How to Write a Great Best Man Speech

Being asked to be the best man is a huge honor. Our guide will walk you through writing a speech that's funny, heartfelt, and unforgettable—for all the right reasons.

10 min read
For any best man
Step-by-Step Guide

Key Elements of a Memorable Best Man Speech

The Perfect Balance

Master the mix of humor and sincere emotion

Personal Stories

Share anecdotes that highlight the groom's character

A Memorable Toast

End with a powerful and meaningful toast to the couple

Quick Best Man Speech Tips

  • Start by introducing yourself and how you know the groom.
  • Share a short, funny, and appropriate story about the groom.
  • Keep it under 5 minutes – short and sweet is best.
  • End with a heartfelt toast to the happy couple.

The 4-Step Best Man Speech Process

1

Brainstorm & Outline

Gather your stories and ideas, and decide on a theme for your speech.

  • Recall key memories
  • Note the groom's best qualities
  • Choose a tone (funny, heartfelt, or both)
2

Structure Your Speech

Organize your points into a clear and engaging flow.

  • Craft a strong opening
  • Develop 2-3 core stories
  • Plan a meaningful conclusion & toast
3

Write and Refine

Draft your speech, then edit for clarity, flow, and impact.

  • Write like you talk
  • Avoid inside jokes
  • Read it aloud to catch awkward phrasing
4

Practice and Deliver

Rehearse your speech until you feel confident and can deliver it naturally.

  • Time your speech (aim for 3-5 mins)
  • Practice making eye contact
  • Bring notes, but don't just read from them

Writing Your Speech: The In-Depth Guide

1. The Perfect Opening

Start by grabbing everyone's attention and introducing yourself. You're the best man, so let them know how you fit into the groom's life.

  • State your name: "Good evening everyone, for those who don't know me, my name is [Your Name]."
  • Explain your relationship: "...and I've had the honor of being [Groom's Name]'s best friend for the past 10 years."
  • Thank the guests: "It's wonderful to see so many people here to celebrate [Groom] and [Partner]."

2. Tell a Great Story (or Two)

This is the heart of your speech. Tell a story that highlights the groom's great qualities. It should be personal, positive, and preferably a little funny.

  • Focus on a positive trait: Is he loyal, funny, generous? Tell a story that shows it.
  • Keep it appropriate: This is a wedding, not a roast. Avoid stories about exes, illegal activities, or anything truly embarrassing.
  • Connect it to the couple: Transition from your story about the groom to how you've seen him grow with his new partner. For example, "I always knew he was [trait], but seeing him with [Partner's Name] has brought out a whole new level of..."

3. Acknowledge the Partner

A great best man speech is about the couple, not just the groom. Make sure to talk about the groom's partner and your happiness for them as a couple.

  • Speak about the partner's wonderful qualities.
  • Mention how happy they make your friend.
  • Welcome them to the family on behalf of the friends.

4. End with a Powerful Toast

Your conclusion should be clear, heartfelt, and lead into the toast. Don't let the speech just fizzle out.

  • Share a heartfelt wish for their future.
  • Offer a piece of advice (if it feels right).
  • Clearly ask guests to join you: "Now, if you'll all please raise your glasses..."
  • Deliver the toast: "To the happy couple, [Groom] and [Partner]! Wishing you a lifetime of love and happiness."

Common Best Man Speech Mistakes to Avoid

  • Too many inside jokes: A few are okay, but the whole room should be able to enjoy the speech.
  • Forgetting the partner: The speech is for the couple, not just your buddy.
  • Making it too long: Keep it under 5 minutes. No one has ever complained about a short speech.
  • Telling inappropriate stories: Avoid anything about ex-partners, past mistakes, or embarrassing moments.

Ready to Write Your Perfect Best Man Speech?

Use our AI-powered speech writer to create a personalized, funny, and heartfelt best man speech in minutes.