Wedding Anniversary Speeches
You are nervous after being given the opportunity to make a speech for you parent’s weddng anniversary. You’re not sure what you should say or how to structure it. Public speaking and highlightinh such a special day for your parents is not really something you are comfortable with. Your confidence in your speaking abilities is a bit shaken.
You don’t need to make a long speech. Abraham Lincoln’s famous speech – Four score and seven years ago – was only 3 minutes but the world never forgot those immortal words. Your speech will likely be remembered by the couple whenever they think back to their special day so here are some tips to help give the perfect wedding anniversary speech.
Be Prepared
This is the single most important tip I can give you. Do not try to wing it. You want to be prepared so that you can gather what you want to say and then strucutre it into a format that will flow and be entertaining and memorable. Don’t over do it. Short and simple is key.
Use happy memories
When preparing for the speech ask the couple about some of their fondest and happiest memories. How did they meet? What where some memories of raising thier kids? What so they like to do with their grandchildren?
Introduction
It is possible that some may not know you so you should tell everyone who you are and your relationship with the couple. Starting off with a joke or funny story is a good way to break the ice and get everyone’s attention.
Use facial expressions
You should use facial expressions to express emotion and meaning to your speech. You won’t be nearly as effective if you look at your cue cards the whole time and never crack a smile. Gestures and expressions help relay what you feel to the audience and helps them connect with what you are saying.
Get the audience involved
If possible include stories that involve other friends and guests. Did they go on a memorable camping trip witht he couple or spend a vacation together? This will help the audience feel part of relate better to your speech
Quality not quantity
You don’t have to bore the guests with every story you know about the couple. Choose a few favorite and most memorable stories to share. You should keep it to a 3 minute limit.
Have some notes
Use cue cards to summarize your main points in case you forget part of your speech. Try to look at the cue cards as little as possible and keep eye contact with the guests.
Use quotes or poetry
Everyone loves a romantic poem. Spice things up with a famous quote or classic poem. There are lots of free quotes and poems available online.
Anniversary gifts
Each wedding anniversary is a special milestone for the couple. You have been given the opportunity to speak to the guests on their behalf, why not present them with your gift. This is a great idea to enhance such a momentous occasion and it will be remember for a long time to come.
Inspiration and thanks
Make sure you let the couple know how much they have inspired and affected the lives of their friends and family. Take this time to show them how grateful you are to have the chance to know them and have them in your life.
Show the memories
Showing a slide show of memorable pictures or a video of the couples relationship that everyone will love. The couple will see snapshots of great times that brought them to this point and guests will melt seeing happy days gone by.
The anniversary toast
End off your speech with a Happy Anniversary for the couple and best wishes for the future with a raised glass for a toast.