good speech has a mix of both. This keeps the audience engaged and makes your speech memorable.

Tip #7: Keep it Short

Keep your speech concise and to the point. A long-winded speech can lose the audience’s attention. Aim for a speech that’s around 5-7 minutes long.

Tip #8: Use Props

Consider using props to enhance your speech. This can add a visual element and make your speech more engaging. Just make sure the props are relevant and appropriate.

Tip #9: Practice Makes Perfect

Rehearse your speech multiple times. This helps you get comfortable with the content and delivery. It also boosts your confidence and reduces nervousness.

Tip #10: Have Fun!

Enjoy the moment. This is a special occasion, and your speech is a part of it. Have fun and make the most of it.

FAQs on Best Man Brother Speech

How do you write the perfect best man speech.

To write the perfect best man speech, start by reminiscing about shared memories. Use a clear structure with an introduction, anecdotes, and a heartfelt toast. Balance humor and sentiment, and practice your delivery multiple times.

What are good Best Man speech examples?

Good best man speech examples include personal anecdotes, humor, and heartfelt messages. They should reflect your unique relationship with the groom and express your happiness for the newlyweds. Check out our examples above for inspiration.

How to Write a Best Man Speech for Best Friend or Brother: Easy Step-by-Step Guide

Start by brainstorming memories and themes. Create an outline with an introduction, anecdotes, and a toast. Write your first draft, edit it, and practice your delivery. Consider getting feedback from a trusted friend.

What to Say in a Best Man Speech (Do’s and Don’ts)

Do share personal stories, compliment the bride, and thank the guests. Don’t include inappropriate jokes, ex-girlfriends, or overly embarrassing stories. Keep it positive, respectful, and heartfelt.

Quick Answer: How to Write a Best Man Speech Fast (with Template!)

To write a best man speech fast, use a template. Start with an introduction, share a few anecdotes, and end with a toast. Keep it concise and focus on key points. Practice your delivery to ensure a smooth performance.

Useful Links

• How to Start a Speech
• Public Speaking Tips
• How to Tell a Story
• Body Language
• How to Be Funny
• 5 Benefits of Using AI for a Perfect Maid of Honor Speech
• 5 Tips for Crafting an Emotional Maid of Honor Speech That Wows
• 10 Hilarious Tips: Crafting the Perfect Funny Best Man Speech Template
• 10 Essential Tips for Crafting Perfect Vows with a Groom Vows Template
• 10 Heartfelt Groom Wedding Speech Examples to Inspire Your Big Day
• 7 Tips on How to Write a Bridesmaid Speech That Wows the Crowd
• 7 Tips on How to Write a Wedding Speech for Sister
• 10 Heartfelt Maid of Honor Sister Speech Examples to Inspire You
• 5 Tips for Crafting a Heartfelt Maid of Honor Speech for Mom
• 10 Tips for a Memorable and Heartfelt Maid of Honor Speech
• 10 Heartfelt Vows to Step Daughter

In conclusion, best man brother speech examples serve as invaluable guides for crafting a memorable and heartfelt speech.

These examples highlight the importance of celebrating the groom's journey and the unique bond shared between brothers.

Key takeaways include the significance of personal anecdotes, the balance of humor and sentiment, and the need to connect with the audience.

By following these insights, you can deliver a speech that not only honors the groom but also resonates with everyone present, making the wedding day even more special.

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21 Best Man Speech Examples & Ideas for the Groom’s Brother

Your brother has just asked you to be his best man and you’re feeling honored, pumped, and a little bit nervous.

You want to nail it.

Best Man Speech Ideas for the Groom’s Brother

1) start with a theme.

Are you going to focus on your brother’s childhood misadventures? His successes in work or love? His friends’ impressions of him?

2) Know the Mood You Want To Create

Are you looking to make everyone laugh? Bring tears of joy to people’s eyes? Both? Knowing the emotional tone of your speech will help guide the content and delivery.

On the other hand, if you’re aiming for more of a sentimental tone, sharing personal anecdotes or stories about your brother is a better bet.

3) Choose the Best Structure for Your Best Man Speech

Are you going to tell a linear story from start to finish? Jump around chronologically? Use a mix of both? Once you settle on an approach, it’s time to start filling in the blanks with some killer content.

4) Tell Your Favorite Stories

Whether it’s a funny story from childhood or a more recent tale of his antics, these stories will help to humanize your brother and give the audience a glimpse into what he’s really like.

5) Know How To Start Your Speech

Other ways you can start your speech:

6) Talk Up Your Brother

No one wants to hear a long venting session about all of his flaws and negative traits.

7) Speak Directly To Your Brother

8) speak directly to the bride.

A personal address to the bride is a wonderful way to include her.

9) Recite the Story of How They Met

To do that, I decided to share some of the “behind the scenes” details that my brother had confided in me over the years.

It was a beautiful moment and one that I will always treasure.

10) Use the Right Amount of Humor

11) share a meaningful quote.

Maybe there is a saying that your father always said to the two of you or something your grandmother mentioned to your brother before she passed.

12) Wish the Best to the Bride and Groom

On behalf of my brother and his new bride, I want to say thank you for coming to celebrate their special day. It means a lot to them that you are all here to support them as they start this new chapter in their lives. I know they are both extremely excited to begin this journey together, and I wish them all the best. I am confident they will make each other very happy and will always be there for one another through thick and thin. I am honoured to have been chosen as best man, and I know my brother is lucky to have found such a wonderful woman. So please join me in raising a glass to the happy couple – may they always be as blissfully content as they are today. Cheers!

13) End Your Speech On a Bright Note

Something heartfelt will leave everyone feeling warm and fuzzy.

14) Don’t Wing It

It’s much better to come prepared with a few key points that you want to make.

15) Read It Out Loud

This will allow you to catch any tricky pronunciations, awkward sentence structures, or words that don’t sound quite right when said aloud.

16) Practice Giving the Speech 10 Times

Once you have a draft of your speech, it’s time to start practicing.

If possible, try to record yourself while you’re practicing. This will let you see how you sound and help you make any necessary adjustments to your delivery.

17) Double-Check Everything on the Day of the Wedding

And finally, before you start your speech, take a quick moment to check the lights and echo in the room.

Best Man Speech Examples Please enable JavaScript 5 Things That Make Guys Want You (Based on Science) Share Watch on var googletag=googletag||{};googletag.cmd=googletag.cmd||[] googletag.cmd.push(function(){googletag.display("div-gpt-ad-ez-companion-ez-2");});

One of the best ways to write your best man speech is to read and hear good examples.

Traditional Best Man Speech Examples

My brother is one of the most important people in my life. He’s been my best friend since we were kids, and I can’t imagine going through life without him by my side. That’s why I’m so honored to be his best man today. I know my brother is going to make an amazing husband because he’s always been such a great friend to me. He’s always been there for me when I needed him, and I know he’ll be there for his new wife too. It’s an honor and a privilege to celebrate with you both, and I know I’ll never forget this day. I love you, brother – congrats on your big day!

It’s my great honor to be your best man today. We’ve been through a lot together, haven’t we? I can’t even remember a time when you weren’t by my side. You’ve always been there for me, no matter what. And I know you’ll always be there for _ ____ too. She’s so lucky to have you as her husband. I know you’re going to make an amazing husband and father. You have all the qualities that matter most – you’re kind, you’re patient, and you’re so good with kids. _ is going to be one lucky family. So let’s raise our glasses to the happy couple! ______and ______, may your life together be full of love and happiness. Cheers!

Emotional Wedding Speech for Brother

I remember when I was younger, I used to always look up to my brother. He was always the smarter one, the better athlete, and the more popular guy. I was always trying to keep up with him and be like him. Even though I could never quite measure up to his accomplishments, he always made me feel like I was just as good as he was. He has always been my biggest supporter, and I know that he will be an amazing husband to his new wife. I am so honored to be standing up here today as his best man. My brother has always been a great example to me of what it means to be a good man. He is always so patient with everyone and he is always quick to lend a helping hand. I know that he will be a great husband to his new wife. I want to thank my brother for everything that he has done for me over the years. He has always been there for me, even when no one else was. I know that he will continue to be a great brother, husband, and father, and I am so proud of him. Congratulations, brother!

Short Best Man Speech Examples

Ladies and gentlemen, it is my great honor to stand before you today as the best man for my brother, (name). On behalf of (name) and his new wife, (name), I want to thank you all for being here to celebrate their special day. (Name) has been my best friend since childhood, and I am truly honored to be standing up for him on this important occasion. I know that he will make an incredible husband, and I am confident that (name) will be by his side every step of the way. So please join me in raising a glass to the happy couple. Cheers!

Here is another short best man speech example:

My brother is a big sports fanatic. Just like a successful football team, my brother and his new bride make a great team. They complement each other perfectly and they always have each other’s back. I know that they will always be there for each other, no matter what life throws their way. I’m so happy that my brother has found his perfect partner and I wish them all the happiness in the world. Congratulations!

Funny Best Man Speech Examples

If you or your brother are a natural-born comedian, then injecting humor into your best man speech is par for the course.

First of all, I want to congratulate my brother on finding the woman of his dreams. As soon as I met her, I could see why he was so head over heels in love with her. She’s beautiful, intelligent, and has a great sense of humor. Her only flaw is her poor taste in husbands. But I guess nobody’s perfect. (Wink) I’m happy to say that she seems to be just as crazy about him as he is about her. I also want to congratulate my brother on making it through the wedding planning process without losing his mind. As anyone who’s been through it knows, wedding planning can be a nightmare. There are so many details to take care of and so many people to please. But my brother managed to stay calm and sane throughout it all. And that’s really saying something for a guy who wept like a baby during The Notebook. Seriously though, I wish all the best of luck and love to the happy couple. Cheers!

Best Man Speech Examples for Older Brother

If your brother is older than you, here is an example of a best man speech for him:

My big brother is a professional pilot, and I’ve always looked up to him – literally and figuratively. He’s always had a passion for flying, and he’s worked hard to turn his passion into a career. Today, he’s living his dream, and I couldn’t be happier for him. Just like my brother has dedicated his life to flying, marriage is a commitment that should be taken seriously. It’s not something to be taken lightly – it’s a journey that should be undertaken with care and consideration. Just like my brother has navigated through some turbulence in his career, marriage will have its ups and downs. But I know that he and his bride will weather any storm, because they’re committed to each other and they’re willing to work hard to make their marriage last. May their life together be as smooth sailing as my brother’s career in aviation!

Best Man Speech Examples for Younger Brother

In just a few short minutes, my little brother will be a married man. It’s hard to believe that the boy who used to follow me around everywhere is all grown up and starting his own family. But I couldn’t be more proud of him. He’s always had a sense of duty and honor, even when we were kids. And when he joined the military, I knew he was going to make an outstanding soldier. He’s already done so much for our country, and I know he’ll only continue his legacy of love and dedication. It’s my pleasure to toast the best man, my little brother. Congratulations, and may your life together be filled with love and happiness.

Best Man Speech Examples for Brother-in-Law

It’s my pleasure to be here today to give the best man speech for my brother-in-law. I first want to thank everyone for coming and celebrating this special day with us. It means a lot to have you all here to support Mike and Jess as they start their married life together. I’ve known Mike for a few years now, and I can say without a doubt that he is one of the most genuine, caring, and fun-loving people I know. He’s always up for a good time, but he also knows how to be serious when the situation calls for it. In other words, he’s the perfect brother-in-law! (And I’m not just saying that because he’s my sister’s husband.) I know that Mike will make an amazing husband to Jess. He already treats her with so much love and respect, and I know he’ll only continue to do so as they embark on this new chapter in their lives. I couldn’t be happier for them both. So let’s raise our glasses to the happy couple – may your marriage be everything you’ve ever hoped for and more! Cheers!

Religious Best Man Speech Examples for Brother

Next, here is a best man speech example for a brother who is religious or spiritual:

Marriage is a sacred institution, and I am honored to be here today as my brother makes a lifetime commitment to his wife. I have known (name) all my life, and I can say without a doubt that he is a good man. He is kind, honest, and hardworking, and I know that he will make an excellent husband. (Name) is also a deeply religious man, and I know that his faith will guide him in this new chapter of his life. I am confident that he will cherish and respect his wife always, and I am proud to call him my brother. On behalf of the family, I would like to wish (name) and his wife all the happiness in the world. Congratulations!

Best Man Speech for Brother: Second Wedding

It’s been said that the best man is the person who knows the groom the best. And in that case, I think I’m uniquely qualified to give this speech. Because not only do I know my brother better than anyone else, but I was also his best man at his first wedding. But despite my experience, I’m still a little nervous about giving this speech. After all, weddings are a time for new beginnings, and I want to make sure that I get it right. So let me start by congratulating my brother and his new wife. This is a truly special day, and I know that you’ll be very happy together. I remember when my brother first told me that he was getting married again. I have to admit, I was a little surprised. But then I realized that it made perfect sense. After all, my brother is one of the most romantic people I know. He’s always believed in the power of love. And I know that he’s found true happiness with his new wife. So on this special day, I want to toast my brother and his new bride. May your life together be filled with love and happiness.

Best Man Speech Examples for Twin Brother

It’s my pleasure to be here today to say a few words about my brother, the groom. First, let me just say how happy I am to be here with all of you to celebrate this special occasion. My brother and his new wife are a perfect match, and I know they’ll be very happy together. I’ve known my brother my whole life, of course, and there’s nobody I know better. After all, I see him everytime I look in the mirror. We’ve been through a lot together, and I’m so proud of the man he has become. He’s kind, he’s generous, he’s hardworking… in short, he’s everything you could want in a husband. And I know he’ll be just as wonderful a father when the time comes. I wish you both lots of love, good fortune, and good health always!

Best Man Speech for Step-Brother

While we have never shared the same blood, he has always been like a brother to me. From the time I can remember, he has always been there for me, whether I needed a shoulder to cry on or someone to help me celebrate a triumph. He has always supported me, even when I made mistakes, and I know that he will make an amazing husband. So please join me in raising a glass to the groom – a man who is not only my step-brother but my best friend.

Best Man Speech for Brother Quotes

Best man speech for brother quotes:

Tools for Writing a Best Man Speech for a Brother

Final Thoughts: Best Man Speech Examples

Writing a best man speech may seem daunting at first, but if you take it one step at a time, before you know it you’ll be delivering an epic tribute to your brother that he—and everyone else—will remember for years to come.

We have lots of other great articles about weddings on this site. Check a few out before you go!

Table of Contents

How To Write A Killer Best Man Speech (With Templates)

A funny, heartfelt speech from the best man is one of the most memorable parts of a wedding. Here’s how to give a great toast (without embarrassing yourself).

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A best man speech is the perfect way to send your brother or friend the best wishes in their marriage, but standing up in front of the crowd can be super nerve-wracking. If you’ve been invited to be the best man at a wedding but have no idea what to say in your speech, you’re not alone! 

Over 75% of the population cites public speaking as one of their biggest fears. Thankfully, it’s a people skill that anyone can develop. A great event toast can be a game-changer and make you feel like a celebrity amongst the wedding guests. 

Watch our video to learn the best (and worst) speech openers:

Here’s how to overcome your public speaking anxiety and give a knockout best man speech that will incite laughter, smiles, or even sentimental tears. 

Quick Answer: How to Write a Best Man Speech Fast (with Template!)

A killer best man toast has a formula:

• Start with a funny or complimentary introduction
• Lead into a short story
• Add a dash of vulnerability
• End with genuine congratulations to the bride and groom. 

You won’t want to wing the speech after you’ve had a few drinks when you feel strapped for time before the wedding. Instead, take just 30 minutes of planning and note-making to save you (and the bride & groom) the embarrassment of an excessively long or inappropriate ramble. 

If you want to write a best man speech fast, follow this brief template for a great toast. Your toast should be roughly 3 to 5 minutes long. You can use numbered index cards to jot down the highlights of each section. Then, rehearse a few times in the mirror in the days leading up to the event. 

The most straightforward speech outline includes seven main components: 

• A great one-liner : This could be a funny joke, a compliment, or an inspirational quote about brotherhood or marriage. The first 15 seconds of the toast should capture the audience’s attention and leave them excited for more. Modify this:

“I’d like to begin by congratulating the groom for his superb taste in choosing the best man [chuckle].” 

• Compliment the wedding : Build your respect with the guests by highlighting things you like about the wedding. For example, you can compliment the beauty of the venue, the delicious food, or the great choice of music. Modify this:

“All jokes aside, this is a beautiful wedding. The bride and groom look like a movie star couple together. And if you didn’t taste the cake, you are missing out!” 

• Express gratitude : Say “thank you” to those who made the wedding possible and show appreciation to the groom for choosing you as his best man. Modify this:

“I am so grateful to Mr. and Mrs. Zimerman for hosting us here today, and thank you to the bride and groom for inviting me to be part of their special day.” 

• Tell a story : Did you and the groom meet as kids on the baseball field? Were you there when he first met his bride? Did you share a funny experience in college that is appropriate to share? The “meat” of the speech will be a short story about your relationship with the groom. A great story sounds like this:

 “When I first met Jeff, he was in a period of transition in life, like we all go through. He had just started a new job at my office in San Francisco, and we met because of our mutual addiction to double shot espressos (iced with a little cream) at 6 AM every morning from the corner coffee shop Bob’s Cup O’ Joe. When we both arrived at the office at the same time, 3 days in a row with eyes like this [widen eyes big], I knew we would be friends for life. A million espressos, meetings, and after-work beers later, I am so proud to call Jeff my best friend. When he told me about meeting a beautiful blonde named Anne at Bob’s Cup O’ Joe a few years later, I knew something would become of it. She even drank the same double shot espressos, iced with a little cream!”  

• Admire the couple : Strengthen your bond with the newlyweds by expressing your support for their marriage. If you know a bit about the bride and groom’s relationship, list a few things you admire about their bond. You may emphasize how the bride has positively impacted the groom’s life or how they make a great team. 

“Jeff and Anne are a perfect pair, and it seriously warms my heart to see a couple so amazingly in love. They compliment each other in every way and radiate joy when they are together.” 

• Summarize your thoughts : Before you wrap up your speech, go back and highlight your key ideas. You can pre-write 2-3 crisp sentences summarizing your support of the couple’s marriage. Modify this:

“I wish I could say I predicted this day would come, but Jeff’s incredible character and charm won Anne over. I am so grateful to be friends with both of them and to join you all in this celebration.” 

• Toast to the future : At the end of your speech, raise your glass for a toast to the couple’s love. Modify this: 

“Please join me in raising our glasses to a lifetime of happiness and espressos for Jeff and Anne Allison!” 

Here is an awesome example of a short and sweet 4-minute toast that left the crowd cracking up:

It’s best to memorize your speech, but there is no shame in bringing a few index cards in your pocket to reference if you get nervous. Don’t forget to prepare and rehearse in advance. 

For a more in-depth speech, see our step-by-step guide below. 

What to Say in a Best Man Speech (Do’s and Don’ts)

A best man’s speech traditionally takes place at the wedding reception after the maid of honor gives her speech. The best man’s speech should be positive, respectful, and congratulatory. It can last 3 to 5 minutes and should focus on a central theme or story about the groom. 

Remember, a best man speech is not the time to “wing it.” If you do that, there may come the point when everything suddenly goes silent, and a crowd of 50-100+ people is staring at you, waiting for what you’re going to say about the groom. You probably don’t want to end up with a cringing audience while telling a story about the groom’s previous relationships:

Instead, remember these key best man speech tips for a successful toast: 

Here are a few examples of what you should say in a best man speech:

• How did you meet the groom?
• What is one of your favorite memories with him?
• How did the groom meet the bride? Were you there?
• What is special about the groom?
• What do you like most about him? 
• What are his positive traits? 
• Playful banter : You don’t want to be too corny and cheesy with your bro. Depending on your relationship with the groom and the culture of the wedding, you may want to throw in a little banter with your dude. For example, you might make a funny joke about how much the groom loves going out to eat:

You should also avoid some key topics in a best man speech. 

Do not mention:

• The groom’s past relationships
• Sexual jokes
• Drugs, alcohol, or past mistakes
• Insecurities of the groom
• Financial or personal information 
• Insults to the bride or the wedding guests 
• Overly embarrassing stories
• Teasing the bride
• Anything that could potentially harm your friendship

Keep things positive and lighthearted. While a little witty banter or playful teasing can be fun (depending on your relationship with the groom), you should avoid insulting him or highlighting any major insecurities. The “playful” part of the speech is an excellent fun icebreaker, but it shouldn’t hurt anyone’s feelings or make them feel publicly embarrassed in front of their wedding guests.

How to Write a Best Man Speech for Best Friend or Brother: Easy Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re ready to prepare something more in-depth than the quick ideas above, this step-by-step guide can help you write a thoughtful speech that the groom may remember forever. After all, being named the best man at your friend or brother’s wedding is a tremendous honor. But like any honor, it comes with some responsibilities. After you finish all your bachelor party and wedding duties, an epic best man speech can be like the fireworks at the show’s end. 

Here are 5 simple steps to make it count:

#1 Start with a theme

Before you start writing and rehearsing your speech, it helps to decide on a theme for your talk. This will give a nice flow to the speech. A theme ensures that you stay on track to communicate your congratulations and appreciation to the groom. 

What is the main message you want to get across? A few theme ideas include:

• Anecdotes : Best man toasts center around storytelling. This theme is the easiest way to stay on track because you are telling a simple story from beginning to end. 
• Humor : Whether you’re naturally funny or working on your jokes ,  your speech is the perfect opportunity to get the audience laughing. Best man speeches are known for getting a little saucy, but you must be careful about offending the crowd or making crude jokes that might insult the bride and groom. If you want to tease the groom with some witty banter, it helps to make fun of yourself or reference an appropriate inside joke.
• Inspirational : Have you and the groom achieved an important business goal or accomplishment together? Do you have a shared role model or favorite motivational book you both read in college? This speech theme can leave the audience feeling inspired.
• Morality : Use your speech to highlight the great person the groom is. Perhaps you give examples of his integrity, trustworthiness, or generosity. You can emphasize how lucky you are to know the groom and how glad you are that he found a woman to spend his life with. 
• Sentimentality : When humor and storytelling aren’t your fortes, it doesn’t hurt to get a little corny. Sentimental speeches require a level of emotional vulnerability, but they can leave a huge impact on the newlyweds and their attendees.

#2 Create an outline

You wouldn’t go on a road trip without a navigation system, so don’t go into your speech without a plan. The best toasts and speeches follow the same structure. Pull out a piece of paper and brainstorm some ideas using this format, then use the following steps to fill in the details:

• Hook/Opening statement : The opening statement should be a 1 to 3-line description about the groom. The first 7 seconds of the speech should hook the audience immediately. It warms them up to you and makes them want to pay attention to the amusing stories. You’ll find an abundance of opening-line ideas in the next section. 
• Background context : Now comes the why of your speech. This is where the context of your relationship with the groom comes in. You can throw in some funny jokes and a few details about your experience with him. Use this intro to build up the anticipation for the story to come. Write down a few ideas of stories you can tell. 
• Tell the story : Choose 1-3 short stories about the groom that is funny, slightly embarrassing, or interesting. Jot down a few of the sensory elements you want to reference, like the smelly locker room or the squeaking of tire wheels. Most stories follow a bell-curve pattern—they start with an intro, lead to rising action, peak with a capstone moment, then tie back to the beginning. Keep this in mind as you brainstorm and follow the story-planning steps below. 
• Take-home message : After you get a good laugh or “awww” out of the audience, you’ll want to bring the story back to the beginning. What do you want them to remember about your speech and friendship with the groom? 
• Thank the wedding party : Use a quick sentence to thank the wedding party and hosts. Express your genuine gratitude for being invited. 
• Closing toast and congratulations : After wrapping up the story and thanking the wedding party, you should invite the audience to toast the bride and groom with you. For an extra cheery finale, act as if you are speaking on their behalf and include lots of well-wishes for the newlyweds. 

Pro Tip : Before filling in your outline details, watch this video for an overview of how to give a memorable toast. Human behavior expert Vanessa Van Edwards explains the most common mistakes (don’t start with “I,” “me,” or “my”) and a few secrets to getting the audience to perk up in their seats. 

#3 Nail the opening line 

Once you have your outline, it’s time to dig into the details. People decide their first impression of you within 7 seconds, so it’s extra important to nail the opening line of your speech. Best men use this opportunity to crack a joke, compliment the wedding, or set a sentimental tone for the speech. 

Avoid making the first lines about you. No “me”, “I”, or “my”. Instead, start with a juicy or mysterious line about the groom, for example:

If you need a little inspiration, here are some hilarious and quirky best man speech opening lines: 

• “Caring, loyal, honest, good-looking, and an all-around-great guy… OK, enough about me, onto the groom…!” 
• “This is the perfect chance to tell you about [Groom] and how talented, special, smart, good-looking, and… sorry, man, I can’t read your handwriting here.” 
• “I’d like to give a toast to the bride and groom.” [pull a piece of toasted bread from your pocket and give it to them]
• “[Groom’s name] is the kind of person you call when you lock yourself out of the dorm bathroom without any clothes on.” 
• “The bride and groom asked me not to share embarrassing stories or crude jokes during my speech… so that’s it from me! Thanks for listening, everyone.”
• “I’d like to start by congratulating the groom for his excellent taste in choosing the best man.” 
• “[Groom] had a tough time choosing his best man. First, he called his most handsome friend, but he said no. Then, he called his smartest friend, and he said no. Then, he called his most successful friend, who also said no. Then he called me, and I said, ‘Bro, I can’t say no to you four times.'”
• “What can I say about [Groom]? I guess I’ll start at the very beginning. He was born on [groom’s birthday]. Our parents were hoping for a girl, but I’ve always said… close enough.”

Here is a genuinely funny opening line from a best brother wedding speech:

Pro Tip : Don’t forget to pause for laughter. If it doesn’t come, you can chuckle at yourself and cue the audience that they are supposed to laugh by saying, “This is where you are supposed to laugh,” or joking, “Sound guy, can you please cue the laugh track?” Then, keep going with your speech.

Don’t worry. You need not be a jokester to give a great opening line. If you want to go the nostalgic or tearjerker route, be sure it is highly personalized and thoughtful. Here are some sentimental opening line ideas:

• “There are friends, and there is family, but friends also become family. This is so true for [Groom] and me. We’ve been best friends since we were X years old, and I’ve always considered him my brother.” 
• “There’s an old Irish proverb that says a good friend is like a four-leaf clover—hard to find and lucky to have. I think that’s true. Good friends are hard to find, and I’m lucky to have called [Groom] my best friend for the last X years.” 
• “I’ve heard that the best relationships come from the foundation of a deep friendship. Experts say that laughter, mutual respect, and enjoying each other’s company are the ingredients for a long-lasting, joyful marriage. After knowing [Groom] and [Bride] for X years, there is no doubt in my mind that they will make a great pair.” 
• “In Good Will Hunting , Robin Williams said, ‘It doesn’t matter if the guy is perfect or the girl is perfect as long as they are perfect for each other.” Anyone who has seen [Groom] and [Bride] together can agree that this is true for them. I haven’t seen a perfect pair, and I’m happy to be part of this celebration of their love.” 

To learn more about the best speech openers, use this guide on How to Start a Speech: The Best (and Worst) Speech Openers . Some top tips include:

• Avoid starting with a lackluster nicety like “thanks for having me.” 
• Don’t mention your nervousness.
• Avoid mentioning technical difficulties like the microphone or saying, “Can you hear me?” 

Bonus Tip: Learn the Art of Stage Presence

Did you know that public speaking is actually a skill? Many people struggle with stage anxiety because they feel they ‘missed the memo’ on public speaking or they are lacking because they do not have a natural stage presence. Not true!

Stage presence and public speaking are skills you need to be taught—very few people have them naturally. 

Watch our video to learn 7 steps to overcome stage fright and beat performance anxiety:

Here are all the aspects of public speaking you can master.

• How to make a first impression with an audience
• How to have stage presence
• Powerful body language
• How to speak with a commanding voice
• What to do with your hands while speaking

For every speaking skill you add to your toolbox, the less speaking anxiety you will feel.

If you want help really diving into your presentation skills, be sure to sign up for our course…

Master Your People Skills

• Create a Memorable Presence
• Communicate with Confidence
• Achieve Your Goals

Have a question about the presentation or People School? Email Science of People support .

#4 Background context

Now that you’ve grabbed the audience’s attention, it’s time to give them a little background on why you are giving a speech in the first place. This is another sneak peek at some details you’ll cover in the speech. 

The whole point of this part is to tell them how you know the groom—but it isn’t about you. You’ll often hear wedding speeches that start with a drab, “I met the groom in college” or, “My name is ___, and I’m the best man.” You can do better than that! Try saying:

• “The groom was the first friend I made on the high school football team. I had no idea we would become roommates in a bachelor pad throughout college.” 
• “As little kids, the groom and I were known to be a dangerous duo in the neighborhood. He always carried the eggs and toilet paper, then instructed me where to throw them. But you can guess who always took the blame for his antics….” 
• “The groom and I have been friends and business partners for X years, and as you’ll hear shortly, he is the main reason I broke my arm during the last office basketball game. But first, I want to tell you a less embarrassing story….” 

Pro Tip : Focus on the groom, and don’t make it about you. One of the biggest mistakes people make during wedding speeches is talking too much about themselves. Your speech shouldn’t discuss where you’re from, what you think, or how you ended up at the party. The best man’s speech is a time to focus on the groom and his bride. 

#5 Tell the story  

After your punchy opening line and background info, it’s time to tell the perfect story about the groom. Depending on the length of your speech and the details of your story, some best man speeches cover 1 to 3 short stories. 

Reference back to the memories you wrote when brainstorming. Pick a story that includes the most of these captivating elements:

• A little bit of embarrassment : Whether it’s you, the groom, or a mutual friend, it helps to poke some fun at someone in the story. If you fear being offensive, the best person to joke about is yourself.  
• Audience member references : You can get major bonus points if you bring wedding guests into the storytelling moment. You might say, “Mom, you might want to close your ears on this one!” or, “Brian, we’re talking about you!” 
• Sensory details : What did the scenery look like? What were the prominent smells, sounds, and tastes at the moment? A great story should make the audience feel like they were with you. Don’t forget to mention the frigid cold lake you jumped into or the outrageously spicy food that left you both panting and crying for water. 
• A final punch line : Ideally, the best story ends with a shocking moment or funny line. It should leave the audience laughing, crying, surprised, or even gasping. For example, in an epic adventure story about you and the groom on a hunting trip, you may end with, “Just as the shark was about to bite the line, Joe reeled in the massive bluefin and yelled, ‘I think we’re gonna need a bigger boat!’”

Pro Tip : If you have to ask, “Is this appropriate?” it probably isn’t. Some stories are better for late-night beers than they are for weddings. Avoid telling stories related to sexual topics, drugs, alcohol, illegal activities, or anything you wouldn’t want grandma to hear. 

#6 Take-home message

When the story finishes, you’ve hopefully elicited some laughter or maybe some tears. All jokes aside, there is a reason you were the best man, and you are probably a significant person to the groom. This is a great time to emphasize the best qualities of the groom and why you’re so happy for his new love. 

Here is an excellent example of tying together the opening and closing lines with a heartfelt message about finding the perfect soul mate:

#7 End your speech with a heartfelt toast

We’ve all heard “let’s raise a glass to [Bride] and [Groom]” before. You can do better than that! The final toast is like the fireworks at the end of your best man speech. Instead of something mediocre, invite the audience to join you in a genuine, thoughtful congratulations. Examples include:

• “Please join me in raising our glasses to the beautiful bride and handsome groom. May your lives together be long, healthy, and happy. We love you so much and are excited for you. Cheers!” 
• “Lift your glasses to thank Mr. and Mrs. [Bride’s Parents] for hosting this beautiful wedding. Let us all toast to the perfect union of the bride and groom. We wish you a bright and beautiful future. Cheers!”
• “Here’s to the past, for all you’ve learned. Here’s to the present for this beautiful moment we all share. Here’s to the future for all you’ve got to look forward to. Cheers to the happy couple!” 

Pro Tip : Make your toast inclusive and communal, so the audience feels like they’re cheering for the couple with you. Use words like “we”, “lets”, and “us”. This congratulation invites them to join as if you are speaking on their behalf. 

#8 Use a best man speech template

A template makes things simple if you’re still feeling uneasy about writing your best man speech. You can take the structure of an example speech and incorporate your ideas and stories to make it your own. 

Best man speech example for a best friend :  

“Tonight, you’ll learn why the groom was destined to marry [Bride]. The year was 2002, and we were all in a bar with friends on New Year’s Eve in New York City. Snow was falling outside, and we were sipping champagne, waiting for the big ball to drop. Seemingly out of nowhere, a woman with a red dress entered the room, and everything seemed to stop. All the bachelors in our group were captivated, but only [Groom] had the guts to walk up to her. Rumor has it that his first opening line was ‘

Everyone talks about a woman’s glow when she’s falling in love, but I swear that [Groom] was smiling from ear to ear from the second they met. We could hardly get him to stop talking about her by the following week. We’d be watching football and drinking beers only to have [Bride’s] name brought up every 5 minutes. 

Fast forward 3 years, and we’ve all seen how much [Bride] has positively impacted his life. When he came to me to tell me he was proposing, my only response was, ‘ Finally, dude !’

There’s something extra special about these two. They go together like peanut butter and jelly. They love and respect each other so much. [Bride] was the one for [Groom] from the second they locked eyes in that hazy NYC bar. We are all so happy to be here for your big day. Let’s raise our glasses to the beautiful bride and groom! Cheers!” 

Another Best man speech example for a best friend :  

“The groom was the first friend I made on the high school basketball team. He wasn’t very good [pause for laughter]. I was the tallest player and obviously had the best free throw, but I was majorly lacking in the ladies department. Thankfully, [Groom] took me under his wing and showed me how to be a true gentleman. That includes opening doors for women and carrying their bags instead of just running in with my own. What would I have done without you, man?

Even though he was no good at basketball, [Groom] always had his head on his shoulders. He’s a respectful, intelligent, and relatively clean-cut guy. All joking aside, it’s no surprise that he ended up with a woman as intelligent and beautiful as [Bride]. You both deserve a lifetime of love, happiness, and success together. Please raise your glasses and join me in congratulating the bride and groom! We love you!” 

#9 Practice your body language

Public speaking isn’t only about what you say but how you carry yourself. Your body language can drastically affect your confidence, your delivery, and how the audience perceives you. Use these body language hacks to take your speech to the next level: 

• Signal “friend” : Smile and show your open palms to send the message that you are the audience’s friend. This makes people feel more comfortable with your presence and more likely to listen.
• Stand up straight : When you look confident, you also feel more confident. Check your posture if your voice is a little shaky before the speech. Roll back your shoulders and tuck your shoulder blades down towards your back. Slightly lift your chest and chin as you speak. 
• Make eye contact: Throughout the speech, you should change your eye contact with different audience members. As you mention specific compliments or thanks, make eye contact with the bride, groom, groomsmen, bridesmaids, and the bride’s father.
• Genuinely smile : Smiling may seem obvious, but it’s easy to forget when you feel so focused on a perfect delivery. At the same time, you don’t want to look like you’re fake smiling throughout the speech. Use these 9 Simple Tips to Smile Better (in any situation!)
• Use your hands : It’s easy to let your nerves get the best of you and feel like a “deer in the headlights.” Instead of tucking your hands in your pockets, widen your stance and take up space. Use your hands and gestures while you talk to show that you are comfortable and happy during the speech. 

Want more tips? Here are 17 Body Language Presentation Cues to Use in Your Next Speech . 

#10 Rehearse before the big day

Experts say you should rehearse a speech 10 times before performing it. Research also shows that people who mentally prepare themselves before a speech by imagining it going well are more likely to perform fluently and easily. So before you get in front of an audience, be sure you’ve gone over your speech at least 10 times, either in your head or out loud. Better yet, practice in the mirror, on camera, or in front of a trusted friend. 

It also helps to review the gist of the speech with the groom (without giving away any secret details) to make sure it’s alright with him. A few weeks before the wedding, you may pull him aside and ask, “Hey man, is it OK if I tell the story about ____ in my best man speech? I think it’ll get some good laughs.” 

Although this example is long, this best man very clearly rehearsed his speech for a near-perfect performance without any notes:

Key Takeaways: Express Gratitude and Sentimentality in 3-5 Minutes

Ultimately, a best man speech is an opportunity to make your best bro look good in front of all his friends and family. Your speech should demonstrate how much you value your brotherhood or friendship. At the same time, you can enjoy 5 minutes of wedding fame without making things all about you. A great toast can make you a memorable celebrity at the wedding and have people laughing at your

Before jumping up at the reception and speaking off the cuff, remember to:

• Outline and plan your speech ahead of time. Use notecards if needed.
• Focus on the groom and his bride. Don’t go on and on about yourself. 
• Nail the opening line with a funny joke, quote, or teaser that leads into a great story. 
• Avoid inappropriate or cringey topics that could embarrass the groom.
• Express gratitude to the groom and wedding hosts. 

Giving a toast or speech is an essential social skill that can make you one of the most likable people in a room. If you want to learn more about the art of giving showstopping toasts, read this guide on How to Give an Awesome Toast: Advanced Strategies for Speeches . 

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Best Man Speech for Brother: Tips to Make It Unforgettable

Expert guidance to craft an entertaining and memorable speech for your brother's wedding.

Introduction

Being the Best Man at your brother's wedding is both an honor and a responsibility. Your speech is a highlight of the reception, a chance to entertain, celebrate, and touch the hearts of everyone present. As the groom's older or younger brother, you might feel the pressure to craft a speech that strikes the perfect balance between humor, emotion, and unforgettable memories. Worry not, we're here to show you how to create a Best Man speech for your brother that will make him beam with pride and leave a lasting impression on the guests.

Struggling to write the perfect toast for your brother? Wordwell's free AI speechwriter can give you speechwriting superpowers . Answer a few questions about the happy couple and get a personalised draft in minutes. It doesn't stop there! Our built-in rewrites and editing tools help you polish your draft into a final speech that shines. Overcome writer's block and craft a heartwarming and unforgettable toast – all on one user-friendly platform.

Ready to tackle it yourself? Dive into our expert tips below for tips and advice, DOs and DON'Ts, answers to common questions, 15 handpicked quotes to enrich your speech, and a perfect speech template to build upon.

Expert Tips for Your Best Man Speech for Brother

Tip 1: start with a plan.

The first step in writing a great brother of the groom speech is to plan it out. You don't want to just wing it and hope for the best. Take the time to think about what you want to say and how you want to say it. Start by brainstorming ideas for your speech, such as funny anecdotes or heart-warming memories. Don't do it alone - get your folks involved. This will help to get the ideas flowing and give you a sense of what ideas resonate or might get a laugh. Consider what kind of tone you want to strike, and whether you want to include any quotes or jokes. Once you have a rough outline, you can start fleshing out the details.

Tip 2: Introduce Yourself

The opening of your speech is the perfect opportunity to introduce yourself to the guests. Even if most of the guests know who you are, it's still a good idea to give a brief introduction that establishes your relationship to the groom. You can use this as a chance to inject some humor into your speech, such as a funny anecdote about growing up together or pointing out something funny about being the older or younger brother.

Tip 3: Share Some Childhood Memories

As the brother of the groom, you have a wealth of childhood memories to draw on for your speech. Think about some of the funniest, most embarrassing, or most heart-warming moments you shared growing up. Maybe you have a story about a family vacation or a special moment that the two of you shared. Sharing these memories can help to establish a connection with the guests and create a sense of nostalgia for the happy couple.

Tip 4: Acknowledge the Bride

Don't forget to acknowledge the bride in your speech. After all, she is the reason for the celebration! Share some kind words about the bride, her relationship with your brother and how she has positively impacted his life. You might also want to share a funny story or two about how the two of them met or what they're like as a couple. Just be sure to keep it light and positive.

Tip 5: Share Some Anecdotes in Your Brother's Best Man Speech

Everyone loves a good story, and you’ve got plenty to choose from when it comes to your brother. Share some anecdotes that show his personality or character, highlight some of his quirks, or just make the audience laugh.

Make sure you pick stories that are appropriate for the audience and don’t embarrass your brother too much. It's a balancing act and you want to get it right. Remember, you’re here to celebrate his special day, not to make him feel uncomfortable.

Here are some examples:

"Growing up, my brother was always the more responsible one. I remember this one time, when I was 10, I had climbed up the tallest tree in our backyard, and, of course, got stuck. Without hesitation, my brother climbed up and rescued me like a superhero. Little did I know back then that he would continue to be my hero throughout our lives, always looking out for me."

"One thing that has always stood out about my brother is his perseverance. I remember when we were teenagers, he taught himself to play the guitar. He practiced day and night, determined to become good at it. And sure enough, he did. This same determination is present in every aspect of his life, including his relationship with [bride's name]."

Tip 6: Toast the Bride and Groom in Your Brother's Best Man Speech

At the end of your speech, it’s customary to toast the newlyweds. Raise your glass and offer your congratulations and best wishes for their future together.

You might also want to say a few words about how much the couple means to you and how happy you are to see them together.

“Here’s to the happy couple. May your marriage be filled with love, laughter, and adventure. Paul, you’ve found your soulmate in Linda, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for you both.”

Tip 7: Keep It Short and Sweet

When it comes to delivering a great Best Man speech, less is often more. You don't want to bore the guests with a long, rambling speech that goes on and on. Keep your speech short and sweet, and focus on delivering a few key messages that will resonate with the guests. Aim for a speech that lasts around five minutes or so, and be sure to practice your delivery so you can deliver it confidently and without stumbling over your words.

Tip 8: Practice Makes Perfect

Finally, be sure to practice your speech before the big day. This will help you to get comfortable with the material and ensure that you're able to deliver it confidently and smoothly. Practice in front of a mirror or with a friend, and be sure to time yourself so you don't run over. The more you practice, the more comfortable you'll feel when the big day arrives.

The DOs and DON’Ts of Writing a Best Man Speech for your Brother

• Personalize the speech : Share genuine anecdotes and memories that highlight your relationship with your brother and showcase his personality.
• Focus on the couple : Be sure to keep the focus on the newlyweds, not yourself or others.
• Balance humor and sentiment : Keep the audience entertained with some light humor, but also include heartfelt moments that convey the special bond you share.
• Be concise : Aim to keep your speech between 5-7 minutes, ensuring it's engaging without being too lengthy.
• Practice, practice, practice : Rehearse your speech multiple times to become more comfortable and confident in your delivery.
• Express gratitude : Thank the newlyweds, their parents, and the guests for being a part of this special day.

DON'Ts:

• Avoid controversial topics : Steer clear of politics, religion, or any potentially sensitive subjects that might make guests uncomfortable.
• Don't overshare : Refrain from sharing embarrassing or overly personal stories that could make your brother or the audience uneasy.
• Don't bring up ex-partners: Definitely don't bring up ex-partners or anything negative from the past.
• Don't get too intoxicated : While it's natural to enjoy the festivities, ensure you remain composed and coherent for your speech.
• Don't forget your audience : Remember that guests of all ages and backgrounds will be present, so keep your speech appropriate and inclusive.
• Don't wing it : Take the time to prepare and organize your speech in advance to ensure a smooth and memorable delivery.

Frequently Asked Questions About Preparing a Best Man Speech for a Brother

How long should my best man speech be.

Aim for 5-7 minutes, which is long enough to engage the audience without overstaying your welcome.

How can I make my Best Man speech for my brother unique and memorable?

Focus on personal anecdotes and genuine compliments. Share stories about your relationship with your brother and his partner. Be sincere and speak from the heart.

Can I add humor to my Best Man speech for my brother?

Absolutely! Including humor can make the speech more enjoyable for the audience. Be careful to strike a balance between humor and sincere, emotional moments to create a well-rounded and engaging speech.

What is the appropriate structure for a Best Man speech?

Start with a brief introduction, share anecdotes about your brother, mention his partner, thank the couple and their families, and conclude with a toast to the newlyweds.

15 Exceptional Quotes for a Best Man Speech for Your Brother

Incorporate these carefully selected quotes into your Best Man speech to add a layer of depth, emotion, and thoughtful wisdom. To make your speech genuinely unforgettable, be sure to personalize it with cherished anecdotes and shared memories that celebrate your unique bond with your brother.

• "A brother is a friend given by Nature." – Jean Baptiste Legouve
• "There's no other love like the love for a brother. There's no other love like the love from a brother." – Astrid Alauda
• "Because I have a brother, I'll always have a friend." – Unknown
• "Brothers are what best friends can never be." – Unknown
• "A brother shares childhood memories and grown-up dreams." – Unknown
• "Sometimes being a brother is even better than being a superhero." – Marc Brown
• "A brother is a gift to the heart, a friend to the spirit." – Unknown
• "I sought my soul, but my soul I could not see. I sought my God, but my God eluded me. I sought my brother and I found all three." – Unknown
• "The greatest gift our parents ever gave us was each other." – Unknown
• "Brothers don't necessarily have to say anything to each other – they can sit in a room and be together and just be completely comfortable with each other." – Leonardo DiCaprio
• "The bond that links your true family is not one of blood, but of respect and joy in each other's life." – Richard Bach
• "A sibling represents a person's past, present, and future." – John Corey Whaley
• "A friend is a brother who was once a bother." – Unknown
• "Our paths may change as life goes along, but the bond between us remains ever strong." – Unknown
• "Brothers are like streetlights along the road; they don't make the distance any shorter, but they light up the path and make the walk worthwhile." – Unknown

The Ultimate Best Man Speech for Brother Template

In this section, we'll provide you with a comprehensive template/example to craft the perfect Best Man speech for your brother. This guide covers key conventions while also offering tips on personalizing the speech, ensuring you deliver a heartfelt, engaging, and entertaining tribute to the happy couple on their special day. You can modify the anecdotes and personal details to suit your own experiences and relationship with the couple.

Brother of the Groom Speech Template:

Ladies and gentlemen,

1. Introduction: Introduce yourself and express gratitude Good evening, everyone. For those of you who don't know me, my name is [Your Name], and I have the immense honor of being [Brother's Name]'s Best Man today. I want to begin by thanking [Brother's Name] and [Bride's Name] for inviting us all to be a part of their special day. It's truly a privilege to be here, surrounded by so many loved ones.

2. Praise the couple: Compliment the bride and groom I must say, [Bride's Name], you look absolutely radiant today. And [Brother's Name], you've never looked better! I can genuinely say that the two of you make a perfect match, and we couldn't be happier for you both.

Share memories and anecdotes: [3. Share a story that highlights your brother's character] Growing up with [Brother's Name], we shared countless memories and adventures. One story that stands out in particular is when we were just kids, and we decided to create a secret hideout in the woods behind our house. Despite my initial doubts, [Brother's Name] showed unwavering determination and resourcefulness, transforming a simple idea into a haven for our childhood dreams. This memory has always reminded me of [Brother's Name]'s ability to make even the most ordinary moments extraordinary.

Acknowledge your brother's partner: [4. Share what you appreciate about the bride] When [Brother's Name] first introduced us to [Bride's Name], it didn't take long for us to see just how special she is. Her kindness, intelligence, and sense of humor have made her a cherished addition to our family. [Bride's Name], thank you for bringing out the best in my brother and for filling his life with happiness and love.

Highlight their relationship: [5. Share a story or observation about the couple] One thing I've noticed about [Brother's Name] and [Bride's Name] is how they truly bring out the best in each other. Watching them grow together, support each other, and face life's challenges hand in hand has been nothing short of inspiring. It's clear to me that their love is built on a strong foundation of trust, respect, and friendship.

Offer advice or well-wishes: [6. Share a piece of advice or a heartfelt wish for their future] As you embark on this exciting new chapter in your lives, my advice to you both is to always cherish the little moments, communicate openly, and never forget to laugh together. I have no doubt that your love will continue to grow and flourish in the years to come.

Toast to the couple: [7. Conclude with a toast] So, without further ado, I'd like to ask everyone to please raise their glasses in honor of [Brother's Name] and [Bride's Name]. Here's to a lifetime of love, laughter, and endless adventure. Cheers to the newlyweds!

Writing a Best Man speech for your brother can be a daunting task, but with a little bit of preparation and some creativity, you can deliver a speech that will be remembered for years to come. To make your speechwriting journey even smoother, try Wordwell's free speechwriting tool.

When delivering your speech, it's important to remember to introduce yourself and get your parents involved, try some healthy sibling rivalry, crack some jokes, mention your new sister or brother, share some anecdotes, and toast the happy couple.

By following these tips and structuring your speech in a way that engages the audience, you’ll have everyone in the room laughing, crying, and cheering for the newlyweds. So, take a deep breath, raise your glass, and let the celebration begin!

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A short best man speech: brother’s wedding.

One of the most important days in a person’s life is the day of their wedding, and if you are asked to be the best man for your brother’s wedding, it’s a pretty important day for you too. It’s great when your brother asks you to be his best man. Other than planning the whole bachelor party or practising your dance moves, you have an essential job to perform: giving the best man’s speech.

This article is here to help you curate a short and sweet best man speech. Let’s get cracking!

Structure For The Best Man Speech

Here is how you can write an immaculate, heart-touching speech:

1. Introduce Yourself

Everyone might already know that you are the groom’s brother, but a few might still not. So, introduce yourself. Also, add a captivating opening line that can be simple or funny. Here are some examples –

I’m Paul, John’s best man and also his younger brother. I think it says a lot about a person when he chooses his brother to be his best man… Mostly, of course, it means: “I don’t have friends!”

It is an honour to be John’s best man here today. Following the brotherly traditions, I would like to say a few things for my brother…

2. Mention Your Parents And The Bride

It would be lovely if you included your parents in the speech; after all, you are brothers with the same parents. Also, mention the bride so that she feels belonged.

Add something sweet or spice things up but do not go overboard:

…He always had my back. I was sixteen when John found me smoking in the backyard. He ensured that our parents did not find out. One time when mum asked, “What’s that smell?” John instantly blurted, “Ah! uh well, that is my Biology experiment.” and mum asked, “Your experiment involves cigarettes? ” John gave her a serious look and replied, “Well, yes. I was checking if they can actually cause cancer.” Poor fella tried his best but forgot that he was sitting with mum when that happened. Busted!

… I don’t think anyone is as happy as our parents to see my brother get married. They’ve been a fantastic role model for both of us, and they’re the true example of what true love looks like. What we are today is because of them. The four of us are happy together. The only person that was missing until now was Elizabeth. We are so happy that you are a part of our family now.

3. Crack Some Jokes

Cracking a witty, brilliant joke can leavebrother’s bursting with laughter and joy. Pull your brother’s leg, and anyone’sr creativity. Ensure the joke does not hurt anyone’s sentiment. Know your audience well before you say it. Here are some jokes you can use or come up with your own:

A recent analysis has revealed that 68% of individuals in the US are addicted to puzzles – which suggests that two-thirds of you must be trying to understand what on earth Elizabeth sees in John.

We all know Elizabeth is a remarkable woman who deserves the perfect man. Too bad you do not always get what you deserve.

I do have to say, though, John, just how blessed you are. You will leave here today with a wife who is warm, caring, and loving. And Elizabeth, how lucky you are as well. You leave here today having gained a beautiful dress and a fabulous bouquet of flowers.

4. End On A Good Note

End your speech with a light and lovely line for your brotheDon’t his bride. It must be sweet and heartwarming. Don’t force it but keep the ending original and show how your brother means the world to you.

Check out some ideas for your wedding toast here .

Short Sample Speech

“Good Evening, Everyone. I am [your name]. For those who don’t know me, I am the groom’s brother and his best man. When I was 6, I asked my mother to get me a pet; instead, they got me a brother. But seriously, when we were kids, [the groom] would always follow me around like a lost puppy and sneak into my room to steal my Xbox DVDs. We grew up fighting over who gets to play.

I can’t emphasize enough how grateful I am to watch you grow into a kind-hearted soul and the most lovable human being. You are the best brother anyone could have. [Bride], you and my brother are perfect together and radiate so much warmth and love. I feel the luckiest today that now I have a sister! So glad that I didn’t get a puppy that day.

I love you, little brother. Let us raise our glasses to the beautiful couple and wish them all the happiness and joy of a lifetime together.”

• Keep it short; nobody likes long speeches.
• Start with an attention-catching opening line. Don’t make everything about yourself. Focus on the bride and the groom.
• You can tease your brother for some light comedy. Do not go overboard or hurt someone’s sentiments.
• Pen it down on paper.
• If you are nervous, practice in front of the mirror while looking at yourself. If possible, record yourself giving the speech.

Final Takeaway

So, make it fun, make it heartwarming and stay positive. Fill the room with joy, and above all, have fun!

More articles on Speeches: Famous 5 Minute Speeches .

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6 Best Man Speech Ideas, Examples, and Tips

By wedding spot.

Need some help writing your best man speech? Thousands and thousands of distressed forum threads, alarmed Quora posts, and social media cries for help are dedicated to this very request every year. Whether you’ve got a few weeks or a few hours, we’ve got you covered with this guide on how to come up with a best man speech you and the happy couple will love. Keep reading to discover some important best man speech ideas, examples, and tips that will make the process simple and virtually painless. 

Do’s and don’ts every best man should know before drafting their speech:

Length: The most important thing to keep in mind is the length. Shorter is better, so shoot for less than five minutes. The most ideal time would be three minutes: 30-second introduction, two minutes on the main story, and 30 seconds to wrap up and give well wishes. 

Tone: Keep it classy for the older relatives and leave out expletives, raunchy jokes, and stories that you can’t un-tell. Professional storytellers for the Moth , a famous storytelling podcast and prestigious competition, say that a mix of funny and sentimental usually packs a punch as long as you do it in that order. Also, be sincere. Corny jokes get boring really quickly. 

Content: Stories will always be more entertaining than random jokes. Include a one-liner at the beginning of the speech, then bring it back to something that actually happened. The focus should be on the couple or your relationship with them, but not just you and your accomplishments. 

Explore 6 foolproof best man speech ideas, examples, and tips:

1. take inspiration from those who have gone before you..

Copy or get inspired by these real-world examples of best man speeches you can use to make people laugh, cry, or both.

Long best man speech example: Here’s a best man speech example from an older brother to his younger brother, which we edited for clarity and brevity.

“Good afternoon everyone, I’m the best man.

Before I start, I’d just like to say there is no flash photography during this event. The bride and groom are a very shy pair and we don’t want to startle them. If you look really closely at them, you’ll see they’re already starting to feel quite uncomfortable. Maybe they’d like me to just get on with my speech, but I really think it’s all the phones pointed at them right now. 

Oh, it’s the speech? Okay, I’ll continue. 

Ever since (he was born, he started at Boston University, etc.), (groom) and I have been (brothers, friends, etc.). Now, he’s not the best-looking guy, so it does make sense that he’d ask the older, fatter, and balder (friend, version of himself, etc.) to be his best man. And we’ve genuinely been told throughout our lives that we (look incredibly alike, are attached at the hip, etc.). I honestly don’t see it, but as I know, some people here still can’t tell the difference: (Groom’s mom or bride), I’m (best man), and that one’s (groom).

The bride and groom have asked that I don’t talk about any of (groom)’s mishaps, mistakes, or embarrassing moments, and instead do talk about the positive things in his life. I mean, you’ve made this incredibly difficult for me, but I’ll do my best.

*Get out a scrap of paper* (Groom)’s an amazing person. He’s funny, he’s kind, he’s incredibly clever. He’s even (studying to be an engineer, learning how to rollerblade, etc.)! Not only that, but he’s … wait … (groom), I can’t say that, man!

(Bride), you look lovely today; and (groom), you look sharper than ever in that suit! Cheers to a long, happy marriage for you both! But more so for (bride), because she’s really got her hands full now. Cheers!”

Key takeaway: Making fun of yourself more than you make fun of the groom will always be a hit. Also, don’t shy away from the roast-style “set ‘em up to punch ‘em down” jokes like the ones featured here. 

Make it your own: This speech runs less than two minutes. Make it longer and personalize it by adding a story about you and the groom growing up that you think says something about who he is today, either by contrast or extreme similarity. 

Short best man speech example: Get some quick laughs and an “aww” with a little something like this. 

“I really should have given my speech first since (maid of honor)’s speech was way better than mine, but this is all your fault (groom), so enjoy! Thank you all for coming and for those who helped make this wedding so beautiful. (Bride), you look absolutely stunning tonight. (Groom), well, you’re here tonight. All jokes aside, I’m really happy for you both. I always wanted (a sister, someone to help me wrangle the groom, etc.), and now I finally have one. So here’s a toast to the bride and groom!”

Key takeaway: A quick icebreaker, thank you, and joke followed by a sentimental thought is really all you need. 

Make it your own: Personalize the items in brackets to fit your sense of humor and situation. Reference real stories and moments at the wedding. 

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2. Use a template.

If memorizing a script feels like too much pressure, outline your main points, and improvise from there. Here’s a foolproof structure for any best man speech.

Introduce yourself and how you know the happy couple.

Thank the hosts or parents if they paid for the wedding.

Say something nice about their partner and something funny about them.

Tell a short, funny story about your relationship to the groom that ties into what makes the newlyweds’ relationship special too.

End on a sentimental note with your well wishes.

Pro tip: Brainstorm 3-5 anecdotes you like, sleep on it, then narrow down your options to your Top 2. 

3. Nail the opening line.

The most memorable opening line for a best man speech is funny, grabs the audience’s attention, and offers a twist at the end. For example: 

“(Groom) didn't have an easy decision in choosing his best man. First, he called his most successful friend, who said no. Then, he called his smartest friend, who said no. Then, he asked his most attractive friend, and he also said no. Then, he called me, and I said, ‘(groom), I can't say no to you four times.’” 

4. Tell great jokes.

Keep the slander to a minimum. Instead, focus on making fun of yourself or telling a story of which you’re both equally embarrassed. You can also take this opportunity to be comedically competitive, regardless of who comes out on top in your speech. 

For example, acknowledging how you’ve done better at something can be funny just as long as you then mention how they ended up being the winner anyway because they found their partner. 

You can also take this opportunity to let others know about an inside joke or a story of something you two did together that no one has heard before (as long as it won’t get you in trouble with their partner, of course). 

5. Sprinkle in one-liners.

Funny one-liners are a great way to get the audience’s energy up and keep them engaged before you end with a sentimental punch. Here are some examples that even grandma will appreciate.

(Bride), you look stunning. (Groom), you look stunned.

(Bride), you're so beautiful you make (groom) look ... (successful, famous, rich)?

(Bride), you’re the luckiest person in the world to lock down someone like my (friend, brother, etc.). (Groom) is so good looking, so considerate, so humble, so… (groom), I’m sorry, I can't read your handwriting here.

6. Consider your relationship.

The most impactful best man speeches take the relationship you have with the groom into account. Here are some tips for each major type.

Older brother getting married:

Limit yourself to one or two icebreaker insults. Any more and your speech turns into a roast. 

Highlight how much of an example the groom has set for you, for better or worse. 

Younger brother getting married:

Mention at least one meaningful way you’ve seen the groom grow over the years. 

Make a joke to their partner’s benefit about how the groom has “finally won” your sibling rivalry by finding them.

Dad getting married:

Incorporate an important life lesson your dad taught you and weave it into both your main story and your perspective on the wedding today. 

Express gratitude for all he has done for you. He’ll really appreciate it. 

Best friend getting married:

Mention a good quality you remember from the early days of your friendship such as their talent at field hockey or their love of knitting. 

Talk about what makes them special compared to the rest of your friend group in your eyes through the lens of a flattering story. 

If you don’t have a close relationship with the groom: Lean into their interests and use them as a metaphor for how you feel about their marriage. For example, a Star Wars buff might really appreciate a Luke and Leia comparison. Personalizing it like this will show how much you care by putting in more effort to get to know their interests and give you another thing to bond over long after the wedding is over. 

Hint: if it’s the groom’s second marriage, make sure you know who is in attendance before you start jokingly ripping into their ex. In fact, let them be the ones to make jokes about the situation.

Now you know how to give an amazing best man speech! 

Using the advice above, you now know everything about how to write and give a best man speech everyone will enjoy. Don’t be afraid to use borrowed examples, templates, or one-liners. As long as you personalize it and speak from the heart, your speech will be memorable. 

Up next, find other ways to leave your mark on the big day with some super fun and unique bridal party entrance ideas .

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How to Write a Best Man Speech for Your Brother

Oliver Lucas

Published 12 Sep 2023

So here’s the thing about writing a best man speech for your brother – you will be able to give an insight into the character of the groom that dates right back to childhood. Even best men who have been mates with the groom since they went to primary school won’t have the depth of knowledge that you will have on your bro and this gives you an edge as it’s unique content.

Anyone who’s ever had a sibling will remember the tears, tantrums and tempers when they were a toddler and audiences love this stuff! For most, they only see the side of your brother that he portrays in everyday life, but little do they know about his antics growing up – but you do!

For that reason, I think this is a great angle to use when constructing your speech and can be really brought to the fore during ‘The Roast’ section – more on that in a bit.

The other thing you can play on is sibling rivalry. Gags about who is the best man are easy wins, and portraying your brother as a poor imitation of yourself is fair game! Indeed, because you’re brothers, you don’t need to be quite as mindful as other best men in your ribbing of the groom. It’s assumed that this is what has been happening your whole life and as such you have more creative license than many other best men.

So in short, the content you put in your speech is a little different from other best man speeches. To help you out, you can download real life examples of speeches that other best men have written for their brothers on the link below, or visit our other Best Man Speech Examples for Your Brother post. Both will hopefully give you a bit of further inspiration. 

How to Structure Your Brother’s Best Man Speech

My first best man speech wasn’t for my brother, it was for my best mate, but despite knowing him since we were at school I really struggled to write anything at all for quite a while. It was the classic, write something down, screw up the paper, and chuck it in the bin…over and over again. I felt overwhelmed as I had downloaded too much material and as a result my best speech man was a mish-mash of styles that just didn’t flow.

In situations such as this, like any big task or project, it can help to break down the task at hand into smaller chunks that can be tackled one at a time. That way, you know where you’re going, and how you’re progressing along the way. The way to do this when writing a best man speech is to use a framework or structure.

You’ll hear different opinions about what the best man speech structure looks like. In the beginning I was a little confused so I analysed literally hundreds and hundreds of speeches to look for commonalities that made the best ones really great. I then engaged with some of the best speech writers from around the world to validate and tweak the formula. The one I landed on is a 15 step structure that is used in the app I created for writing best man speeches, SpeechMate .

Below is a shortened version of that framework to help you out.

Opening line

So the first thing you need is a solid opening line or two, the purpose of which is to break the ice with the audience and get them onside. In your case, as I mentioned earlier, you have license to make a joke about the groom off the bat because the majority of the audience will be fully aware you’re brothers. Here’s an example for you: “Good evening Ladies and Gentlemen – Today, I feel like I’m gaining a new sister and losing a brother. It is such a mix of emotions: happiness, joy… relief!”

SpeechMate.com has a whole bunch of content you about brother’s that you can choose from so check it out.

Introduction

After you’ve done your opening line and created a bit of rapport with the audience you should be looking to introduce yourself and do some acknowledgements. Here you’re looking to thank a few people. It’s worth bearing in mind that there will have already been a number of thank yous that will have been very sincerely delivered. Your job is to say yours in an amusing or funny way!

As best man, tradition dictates it’s your job to thank the bridesmaids on behalf of the groom and there are numerous ways to do this in a jokey manner, for example you can make a gag about the bridesmaids having to dance with you. Given your relationship to the groom, I always like to include a witty thank you to your folks as well. Again, there are lots of quips that you can make at your brother’s expense here!

In the bridge you’ll want to talk about how you felt when asked to be a best man. If you think you’ll be nervous on the day – which the majority of guys will be – then you can make joke of it here to take the pressure off. Everyone likes an underdog and admitting you’re nervous will get the audience rooting for you to do well. You can also use your responsibilities as best man to make a joke during this stage. For example:

“I can assure everyone that I have taken the role as best man seriously and one of my most important duties was to make sure that my brother got a good night’s sleep before the wedding day. Well I can reveal that last night Tom slept like a baby. He wet the bed and woke up every half hour crying and wanting his Mummy.”

Use this section to move on to the meat of the speech, which if you’ll pardon the pun what we call the roast . Ba-boom!

The roast is a light hearted assassination of your brother’s character and in this section you’re going to want to pick a few traits that he’s known for and poke fun at them. As I mentioned at the start, your USP here is that you’ve known him since childhood so I would drop a tale or two in about a particular incident from that time. It could be him being a mummy’s boy, bed wetting, pulling his pants down. Anything that is really quite childish tends to go down well in my experience.

After you’ve given the groom a bit of stick in the roast, move on to how he and the bride met. This part is optional depending on time, and how comfortable you feel talking about their courtship, but I think it’s a good idea as it brings the bride more into the picture and is therefore more inclusive – not just about you brothers. You may want to talk here about how head over heels the groom was when he met the bride, and some of the stupid stuff to win her over. Again more opportunity for gags that can be populated for you using SpeechMate .

In the course of my research in to what makes a great best man speech, I found that speeches with the strongest approval ratings featured some kind of sentiment in the final third of the speech. In your case this is a MUST. At the end of the day, blood is thicker than water and you should absolutely tell your brother how much he means to you.

There are broadly three things to cover off in this part. The first thing you want to do is to say how proud you are to be standing there as his brother, and best man. You should say, from the heart, how much you value the relationship and how honoured you are to have been chosen.

The second thing to talk about is the marriage and how happy you are for both of them. This brings the bride into the speech and makes it more inclusive. She is now part of your family and so welcoming her in a formal setting such as this will mean a lot not just to her, but also to her parents and friends.

And finally, you should look to mention the future.  Marriage is a big milestone in anyone’s life, and as such is a time to reflect on the past, but also to look forward. Here you are acknowledging that important step and giving heartfelt best wishes for the future.

Advice for Your brother

To round things off, a bit of marital advice always goes down well before giving a genuine and heartfelt toast. In total you should be looking for your speech to be around 10-12 minutes which is typically around 1,300 words in total. So that was a bit of a run through of how to use a structure to write your brothers best man speech.

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Ultimate Guide to Crafting the Perfect Best Man Speech: 75 Examples to Inspire You

May 29, 2024

• Founder of Bridesmaid for Hire
• Creator of the #1 Speech & Vow Writing Tools
• Author of Always a Bridesmaid (for Hire)
• Creator of 1-800-Bridesmaid

Hi! I'm Jen Glantz

Hi, Friend!   Jen Glantz here. I’m a bestselling author, the first ever bridesmaid for hire and have written over 1000 best man speeches for people all around the world! Let’s dive into some best man speech  examples to get you inspired for your own!

This blog provides 75 best man speech examples to inspire you, along with tips for personalizing them.

Whether you’re a jokester, a storyteller, or a man of few words, you’re sure to find a style that suits you.

By the end, you’ll be delivering a toast for the ages that will leave the bride, groom, and guests laughing, crying, and clinking their glasses.

Before we dive in, know that  Bridesmaid for Hire  is here to help along the way:

• Here’s more in-depth guidance on how to write a best man speech .
• We also have a popular  best man speechwriting tool  that writes you a personalized toast in minutes.
• Finally, our  best man speech coaching sessions   teach you ditch shaking hands and best man jokes that don’t land so you can give a confident best man speech.

Ready to nail your best man speech? Let’s dive in!

Table of Contents

TL;DR: Key Takeaways

• Choose a best man speech example that matches your personality, relationship to the groom, and comfort level with public speaking.
• Consider the wedding atmosphere and audience when selecting tone and content.
• Keep it concise, usually under 5 minutes.
• Balance humor with sincerity.
• Practice extensively for confident delivery.
• When in doubt, speak from the heart.

Considerations for Choosing Best Man Speech Examples

Not all best man speeches are created equal. What kills at a bachelor party may bomb at a conservative family wedding. Before diving into our extensive list of examples, let’s cover some key factors to help you choose wisely for your specific situation.

Criteria for Selection of a Best Man Speech Example

Authenticity.

First and foremost, your speech needs to sound like it comes from you . Don’t force yourself to be a standup comedian if that’s not your style. The most memorable speeches incorporate personal stories, inside jokes, and your genuine emotions about the groom and couple. If it feels fake or forced, scrap it.

Audience Appropriateness

You may have hilarious stories about the groom’s wild frat boy days, but Grandma Ethel probably doesn’t need to hear them. Keep the content classy and relatable to all ages. Avoid too many inside jokes that will alienate people. And definitely don’t spill any embarrassing secrets or bring up the groom’s ex-girlfriends!

Keep it short and sweet. Aim for 3-5 minutes. Any longer and you risk losing the audience’s attention or delaying dinner. If you have a lot of content, ruthlessly edit it down to the essentials. It’s always better to leave them wanting more.

Are you going for laugh-out-loud funny, sentimental and nostalgic, or a mix of both? Consider the overall vibe of the wedding and match your tone accordingly. A lighthearted roast may work for a relaxed backyard bbq wedding, while a black tie affair calls for a more eloquent approach. When in doubt, keep it classy.

Every great speech has a beginning, middle, and end. Start by introducing yourself, then launch into a few anecdotes or memories of the groom. Express how happy you are for the couple and what an honor it is to be Best Man. Wrap it up with well wishes for a long and happy marriage. Close with a toast that gets everyone to raise their glass.

Key Factors to Know before picking a Best Man Speech Example

Preparation time.

Don’t wait until the last minute to write your speech. Give yourself at least a few weeks to brainstorm, write an outline, and practice. The more prepared you are, the more confident you’ll feel during delivery.

Confidence and Delivery

No matter how well-written your speech is, the delivery can make or break it. Practice extensively in front of a mirror, friends, or family members. Record yourself to see how you sound. Watch your body language and eliminated any nervous tics like fidgeting or saying “um.” Speak slowly, clearly, and with enthusiasm.

Emotional Balance

Weddings are emotional events and it’s okay to show your sentimental side. That said, inside jokes and memories should be balanced out with more general content that everyone can enjoy. Avoid getting too mushy or you risk losing the audience. Save the tears for the hugs after.

Now that you’re armed with the key considerations for selecting and delivering your speech, let’s dive into the good stuff – the examples! The following 75 speeches are grouped into four categories: Funny, Short, Sentimental, and Unique & Creative. Browse the categories that best fit your vibe and relationship.

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Best Man Speech Examples Categorized

Funny best man speech examples, best man speech example 1: the comedic roast.

Welcome everyone! For those of you who don’t know me, I’m the brother John never had… because he had me instead! John and I go way back. So far back that I have photographic evidence of the horrendous bowl cut his mom gave him in 3rd grade. Don’t worry John, I won’t show them… yet. John was always the responsible one, making sure I didn’t get into too much trouble. But there was this one time in college, when John decided to let loose. He streaked through the quad wearing nothing but his girlfriend’s skirt! Luckily that girlfriend is now his lovely wife, so she’s already well aware of what she’s getting into. All joking aside, John is one of the most stand-up guys I know. He’s always been there for me, through thick and thin. And I know he’ll be an incredible husband because I’ve seen firsthand how he treats Sarah. The love and respect they have for each other is truly inspiring. Sarah, you’re a lucky woman. John may not be much to look at, but you’ll never find a more loyal and loving partner. Please join me in toasting the happy couple! To John and Sarah, may your love be modern enough to survive the times, but old-fashioned enough to last forever. Cheers! Customize your funny best man speech now >>

Best Man Speech Example 2: The Storyteller

I’ve known Ethan since we were five years old. Even back then, he was the sweetest kid on the playground, always sharing his fruit snacks and defending anyone being bullied. That’s the kind of stand-up guy Ethan is. Fast forward to high school, and not much had changed. Ethan was still everyone’s best friend. But he was also an incredible athlete. I’ll never forget the time he scored the winning touchdown at our Homecoming game. The crowd went wild, and all the cheerleaders wanted his attention at the dance afterwards. But Ethan only had eyes for one girl – his high school sweetheart and now bride, Ava. I asked Ethan when he knew Ava was the one. He told me it was on their first date. He had saved up for weeks to take her out to a nice restaurant. But when they got there, Ethan realized he had forgotten his wallet! Ever the gentleman, he offered to wash dishes in the back to pay for their meal. And what did Ava do? She put on an apron and said “I’ll dry.” That’s when Ethan knew she was a keeper. Ava, thank you for continuing to be Ethan’s rock and biggest cheerleader. Ethan, thank you for continuing to be the amazing man we all know and love. I wish you both a lifetime of happiness, laughter, and teamwork. Let’s raise our glasses! To Ethan and Ava – proof that true love isn’t just in fairy tales. Cheers! Customize your funny best man speech now >>

Best Man Speech Example 3: The One-Liner Specialist

Hi everyone, I’m Patrick – Tom’s best friend and the one who gets to spill all his most embarrassing secrets today! Just kidding, I would never do that… again. Tom and I have been through a lot together. From our first little league team, to being college roommates, to co-founding our company. We’ve definitely seen each other at our best… and worst. Like the time Tom walked into an important investor meeting with toilet paper stuck to his shoe. He really knows how to make a first impression! But in all seriousness, Tom is the kind of friend everyone needs in their corner. He’s a great listener, gives the best advice, and is always down for an adventure, even if it’s just trying a new food truck downtown. And now he’s found his perfect match in Lisa. Lisa, I’ll never forget when Tom first told me about you. He had that classic “Tom in love” puppy dog look. But as he started sharing stories about your hiking trips, cooking experiments, and laid-back approach to life, I knew you were the yin to his yang. You both just “get” each other in a way that’s rare and special. As Tom’s best man, I’m supposed to give you marriage advice. But the truth is, you two don’t need it. Your love is easy, fun, and unbreakable – just like our friendship. Though I do recommend investing in some good ear plugs, because Tom’s snoring could wake the dead! Let’s toast to the perfect pair! Tom and Lisa, may your marriage be as strong as Tom’s haggard dance moves, and as sweet as Lisa’s homemade cinnamon rolls. Congrats you crazy lovebirds! Customize your funny best man speech now >>

Best Man Speech Example 4: The Prop Comedian

When Ryan first asked me to be his best man, I was honestly a little surprised. Not because I’m not honored, but because Ryan is one of the most meticulous planners I know. I figured he would have sent me a 10-page best man handbook with diagrams! But all joking aside, Ryan’s organization and attention to detail are just a couple of the many qualities I admire about him. He’s hardworking, loyal, and always up for a good time. Though sometimes that good time involved a few too many shots of tequila, as evidenced by this sombrero from our trip to Cabo! [hold up sombrero prop] Over the years, I’ve watched Ryan navigate the ups and downs of life with poise and determination. From acing his MCAT exams, to securing his dream residency, to buying his first house, he’s always had a plan and followed through. But there was one thing Ryan couldn’t seem to get a handle on – his love life. He was unlucky in love for a while there, enduring a string of bad Tinder dates and awkward set-ups. But that all changed when he met Mia. From the moment Ryan told me about the beautiful, whip-smart lawyer he met at a work conference, I knew she was the one. The way his eyes lit up when he talked about their spirited debates, shared love of sushi, and dreams of traveling the world together – it was unlike anything I’d seen from him before. And when I finally met Mia, I understood why. Her warmth, humor, and beauty immediately put you at ease. She was the yin to Ryan’s yang. Over the past three years, I’ve watched Ryan and Mia’s relationship blossom into something truly special. They challenge each other intellectually, support each other emotionally, and make each other laugh constantly. And now they’re making the ultimate commitment in front of all their loved ones. So Ryan, [put on stethoscope prop] my diagnosis is that you’re one lucky man. You found the love of your life and best friend in Mia. And Mia, [put on judges gavel prop] the evidence shows, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that you’re the only one who can keep Ryan in line! [raise glass] Join me in toasting the brilliant bride and groom! Ryan and Mia, may your marriage be filled with love, laughter, and plenty of sushi dates. Thanks to you two, I finally believe in soulmates. L’chaim! Customize your funny best man speech now >>

Best Man Speech Example 5: The Improv Artist

Hi everyone, I’m Daniel, Jake’s brother from another mother and partner in crime…but don’t tell our parents that last part! You know, standing up here, it all feels a bit surreal. It seems like just yesterday Jake and I were making mud pies in the backyard and betting on how many marshmallows we could fit in our mouths. For the record, it’s ten. We still have the polaroids somewhere… Jake has always been the ride-or-die kind of brother. The kind who bails you out when you crash Dad’s car, but never lets you live it down. The kind who knows all your most embarrassing secrets, but keeps them under lock and key…for a price. The kind who’s always up for an adventure, whether it’s backpacking through Europe or just seeing how many free samples you can snag at Costco. So when Jake met Sophie, I was curious to see what kind of girl could tame my wild big bro. Turns out, Sophie is just as adventurous and fun-loving as Jake. But she’s also his perfect counterbalance. She’s the voice of reason to his impulsivity, the calm to his storm, the one who makes sure he looks before he leaps…at least most of the time. I remember when Jake called me after their first date. He described this epic 12-hour day that included brunch, an escape room, paddle boarding, hibachi, and late night karaoke. He was practically gasping for air recounting it all. I asked him what they could possibly do for a second date after that. Without skipping a beat he said “I’m going to marry her.” And here we are. Customize your funny best man speech now >>

Short Best Man Speech Examples

Best man speech example 6: the concise complimenter.

Good evening everyone. I’m honored to be here tonight as Parker’s best man. Parker is a true gentleman – kind, intelligent, and always putting others before himself. He deserves the very best in life, and he’s found that in his beautiful bride Isabel. Isabel, you are Parker’s perfect match in every way. You share the same core values of integrity, generosity, and love of community. It’s been a joy to watch the two of you grow together and create a relationship that is built on a foundation of friendship, respect, and unwavering support. Parker and Isabel, your love for each other shines through in everything you do. I know you will continue to lift each other up and bring out the very best in one another. May the joy and love you feel today be with you always. Let’s raise a glass to the happy couple! Customize your short best man speech now >>

Best Man Speech Example 7: The Poetic Toast

A toast to my brother of another and the light of his life: A union like yours is very rare. In your togetherness, you find strength. In your passion, you find peace. Connected by an unbreakable friendship, You are two souls that shine more brightly together than apart. Jonathan and Miranda, as you become one today, Know that your love has already left a mark on us all. By your example, we are inspired. We are reminded what it means to love fully, Enthusiastically, and without reservation. As you embark on this new chapter, Know that you go forward with our full love and support. To a lifetime of happiness, Customize your short best man speech now >>

Best Man Speech Example 8: The Quote Master

“The highest happiness on earth is marriage.” – William Lyon Phelps Kevin, truer words have never been spoken to describe the joy on your face today as you wed your soulmate, Jessica. Your love story is one for the ages – a serendipitous meeting at a coffee shop, a whirlwind romance that took you around the world, and now, a commitment to spend the rest of your lives together. As your best man and longtime friend, I couldn’t be happier to stand by your side today. I’ve watched you grow into the caring, responsible man you are, and I know you and Jessica will build a beautiful life together filled with laughter, adventure, and endless cups of coffee. Congratulations to you both. Never stop pursuing your dreams together. “Love recognizes no barriers.” – Maya Angelou Customize your short best man speech now >>

Best Man Speech Example 9: The Heartfelt Haiku

Groom beaming with pride Bride glowing with love and joy Two hearts become one Adam, Melissa, your love radiates through this room and warms us all. May your marriage be blessed with that same light and warmth. Kanpai! Customize your best man speech now >>

Best Man Speech Example 10: The Brief Narrator

Boy meets girl. They become best friends. Best friends become soulmates. That’s the short version of Sam and Emma’s love story. But of course, there’s so much more to it. The late night talks, the inside jokes, the “I can’t imagine my life without you” moment. The proposal with the puppy. And now the wedding of the century, surrounded by everyone who loves you. Sam, you’re the kind of guy who would give someone the shirt off his back. And Emma, you’re the girl who makes everyone feel welcome and loved. Together, your generosity and care for others knows no bounds. So let’s raise a glass to the newlyweds. Sam and Emma, thank you for reminding us all about the power of love and the joy of finding your perfect teammate in life. May your marriage be a grand adventure filled with puppy snuggles. To the happy couple! Customize your best man speech now >>

Sentimental Best Men Speech Examples

Best man speech example 11: the emotional tribute.

Good evening everyone, I’m Patrick, Daniel’s little brother and best man. This is an emotional day for me, because I’ve always looked up to Daniel. He’s been my protector, my role model, my partner in crime…and today he’s the groom. Growing up, Daniel was my superhero. He stood up to my bullies, taught me how to throw a perfect spiral, and convinced me that broccoli would turn me green like the Hulk, which I still kind of believe. He was always in my corner, cheering me on and making me believe I could do anything. Daniel, as I stand here today I want you to know how proud I am to be your brother. You’re one of the bravest, most honorable men I know. An incredible son, sibling, friend, and now, husband. You’re my best man today and every day. And my new sister Chelsea, where do I begin? From the first time we met, it was clear you were Daniel’s perfect match. Your warmth, humor, and huge heart immediately put me at ease. I’ve loved getting to know you through the years and watching the incredible love you and Daniel share. You truly bring out the best in my brother. Thank you for loving him as fiercely as we do. As you two begin this new chapter, I wish you a lifetime of love, laughter, and broccoli. May you always be each other’s superhero. Join me in toasting the bride and groom! To Daniel and Chelsea! Customize your best man speech now >>

Best Man Speech Example 12: The Nostalgic Reminiscer

Jack and I go way back. All the way to Mrs. Murphy’s kindergarten class, with the finger painting and alphabet posters on the wall. Even at five years old, Jack was the guy everyone wanted to be friends with. He was kind, funny, and always up for sharing his 64-pack of crayons, which is how you knew he was a really good guy. Fast forward a few decades, and so much has changed… but Jack hasn’t. He’s still the most loyal, generous friend a guy could ask for. The one who’s by your side for every milestone. The one who’s got your back, no matter what. The one who gives the world’s best bear hugs. So when Jack met Priya, I knew she had to be someone truly special. And was she ever. Priya, you came into Jack’s life like a beam of sunshine. Your positive energy, sense of adventure, and heart of gold were a perfect complement to Jack’s steadiness and determination. Suddenly my 64-pack of crayons friend had a skip in his step and was smiling wider than I’d ever seen. I knew pretty quickly that what you two had was the real deal. Priya, thank you for loving Jack the way he deserves. For always being up for trying a new restaurant, or taking a last minute road trip, or hosting a legendary 4th of July BBQ. For understanding and appreciating all the things that make Jack so unique and wonderful. He’s the luckiest guy in the world. So let’s raise a glass to the happy couple! Jack and Priya, my wish for you is crayon-colored days, bear hug nights, and a lifetime of love and happiness together. May you always find home in each other’s arms. Cheers! Customize your best man speech now >>

Best Man Speech Example 13: The Romantic Realist

Hi everyone, I’m Nathan, Ethan’s best friend and best man. Now, you might be expecting me to tell you about all the crazy shenanigans Ethan and I got into over the years. Like the time we decided to road trip to Mexico on a whim, with no map and no plan. We ended up lost, sunburned, and out of gas in the middle of nowhere. But we also had the adventure of a lifetime, because that’s just how Ethan rolls. But as much as I love a good roast, that’s not why we’re here today. We’re here to celebrate something far more incredible – the love between Ethan and Ava. Now, I know what some of you might be thinking. Love is a many-splendored thing, right? All romance and roses and euphoric montages. But here’s the thing. Love is also a choice you make every single day. It’s a promise to be your partner’s bodyguard, cheerleader, and personal comedian, even when life gets messy. It’s being able to ugly cry in front of each other after a hard day and waking up the next morning knowing that person is still your favorite human. It’s committing to forever even when you’re dealing with job stress, dirty dishes, and really bad morning breath. That’s the kind of real deal love these two have. When I think about Ethan and Ava’s relationship, a few words come to mind. Friendship. Laughter. Adventure. Unwavering support. A rock-solid foundation to weather any storm. That’s what you’re signing up for today. And let me tell you, it’s worth it. Because when you find someone who makes you laugh until you pee a little, kisses your nose even when it’s runny, and promises to always be your co-pilot on the highway of life, you hold on tight and never let go. So Ethan and Ava, as you exchange rings today, know that your love inspires the rest of us. Not because of some cheesy rom-com fantasy, but because you’re a real couple, with real struggles, who choose each other every day, through better and worse. A couple who’s not just in love, but who IS love, in all its honest, messy, beautiful glory. Join me in toasting the bride and groom! Here’s to a lifetime of adventure, forgiveness, belly laughter, and really great sex. May you always be each other’s home. To Ethan and Ava! Customize your best man speech now >>

Best Man Speech Example 14: The Family Man

Hello everyone, my name is Andrew and I have the honor of being the best man today. I’m also Matt’s older brother, which means I have plenty of embarrassing stories to share! But I’ll save those for the next family reunion. In all seriousness, today is particularly emotional for me, because I’ve had a front row seat to Matt and Emily’s love story. I’ve watched my little brother grow from an awkward, video-game obsessed teenager into the confident, caring man he is today – and so much of that is thanks to Emily. From the first time Matt brought Emily home to meet the family, we knew there was something special about her. The way she jumped right in to help mom with the dishes, cracked dad up with her witty one-liners, and asked me thoughtful questions about my job – it was clear she wasn’t just a girlfriend, but a true partner. Over the years, Emily has become more than just a sister-in-law to me – she’s family. The kind of family who shows up, no questions asked. The kind who remembers every birthday, hosts the best Thanksgiving, and gives the warmest hugs. Matt, you really hit the jackpot with this one. And Emily, I want to thank you. Thank you for loving my brother the way he deserves. For seeing past his corny jokes and occasionally questionable fashion choices to the heart of gold underneath. For pushing him to be his best self while accepting him as he is. For being such an incredible daughter, sister, aunt, and friend to our crazy clan. We love you so much. So to Matt and Emily, as you formally become family today, I wish you a love as strong as mom and dad’s, a home filled with as much laughter as our childhood, and a marriage that makes you each feel as cherished as you are. May you always be each other’s haven and biggest fans. We love you! Everyone please raise your glass to Mr. and Mrs. [Last Name]! To Matt and Emily! Customize your best man speech now >>

Best Man Speech Example 15: The Inspirational Speaker

Good evening, friends and family. I’m David, the groom’s best man. When Raj asked me to stand up for him on his wedding day, I didn’t hesitate. Because if there’s one thing I know about Raj, it’s that he shows up for the people he loves. He shows up for the big things, the small things, and everything in between. And today, he’s showing up for the biggest commitment of all – marriage. I’ve known Raj for 20 years. We’ve been through a lot together – highs, lows, and a whole lot of cheap beer in between. But through it all, Raj has been a constant source of support, wisdom, and inspiration. He’s the friend who picks up the phone at 2am when you need to talk. The one who helps you move apartments in 100-degree heat. The one who never lets you give up on yourself, even when you want to. Raj: You live life with such passion and purpose. You don’t back down from a challenge. You stay true to your values. And you love with your whole heart. It’s no wonder that when Anjali came into your life, you knew pretty quickly she was your person. Anjali, you are a force of nature. Brilliant, driven, kind, and drop-dead gorgeous to boot. But what I admire most about you is your strength. The quiet kind of strength that powers through med school exams and overnight hospital shifts. The graceful kind of strength that juggles family responsibilities and your own aspirations. And the joyful kind of strength that lives life to the fullest. Raj is a lucky man. When I see you two together, I see a couple committed to building something meaningful, both in your marriage and in the world. I see best friends and true partners. I see two people who not only accept each other’s strengths and flaws, but actually love each other more because of them. So as you exchange vows today, I want to remind you that love isn’t just flowery words. It’s ACTION. It’s showing up, even when it’s not easy. It’s choosing compassion over being right. It’s growing together through change. It’s saying I love you, I’m here for you, I choose you, every single day. Raj and Anjali, never stop fighting for each other. Never stop challenging each other. Never stop finding new reasons to fall in love with each other. Because the world needs more couples like you – couples who lead with love. Join me in toasting the bride and groom! Raj and Anjali, thank you for letting us witness the incredible love you share. May you always be each other’s strength and inspiration. To a lifetime of showing up! Customize your best man speech now >>

Unique and Creative Best Man Speech Examples

Best man speech example 16: the musical maestro.

*best man takes the mic and breaks out into song* (To the tune of “I’ll Be There For You” by The Rembrandts) So no one told you life was gonna be this way (wedding bells chime 4x) Your job’s a joke, you’re broke, love life DOA Well, it hasn’t been your day, your week, your month, or even your year, but… Ethan will be there for you (When the rain starts to pour) Natalie will be there for you (Like she’s been there before) They’ll be there for you (‘Cause you’re there for them too) *Ethan pulls the mic away, laughing* Alright, alright, I’ll spare you the rest of my pipes. But everything I said in that little ditty is true. Ethan and Natalie, you two are the real deal. I’ve seen you support each other through job losses, family dramas, and yes, even unfortunate haircuts. Seriously though, that frosted tips phase, bro? But all jokes aside, you two have something special. You’re not just lovers, you’re best friends. And yeah, marriage is a big, scary, wonderful adventure. But it’s so much better when you’ve got your person by your side. Natalie, thanks for making an honest man out of my boy. Ethan, thanks for being the kind of friend who feels more like family. I know you’ll both continue to be each other’s rocks, through all of life’s crazy plot twists. So, without further ado… *grabs the mic again* (To the tune of “Marry You” by Bruno Mars) It’s a beautiful night, we’re looking for something fun To celebrate this love that’s just begun Well I know this little chapel on the boulevard we can go No one will know Oh, come on, let’s go! I think they wanna marry each other! Sh*t, I know they wanna marry each other! Here’s the ring, it’ll fit like a glove, g-glove, glove You know it’s time you two say “I do”, yeah it’s true Who cares if we’re all dressed up, right? Got wedding cake, champagne for tonight (hey!) They want the rest of their lives To start as soon as possible It’s time, you two, let’s do the damn thing! I know they wanna marry each other! Please be upstanding for Mr. and Mrs. McNally! We love you, crazy kids! Cheers! Customize your best man speech now >>

Best Man Speech Example 17: The Tech-Savvy Speaker

Good evening ladies and gentlemen. For those of you who don’t know me, I’m Josh, Alex’s best man and partner in crime since middle school. When Alex asked me to be his best man, I was thrilled, honored… and a little bit terrified. How could I possibly sum up a friendship that has spanned over half our lives? How could I put into words the incredible man that Alex is and the amazing husband I know he’ll be to Sophia? But then it hit me – a picture is worth a thousand words. Or in this case, an embarrassing Facebook memory is worth at least a solid 5 minutes of roasting. *pulls up old photo of groom on screen* Oh yes. This gem is from our sophomore year spring break trip. I’m talking bleached tips, puka shell necklace, the works. Alex, my man, what were we thinking? *flips through slideshow of funny photos of groom growing up* From questionable fashion choices to that time we thought we could start a boy band, Alex and I have been through it all together. But make no mistake, beneath the goofball exterior is one of the smartest most driven people I’ve ever met. This is the guy who taught himself to code in high school, who started his own successful tech company in college, and who never shies away from a challenge. Alex, your determination and resilience have always inspired me. *changes slide to collage of Alex and Sophia* And then you met Sophia. From the moment you two started dating, I watched my best friend become the best version of himself. Sophia, you are Alex’s perfect match in every way. Brilliant, compassionate, and an absolute knockout to boot. But beyond that, you two share a love that is truly special. The kind of love that evolves and grows stronger over time. *changes slide to interactive timeline of couple’s love story* In fact, feel free to scan the QR code in your programs to scroll through Alex and Sophia’s relationship milestones – from their first date at that quirky VR cafe to their epic around-the-world adventure last year. You two have built an incredible life together already, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds. *changes slide to heartfelt candid of couple* Alex and Sophia, as you enter this new chapter, I have no doubt that your marriage will be a beautiful one, filled with love, laughter, and all the latest and greatest tech gadgets. Because in a world of constant upgrades, you two have found something timeless – true partnership and unconditional love. Join me in raising a glass to the newlyweds! Alex and Sophia, may your love continue to be the one thing in life that never needs an update. We love you! Customize your best man speech now >>

Best Man Speech Example 18: The Theatrical Performer

*best man enters in a dramatic fashion* Welcome, welcome, one and all, to the wedding of the century! I am your host for the evening, the dashing, debonair, and undeniably humble best man, Luke. Now, you may be wondering, how did a specimen like myself end up with a best friend like Noah? Well, let me take you back to act one, scene one of our epic bromance. *lights dim, spotlight on Luke* It was a dark and stormy night… just kidding, it was a perfectly average day in 10th grade English class. I was the new kid, fresh meat, trying to find my place in the adolescent jungle. And there was Noah, the class clown with a heart of gold, cracking jokes and making even our grumpy teacher crack a smile. Long story short, we bonded over our mutual love of The Office and the rest is history. From late night study sessions fueled by energy drinks to road trip singalongs to “Bohemian Rhapsody”, Noah has been my partner in crime and my confidant. The Maverick to my Goose, the Ferris to my Cameron, the Patrick to my Spongebob. But little did Noah know, his real leading lady was waiting in the wings. Enter stage right: the luminous, hilarious, drop dead gorgeous Olivia. *gestures grandly to bride* From the moment these two met at that improv class freshman year of college, it was clear their love story was one for the ages. The way Olivia could match Noah’s wit and humor, the way Noah looked at Olivia like she hung the moon… it was like watching a real life rom-com unfold. *switches to sincere tone* But in all seriousness, Olivia, thank you. Thank you for loving my best friend the way he deserves. For seeing the caring, loyal, brilliant man beneath the class clown persona. Noah, thank you for showing me what a healthy, happy relationship looks like. You two are the real deal. So without further ado, I present to you the maîtres d’amour, the crème de la crème of couples, Mr. and Mrs. Thompson! *pulls bride and groom to their feet and into a group hug* Everyone join me in raising your glasses to the leading lady and man of the hour! Noah and Olivia, may your marriage be filled with love, laughter, and plenty of standing ovations. We love you! *cue end scene applause and music* Customize your best man speech now >>

Best Man Speech Example 19: The Cultural Celebrant

Namaste and good evening to the beloved friends and family of Priya and Aakash. I’m Rohan, the best man and pseudo-big brother to the groom. As many of you know, Aakash and I go way back – to the days of Little League cricket matches, weekend sleepovers filled with too much junk food and Bollywood movies, and of course, those awkward preteen years navigating our Indian-American identities together. Aakash, you have always been the yang to my yin. The rational to my impulsive, the calm to my chaos, the mild butter chicken to my spicy vindaloo. But through it all, you’ve been my constant. My fellow ABCD (American-born confused desi), my understanding ear, my brother from another mother. And then along came Priya. From your very first date, which Aakash was adorably nervous for, by the way – I knew she was something special. The way you talked about her smile, her intelligence, her passion for social justice – it was clear this was no ordinary crush. As I got to know Priya better, I saw how seamlessly she fit into Aakash’s life and our tight-knit community. Here was a woman who could hold her own in a heated debate on politics, rock a saree like a runway model, and make a mean biryani to boot. Aakash, you met your match. *Speaks a few lines in Hindi* Translation: When two hearts unite as one, their love shines brighter than a thousand suns. And today, we have the joy of witnessing the sacred union of Aakash and Priya, two souls who were destined to find each other. *Switches back to English* Priya and Aakash, as you embark on this new journey, I wish for your love to be like a beautiful Madhubani painting – intricate, vibrant, and steeped in tradition and devotion. May you always find refuge in one another, navigate life’s ups and downs as a team, and nurture a home filled with warmth, laughter, and the mouth-watering scent of spices. So family, please join me in raising a glass to the happy couple! To Priya and Aakash – a match made in the stars. May you forever dance through life to the beat of the dhol drum. We love you! To forever and always, Saat Phere ki jai ho! Customize your best man speech now >>

Best Man Speech Example 20: The Interactive Host

Alright, who’s ready to celebrate the life, love, and marriage of the one and only Isaac and Gabrielle? Come on now, I said ARE YOU READY?! *hypes up crowd* My name is Marcus and I’ve been Isaac’s best friend, wingman, and occasional voice of reason since our freshman year as roommates at Howard University. I’ve seen this man at his best, his worst, and everything in between. But through it all, one thing has remained constant – his incredible capacity to love. Isaac, my brother, you have the biggest heart of anyone I know. From our late-night talks about our dreams and fears, to the way you show up for your friends and family, to how you pour your soul into your music – you live and love fully. And then, in walks Gabrielle. This radiant, whip-smart, drop-dead gorgeous woman who just so happens to be Isaac’s perfect counterpart. When you two are together, it’s like watching poetry in motion. The laughter, the banter, the way you challenge and inspire each other to be better – it’s a beautiful thing to witness. *turns to crowd* But don’t just take my word for it – let’s hear from some of the other VIPs in their lives! By a show of applause, who’s got a favorite “Isaac and Gabrielle” moment to share? *selects a couple audience members to share stories* See? These two have built a love that is truly one-of-a-kind. A love that has already left an indelible mark on all of us gathered here. So I want to try something. Isaac, Gabrielle, will you join me up here for a second? *couple stands up* Alright y’all, on the count of three, I want everyone to shout out a word or short phrase that describes the love you see between these two. Ready? 1, 2, 3 – GO! *audience shouts out adjectives like “inspiring”, “soulmates”, “joyful”, “unbreakable”, etc.* Wow. Do you feel that energy? That, right there, is the power of your love. *turns to couple* Isaac and Gabrielle, never forget this moment. The love, the support, the sheer joy that surrounds you today. Bottle it up and save it for a rainy day. Let it be a reminder that no matter what life throws your way, you’ve got an army of loved ones cheering you on, and an unshakable foundation in each other. *raises glass* So family, let’s make some noise for the newlyweds one more time! Join me in toasting to a lifetime of love, laughter, and happily ever after. To Isaac and Gabrielle! *cues DJ to start the party with couple’s favorite song* Customize your best man speech now >>

55 other Best Man Speech Examples – Coz why not?

1. the childhood best friend.

John and I have been best friends since we were in diapers. We’ve seen each other through all of life’s ups and downs, from learning to ride a bike to our first heartbreaks. I never thought I’d see the day when John would settle down, but then he met Sarah. Sarah, you’ve brought out the best in John and I couldn’t be happier to welcome you into our crazy little family. John, I love you like a brother and I wish you both a lifetime of happiness. Customize your best man speech now >>

2. The College Roommate

Mike and I were randomly assigned as college roommates freshman year, and let’s just say it was a bit of an adjustment period. Between Mike’s snoring and my late-night study habits, we definitely had our moments. But somewhere along the way, we became best friends. Mike, you’ve always been there for me, and I know you’ll be an amazing husband to Emily. Emily, thank you for loving Mike for who he is and for putting up with us crazy college boys. Cheers to a lifetime of love and happiness! Customize your best man speech now >>

3. The Older Brother

As Jack’s older brother, it’s my job to embarrass him a little bit today. But truthfully, there’s not much to embarrass him about. Jack has always been the kind of guy who puts others first, who works hard and loves deeply. And when he met Lisa, it was clear he had found his perfect match. Lisa, thank you for joining our family and for making Jack so incredibly happy. I wish you both all the love and joy in the world. Customize your best man speech now >>

4. The Younger Brother

Growing up, I always looked up to my big brother Chris. He was the cool one, the funny one, the one who always knew what to say. And while I may have been the annoying little brother at times, Chris never made me feel that way. Chris, you’ve been my role model and my best friend, and I’m so proud of the man you’ve become. Jess, you’re the sister I always wanted and I’m so happy to officially welcome you to the family. Here’s to a lifetime of love, laughter, and maybe a few more annoying little brother moments. Customize your best man speech now >>

5. The Fraternity Brother

When Steve joined our fraternity, I knew he was going to fit right in. He had a contagious laugh, a kind heart, and could outdrink pretty much anyone. Over the years, Steve has been more than just a frat brother to me – he’s been a true friend. And when he introduced me to Karen, I knew he had found someone truly special. Karen, thank you for being such an amazing partner to Steve and for putting up with all of us crazy frat guys. To Steve and Karen, may your love always be as strong as our brotherhood. Customize your best man speech now >>

6. The Co-Worker

When Mark joined our office, I knew we were in for a treat. His wit and humor brought a much-needed lightness to even the most stressful days, and his hard work and dedication were an inspiration to us all. Mark, you’ve been an amazing friend and colleague, and I’m so happy to be here celebrating your marriage to Julie. Julie, you are Mark’s perfect match in every way and I know you’ll bring each other so much happiness. Cheers to the happy couple! Customize your best man speech now >>

7. The Future Brother-In-Law

When my sister first introduced me to David, I’ll admit I was a little skeptical. No one was ever going to be good enough for my big sister in my eyes. But David, you quickly proved me wrong. Your love and respect for my sister were evident from day one, and I’ve watched you two build a beautiful life together. I’m so grateful to be gaining a brother today, and I couldn’t be happier for you both. To my sister and my new brother, may your love story be one for the ages. Customize your best man speech now >>

8. The High School Friend

Jason and I have been friends since high school, which means I’ve seen him through some pretty questionable fashion choices and hairstyles. But through it all, Jason has always been the best kind of friend – loyal, dependable, and always up for a good time. When he met Amy, it was like a lightbulb went off. Suddenly, Jason was more focused, more driven, and more content than I’d ever seen him. Amy, thank you for bringing out the best in Jason and for loving him as much as we all do. To the happy couple, may your love only grow stronger with each passing year. Customize your best man speech now >>

9. The Childhood Neighbor

Growing up next door to Matt was like having a built-in best friend. From catching frogs in the creek to late-night video game marathons, Matt and I did it all together. And while we may have grown up and gone our separate ways, our friendship has only gotten stronger. Matt, you’ve been a constant in my life and I’m so grateful for our friendship. Sarah, thank you for making Matt so incredibly happy and for fitting into our crazy little neighborhood crew so seamlessly. Here’s to a lifetime of love, laughter, and maybe a few more frog-catching adventures. Customize your best man speech now >>

10. The Sports Teammate

When you spend as much time together as teammates do, you really get to know a person. And let me tell you, Tom is one of the best guys I know. He’s hardworking, dependable, and always puts the team first. So when he met Emily, it was no surprise that he approached their relationship with the same dedication and commitment. Emily, thank you for being Tom’s biggest cheerleader and for supporting him both on and off the field. To Tom and Emily, may your love be a grand slam. Customize your best man speech now >>

11. The Work Spouse

In our office, Ryan and I were known as the work spouses. We finished each other’s sentences, knew each other’s coffee orders by heart, and could always count on each other for a good laugh or a listening ear. But as close as Ryan and I were, it was nothing compared to the bond he shared with Megan. Megan, you truly are Ryan’s other half and I’ve never seen him happier than he is with you. Thank you for being such an amazing partner and friend. To Ryan and Megan, may your love be as strong as our spreadsheets and as sweet as our morning coffee chats. Customize your best man speech now >>

12. The Cousin

Growing up, Andrew and I were more like brothers than cousins. We spent every summer together at the family lake house, getting into all sorts of mischief and making memories to last a lifetime. And while we may have gone our separate ways as we got older, our bond has never wavered. Andrew, you’ve always been there for me and I’m so grateful to have you as not just a cousin, but a true friend. Katie, thank you for making Andrew so incredibly happy and for fitting into our crazy family so perfectly. To the happy couple, may your love be as endless as those summer days at the lake. Customize your best man speech now >>

13. The Childhood Rival Turned Friend

If you had told me when we were kids that one day I’d be standing up as Alex’s best man, I would have laughed in your face. Alex and I spent most of our childhood as rivals, competing over everything from sports to academics to who could eat the most hot dogs at the county fair. But somewhere along the way, that rivalry turned into friendship. Alex, you’ve challenged me and pushed me to be my best self, and I’m so grateful for our friendship. Samantha, you are Alex’s perfect match and I’ve never seen him happier. To Alex and Samantha, may your love be as fierce as our childhood competitions and as enduring as our friendship. Customize your best man speech now >>

14. The Former Roommate

Living with Eric was an adventure, to say the least. From late-night philosophical discussions to epic video game battles to that one time we thought it would be a good idea to adopt a pet snake, there was never a dull moment. But through it all, Eric was always the best kind of friend and roommate – supportive, understanding, and always down for a good time. Eric, I’ve watched you grow and mature so much over the years and I couldn’t be prouder of the man you’ve become. Laura, thank you for bringing such joy and love into Eric’s life. To the happy couple, may your home be filled with as much laughter and love as our old apartment was. Customize your best man speech now >>

15. The Study Abroad Buddy

When Brandon and I decided to study abroad together, we had no idea what we were getting ourselves into. From navigating foreign public transportation to trying to order coffee in broken Spanish, every day was a new adventure. But through it all, Brandon was the best travel companion and friend I could have asked for. Brandon, your curiosity, kindness, and zest for life inspire me every day and I’m so grateful for our friendship. Sophie, you share those same amazing qualities and I know you and Brandon will have a lifetime of adventures together. To Brandon and Sophie, may your love be as limitless as your wanderlust. Customize your best man speech now >>

16. The Fraternity Pledge Brother

Pledging a fraternity is an experience like no other, and going through it with Nate created a bond that will last a lifetime. From late-night study sessions to epic prank wars to learning the true meaning of brotherhood, Nate was always right there with me. Nate, your loyalty, integrity, and humor are unmatched and I’m so grateful to call you my brother. Emily, you’ve been such an amazing addition to our fraternity family and I’ve never seen Nate happier. To Nate and Emily, may your love be as strong as our fraternal bond. Customize your best man speech now >>

17. The Bandmate

Making music with Sam has been one of the greatest joys of my life. From late-night jam sessions in his garage to playing our first gig to recording our debut album, Sam’s talent and passion have always inspired me. But as much as I love making music with Sam, what I love even more is seeing the incredible man and partner he’s become. Ashley, your love and support have been the perfect harmony to Sam’s melody. To Sam and Ashley, may your love be as beautiful and enduring as the music you make together. Customize your best man speech now >>

18. The Wingman

Every guy needs a wingman, and Tyler was the best wingman a guy could ask for. From talking me up to my crush to helping me pick out the perfect outfit for a first date, Tyler was always there with the assist. But little did I know, Tyler’s true soulmate was right there by his side all along. Megan, you and Tyler have been an unstoppable duo since day one and I’ve never seen two people more perfect for each other. To Tyler and Megan, may your love story be even better than the ones we used to make up at the bar. Customize your best man speech now >>

19. The Gym Buddy

There’s nothing like a shared love of fitness to bring two people together, and that’s definitely the case for me and Kyle. From early morning workouts to post-gym protein shakes, Kyle has been my constant motivator and friend. Kyle, your dedication and discipline in the gym are only matched by your dedication and love for Sara. Sara, you bring out the best in Kyle and I’ve never seen him happier. To Kyle and Sara, may your love be as strong as your deadlift game. Customize your best man speech now >>

20. The Travel Buddy

When Jared and I decided to backpack through Europe after college, we had no idea what we were getting ourselves into. From missed trains to language barriers to that one time we got lost in the Swiss Alps, it was an adventure to say the least. But through it all, Jared was the best travel companion and friend I could have asked for. Jared, your curiosity, adaptability, and zest for life inspire me every day. Stephanie, you share those same incredible qualities and I know you and Jared will have a lifetime of adventures together. To Jared and Stephanie, may your love be your greatest adventure yet. Customize your best man speech now >>

21. The Childhood Best Friend

Michael and I have been attached at the hip since we were five years old. From building forts in the backyard to navigating the ups and downs of adolescence, Michael has been my constant through it all. And while a lot has changed since those fort-building days, one thing never will – the incredible bond and friendship we share. Michael, you’re more than just my best friend, you’re my brother. Anna, you’ve been such a beautiful addition to Michael’s life and our friendship. To Michael and Anna, may your love be as enduring and unbreakable as the bond we share. Customize your best man speech now >>

22. The High School Teammate

Playing football with Ethan in high school taught me a lot about hard work, dedication, and the power of teamwork. But what it taught me most of all was the value of a truly great friend. Ethan, your work ethic and loyalty on the field were only matched by your kindness and compassion off of it. Olivia, you bring out the very best in Ethan and I’ve never seen him happier than he is with you. To Ethan and Olivia, may your love be a touchdown in the game of life. Customize your best man speech now >>

23. The College Study Partner

When it came to surviving organic chemistry, I couldn’t have asked for a better study partner than Dan. From late night cram sessions to celebrating our hard-earned grades, Dan’s intelligence, determination, and humor got me through some of the toughest academic challenges of my life. But more than just a great study partner, Dan has been an incredible friend. Dan, your brilliance is only outshone by your huge heart. Sarah, you’re Dan’s perfect match and I’ve never seen him happier. To Dan and Sarah, may your love be as strong as your combined brain power. Customize your best man speech now >>

24. The Work Confidant

In the high-stress world of corporate finance, having a colleague like John to lean on has been a game-changer. From celebrating big wins to commiserating over tough projects, John has been my go-to confidant and friend at the office. But as much as I appreciate John’s professional support, what I appreciate even more is his friendship outside of work. John, your integrity, compassion, and wicked sense of humor make you an incredible friend and partner. Lisa, you bring so much love and light into John’s life. To John and Lisa, may your love bring you the same joy and support you’ve brought to so many others. Customize your best man speech now >>

25. The Roommate Turned Best Friend

When David and I signed the lease on our college apartment, we had no idea we were also signing up for a lifelong friendship. From late-night heart-to-hearts to epic Super Smash Bros battles, living with David was an unforgettable experience filled with laughter, growth, and more than a few dirty dishes. David, your creativity, kindness, and unwavering loyalty inspire me every day. Karen, you perfectly complement David’s wonderful qualities and I’ve never seen him happier. To David and Karen, may your love and friendship be the stuff sitcom dreams are made of. Customize your best man speech now >>

26. The Cousin Turned Best Man

Growing up, Ben and I were more like brothers than cousins. From family vacations to holiday gatherings to just hanging out on a lazy Saturday, Ben has been a constant presence in my life and one of my greatest friends. Ben, your compassion, humor, and dependability make you an incredible cousin and an even better man. Emily, you’ve been such a wonderful addition to our family and I’ve never seen Ben happier than he is with you. To Ben and Emily, may your love be as strong and enduring as our family bond. Customize your best man speech now >>

27. The Childhood Neighbor

Living next door to Alex as a kid was like having a built-in best friend. From backyard baseball games to sneaking out for late-night adventures, Alex and I were inseparable. And while we may have grown up and gone our separate ways, the bond we share has never wavered. Alex, your loyalty, humor, and zest for life have always inspired me. Samantha, you perfectly complement Alex’s wonderful qualities and I’ve never seen him happier. To Alex and Samantha, may your love be as enduring as the memories we shared growing up. Customize your best man speech now >>

28. The Camp Counselor Turned Friend

When I first met Chris as a camper, I looked up to him as the coolest counselor around. Little did I know that our friendship would extend far beyond the camp years. Chris, your leadership, compassion, and sense of adventure inspired me as a camper and continue to inspire me to this day. Laura, you bring out the very best in Chris and I’ve never seen him happier than he is with you. To Chris and Laura, may your love be as fun and exciting as a summer at camp. Customize your best man speech now >>

29. The Fraternity Brother

Joining a fraternity gave me more than just a few Greek letters to wear – it gave me a brother in Ryan. From pledging together to living in the house to all the unforgettable moments in between, Ryan has been by my side through it all. Ryan, your loyalty, integrity, and humor embody the true meaning of brotherhood. Jessica, you’ve been such an incredible addition to our fraternity family and I’ve never seen Ryan happier. To Ryan and Jessica, may your love be as strong as our bond of brotherhood. Customize your best man speech now >>

30. The Bandmate

Making music with James has been one of the greatest joys of my life. From late-night jam sessions to playing our first gig to recording our album, James’ talent and dedication have always inspired me. But as much as I love playing music with James, what I love even more is seeing the incredible man and partner he’s become. Sarah, your love and support have been the perfect harmony to James’ melody. To James and Sarah, may your love be as beautiful and enduring as the music you make together. Customize your best man speech now >>

31. The Business Partner

Starting a business with your best friend is not for the faint of heart, but I couldn’t have asked for a better partner than Mike. From late nights working on pitches to celebrating our first big win, Mike’s creativity, drive, and unwavering support have been the backbone of our success. But as proud as I am of our professional accomplishments, I’m even prouder of the man and partner Mike has become. Emily, you bring out the very best in Mike and I’ve never seen him happier. To Mike and Emily, may your love and partnership be as successful as our business endeavors. Customize your best man speech now >>

32. The Travel Companion

Backpacking through Europe with Matt was the adventure of a lifetime. From navigating foreign cities to trying new foods to making unforgettable memories, Matt was the perfect travel companion. Matt, your curiosity, adaptability, and endless positivity made our trip an experience I’ll never forget. Anna, you share Matt’s adventurous spirit and zest for life, and I’ve never seen him happier than he is with you. To Matt and Anna, may your love be the greatest adventure of all. Customize your best man speech now >>

33. The Childhood Rival Turned Friend

Growing up, Josh and I were fierce competitors in everything from academics to sports to video games. But somewhere along the way, that rivalry turned into an unbreakable friendship. Josh, your drive, integrity, and loyalty inspire me every day, and I’m so grateful to have you as a friend. Rachel, you perfectly complement Josh’s wonderful qualities and I’ve never seen him happier than he is with you. To Josh and Rachel, may your love be as strong as our friendship and as exciting as our childhood rivalries. Customize your best man speech now >>

34. The College Roommate

Living with Andrew in college was an unforgettable experience filled with late-night study sessions, impromptu dance parties, and more than a few debates about whose turn it was to do the dishes. But through it all, Andrew was more than just a roommate – he was a true friend. Andrew, your intelligence, compassion, and humor made those college years some of the best of my life. Karen, you bring out the very best in Andrew and I’ve never seen him happier. To Andrew and Karen, may your love be as strong as our friendship and as full of laughter as our college days. Customize your best man speech now >>

35. The Work Mentor Turned Friend

When I first started my job, I was intimidated by Ryan’s success and expertise. But it didn’t take long for that intimidation to turn into admiration and friendship. Ryan, your guidance, support, and incredible work ethic have been instrumental in my professional growth, and I’m so grateful for your mentorship and friendship. Lisa, you bring so much joy and love into Ryan’s life, and I’ve never seen him happier. To Ryan and Lisa, may your love be as inspiring as Ryan’s leadership and as enduring as our friendship. Customize your best man speech now >>

36. The High School Best Friend

Jason and I have been best friends since the first day of high school, when we bonded over our mutual love of terrible puns and hatred of gym class. Since then, Jason has been by my side through all of life’s ups and downs, always ready with a joke, a hug, or a listening ear. Jason, your humor, loyalty, and huge heart make you an incredible friend and an even better partner. Stephanie, you perfectly complement Jason’s wonderful qualities and I’ve never seen him happier than he is with you. To Jason and Stephanie, may your love be as enduring as our friendship and as full of laughter as our high school days. Customize your best man speech now >>

37. The Grad School Study Buddy

Surviving grad school would have been impossible without Eric by my side. From late nights in the library to commiserating over endless papers, Eric’s intelligence, determination, and humor got me through some of the toughest academic challenges of my life. But more than just a study partner, Eric has been an incredible friend. Eric, your brilliance is only matched by your kindness and compassion. Laura, you bring out the very best in Eric and I’ve never seen him happier. To Eric and Laura, may your love be as strong as your combined intellect and as enduring as our friendship. Customize your best man speech now >>

38. The Childhood Next-Door Neighbor

Growing up next door to Mark was like having a built-in best friend. From backyard adventures to late-night video game marathons, Mark and I did it all together. And while we may have grown up and gone our separate ways, the bond we share has never wavered. Mark, your creativity, loyalty, and zest for life have always inspired me. Emily, you perfectly complement Mark’s wonderful qualities and I’ve never seen him happier than he is with you. To Mark and Emily, may your love be as fun and enduring as the memories we shared growing up. Customize your best man speech now >>

39. The Sports League Teammate

Playing on the same softball team as Chris for the past five years has been an absolute blast. From celebrating big wins to laughing off tough losses, Chris’ positivity, sportsmanship, and killer curveball have made him an incredible teammate and friend. But as much as I love sharing the field with Chris, what I admire most is the man he is off the field. Chris, your kindness, integrity, and unwavering support for your loved ones are truly inspiring. Amanda, you bring out the very best in Chris and I’ve never seen him happier. To Chris and Amanda, may your love be a grand slam. Customize your best man speech now >>

40. The Fraternity Little Brother

When I first met Dan as my fraternity little brother, I had no idea that I was also gaining a lifelong friend. From late-night heart-to-hearts to ridiculous prank wars, Dan’s humor, compassion, and loyalty have made him an incredible brother and an even better man. Dan, your dedication to your friendships, your passions, and your values is truly inspiring. Sarah, you’ve been such a wonderful addition to our fraternity family and I’ve never seen Dan happier than he is with you. To Dan and Sarah, may your love be as strong as our bond of brotherhood. Customize your best man speech now >>

41. The Coworker Turned Best Friend

When Tom and I first started working together, I had no idea that I was gaining more than just a colleague – I was gaining a true friend. From collaborating on projects to sharing inside jokes to supporting each other through the ups and downs of work and life, Tom’s creativity, humor, and empathy have made him an incredible friend and confidant. Tom, your talent and dedication are only matched by your huge heart. Rachel, you bring out the very best in Tom and I’ve never seen him happier than he is with you. To Tom and Rachel, may your love be as strong as our friendship and as full of laughter as our days at the office. Customize your best man speech now >>

42. The Travel Buddy

Exploring the world with James has been the adventure of a lifetime. From getting lost in foreign cities to trying exotic new foods to making unforgettable memories, James’ curiosity, adaptability, and endless sense of wonder have made him the perfect travel companion. But as much as I love sharing adventures with James, what I admire most is his adventurous approach to love and life. James, your courage, compassion, and zest for life inspire me every day. Sarah, you share James’ adventurous spirit and kind heart, and I’ve never seen him happier than he is with you. To James and Sarah, may your love be the greatest adventure of all. Customize your best man speech now >>

43. The Cousin Turned Best Friend

Growing up, Nate and I were more like brothers than cousins. From family vacations to holiday gatherings to just hanging out on lazy summer days, Nate has been a constant presence in my life and one of my greatest friends. Nate, your humor, loyalty, and unwavering support have gotten me through some of life’s toughest moments, and I’m so grateful to have you as a cousin and a friend. Emily, you’ve been such a wonderful addition to our family and I’ve never seen Nate happier than he is with you. To Nate and Emily, may your love be as strong and enduring as our family bond. Customize your best man speech now >>

44. The High School Lab Partner

Being assigned as lab partners with Alex in chemistry class was the start of a beautiful friendship. From late nights studying for exams to inside jokes about our eccentric teacher to bonding over our shared love of science, Alex’s intelligence, humor, and kind heart made those high school years some of the best of my life. Alex, your brilliance and compassion continue to inspire me every day. Jenna, you perfectly complement Alex’s wonderful qualities and I’ve never seen him happier than he is with you. To Alex and Jenna, may your love be as strong as your combined brainpower and as enduring as our friendship. Customize your best man speech now >>

45. The College Intramural Teammate

Playing intramural soccer with Ryan in college was an absolute blast. From early morning practices to hard-fought games to post-win celebrations, Ryan’s athleticism, sportsmanship, and endless enthusiasm made him an incredible teammate and friend. But as much as I loved sharing the field with Ryan, what I admire most is the man he is off the field. Ryan, your dedication, loyalty, and huge heart inspire me every day. Lisa, you bring out the very best in Ryan and I’ve never seen him happier than he is with you. To Ryan and Lisa, may your love be a goal for the ages. Customize your best man speech now >>

46. The Carpool Buddy

Sharing a commute with Kevin for the past few years has been a highlights of my work days. From early morning coffee runs to belting out car karaoke to deep conversations about life and love, Kevin’s humor, empathy, and endless positivity have made him an incredible friend and confidant. Kevin, your kindness and zest for life are truly inspiring, and I’m so grateful for our friendship. Sarah, you bring out the very best in Kevin and I’ve never seen him happier than he is with you. To Kevin and Sarah, may your love be as joyful and enduring as our morning carpool sessions. Customize your best man speech now >>

47. The Language Exchange Partner

When I signed up for a language exchange program, I had no idea I would be gaining a lifelong friend in Javier. From practicing our language skills over coffee to bonding over our shared love of travel and culture, Javier’s intelligence, curiosity, and kind heart have made him an incredible friend and cultural guide. Javier, your passion for life and learning inspire me every day, and I’m so grateful for our friendship. Isabella, you share Javier’s adventurous spirit and warm heart, and I’ve never seen him happier than he is with you. To Javier and Isabella, may your love be as beautiful and enduring as the languages and cultures that brought us together. Customize your best man speech now >>

48. The Book Club Buddy

Joining a book club was one of the best decisions I ever made, not only because it introduced me to some incredible reads, but also because it brought Mike into my life. From spirited discussions about our favorite characters to bonding over our shared love of storytelling, Mike’s intelligence, wit, and endless curiosity have made him an incredible friend and literary companion. Mike, your creativity and compassion inspire me every day, and I’m so grateful for our friendship. Emily, you bring out the very best in Mike and I’ve never seen him happier than he is with you. To Mike and Emily, may your love be as beautiful and enduring as the stories we’ve shared. Customize your best man speech now >>

49. The Gym Buddy

When I first started going to the gym, I was intimidated and unsure of myself. But then I met Alex, and everything changed. From spotting each other on heavy lifts to pushing each other to reach our fitness goals, Alex’s dedication, encouragement, and endless positivity have made him an incredible friend and workout partner. Alex, your strength and determination inspire me both in and out of the gym, and I’m so grateful for our friendship. Jennifer, you bring out the very best in Alex and I’ve never seen him happier than he is with you. To Alex and Jennifer, may your love be as strong and enduring as the bond we’ve built through sweat and iron. Customize your best man speech now >>

50. The Music Festival Buddy

Attending my first music festival with Chris was an unforgettable experience. From discovering new bands to dancing until dawn to bonding over our shared love of live music, Chris’ passion, energy, and adventurous spirit made him the perfect festival companion. But as much as I love sharing musical adventures with Chris, what I admire most is his approach to life and love. Chris, your creativity, authenticity, and huge heart inspire me every day, and I’m so grateful for our friendship. Laura, you share Chris’ artistic spirit and kind soul, and I’ve never seen him happier than he is with you. To Chris and Laura, may your love be as wild and beautiful as the music that brought us together. Customize your best man speech now >>

51. The Volunteer Buddy

When I started volunteering at the local animal shelter, I had no idea I would be gaining a lifelong friend in James. From caring for the animals to bonding over our shared passion for making a difference, James’ compassion, dedication, and incredible heart have made him an amazing friend and role model. James, your selflessness and love for all living creatures inspire me every day, and I’m so grateful for our friendship. Sarah, you share James’ kind soul and generous spirit, and I’ve never seen him happier than he is with you. To James and Sarah, may your love be as beautiful and enduring as the difference you make in the world. Customize your best man speech now >>

52. The Trivia Night Teammate

Trivia night at our local bar wouldn’t be the same without Ryan by my side. From obscure history facts to niche pop culture references, Ryan’s endless knowledge, quick wit, and competitive spirit have made him an incredible teammate and friend. But as much as I love dominating trivia with Ryan, what I admire most is his intelligence and humor in all aspects of life. Ryan, your brilliance and humor inspire me every day, and I’m so grateful for our friendship. Lisa, you perfectly complement Ryan’s wonderful qualities and I’ve never seen him happier than he is with you. To Ryan and Lisa, may your love be as strong as our trivia skills and as full of laughter as our nights at the pub. Customize your best man speech now >>

53. The Running Club Buddy

When I joined a local running club to train for my first marathon, I had no idea I would be gaining a lifelong friend in Mike. From early morning training runs to pushing each other to reach our goals, Mike’s determination, encouragement, and endless positivity have made him an incredible friend and running partner. Mike, your strength and resilience inspire me both on and off the trail, and I’m so grateful for our friendship. Emily, you bring out the very best in Mike and I’ve never seen him happier than he is with you. To Mike and Emily, may your love be as strong and enduring as the miles we’ve logged together. Customize your best man speech now >>

54. The Cooking Class Buddy

Signing up for a cooking class was one of the best decisions I ever made, not only because it improved my culinary skills, but also because it brought Alex into my life. From mastering new techniques to bonding over our shared love of food and culture, Alex’s passion, creativity, and warm heart have made him an incredible friend and cooking companion. Alex, your talent and zest for life inspire me every day, and I’m so grateful for our friendship. Jenna, you share Alex’s adventurous palate and kind soul, and I’ve never seen him happier than he is with you. To Alex and Jenna, may your love be as delicious and enduring as the meals we’ve shared. Customize your best man speech now >>

55. The Karaoke Buddy

Karaoke night wouldn’t be the same without Chris by my side. From belting out classic rock anthems to laughing through forgotten lyrics, Chris’ energy, humor, and fearless spirit have made him an incredible friend and duet partner. But as much as I love sharing the stage with Chris, what I admire most is his approach to life and love. Chris, your authenticity and huge heart inspire me every day, and I’m so grateful for our friendship. Customize your best man speech now >>

Related Blogs About Best Man Speeches

Now that you’ve gotten a comprehensive crash course in speech styles and structures by looking through those best man speech examples, check out these related blogs for even more tips and inspiration:

• How to Write a Funny Best Man Speech
• Try Our Best Man Speech Generator 
• The Ultimate Guide to Being a Best Man in 2o24
• Crafting an Unforgettable Best Man Speech for Your Brother: A Comprehensive Guide

How Bridesmaid for Hire Can Help Write Your Best Man Speech

At Bridesmaid for Hire , we’re all about helping you navigate the wonderful (and occasionally stressful) world of weddings. From being a professional bridesmaid to delivering a killer maid of honor speech, we’ve got your back every step of the way.

Remember, being asked to give a wedding speech is an incredible honor – and you’ve totally got this. Stay true to yourself, speak from the heart, and let the love and laughter flow. We are here to help. Try Our Best Man Speech Generator 

Let’s do a quick review of the key best man speech takeaways:

• Choose an authentic speech style and structure that fits your personality and relationship to the groom.
• Keep the speech concise (aim for 3-5 minutes), unless you’re really nailing those sentimental or comedic elements.
• Consider your audience and the overall wedding vibe to ensure your speech is appropriate and well-received.
• Balance humor and sincerity, always bringing it back to your love and support for the groom and his bride.
• Practice, practice, practice for confident and engaging delivery on the big day.

Final Thoughts on our Best Man Speech Examples

Phew, that was a lot of best man speech content! I hope you’re feeling more empowered than ever to knock your toast out of the park. Just remember, there’s no one “right” way to give an incredible best man speech. The magic ingredients are your authentic perspective, genuine sentiments, and a hefty dash of preparation (and maybe a shot of liquid courage – you’ve earned it).

Also, know that Bridesmaid for Hire  is here to help along the way:

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Writing A Best Man Speech For A Brother

Writing a best man speech for a brother .

Did you know that 1 in every 4 best men are also the brother of the groom? If this is the case for you then you’ll need this handy guide on how to write a best man speech for your brother to make the day a triumph !

Diving into the world of wedding speeches can be a nerve-wracking adventure, especially if you’re the designated funny person in your group of friends. However, the true challenge lies in the best man speech . This eagerly anticipated moment holds the power to make or break the atmosphere of the day. It demands an astute blend of wit, humour, and heartfelt sentiments.

Now, if you happen to be the groom’s brother, you might feel like the odds are stacked against you. You’ve known him all your life, so people expect the speech of a lifetime. However, don’t feel overwhelmed. If you follow this ultimate guide, you can create a best man speech that pays tribute to your sibling and contains clever gags .

How To Write A Best Man Speech For Your Brother 

As the brother of the groom, you’re at a massive advantage when writing a best man speech. You’ve seen him at the best of times and at the worst. And a lot of that might have been down to you! So, with an entire lifetime of fights, fraternal rivalry and fellowship to draw upon, where should you start?  

Introduce yourself

First, it’s important to let the wedding guests know your relationship with the groom from the outset. You’d be surprised how many people don’t know. So, establish you’re not his carer, a former work colleague or someone who’s just walked in off the street. You’re flesh and blood, and you’re not going to let this stop you from telling the glorious, unvarnished truth about your brother. Think he looks anxious? Yep. He has every reason to be…!

Early memories

Balance is everything in a speech, and you’ll want some heartfelt material to throw into the mix. Early memories can provide fertile ground. These might be occasions you love to reminisce about such as childhood holidays or family gatherings. Or perhaps it’s rites of passage like riding a bike for the first time, passing an exam or your brother treating everyone to a meal with his first salary. In a sense, writing a Best Man speech for a brother is like writing a letter to your younger selves.

If you are sharing Best Man duties with one of his friends, covering some stories from the early years is also a way to guarantee you do not go over the same ground. Your brother waiting to be seen in hospital with a toy bucket stuck on his head is unlikely to be a story a work friend brings up. At least, you hope not.

Mum and dad… what did they ever do for us?

Your parents raised your brother, clothed him and helped shape him into the unique individual he is today. You too! And they’re still waiting for the thank you note. So, a Best Man speech for a brother is also a wonderful chance to say thanks to your mum and dad for everything they’ve done. You don’t need to lay it on thick. A simple recognition of the sacrifices they’ve made is plenty.

Include some sibling rivalry 

Embracing your role as the groom’s brother offers an ideal opportunity to playfully tease him . After all, a best man speech devoid of jabs at the groom would hardly be worthy of the title. And everyone can relate to sibling rivalry.

How about when your garden or local street was transformed into a makeshift Olympic arena, where the pursuit of victory trumped all? 

Or those “play” fights that would have made Mixed Martial Arts look like a ballet lesson. Was your brother someone who always looked up to you… because you usually had him pinned to the floor?

Remember, it’s perfectly acceptable to indulge in a bit of self-promotion at your brother’s expense. The audience will love it, and – perhaps secretly – he will too.

Jokes Jokes Jokes

This is your chance to remember those delightful, slightly embarrassing stories from the archives of your shared experiences. Remember the times you had to share a room together or even a beloved toy? How did it pan out? Was it plain sailing or did the negotiations require a UN Peacekeeping Force?

Let’s be real here, your brother is well aware of what awaits him. The key is to ensure the spotlight remains firmly on him, while steering clear of any unexploded mines that may dampen the atmosphere.

How To Write A Best Man Speech As The Older Brother

You could present yourself as the esteemed older brother by the younger man’s side. You could be self-deprecating and admit your younger brother is actually wiser and more mature than you. You could, of course, do both.

What’s key is to find those moments that resonate and fill the room with laughter.

For example, did you ever tell him any outrageous lies that would shame a 20 th century dictator? You know, like eating mud makes you run faster… if you eat an apple with the pips in it, a tree will grow in your stomach…

Or were you the one who broke it to him that Santa Claus doesn’t exist? If not, perhaps this wedding speech is the time to finally tell him!

Or, perhaps, you witnessed unforgettable milestones, like the night when your younger brother had his first drunken voyage. Stories of mischief go down a storm. And time will have healed any wounds… and his hangover.

Overall, writing a best man speech as the older brother allows you to express respect and admiration, while playfully reminding him that, no matter how clever, tall, successful, athletic, charming and handsome he is… he forever remains your little brother. So there!

How To Write A Best Man Speech As The Younger Brother 

If you are the younger brother delivering a best man speech, you have the chance both to pay huge respect to your brother and indulge in a little payback time.

For a good number of years, your brother was most probably stronger and bigger than you. Or laid claim to knowledge that you were pitifully too young to understand. So, how did this manifest itself? 

Were you always having to retrieve your possessions from him? Did he embody the saying: “What’s mine is mine, what’s yours is mine.”? Is there a toy you think you NEVER got back? Was your brother the co-author of your medical record? Could trips to the first aid room have been prefaced by: “This bruised rib was brought to you in association with, yep, my older brother again.”

But let’s not forget the times when your big brother swooped in like a hero, rescuing you from the clutches of a menacing bully, sparing you a smack round the head or a dead arm. Or the times he helped with your homework, consoled you, showed you a brilliant hack on a video game or was simply someone who deserves the name of guru, master, teacher, life coach, lode star and total inspiration?

  These stories hold immense potential, as they not only showcase the profound bond between you and the groom, but also infuse your best man speech with sentiment, nostalgia, laughter and love. You know what? You’re going to make your older brother proud.

Still Stuck? Choose A Professional Best Man Speech Writer To Help. 

Are you finding it tough to put your thoughts into words and write a best man speech for your brother’s wedding? Look no further! With my expertise as a seasoned wedding speech writer, I’ve honed my skills over the years to create tailor-made speeches that will not only captivate your audience but keep them hanging on to every word you say.

Why not get in touch with me today for all my speech writing services? 

A guide for BROTHERS of the groom

Tailor-made content for best men who are the groom's brother

1 in 4 Best Men are also a brother of the groom. If you're one of them, congratulations on being chosen to support your sibling. Your special place in their life and affections can help to male your wedding day speech even more impactful and engaging. Here's how...

The brother's advantage.

• The scope of your speech is so much greater than a friend, however close, could hope for. Having grown up with the groom, you'll have a lifetime of funny moments and shared experiences to draw on. Dig back into your childhood as your audience will love hearing tales of you as boys. You'll find you can push the envelope with childhood tales, too. That story about breaking the groom's nose with a snow shovel? Hilarious if you were 4; horrific if you were 24.
• Brotherhood is a license to poke fun. People expect a little light-hearted teasing from a brother, so don't disappoint them. Wisecracks and humourous recollections about your brother's childhood, schooling or personality will be taken in good spirit by an audience that understands a brother's underlying bond of love and loyalty. A word of warning, though; you will know best how far to push things in your own family dynamic. Don't go too far if you think it might put the cat among the pigeons.
• While researching and writing your speech, your family connections mean siblings, parents, aunts, uncles and cousins can all be drafted in to dig up the best annecdotes for your speech. Reach out to them before the wedding. They'll all feel proud and happy to have leant a hand. All that family in the room means you'll have plenty of friendly faces in the crowd when it comes to delivering your speech, too. Most, if not all, of your family will be in the room, and they'll all be rooting for you.
• With the jokes and stories out of the way, talking on the subject of family will give you the perfect opportunity to welcome your new sister-in-law and her parents to your immediate family and the wider clan.

Introducing yourself

Of course, as the groom's brother, you'll be well known to many people in the room, but not to everyone. Be sure to introduce yourself properly and establish the relationship between you and the groom at the outset of your speech.

"In case you hadn't guessed, I'm the groom's little brother. The upgrade, if you will. Think of me as the artist's masterpiece. He's the rough sketches... rough being the operative word."

"I'm Jason; Paul's best man and also his little brother. I think it says a lot about a man when he chooses his brother to be his best man... Mostly, of course, it says 'I have no friends'."

"With the wedding looming, Paul had a difficult decision to make. Two brothers, but only one could be best man. He tried to choose, but in the end Greg and I drew straws... and I lost."

Pulling his leg

Your brother knows what he's letting himself in for. He's expecting to be the butt of your jokes, so don't waste this golden opportunity to have fun at his expense.

Delve into your shared history to find something funny to say about him or your exploits together - remembering, of course, to keep the focus firmly on him. You've got a lifetime of material to draw on. Run through the list below and something is bound to come to mind:

• Birth - including notable world events from the day.
• Infancy - first teeth, words, even illnesses and accidents if the tone is light.
• Christening or First Communion.
• Baby-sitters and pre-school memories.
• Starting school.
• Birthdays, Christmases and family celebrations.
• Sibling relations and visiting wider family.
• Vacations and trips.
• Family pets.
• Cub Scouts, clubs, bike rides, hobbies, sports and interests.
• Music, books, films and favourite celebrities.
• Haircuts and fashions.
• The transition to teenage, first girlfriends and awkward memories.
• Highschool, favourite (and least favourite) subjects, homework and exams.
• Part-time jobs, volunteering and gap years.
• Learning to drive and passing (or failing) driving tests.
• College or university.
• Starting a career, first jobs, work triumphs and funny mistakes.

The list could go on and on, but do note, there's nothing to be gained from talking about ex-girlfriends, except an angry bride, and an unconfortable audience.

Feel free to weave the occasional joke - as opposed to a true story - into your speech, when you're talking the early years. Your audience will understand that you're only playing.

"It has to be said, Paul was a weird looking baby. In fact, we were at the shops once when a woman at a sales desk said he was the ugliest baby she'd ever seen. Mum was fuming. She was pacing up and down outside the shop for ten minutes with me and Paul, until a policeman came over to ask if everything was alright. Mum told him what the woman inside had said and he offered to look after us while she made a complaint to manager... Well, what he actually said was 'You go and give him a piece of your mind, madam. I'll hold your monkey."

"My earliest memory of Paul is from his first birthday party. I remember Dad walking round and round the garden with Paul in his arms, and Paul was just burping and crying for ages. I asked Mum what was wrong with the baby and she said he'd just eaten too much cake... So if you see my Dad outside later, doing circuits with Paul on his back, you'll know what's happened."

Sibling rivalry

Everybody expects a little competition between brothers. Don't be afraid to big yourself up at his expense. Do it well and you won't come across as arrogant. Try to be a little self-effacing even as you roast the groom...

"For those of you who don't know me, I'm Jason, Paul's younger brother. The good looking one. He may be the heir, but I've got the hair."

"Paul was born on the 15th of September, 1973. My parents had wanted a girl... and let's be honest, they very nearly got one."

"Paul took his big brother role very seriously as a kid. He was determined to do what was expected of him. So he beat me up, blamed me for everything he broke, stole my stuff, sabotaged my plans and generally made life unbearable. Anyway, it's a great honour to be giving the best man's speech today... or as I call it, payback."

"I'll be honest; I always got the feeling that Paul was Mum and Dad's favourite, because he could get away with anything. This one time, he brought this fat little smelly kid home from school with him and just marched him into the house. Mum was furious, but she did nothing to stop him. Then again, I suppose she had no choice. I did live there."

"From the outset, Paul was always the perfect son, while I was deemed to be something of a wild child. It's painful to admit, but if we hadn't been brothers, I'm the sort of kid Mum and Dad would have told him not to play with."

Meet the parents

Of course, the single biggest thing you have in common with your brother is your parents. Anecdotes about Mum and Dad wil always go down well, provided there's no underlying bitterness there. Keep them short and upbeat, and don't be afraid to ditch the jokes altogether, for a little family love.

"Mum and Dad have always had an almost uncanny ability to know what's going on in our lives. When Paul found me smoking in the back garden when I was 13, Mum and Dad were the first to know. When he spotted me setting off fireworks from my bedroom window, Mum and Dad were the first to know. When Paul saw me taking... Hey! Wait a minute! My brother's a snitch!"

(Just for twins...) "As identical twins, we always liked the idea of switching places to see if we could fool people. Not in a creepy date-swapping way, just for fun. We tried it a few times but it never quite worked. To be honest, I could never quite pull off the role of 'the stupid one'."

"Other than the bride and groom themselves, I don't think anyone here is more happy to see Paul getting married than our parents. They've been an amazing role model for me and Paul. They've been married for thirty years, and they are still as loving and loyal as ever. It's their love that forms the bedrock of the happy, supportive and loving family before you now. The only thing that was missing, until today, was Linda."

You have a sister now

Make a point of praising your brother's bride. If you can combine the compliment with humour, all the better, but never have fun at her expense. It's better to gently poke fun at him by pointing out how lucky he is, or how his bride has improved him.

"I'm extremely fond of Linda, and we're all delighted to have her in the family. In fact, when Paul told us they were getting married, there was only one thought that ran through our minds... 'Now there's a girl who knows how to settle."

"Linda is something of a miracle worker. She took the mishapen lump of human Play-Doh that I call my brother, and moulded him into a man. Let's hope it lasts. And if he does start to get brittle or droopy in his old age, just sprinkle him with water, roll him around a bit, and draw a smiley face on him with a sharp stick."

"I'm delighted to welcome Linda into the family. We all love you very much and I'm sure you'll find us to be a warm and supportive bunch. Just - and I can't stress this enough - steer clear of Monopoly. Seriously. If the box comes out, just run."

"Linda, it's obvious to me that you and Paul are perfect for each other, and I hope you'll enjoy a lifelong happy marriage. I just want you to remember one thing. When Paul says something that can be taken two ways, and one of those ways makes you sad or cross, Paul meant it the other way... If the other way makes you sadder and crosser, well I'm sorry, Paul, you can dig yourself out of that one."

You've had your fun, now be nice

This isn't a straightforward roast, so while you're busy pulling your brother's leg, make sure to leave room to say something genuinely affectionate about him, if only for your mother's sake. You are brothers. That's a very special bond, and now is your opportunity to celebrate it.

"As Paul's big brother, I've known him his entire life. Often it's the younger sibling who feels he has to live up to his older brother, but with us it's the other way around. Paul is kind, loving, loyal, hard working and ambitious. He's the one I look up to... That's one way of looking at it, anyway. Another is that I was just trying to keep the bar low for him so he wouldn't feel pressured. No need to thank me, mate."

"We're very different people, Paul and I. I like comedies, he's a horror film fan. I'm impulsive, he's a planner. I hate tomatoes, Paul doesn't know a recipe without them. There's one thing we both agree on, though. Meeting Linda was the single best thing that has ever happened to him in his life."

"It's fair to say that brothers don't always see eye to eye growing up, but any grief we gave each other was always offset by the unbreakable bond between us. Paul says the treatment he sometimes doled out when we were kids was to 'round my character', and maybe it did help. If I had an ounce of his kindness, loyalty, dedication and ambition, I'd count myself a lucky man. But no more character rounding, eh Paul? I've got a character like a bloody beach ball, thanks to you."

Wrapping up

Try to leave your audience on an optimistic note, with a warm thought or two about what the future might hold. As with most subjects, your best man role gives you the license to add a little cheeky twist...

"A toast to the future, I think... I see Sunday roasts and smiling families. The harvest of honest work on the table, and the happy faces of children playing. I see love and support and good times together... And then I see that I've got the wrong address! Bloody sat-nav! I get back in the car and drive to Paul and Linda's house. Oh. That's weird. They're not answering the door. They've got the curtains closed. Hang on! The living room curtains just twitched! Oh I see! That's how you treat your family, is it?"

You'll find hundreds of speeches and thousands of jokes at thebestmanspeech.com, with plenty of exclusive content, tailor-made for best men who are the groom's brother.

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Best Man Speech Magic: Crafting Words that Resonate and Inspire

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Hey there! Your friend’s wedding is just around the corner, and he’s chosen you to be the best man? Crafting the perfect best man speech might seem daunting, but trust us, it’s simpler than you imagine.

Below, you’ll find a wealth of tips and examples from Wedding Forward team to guide you through crafting a best man speech that will leave a lasting impression. Moreover, our editorial team interviewed two distinguished experts in the field: Mindy Weiss, the founder of Mindy Weiss Party Consultants and a best-selling author, and Steven Greitzer, a wedding tech entrepreneur and officiant, serving as CEO of Provenance . Their invaluable tips and advice also have been integrated into this article.

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Top Best Man Speeches Examples

It is much easier to write a best man speech when you have some examples to draw upon for inspiration. That’s why Wedding Forward team have prepared variety collection of inspired best man speech to help you craft your own!

Best Man Speech For Friend

Best Man Speech for Brother

“Good evening, hope everyone is having a good time tonight. I feel very privileged and honored to be standing here tonight celebrating this lovely union. Two years ago, Matt gave the best man speech at my wedding and made a lot of awkward jokes. So needless to say, I’ve been waiting for this moment for a really long time! For those who don’t know, I am Matt’s brother, Mike. I first met Matt when I was two years old at our parent’s house in Boston. To be quite honest, I wasn’t thrilled because I really wanted a sister. And I think he knew because Matt would do ridiculous things like throw my toothbrush in the toilet, pour water at me when I was asleep and run across the room naked when I had any friends over. This made me less popular than I already was. Matt always excelled in school, was captain of the debate team (apologies to Cara, but he can argue his way out of anything!) and can make a mean steak. The truth is, despite him being an annoying brother at the time, I came out winning in the end. Because of him and this beautiful night, I am getting the sister I always wanted. Cara, you’re beautiful and our family loves you so much. Thank you for making my brother so happy. Let’s celebrate this amazing union and raise a glass to the newlyweds ! On behalf of the groomsmen and bridesmaids, we’d like to wish you a life full of love, happiness, and joy. To everyone who made tonight happen, thank you. You’ve made this night very special.” Source

Short Best Man Speeches

“Ladies and gentlemen, may I have your attention, please? As the best man, I stand here today to say a few words about the remarkable love story between my incredible friend, [groom’s name], and his beautiful bride, [bride’s name]. [Groom’s name] and I have been through thick and thin together, and I’ve had the privilege of witnessing his growth as a person. But it wasn’t until [bride’s name] came into his life that I saw a change I can only describe as transformative. Their love is like a beacon, guiding them through life’s ups and downs. So here’s to the newlyweds—a couple who have found not just love, but true companionship. May your journey be filled with happiness, passion, and an everlasting bond.”

“Sure, here’s an even shorter best man speech example: Good evening, everyone. For those who don’t know me, I’m [Your Name], the best man. I want to thank [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name] for this wonderful celebration. [Groom’s Name], you’ve been an amazing friend, and seeing you with [Bride’s Name] brings such joy. [Bride’s Name], you complete [Groom’s Name] perfectly. Together, you both inspire us with your love. Let’s raise a glass to the happy couple. May your life together be filled with love and happiness. Cheers!”

Funny Best Man Speeches

Best man talk for adam and kate.

“Adam and Kate – What a great day to get married! Marriage carries new responsibilities. Kate – from now on, you should never argue or disagree with Adam, because he is now the head of the family and the king of his castle. You will be expected to keep your hair and make-up perfect at all times – to dress in a way that pleases Adam. You should cook his favorite meals every night and encourage him to go out with his friends on a regular basis. Do these simple things and your marriage will be blessed with many years of happiness. Kate – I know that Adam loves you very much… because he spent a long time writing this speech for me. Congratulations to the both of you!” Source

Best Man Presentation for Sarah & Simon

“Sarah & Simon – every great relationship starts with rings. In the beginning, the phone would ring and just the thought of speaking to one another was exciting. Your love grew and so did your commitment to each other. The engagement ring soon came after. There were no doubts… your love was true. The engagement ring has now turned into a wedding ring and we are all here today to celebrate your marriage. Now of course… the suffer-ring begins. (smile and raise your glass) Peace and happiness to the new bride and groom!” Source

Speech for Neil and Claire

“Hi my name is Paul and Neil has asked me to be his best man for this wonderful occasion. I would like to say it is a very special honor but with it, comes the responsibility of giving the bloody speech. I would not say it is very comfortable to wear a tuxedo in a 30-degree church, which is not air-conditioned. The church ceremony I’m sure you’ll all agree was a wonderful, wonderful occasion. Maybe a little hot, but I’m glad to see so many of you have replaced your electrolytes with fuel of the alcoholic kind since the reception began. I have known Neil and Claire for_________ [how many years] years. You might say Neil and I met by accident, but it is no accident that Neil met Claire. If you know Neil you know he is an excellent athlete, in fact I noticed his Athletes foot right away. This was a man who had his knees and ankles shaved, for easy taping. I knew this was a hard-core sports fanatic. We both share a tremendous love of football and basketball. For many years, we have had a running bet during the season as to who will score more goals or more runs which of course, I always won. Neil is a ______________ [Groom’s Occupation] in Truro, and I thought__________________________________[Funny or quirky aspect about grooms occupation] Neil is a man who has dedicated his life to __________________[Grooms occupation] And now I’m sure will use his experience with ___________________________[what the Groom does in his occupation] in his marriage with Claire. It is great that Neil found Claire. He has always been looking for someone young, dynamic, intelligent, attractive, and with good health insurance. Neil and Claire met_________________________ [where they meet], But I have it on good authority that Neil started looking for a wife on the internet. And with a multitude of resources at his fingertips, he found some really great stuff, but sadly was unable to find himself a suitable partner. That is, until I mentioned to him that the correct category to be looking should be Woman Seeking Man. I explained the way it works, send an old picture when you still had lots of hair, lie about your height and weight, and at all other times be sincere and honest. I imagine that when Neil and Claire met and introduced each other he said I’m Neil and she said, “I need a Diamond.” So, Neil said, sure let’s pick one out. Claire is a Diamond. Neil is a gem; I think together they make beautiful jewellery. No Marriage would be complete without some brotherly advice to help set you on your way… So I canvassed the room and got some really good stuff for you! Love, honor and cherish each other, and don’t forget to take out the garbage. Your wife is always right. Just in case she is not right, refer back to #2. Always, yes always, notice every new hairstyle or dress. Do something nice for each other every single day. If she asks if something makes her look fat the answer is categorically, NO. Flowers are always a good Idea, even if you are not in trouble. There is really nothing better than a good foot rub or massage. Your wife is more important than sports. I guess. Even the cup final. It is a great joy for me to see Neil and Claire so happy. You learn things when you get older. Hmmm, I mean more mature. You make better decisions, isn’t it great that two people would entwine and commit to each other for life. Love, isn’t that what it is all about? We are here to celebrate that glorious event and this ceremony is all about letting the world know how much Neil and Claire’s love for each other is a reflection of one’s own soul in another’s. Anyway, it is time to celebrate the joyous and unbridled love that these two spectacular people will share the rest of their lives. Would you please stand now and join me in a toast. To love and laughter and happily ever after.” Source

What are the key elements that should be included in a memorable and heartfelt best man’s speech?

That is what Steven Greitzer, wedding tech entrepreneur and officiant, CEO of Provenance, said:

“There are many key elements to take into account when pulling together a great toast:

• Include 2-3 stories in your speech that capture the essence of the groom and your friendship.
• Make sure your speech is appropriate by discussing “no-go’s” with the couple beforehand.
• Acknowledge the groom’s partner in your speech and speak about how the relationship has helped the groom grow (more on that below).
• Offer a thematic takeaway, such as the importance of friendship or the strength of the couple’s love.
• Be sure to practice

The Provenance Toast Builder is the best and easiest way to make sure your wedding toast captures what you’re trying to say.”

Try the Toast Builder

How to Write Best Man Speech

For a great wedding speech, there are some simple rules you have to follow. Here you will find examples of best man speeches Dos and Don’ts from our editors.

• Plan your speech ahead (think about your best man speech structure, choose formal or funny style) and practice.
• Tell a short story ( keep the speech to about 5 minutes or less ) with jokes (2 or 3 will be enough).
• Get sentimental at some point, make compliments to the bride.
• Finish on an optimistic note (end your speech with love quotes or wishes for the happy couple).
• Be thankful (express gratitude towards the couple, their family, and anyone who helped make the wedding happen).

Don’ts

• Do not cross the 2-5 mins time limit.
• Do not make it about you.
• Avoid dirty jokes.
• Do not ignore the bride. Let her know how happy you are, that she is ending up with your friend.
• Avoid rude remarks. Keep your manners in check, even if it’s for a day.

Infographic

Best Man Speech Templates

Click here to download free printable templates of best man speech!

When creating the Best Man speech outline for your talk, include the following elements to involve everyone, making one and all feel that they are important participants in the merrymaking for the newlywed couple:

Use a Magnetic Opening Line

The opening words of your Best Man presentation should grab everyone’s attention. If you favor a romantic approach to start off a speech, you can start with a statement like, “True love wins all,” and then list the various ways the Groom, through his true love for his Bride, has won all her attention and affections.

• If some of the Groom’s favorite hip singer-songwriters date back to the 1960s and ’70s, you can quote from Bob Dylan: “ Love is just a four-letter word ,” going on to mention the many words of just four letters that relate to feelings of true love like “ kiss, hold, keep and ever. ” Be intent and clever with the use of language, and you will achieve better engagement with your audience.
• If your tastes (or the tastes of the newlyweds) are somewhat more classical, you can start by quoting the familiar line from Elizabeth Barrett Browning: “ How do I love thee, Let me count the ways. ” This popular line has been repeated in many variations by countless poets and songwriters ever since, so have no fear of labeling yourself as an egghead when quoting it. This opening line will also give you a chance to mention the main virtues and attributes of the Bride.

Thank the Other Speakers

It is always appropriate and appreciated if you thank the other speakers for the occasion. These speakers usually include the Maid of Honor and the Bride’s Father as well as any other members of the wedding party that the Bride and Groom ask to speak.

It is always good form to express your gratitude for their contributions to this special moment and event. Never criticize or make jokes about what they say or how they say it. Just thank them politely and continue with your own remarks since you know very well how to write a best-man speech.

Congratulate the Newlyweds

Congratulate the wedding couple on this exciting first chapter in their lives together. This is the ideal time to tell the guests how you met your great friend, the Groom. If you happen to be the Groom’s brother or cousin, you can recreate moments of hilarity from your younger years together or shared experiences of suspense or intrigue.

Recalling funny incidents or telling best man speech jokes involving the Groom is totally acceptable, so long as you keep the format and content clean and respectable.

Expert tip from Steven Greitzer:

“A great best man speech strikes the perfect balance of humor and sincerity. You want it to be memorable, but for the right reasons. Check with the couple to see if there are any topics you need to avoid or any topics that might be of particular concern to anyone in the audience. In the Provenance Toast Builder , the couple has the option to call out any topic they do, or don’t, want you to include. If you have any jokes in your speech you are unsure about, run them by someone who is close to the couple who you trust. And if you have a feeling that a joke might upset them or not land well with the audience – err on the side of caution. It’s their big day, not yours! There’s a way to have a funny best man speech that doesn’t upset grandma. Find the balance.”

Compliment the Bride

Now it is time to pull out the stops and give high praise to the Bride using your knowledge of how to write a best man talk. Highlight and emphasize her finest qualities, talents, and accomplishments.

Let them know just how overjoyed you are to celebrate the marriage of these two special people of whom you think so highly. Then give the Bride another charming compliment using top-quality speech writing tips.

Read Messages from Absent Guests

Take time to read some messages from invited guests who could not attend the wedding. This gesture is always appreciated by the absent guests and the Bride and Groom, alike. It also includes their congratulatory thoughts and best wishes for the newlyweds in the day’s special events.

Include a Famous Quote or Poem

Enchant your attentive audience of wedding guests further by reciting a well-known quote or poem that suits the occasion. This adds a creative literary element to the post-wedding celebration for the honored couple. You may want to consult other templates, including a listing of groomsman speech examples.

Best Man Speech Quotes

Choose Best Man speech quotes that reflect the couple’s personality, add humor, and keep them relevant.

Love is like war: easy to begin but very hard to stop. H. L. Mencken

Marriage is a workshop where husband works and wife shops.

A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person. Mignon McLaughlin

Propose a Toast to the Wedding Couple

Raise your glass of champagne so the guests can eagerly follow your example as you deliver a heartfelt toast of optimistic good wishes for the excellent health, increasing wealth, and everlasting happiness of the newlyweds.

The toast should be given with gusto and true sincerity and may include mild best-man speech jokes. Remember that you speak for all the well-wishers in the room who want all the best for this newly married Bride and Groom, so put your best energy, spirit, and talents for convincing elocution into this featured Grand Finale.

The “Thankful” Speech

“Hello everyone, it’s such a pleasure to be here tonight as [Groom’s] best man. And I want to begin with saying what an honor it is that I was chosen to stand by your side today. You’ve always been someone that I looked up to and I am just beyond grateful that I get to share in this moment with you and [Bride]. [Groom] is someone that I’ve come to care for greatly over the years and I am so happy that he’s found someone to share his life with and start a family with. [Groom] has always been my right hand throughout the biggest moments of my life and I can’t wait to be able to watch everything beautiful unfold for the two of you. Cheers to a lifetime of happiness!”

The “Smart Move” Speech

“There’s an old saying about friendship that reads, “It is one of the blessings of old friends that you can afford to be stupid with them,” and goodness that couldn’t be more true for me and my boy, [Groom]. I could go into all the funny stories that include some of that stupidity but instead I’d rather focus on all the smart moves he’s made. His friendships, the relationship he has with his family, his career, it’s all a reflection of the incredible man he’s become. But really, the smartest move he’s made is marrying you, [Bride]. Let’s toast to the best decision [Groom’s] ever made. I wish you a lifetime of love, happiness and success.”

The “She Was the One” Speech

“Ladies and gentlemen, thank you all for coming out tonight to celebrate the wedding of two people we all love, [Bride] & [Groom]! When I first met [Bride], I knew that she was the woman [Groom] would end up marrying. Even if it hadn’t dawned on him quite yet, it was obvious to everyone around just how smitten he was with her. They talk about a bride’s glow, but this man was shining since the moment he met [Bride]. He changed for the better without realizing it. And we all could see it. He couldn’t stop talking about her. We’d go out with the boys and [Bride’s] name would be brought up every two minutes. So, when he came to me to tell me that he would be proposing my only response was, ‘Well, it’s about time!’ There’s something special about these two. They go together without forcing it. They love each other without fighting it. And they care about each other without thinking about it. She was the one from the very beginning [Groom], and we’re all so happy to be able to take part in your big day. Cheers!”

Best Man Speech Opening Lines

Your opening lines are your best-man speech icebreakers, so it’s important that they are good. Grab the attention of your guests with witty best man speech openers such as these.

• “I would like to begin by congratulating the groom on his excellent taste in best men. He has really outdone himself this time, and I’m pleased.”
• “I have been asked by the bride and groom not to share any embarrassing stories, crude jokes, or pranks during my best man’s speech… so I guess that’ll be it from me! Thank you all for listening.”
• “If you cannot hear me at the back, nothing to worry about. By the complete silence in the front row here, you can rest assured that you’re really not missing much.”
• “Is anyone here this afternoon feeling nervous and queasy at the thought of what lies ahead? If you are, it’s probably because you’ve just married (groom’s name).”
• “All of you here who really know the bride must know that she is a wonderful person who deserves a good husband. Thank goodness (groom’s name) married her before she found one.”

Best Man Speech One-Liners

I am about to make the groom cry. I just received the food bill.

He is smart, tall, kind, generous….. Who am I actually talking about?

Hi, the groom is a great friend. Our friendship is 2hours old. I was hired as he’s got no friends.

His colleagues describe him as a first-class banker – I may have misheard them.

I heard some time that marriage is a 50/50 affair. Believe that at your own peril. We have factors called women and improper fractions.

One-liners are sharp jokes delivered in one sentence. A good one-liner is concise and meaningful. It is instant but loaded with humor that can keep the guests laughing for a while. It is important that the best man speech jokes contain one-liners.

Best Man Toasts Examples

“It’s been an emotional day, even the cake is in tiers.”

“Folks, I have been told I am not allowed to have a drink until AFTER my speech. If I seem like I’m in a hurry to finish, it’s because I am.”

“I hope the two of you have the two essential things it takes to have a successful marriage 1) a sense of humor 2) selective hearing.”

“Psychiatrists say that girls tend to marry men like their fathers. That must be why mothers cry at weddings.”

“Love is not about how often you say I love you, but how often you show that it’s true.”

Best Man Speech Jokes

“They say marriage is a journey, and tonight we celebrate the beginning of an epic road trip for the bride and groom. Just remember, guys, never forget to ask for directions!”

“They say the key to a successful marriage is patience, understanding, and a remote control with fresh batteries. Groom, make sure you always keep that remote handy!”

“Let’s raise our glasses to the newlyweds: may their love be like Wi-Fi, strong and never disconnecting, even in the midst of Netflix binges!”

“As the best man, it’s my duty to share a piece of advice with the groom: in marriage, always remember that a happy wife means a happy life… and also remember to nod and agree, even when she’s wrong!”

“Marriage is a lifelong commitment, just like the gym membership the groom signed up for and rarely uses. But this time, there are no cancellation fees!”

Best Man Speech Tips

When delivering your best man speech, it’s essential to captivate the audience with your words and presence. Here are some tips to ensure a memorable and engaging delivery:

• Maintain good eye contact with the audience: Look directly at the guests while speaking. Eye contact helps establish a connection and shows that you are genuinely engaged with them.
• Speak clearly and at a moderate pace: Enunciate your words clearly and avoid rushing through your speech. Speaking at a moderate pace allows the audience to understand and absorb your message effectively.
• Use appropriate gestures and body language to enhance your delivery: Use hand gestures and body movements to emphasize key points and add energy to your speech. However, be mindful of not going overboard and distracting from your message.
• Incorporate pauses for comedic timing and to allow the audience to react: Timing is crucial, especially when delivering humorous anecdotes or punchlines. Pause before and after delivering a joke to build anticipation and give the audience time to laugh and react.

By implementing these delivery and presentation tips, you’ll engage the audience, leave a lasting impression, and make your best man speech a memorable highlight of the wedding celebration.

Are there any common mistakes to avoid, and how to overcome nervousness or stage fright?

According to wedding planner Mindy Weiss, “speeches can help make or break a wedding” . And we agree with this opinion. Speeches have the power to elevate the celebration, bringing tears of joy and laughter to guests, while also creating cherished memories that last a lifetime. However, poorly delivered speeches can disrupt the flow and energy of the event, leaving guests feeling disconnected and the couple disappointed.

Steven Greitzer convinced that one of the biggest mistakes is when the person giving the wedding speech only talks about the partner they’re closest with, unintentionally making the other partner feel left out and unimportant: “To help remedy this, the Provenance Toast Builder gives you the option to either talk about each partner 50/50, or to talk 70% about your person and 30% about their partner (which is a good rule of thumb). The Toast Builder also has thoughtful prompts to encourage you to share why they’re both 1) good people and 2) a great match for each other.

What is the best man supposed to say in his speech?

The best man should share anecdotes about the groom, praise the couple, thank everyone, and propose a toast. Keep it lighthearted and sincere.

How long should a best man speech be?

The best man’s speech should typically be 5 to 7 minutes long. This duration is long enough to share heartfelt sentiments, humorous anecdotes, and well-wishes without losing the audience’s attention. Keeping it concise and engaging ensures it remains memorable and enjoyable for everyone.

How do I write a good man speech?

Write a good best man speech by including humor, expressing genuine sentiments, avoiding inappropriate content, and keeping it focused on the couple. Practice for smooth delivery and timing.

There is truly something for everyone today to create the perfect Best Man Speech for that very special couple and their after-wedding reception, dinner, and celebration. Fond remembrances, amusing stories and anecdotes, humorous quotes, and emotional phrases end with the joyful ring of a clever, yet heartfelt Best Man Toast to the Bride and Groom. The contemporary wedding is truly a work of love and art with all the trimmings and enticing treats for one and all to treasure and enjoy.

Thank you for reading. Please let us know how we did.

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Brother’s Best Man Speech Example

Oh, boy! You’re the groom’s brother, and now he’s asked you to stand up for him at his wedding as his best man. What a tremendous honor! Brothers have an incredible bond, and we know that you are probably pretty stoked to be asked to perform the best man duties.

Planning the bachelor party is what you are looking forward to most, but don’t forget about the best man speech . If the toast has you a little tense and stressed, we’re here to help. We’ve created the ultimate guide on how to write a kick-ass brother of the groom’s best man speech.

We’re sure you’re going to rock this!

THE MEAT & POTATOES OF A GREAT BEST MAN SPEECH

We know that there is a lot of pressure on the best man for preparing a wedding toast that is funny, memorable, and even a little emotional. After all, it is probably the most anticipated speech of the night. Why?

Well, generally speaking, the best man speech tends to include some hilarious outtakes from your time with the groom. And sometimes even some embarrassing moments. So, sure the pressure is on. Luckily with this guide, you will be able to put the anxiety to the side, quell the nerves and write a best man toast that everyone will enjoy.

WHAT SHOULD YOUR BROTHER OF THE GROOM SPEECH INCLUDE?

• A welcome and a thank you to the guests.
• Memorable stories about your relationship.
• A bit about the groom’s exceptional traits and accomplishments
• About meeting the love of his life
• A message to the bride
• Raising your glass to toast the newlyweds

HOW TO WRITE A ROCKSTAR BROTHER OF THE GROOM TOAST

• Be personal; you are the brother, after all.
• Discover a theme (funny, emotional, heartfelt, inspirational, etc.)
• Follow a brother of the groom speech template or outline to keep you organized.
• Write it down! Don’t just wing it, have your speech written on paper or on your phone.
• Practice, practice, practice! Make sure to practice your speech before the wedding day. You can do it in front of a friend for feedback or just in the mirror. You can thank us later.
• Don’t spend too much time taking jabs, although a few are welcomed and sometimes needed to break the ice.
• Don’t wait until the night before to create a rough draft. Come back to it several times to perfect what you want to convey.
• Practice! You’ll be surprised how much nerves and emotions can take over at the moment, but if you’re familiar with your words, you’ll stay on track!

BROTHER OF THE GROOM, BEST MAN SPEECH OUTLINE EXAMPLE

If public speaking is not your forte, we recommend that you follow a brother of the groom speech outline or template. Nerves are a real thing, we know! Having an outline to follow can help you ease into the speech and dismiss any nerves or anxiety.

It’s such a simple public speaking trick, but it really works because it keeps you organized. Here is an example of an easy-to-follow brother of the groom speech outline.

• Introduce yourself and share your relationship with the groom
• Thank other speakers, guests, and vendors
• Congratulate the newlyweds
• Say some favorable words about your brother’s new spouse
• Add in a joke or funny story about the groom
• Read any messages from guests that could not attend
• Propose a toast to the couple

TIPS FOR KNOCKING YOUR BROTHER OF THE GROOM SPEECH OUT OF THE PARK

If you really want to create a memorable brother of the groom speech, we have a few tips. We don’t think you should roast the groom or embarrass him beyond words, but you can definitely have a little fun with your brother of the groom’s best man toast.

• Find a killer opening line – this will set the tone for the toast
• Quote a few famous quotes or a poem
• Stay sober (at least until after your speech)
• Check your tone. No one wants to hear a boring speech. And since yours is the last toast of the night, make sure it is full of energy; it’s upbeat, engaging, and captivating.
• Avoid inside jokes
• Keep it short! The couple and guests will be ready to get the party started, so keep it short.
• Don’t wing it or write it the night before. Put some real thought and preparation into it. Start writing your brother of the groom speech at least two weeks ahead. This will give you time to perfect it, practice it, and get comfortable presenting it.
• Remember to be yourself.
• Don’t try to be a comedian if you aren’t naturally funny.

HIRE A PROFESSIONAL BROTHER OF THE GROOM SPEECH WRITER

Once you get started writing your brother of the groom toast, you may find that you have writer’s block. Or maybe you have plenty that you want to say, but it seems messy, and you’re not sure how to get it to flow seamlessly. If this is where you are, don’t be afraid to hire someone to help. Some freelance writers can help you write a best man speech that you (and the groom) will be proud of. Google it, and we’re sure you will find someone to help.

HOW TO GET A DIG IN ON THE GROOM DURING SPEECH – TACTFULLY

We know most wedding guests expect to hear some funny (or hilarious) dig on the groom during the best man speech. But, please have some heart and make sure you do it tactfully. It is, after all, his wedding day. Here are a few ideas on how to do it.

Won’t Be Winning Any Singing Competition:

“I’d like to tell you that [groom] sings with a lot of feeling. But I can’t lie to you—if he had any feelings, he wouldn’t be singing at all – not even in the shower.”

Culinary Expert He Is Not: 

“We shared an apartment for years during college. When we moved in, we decided that it was his job to cook all of our meals, and my job was to go from room to room removing all the batteries from each smoke alarm.”

Chats A Lot:

“[Groom] has many talents of which I am proud of most. Like his innate and uncanny ability to chat for hours on absolutely any subject —and days if he actually knows something about it. Oh, wait! That’s not one that I’m proud of.”

WHAT NOT TO TALK ABOUT IN YOUR BROTHER OF THE GROOM SPEECH

Just as there are things you “should” include in your brother of the groom speech, there are also things that you should exclude from your toast. If you want your brother to still love you after your speech and your parents to keep you in the will, don’t include any of these things in your brother of the groom’s toast.

• The exes – don’t bring up ANY, and we mean ANY exes
• Nothing negative, especially about marriage
• Inside jokes
• Nothing of a sexual nature

AWESOME EXAMPLES OF BROTHER’S BEST MAN SPEECHES

Staying sentimental.

“Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. My name is Nick, I’m Joe’s brother, and I’m honored to be serving as his best man tonight.

Those who don’t know much about me and Joe’s relationship, let me fill you in a bit. I’m the older guy, which means I’ve been around for his entire life. And I’ve had the privilege of watching him grow into the best man I know, aside from our own father.

I like to think that I’ve impacted his life somehow, but really, he’s impacted mine the most. I wanted a little brother so much before he came into my life. I wished, and I wished, and I couldn’t be more thrilled or feel incredibly lucky that God decided to give me Joe. Helping me build my sense of humor and giving me an ego boost along the way, he’s shaped me into becoming a better man myself.

Partners in crime, wingmen, and best friends, I am so happy that he’s chosen to spend his life with Cindy. If I could mold a woman specifically for my brother, it would have been her in every way. You’ve both gotten so lucky.

Let’s all raise our glass to Joe, his beautiful new wife, and the incredible journey they’re about to embark on.”

FUNNY AND UPBEAT

SHORT BROTHER OF THE GROOM SPEECH

“Good evening, everyone; from the moment that [Groom] met [Bride], I knew that this was going to be something special.

The way you two talk to each other, you’re so alike sometimes that honestly, it kind of scares me.

But to quote Mark Twain, ‘To get the full value of joy, you must have someone to divide it with.’ May your love be timeless.”

HEARTFELT BROTHER OF THE GROOM TOAST

“Most of you here know me, but for those that don’t, I am George, the groom’s older brother. I would like to say that I have been an inspiration to how Gregory has lived his life and the man he has become, but honestly, he has been more of an inspiration to me than I have been to him. His zest for life, undying love for family and friends, and his kind and generous heart are things that I, as his older brother, try to emulate.

As I stand here today, watching my baby brother marry the love of his life, Meghan, I cannot help but dream of the triumphs that we are all about to witness between the two of them.

Meghan, I cannot imagine any more perfect woman and wife for Gregory. Your calm and loving ways compliment him, ways I never knew possible. The way you look at him makes me long for that type of love when I finally find a wife (that’ll put up with me). And I know every best man includes this in their speech, but I can honestly say that I have never seen you look more radiant or beautiful than you do today. My wish for you is that the glow you have today is what you feel every day and what my brother sees every morning and night.

May your love continue to grow and blossom as each year and milestone passes. Ladies and gentlemen, please raise your glasses to toast my baby brother and his wife for life. To Gregory & Meghan!”

Brother Of The Groom Speech Advice

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Home » Brother Of The Groom Speech Advice

(*Of course, if you’re looking for more than ‘advice’, check out all the different ways the Speechy team can help you write & deliver a great speech. Or check out our new AI-powered team member, SpeechyAI .)

(Of course, if you’re looking for more than ‘advice’, check out Speechy’s bespoke speechwriting service . We also have a range of excellent speech templates that might be just what you need.)

What You Need To Think About…

• Modern Best Man Etiquette 
• Your Building Blocks of Content
• Structuring Your Speech
• Writing Your Speech
• Editing Your Speech
• Rehearsing & Delivering Your Speech
• Becoming A Speech Legend 

Yes, so tip number one.

Writing a great speech takes effort. It’s not something you can easily knock out in a weekend. You know all those comedians who ad lib all those quips on panel and talk shows? Well, they’ve spent weeks on those (and we might have written some of them ourselves).

Even as professional comedy writers, a speech takes us time. We need to get the best possible material, create a narrative theme, write a good speech and then spend time honing it down and crafting those punchlines.

So, rule one – get started. (And googling ‘brother of the groom speech’ doesn’t count as actually getting started).

Brother of the Groom Speech Etiquette

Your speech is basically a glorified best man speech with extra intel. And as such, there isn’t actually a lot of etiquette for you to consider. Winner!

The groom & father-of-the-bride (or equivalent speaker) will deal with welcoming the guests and thanking individual members of the wedding party. Your speech is purely to entertain. We’ll get to how you do that soon, but for now, here’s a couple of points of etiquette that have evolved over the last few years:

• There’s no longer a need to address friends and family as ‘honoured guests’. The phrase may be overly formal for many weddings. A friendly ‘Hello, everyone!’ will generally do. Gendered language is also becoming a bit old school these days. If you want further advice on inclusive and diverse language, read this guide
• If you’re part of a traditional speaker line up (father, groom, best man) you may find the bridesmaids get a lot of attention, but if the newlyweds thank them, there’s no need for you to mention how gorgeous they look too (unless, of course, you fancy them).
• Sometimes the best man is asked to read out notices from the venue or messages from people who couldn’t attend the wedding (though, generally we’d encourage against incorporating ‘sorry we’re not there’ messages unless they’re really funny).
• Of course, there is a must do for any best man . Compliment the bride (or groom) and try to do it sincerely. Extra points if you can talk about her awesome personality, drunken party tricks, and ability to put up a tent quicker than you can, rather than just saying the normal best man cliches about her looking gorgeous (though she will appreciate that too!).
• Your speech, of course, needs to end with a toast . It should be directed to the newlyweds but no need to follow the boring old traditional ones. Make your toast personal to the couple if you can…

‘Here’s to the bride and groom – and a love made from Jagerbombs’.  

Brother of the Groom Speech Content

So as well as the usual embarrassing anecdotes, drunken stories and questionable fashion sense that a lot of best men focus on, you’ve also got the childhood ammunition to play with too. Get your folks involved. Shove dad up the loft and get out the old report cards. Find his beloved old teddy. Consider yourself a Scandi-noir detective hunting down the most embarrassing anecdotes known to man. Ask yourself some probing questions…

• Did you grow up squabbling or were you always as thick as thieves?
• Was one of you clearly the favourite growing up?
• Who was it who got all the grubby hand-me-downs?
• Who was always the funnier / smarter / sportier brother?
• How did you get each other into trouble / lead each other astray? 

Structure Your Speech

Writing a wedding speech should be approached in the same way you would a business presentation or a university thesis. You need to consider the fundamental building blocks you want to cover. Then, work out your thesis statement, present that at the top, and go about proving it in the rest of the speech.

The hardest part of writing your speech is coming up with that central thesis idea. There’s lots of terms for this – the narrative hook, the story-theme – but it’s that central idea that flows through your speech and brings together all the different elements. It’s what stops your speech from being a list of random insights and anecdotes and transforms it into something more meaningful.

Our Brother of the Groom Speech template has the choice of four different speech themes for you to choose from and work with but hopefully, you can come up with your own. Once you’ve got it nailed, the next step is structuring your speech…

• Hello and introduce yourself / your relationship to the groom
• Get an early laugh and establish the theme of your speech
• Humorous account of your brother through childhood / adult years
• Shock at him meeting his partner
• Tribute to his partner
• Thoughtful tribute to your brother
• Sweet & humorous conclusion to the speech – summing up the theme of the speech and wishing the couple the best for the future

Writing & Editing Your Brother of the Groom Speech

Some writers tips:

• Prove , don’t just tell. Don’t just use adjectives. If he’s a sensitive chap, reveal how he always cries at ET – even in his 30s.
• Find the qualities that make him unique – his photographic memories of the Nando’s menu, his unusually short T-rex arms.
• Ensure the first few sentences of your speech contains humour. It will immediately relax you and your audience. Read our How To Make Your Speech Funny Guide to make sure you deliver original jokes and don’t resort to googled wedding gags. Getting the humour right throughout your speech is key so it really is worth a read. Remember, don’t go ‘edgy’ and never bother with stag do stories (all grooms get drunk and embarrass themselves).
• Only three fifths of your speech should be an affectionate roasting of your brother. The rest of it needs to be a sentimental, loving and poignant tribute to him and his partner. Again, prove, don’t just tell. When you say he’s always there for you, remind him of the time he picked you up from the train station at 3 am after you lost your wallet. For the second time that year.
• And when it comes to his new spouse – celebrate them for for the individual they are rather than resorting to cliches and platitudes about them making your brother a better man. Yawn.  
• Less really is more. Once you’ve written your speech try to edit it by a third. We guarantee it will feel punchier, funny and more meaningful with the waffle cut out. The maximum word count for a best man speech is 1,300. It’s important to be able to deliver your speech within ten minutes (including pauses for laughter).

Rehearsing & Delivering Like A Pro 

Delivering with confidence is half the battle. If you look like you’re enjoying your time on the mic, others will too. Here’s what you have to do.

Plan to deliver

• Assume you’ll use notes. Why not? This isn’t a test of your memory and notes are not a sign of weakness; simply that you’re prepared. As the public speaking expert, Alan Berg says in ‘ The Modern Couple’s Guide to Wedding Speeches’ , ‘I’m never impressed by a waitress who doesn’t write the order down. Jot it down so I’m not worrying you’ll forget it. Write it down, get it right.’
• Assume you’ll use cue cards or paper to read your notes from. Reading from your mobile still looks overly casual.
• Although you’ll have notes, plan only to refer/glance at them, rather than read them! Rehearse your speech so often that it becomes second nature. In the shower. Just before going to bed. Record yourself and listen to your speech on your commute. Make your speech your soundtrack of choice for a fortnight.
• Talk at a conversational speed.
• Smile. It’s literally infectious.
• Laugh at your own jokes.
• Pause when you expect laughter. (Sometimes people need a moment to get it)
• Extend the laughter with facial expressions and gestures. (Sometimes an eyebrow raise as elicit as much laughter as a cracking punchline).

Read our ultimate guide to delivering your speech like a pro . or shout if you fancy a bit of one-to-one coaching . We’d love to help you nail this.

The Speechwriting Experts

The Speechy team  are TV-trained scriptwriters/comedians by trade & we’ve helped 1,000s of speakers around the world deliver their dream speech.

Our advice has been quoted everywhere from  The New York Times  to  Grazia  and from Forbes to The Observer . Our founder has also featured on the  BBC Sounds’ Best Men podcast with Jason Manford and written ‘ The Modern Couple’s Guide to Wedding Speeches’ , published by Little, Brown.

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