Best man speech examples, and how to write yours
A good best man speech is three to five minutes long, tells one real story and ends with a toast. Below: the structure most great speeches share, three original examples you can learn from, and the mistakes that sink speeches.
The five-part structure
Almost every speech that lands follows the same shape. You do not need jokes from the internet; you need this order and one story only you can tell.
- Open with a first line about the groom, not about yourself.
- Say who you are in one sentence.
- Tell one story that shows who he is. One, not five.
- Turn to the couple: what changed when he met his partner.
- Raise your glass with a short, clear toast.
Example 1: funny, but kind
Notice how the joke is about a harmless habit, and the turn to the couple comes right after the laugh.
Tom has never once in his life been on time. I know this because I have spent roughly four years of our friendship waiting outside things. I'm Chris, his best friend since we were twelve, and today is the first time I have ever seen him arrive early. That tells you everything about how he feels about Anna.
Example 2: heartfelt
Heartfelt does not mean long. One specific moment beats a list of compliments.
When my dad was in hospital three years ago, the first person in the waiting room was not family. It was Sam, with two coffees and a phone charger, because he knew I'd forget both. That is who Sam is. He shows up before you ask. Jordan, you have married the most reliable man I know.
Example 3: short and safe
If you are nervous, or the program is long, two minutes is perfect. Keep the story small and the toast clear.
I'm Daniel, Mark's brother. Growing up, Mark always shared his last slice of pizza, even when he really didn't want to. Sarah, you are the first thing I've ever seen him refuse to share. Please raise your glasses: to Mark and Sarah.
How long should it be?
Three to five minutes, which is roughly 450 to 750 spoken words. Read it aloud with a timer. If a story needs a long explanation, cut it.
Mistakes that sink best man speeches
- Opening with "For those who don't know me".
- Inside jokes only five people understand.
- Mentioning exes, or anything you would not say in front of grandparents.
- Reading from a phone without looking up.
- Forgetting the actual toast at the end.