sample matron of honor speech for sister

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How to easily write a great Maid of Honor speech for your sister

Step-by-step help, a maid of honor speech outline template to use, with a FREE printable and a heartfelt speech example

By:  Susan Dugdale  | Last modified: 09-28-2023

Understandably many women feel a little bit nervous about writing a maid of honor speech for their sister!

After all, this can be a daunting task. You love your sister. And she's honored you, by choosing you for this special role.

The last thing you want is to embarrass her, or her wedding guests, on her big day. But what do you say?

What are the right words to reflect your relationship with your sister? How do you sincerely share the happiness you feel for her and her new husband-to-be?

And where, on earth, do you begin?

The answer is here. The good news is that it's straight forward, and simple. Not hard work at all.

What's on this page

How to start your sister's maid of honor speech

How to brainstorm : the process from generating ideas to selecting the best ones to use, step by step.

The five parts of the speech template with explanatory notes and example text:

• 1. The introduction

2. History with the bride

3. life before the groom, 4. the romance.

• 5. The conclusion

A FREE printable maid of honor speech outline to help you effectively organize and order what you want to say

More MOH resources : 2 more maid of honor speeches, poems and readings...

How to start your maid of honor speech

Grab a piece of paper, a pen, and start with a brainstorming session to collect up the stories and ideas you think you might like to share.

Then follow each of the five steps in the maid of honor speech outline that form the speech template below.

You'll come out the other end of the process with a short, simple and sincere speech: one that really does honor your sister on her wedding day. Read the example speech and see for yourself!

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Do a brainstorm to collect your thoughts

The best way to begin writing the perfect maid of honor speech for your sister is to collect your thoughts together. And the best way to do that is to brainstorm.

The brainstorming process

The brainstorming process is very simple. Jot down ideas about what you think you want to touch on in your speech, just as I've done in the image above. 

Allow yourself complete freedom to explore as many potential topics as you can and, as much time as you need.

Recall fond memories. Remember shared experiences: the good times, the hard times and the funny times. Think about her best qualities: the ones you admire her for.

Do not edit or censor your words

Do not edit yourself! Put down whatever comes into your mind. Don't stop to worry about whether it's good, bad or appropriate. You'll review it later, and definitely don't stop to check your spelling!

You do not need to write full sentences or paragraphs: just notes. You want enough words to trigger your memory about what you thought would be a good idea to say and that's all.

If you run out of paper, get another piece. Keep going until you can genuinely think of nothing more.

Picking the best material from your brainstorm notes

Next you will pick the best of these ideas and organize them into the 5 sections of the template below. This will give your speech a logical structure: a clear beginning, middle and end.

Obviously, the tone: whether the speech is laugh-out-loud funny, wryly amusing, sentimental or heartfelt and sincere, is something you'll decide for yourself. That's governed by the stories and ideas you choose to share and the language you use to express them.

Read a maid of honor speech example for a sister

This example maid of honor speech is based on the notes from the brainstorm image above.

The text of the speech is split into five parts: one for each of the required sections. As you scroll down the page you'll see it in the green call-out box under each section's explanatory notes.

1. The introduction to your maid of honor sister speech

In the introduction it's customary to identify yourself because there may be guests who don't know you and don't know you are the bride's sister.

Next you welcome the guests to your sister's wedding reception, thank the happy couple for letting everyone share in their day, and then you thank your sister for the privilege of being her maid of honor.

(I've added a story too: to make it more interesting and bring a smile!☺)

1. Introduction

What a day, Mary!

Remember when we were kids, how we dressed up in Mom’s old party dresses? And how we used to put a white tablecloth on our heads and march around, singing, “Here comes the bride, fair fat and wide.”?

Good evening. My name is Jennifer, and this beautiful woman, this stunning bride: the antithesis of “fair fat and wide”, is my beloved little sister.

As little girls, we laughed ourselves silly over that game. Now here we are twenty-five years later.

Not laughing. Mary’s not wearing a tablecloth. And this time it’s for real.

It's a great honor to be asked to speak. Thank you.

Thank you too, to all of you, for coming to share this special day with us. Especially Frank’s family.

We know Mary adores you, almost as much as she does us. It’s wonderful seeing our families all together to celebrate this marriage.

Next, you could share a short story: something humorous, or anecdotal, about the bride from your childhood memories. This will give the audience a picture of your relationship with her, and also set the tone for the rest of the speech.

Whether you choose to write something funny, serious or sentimental, the most important thing to remember is to be genuine.

2. History with the bride 

The pair of us, share thirty years worth of loyalty and love: with an occasional sisterly quarrel thrown in. The usual sort of thing. Her snitching my favorite pair of jeans, without asking, and looking better in them, when we were 17 and 15 years old. A bit of phone snooping...Nothing major. Certainly nothing a bossy big sister couldn’t handle.

Before I left home, we shared a bedroom for a long time. That means you go through cycles of liking, loving and loathing each other. Sometimes all at once.

The jeans was definitely loathing.

The way she took my side over not eating Brussels sprouts was sisterly solidarity. Mary and me united against parental cruelty! I liked that.

But what was truly excellent, was our bed time stories: the ones we told each other. As soon as Mom turned off the light and closed the door, we’d pick up from where we left off the night before.

A favorite was the classic tale of a prince (handsome) arriving in the nick of time to rescue the beautiful damsel in distress, from some dastardly fellow, or a particularly nasty situation.

(We rejected stories about girls having a fabulous time up to their elbows in grease rebuilding a vintage car in the garage. We wanted lace, lots of it and happily ever after, down the aisle.)

In our stable of handsome princes, the handsomest prince of them all, the one we both swooned over was Darren. Darren was a super-super man created for us, by us. He was brave, brilliant, strong, just like Dad, and let us do whatever we wanted, whenever we wanted. (Not like Dad.)

Did he ever go out to work? Nah. Did he ever tell us we had to rescue ourselves? No chance.

Darren was always there. Always ready. Always had time and always, always knew what to do. Darren was masculine perfection.

I can’t remember the exact moment when this fine fellow left.

But I do know Frank had quite an act to follow.

This next section focuses on your sister's life and what she was doing before she met her new spouse.

For example, maybe she was busy focused on her career and never really gave enough time to finding a best friend and life-partner.

Or perhaps your sister was having a good time travelling the world when she found her match.

Or did she fall for her good friend, the person next door whom she's known since she was eight?

Stories to avoid

There are a couple of things to watch out for.

The first is to be mindful about sharing anything that could be embarrassing for either your sister, her new husband, or your family members and friends. (Past relationships are generally off limits.)

In addition, please don't fall into the trap of sharing a tale or something about your sister that no one can relate to except for you and her. If you do that you'll find yourself looking at puzzled faces.

When my sister dreams, she dreams big, and then she makes it her business to have them come true.

High school was followed by college which was followed by the career she’s always wanted: to be an editor and read for a living. The pinnacle of bliss for a 'booky' girl! A job enabling her to bask in the afterglow of a successfully relocated sentence terminal: aka a period or full stop.

I’m proud of what she's achieved, how she balances her life, somehow making time for everything.  She's graceful, organized and appears, unrushed. (A trick I need to learn!) 

Mary’s a good person, a great friend and, my role model.

Then along came Frank. Was it true love at first sight?

Next, transition to a paragraph about your sister and her husband. How did they meet? How has the groom changed your sister’s life?

You can talk about how inspiring their relationship is to you or share a humorous story involving your sister and new brother-in-law.

This part doesn’t have to be very long.  It's necessary because it brings your speech into the present. A good way to conclude this portion is by formally welcoming the groom into your family.

Did she swoon? Was she in a ghastly situation: a set of parentheses too many? And nowhere obvious to put them? You’ll have to ask her yourself.

What I’ve learned about Frank over the last six years...

(Yes, six years! And you all thought it was tough waiting for her to get to the church. 10 minutes. Diddly-squat, compared to what she put him through!)

What I’ve learned leaves us in no doubt he’s earned her hand in his.

This man loves books just as much as she does. Hard to believe, but it’s true. Both of them live by the wisdom: when in doubt go to the library. You’ll find the answer to everything there.

Some people do bar crawls. These guys do libraries. And book stores, and book rescues: tatty, out of print treasures from street stalls.

He’s kind. He’s thoughtful. He loves walking in the country side, chocolate, and his dog, a golden lab called Fido.

We think Fido was the clincher, with dark chocolate close behind. Plus, books, his ability to listen, to laugh...

In short, he knows how to be there for her, day after day, night after night, page after page, chapter after chapter.

5. Conclusion

There are many possibilities for a conclusion. You could end with a quote, a joke, some spiritual advice, a toast or simply say, congratulations.

Do try to keep with the tone you’ve set in the rest of the speech and end with what feels most appropriate for your sister.

Darren? Pooh! He’s been well and truly replaced by the real and best thing. We couldn’t possibly imagine a better partner for her. They're a perfect match.

Ladies and gentleman please join me in congratulating Mary and her handsome prince Frank. May they continue to share their love story for many, many happy years.

Get a printable Maid of Honor speech outline

This printable maid of honor speech outline template * pdf will help you organize and order the stories and ideas you generate for your speech when you do the ** brainstorming exercise.

Follow the step-by-step instructions on page 1 of the template, select what you want to use from your brainstorm notes, and enter them in the right places.  

Once the outline is complete, you'll be ready to turn it into a speech.

To get the printable either click on the image below or this link: maid of honor speech outline .

( * The pdf will open in a new window.) ( ** For best results do the brainstorming exercise before trying to complete the template. )

More MOH speech resources to help

I have other pages which you may find useful. For instance:

• another two maid of honor speech examples

•  how to end a Maid of Honor speech : 20 examples of conclusions of varying types. Some are funny. Some use quotations...
• a huge collection of wedding poems and readings . You might find just what you want there.
• notes on writing a bridesmaid speech
• detailed notes on general speech preparation (very good if you've never prepared a speech before)
• advice on how to practice your speech because getting the words written is only part of the task. Delivering them completes it. Doing that the very best you can will make your maid of honor speech extra special for everybody.

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A Step-by-Step Guide to Nailing Your Maid of Honor Speech

• Chapelle writes articles for The Knot Worldwide. She covers all things wedding-related and has a personal interest in covering celebrity engagements and fashion.
• Before joining The Knot Worldwide, Chapelle was an editorial intern for Subvrt Magazine.
• Chapelle has a degree in English writing from Loyola University New Orleans.

As a wedding party member, you'll likely be asked to speak at the wedding. In fact, giving a maid of honor speech is one of the most important maid of honor duties to complete on the big day. You may be a gifted orator, which means writing (and giving) a speech will be a breeze. But if the thought of speaking in front of a crowd makes you a little nervous, don't panic. With the help of Heidi Ellert-McDermott, professional speech writer and founder of Speechy , we've provided you with everything you need to know about the matron of honor speech. Learn what to say, how to say it and exactly how to get rid of any nervous butterflies. Use these tips, template, outline and more to write a perfect maid of honor speech that'll bring the house down.

In this article:

Printable Template | How to Write | Examples | Tips | FAQs

Printable Maid of Honor Speech Template

For those looking for a quick and simple reminder of how to write a maid of honor speech, bookmark this template. You could even save it as your phone or laptop wallpaper while you're writing to keep you on task.

How to Write a Maid of Honor Speech Outline

So, how do you write a matron of honor speech? It helps, but you don't need to be a professional speechwriter to write a special toast for the newlyweds. Use this guide to create a heartfelt message that'll make everyone laugh, cry or both.

1. Reflect on your relationship with the couple.

Think about your relationships with each person in the couple. This is your time to write down any personal moments you shared with them. These moments can bring some tears or laughs, but they show the wedding guests how you know the happy couple. Maybe you and one of the newlyweds went on an epic trip to Europe together. Or you and the newlyweds have known each other since high school and have plenty of silly and embarrassing stories from that time. No matter which memory you choose for your maid of honor speech, pick your favorite (appropriate) story and have fun with it.

2. Celebrate the couple's relationship.

Another part of your matron of honor speech should be dedicated to the couple's relationship. You can talk about when they first met, when you knew they were in love, or how you knew they were meant to be. If some details are a little fuzzy, talk with the other honor attendants or close friends of the couple to help refresh your memory. Overall, you want to paint a picture of how the couple was when they first met, how they've grown together and why they complement one another.

3. Avoid taboo topics.

There are certain topics you shouldn't have in your maid of honor speech. It doesn't matter how you try to deliver it. These taboo subjects are liable to offend someone:

• Negativity about marriage in general.
• Past relationships.
• Previous marriages/divorces.
• Drinking, drugs, gambling.
• "Adult" humor or any other mention of sex.

Remember, you don't want to cause any drama. Keep the focus of your speech on uplifting the happy couple and celebrating their love for one another.

4. Add jokes—but not too many.

Feel like you have a comedic gift? Consider adding some jokes, one-liners or funny marriage quotes to your maid of honor speech. Ensure you don't use any inside jokes or references only you and the newlyweds would understand. Your speech should be something every wedding guest can appreciate and laugh at. This also means your jokes shouldn't be too harsh or bring up any taboo wedding speech topics we previously listed.

Be deliberate about where you put your jokes and spread them out. You want them to add comedic relief to a sentimental toast, not seem like a stand-up routine. Start your speech with a funny opening line so the guests can laugh and get an idea of what kind of person you are—plus, laughs give you time to overcome any nerves you might have.

5. Create your maid of honor speech outline.

Get creative and personalize your maid of honor speech as much as you want. A customized script is much more endearing for guests. But when it comes down to it, a great wedding toast will include the following remarks:

• Start with an introduction—along with an explanation about your connection to the happy couple.
• Next, give a word of thanks to the couple for inviting you to be part of their special day.
• Say one or two personal anecdotes, like a favorite memory, joke or sweet sentiment that most guests will understand.
• Provide encouraging advice or a thoughtful quote about the newlyweds' future.
• Finish with a closing remark and an invitation for guests to raise their glasses.

Maid of Honor Speech Examples

Need more than a maid of honor speech template to help you? Then choose your favorite sample maid of honor speech below and use it to help get your creative juices flowing.

Funny Maid of Honor Speech

Hello! For those of you who haven't had the chance to meet me yet, my name is [Your Name]. [Newlywed's Name] and I have been best friends since high school, which means we've been on each other's top eight friends list for a while. That's for my old Myspace users out there.

Typically, public speaking makes me beyond nervous, but I knew I had to make a speech for one of the most important people in my life. I've known [Newlywed's Name] for a long time and have appreciated every special moment we've shared over the years. [Newlywed's Name] has a beautiful soul, and I'm so happy that [Newlywed's Name] has found someone who complements it.

As everyone probably knows [Newlywed's Name] isn't a shy person, so the fact that [Newlywed's Name] would always giggle and blush whenever referring to 'the hot coworker' and I knew something special was going to come out of it. I've gotten to know [Spouse's Name] really well over the years, and I can honestly say [Spouse's Name] is one of the most genuine and caring people I've ever met.

Everyone aims to find their one true love, their soulmate, the person that's going to love and cherish them for the rest of their lives. And that moment came for [Newlywed's Name]...when they met me 18 years ago. But in all seriousness, I wish you and [Spouse's Name] a long and wonderful marriage. Congrats to you both, and I hope you find a lifetime of happiness together. Cheers!

Find your kind of venue

Maid of honor speech for best friend.

Good evening everyone! I thought the most nerve-wracking part of being a maid of honor was giving the speech, but fixing [Newlywed's Name] shoe malfunction before the wedding ceremony is high on the list.

I think I've calmed down by now, so I'll continue. My name is [Your Name], and I've known [Newlywed's Name] since college. We sat next to each other one time in an eight A.M. Spanish class and have been inseparable ever since. We've known each other for so long I would consider us siblings now, and I'm so blessed to have such a wonderful person in my life.

[Spouse's Name] is charming, intelligent, thoughtful and to quote [Newlywed's Name] after their first date, 'sooo cuteee.' I consider myself a top-notch wingwoman and matchmaker, but even I couldn't have picked a better person for [Newlywed's Name] to fall in love with. Anyone can take one look at them together and see that they're a perfect example of 'meant to be.'

I'm honored that you both have not only chosen me to be a significant part of your big day but also a significant person in your lives. I'm excited to watch you two enjoy this new chapter in your lives as a married couple. I love you both so much!

Maid of Honor Speech for Sister

Hello everyone! If you couldn't tell already from our almost identical faces, I'm [Bride's Name] sister. We're only two years apart, so we've always been really close. We would do everything together, like that one time we got gum stuck in our hair on the same day and spent hours combing peanut butter into each other's hair to help get the gum out. Unfortunately, this didn't work out, and we had to chop a lot of hair off.

Regardless of all the trouble we've got ourselves into, I can't imagine sharing such fun memories with anyone else. I've always looked up to [Bride's Name] and continue to think of her as a great role model to me and many others. I feel so happy and proud to call [Bride's Name] my sister.

[Spouse's Name], you've come into our lives seamlessly, and I've never seen my sister happier. You're such a funny and loving person, and to this day, every time my sister talks about you, she gets giddy. I really do think you guys are perfect for one another, and I can't wait to see how you grow even more as life partners.

Everyone raise your glass to congratulate [Bride's Name] and [Spouse's Name]. May each day be full of love and laughter!

Maid of Honor Speech for Cousin

Shout out to Ellert-McDermott for writing the passionate maid of honor speech below.

Ladies and gentlemen, friends and family and all you lucky souls who scored an invite to the wedding of the century. My name is [Your Name], and I have the pleasure of being the maid of honor today, or as I like to call it, the 'official party planner, the emergency dress fixer and human tissue dispenser.'

You all know [Bride's Name] as this gorgeous, successful, brilliant person you see before you today, but I know her as my little cousin. And I don't care how many promotions she gets, how many exotic countries she visits or how married she gets, that's who she'll always be to me. Yes, the girl who, for several years, ate nothing but chicken nugget sandwiches and had a special tree she liked to wee behind when we visited Grandma.

Being the only girls in our tribe of siblings, we quickly became best friends and partners in crime. We loved playing dress-up, but rather than pretending to marry our Prince Charmings, we'd pretend to be lawyers or scientists. And we wonder why no one wanted to hang out with us.

Our geekiness lasted well into our teens and developed into a mild addiction to One Direction, "Glee" and astronomy. We'd spend hours staring into our telescopes, wondering what we would say when we became the first astronauts to land on Mars. Sadly, that dream never came to fruition, but [Bride's Name], as we all know, did become a lawyer—an incredibly successful one at that.

But seriously, watching [Bride's Name] achieve her dreams has been a delight because she's quite simply one of life's special people. I feel incredibly lucky to have been blessed with such a fun-loving, wise and caring cousin––a special type of friend who's duty-bond to be in my life forever.

I always knew that [Bride's Name] deserved to be loved by someone special, and I'm delighted to say that person is [Newlywed's Name]. I've had the privilege of getting to know [Newlywed's Name] well over the last three years, and I must say, you're a brave soul for marrying into our family and having to cope with our crazy Christmas traditions. But I think you've figured out our secret. The louder we are, the more we like you. And just to clarify, we like you very much.

You have a kind heart, a wonderful wit and you're willing to dance to One Direction after we've had a few beers. I can also see how much you love my cousin. I can see that you 'get her;' that you know just how she likes her coffee, that you understand her sarcasm is a sign of affection and that you appreciate how intelligent she is even if she insists on watching "Selling Sunset" at every opportunity she can.

You're an incredible couple, and I've no doubt your love will continue to grow with every passing day. As your maid of honor, I couldn't be happier for you, and I look forward to sharing more happy memories with you guys in the future. And with that, everyone please join me in a toast to the happy couple and a life filled with love and laughter.

Short Maid of Honor Speech

I would like to quote the famous American author, Mark Twain, who once said, 'To get the full value of joy, you must have someone to divide it with.' This perfectly explains why [Newlywed's Name] and [Spouse's Name] have always radiated so much joy since they've met each other.

I do not doubt [Newlywed's Name] has found the person they will spend the rest of their life with. You both make a beautiful couple and may you continue to get the full value of joy out of life with one another.

Congratulations, [Newlywed's Name] and [Spouse's Name]!

Maid of Honor Speech Tips

Completing your matron of honor speech is a big accomplishment, but the work doesn't stop when you write the closing line. The right delivery is what makes it. Here are confidence tips for your maid of honor speech and other speaking engagements.

Don't procrastinate.

We recommend you start writing your maid of honor speech at least two months before the wedding day. As an honor attendant, you're expected to attend and plan numerous prewedding events, like dress fittings, the bach party and the rehearsal dinner , which means you won't have much time to write as the wedding day approaches. Also, it doesn't hurt to write a few drafts and ask someone you trust to edit your work. By preparing in advance, you'll be able to focus on writing a toast you're excited to read in front of a crowd and not have to worry about leaving a wedding event early so you can go home and write.

Add stories, not adjectives.

"Adjectives are just white noise in wedding speeches. Describing the newlywed as 'kind,' 'fun' or 'beautiful' is nice but doesn't really add much. Illustrate their characteristics and qualities by sharing the evidence of them in action," Ellert-McDermott, author of "The Modern Couple's Guide to Wedding Speeches," says.

Be true to yourself.

This is the time to open your heart and share a few favorite memories or silly stories that capture your relationship with the newlyweds. So don't feel pressured to write a maid of honor speech that sounds overly professional. A great maid of honor toast is about speaking honestly and naturally, so write how you generally speak. Don't forget this isn't the time to use inappropriate language since you'll be speaking to the couple's nearest and dearest. Your writing should feel like a natural extension of the way you talk. A genuine speech from the heart is impactful.

Remember to mention the partner.

"Yes, the focus of your speech is your friend and your relationship with them, but don't forget what the day's actually about. Try to make your tribute to their partner seem like more than a cliched afterthought," Ellert-McDermott advises.

Write it down.

Yes, you're expected to make an amazing speech, but that doesn't mean you must memorize it. Writing the entire speech word for word or just jotting down bullet points of your speech's outline can work wonders for your confidence. We suggest you read your maid of honor speech on index cards instead of reading it off your cell phone. Phones are more convenient, but the phone screen light that washes over your face as you're reading your speech distorts wedding photographs. To avoid ruining any wedding images, write your speech down instead. ( Psst. People say handwritten notes boost brain activity and optimize memory.)

Practice in front of an audience.

Practicing your speech is just as important as writing it. As with any public speaking gig, you'll become more comfortable with the material as you practice it. Read your toast aloud a few times to catch any spelling or grammar errors. This will also help you find a rhythm—you'll know exactly when you want to pause for reactions and emphasize certain points, which is key for staying within a designated time frame. You can also read your words to another wedding party member for feedback. When the time comes to stand up in front of the crowd, you'll be grateful for the pre-performance audience.

Stay calm, cool and collected.

Whether this is your first time giving a wedding speech or you're a pro, it's normal to feel a little nervous beforehand. Take a few deep breaths to calm your nerves and collect your thoughts. Speak slowly and clearly, and remind yourself that guests are excited to hear what you're saying. As nerve-wracking as it might feel to give a big speech at your loved one's wedding, their heartfelt reaction to your words will make your efforts worth it. As soon as your speech is over, you'll be free to celebrate with the newlyweds and the rest of the wedding party.

Don't forget to smile.

"Because they're nervous, speakers often forget to smile as they deliver their speech, but it's a simple and effective way to create a good vibe in the room. A smile is literally infectious, so make sure it looks like you're actually enjoying your time on the mic," Ellert-McDermott says. Putting on a soft smile also helps the photographer capture stunning pictures of you killing your speech.

Maid of Honor Speech Frequently Asked Questions

Delivering a unique maid of honor speech can seem daunting, but we're here to help you take the stress out of it. Here are answers to common questions regarding the maid of honor speech.

Does the maid of honor have to give a speech?

It's expected for a maid of honor to give a speech, especially if the other honor attendants are planning on giving one, but it's not required. Giving a maid of honor speech can be a fun experience, but it isn't for everyone. If public speaking makes you nervous, you can express yourself in other ways, like through song, dance or by creating a sweet love story presentation about the happy couple.

How long should a maid of honor speech be?

In addition to the matron of honor speech, there might also be a best man speech , toasts from the couple's parents or even a thank-you message from the newlyweds. Since there are several speeches to fit in with meal courses, dancing, games and additional reception activities , keep your salutations short and sweet. Aim to make your maid of honor speech a minimum of four minutes and at most six minutes—Ellert-McDermott suggests anything between 700 and 1000 words.

Wedding guests will be excited to hear your well-wishes and funny stories, but a long MOH speech can lose the wedding guests' interest (especially if it's full of too many personal inside jokes). A four-minute speech gives you enough time to speak about the couple's love story, offer a personal anecdote or two and finish with encouragement for married life.

How to Start a Maid of Honor Speech

"Like every other speaker, the maid of honor should say a quick hello and introduce themselves to the guests. They should explain how they know the bride and try to add some humor early on too. Tailor your speech to suit the style of the wedding. Is it a rock n roll affair or a traditional bash with children present? Consider your audience and decide if 'ladies and gentlemen' is necessary or overly formal (generally, it's the latter)," Ellert-McDermott notes.

How to End a Maid of Honor Speech

"Towards the end of the speech, the maid of honor should reiterate their joy in seeing their friend getting married. They may refer back to special memories they share with the bride and explain why she is such a great friend to them. The final few lines should be about wishing the couple well in their future life together and proposing a toast to them both," Ellert-McDermott suggests. Here is an example of a personal maid of honor toast ending from Ellert-McDermott:

Here's to a lifetime of drinking mojitos and dancing on tables. To Sophie and Taylor.

When does the maid of honor give a speech?

If the couple is following the traditional wedding speech order , the maid of honor gives her speech after the newlyweds' parents. Typically, following the maid of honor is the best man. That wedding speech order isn't for everyone since a couple's wedding party size and reception timeline impact the order too. Also, sometimes couples opt to have all the wedding speeches delivered during the rehearsal dinner. So check with the to-be-weds about the order to confirm your spot in the toast lineup.

What to do if there are multiple maids of honor?

If you are one of the multiple maids of honor , you and the others should keep your maid of honor speeches to three to five minutes long. Before delivering your speeches, we suggest you and the other maids of honor go over them together to make sure they aren't too similar (and if they are, to adjust accordingly). If you and the other maids of honor have a close relationship, want to create only one speech or you don't want to give your speech alone, consider doing a joint maid of honor speech. By doing a combined speech, you have more opportunities to be creative, like setting each other up for jokes or performing a heartfelt song together.

Craft a Maid of Honor Speech for Your Sister (Template and 5 Examples)

Congrats on being your sister’s Maid of Honor (or Man of Honor)! I hope you’re looking forward to this special occasion.

It’s perfectly fine if you have some nerves about giving your wedding speech. As someone who has given speeches in front of thousands of people, I get how it’s natural to feel a little nervous before giving a speech.

With a little bit of preparation and a lot of heart, you’ll be able to give the best Maid of Honor speech possible. Follow the 10 tips below, and I guarantee you’ll deliver a Maid of Honor speech that will make your sister feel special, make her spouse feel welcome, and make the wedding guests feel emotional and engaged.

👉 5 Maid of Honor speech examples

How do you write the perfect Maid of Honor speech?

Remember, there’s no wrong way to write your Maid of Honor speech. Do what feels authentic to you.

If you aren’t sure where to start, here’s a basic template we recommend for writing your Maid of Honor speech:

Theme: What’s the main message that ties your speech together?

Opening: Welcome and thank your guests. Introduce yourself.

Key Idea 1: (Past) Tell the guests a story that highlights a good quality about your sister.

Key Idea 2: (Present) Tell the newlyweds a story that symbolizes their relationship or what makes them a good match.

Key Idea 3: (Future) Tell the newlyweds how you’re looking forward to the future, and share advice.

Closing: Raise a toast to the newlyweds.

You don’t have to follow this template exactly, but it’s a great starting point you can build from!

Download Speeko (iOS/macOS) to draft notecards and get A.I. feedback on your wedding toast.

10 tips for writing your Maid of Honor speech

Here are 10 tips that will help you craft the best Maid of Honor speech your sister and her spouse will remember for a lifetime:

Don’t wait until the last minute.

Make it personal.

Share defining moments of your relationship.

Compliment the spouse.

Thank the guests.

Balance the wit and emotion.

Keep it short.

Practice makes perfect.

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

First things first: Give yourself plenty of time to prepare. Start working on your speech at least 3 weeks before the wedding day, if possible. If you wait until the last minute, you’ll feel rushed and stressed.

To make the most of your preparation time, use a notebook or the Speeko app to jot down any ideas that come to mind. Inspiration can strike at any moment—whether you’re at home, at work, or out with friends. If you write down your thoughts as they come, you’ll have a large pool of ideas to use for inspiration.

Tip #2: Make it personal.

Your sister-sister relationship is your greatest asset when writing your Maid of Honor speech. Consider personal stories and anecdotes that highlight your favorite qualities of your sister. Talk about how you’ve always been there for each other over the decades, no matter what.

Speak from the heart, and your sister will feel loved and appreciated. Everyone in your audience will sense it as well.

“ Your sister-sister relationship is your greatest asset when writing your Maid of Honor speech. ”

Tip #3: Share defining moments of your relationship.

You have a distinct viewpoint on the bride and her life. After all, you are her sister! Talk about how she was able to overcome obstacles and inspired you to be a better person. You can even share a secret between you and your sister—as long as your sister wouldn’t mind!

Include specific examples of how your sister’s friendship has impacted your life over the years. You could, for example, discuss a time when her sense of humor helped you get through a difficult time.

Ask yourself these questions to brainstorm story ideas:

How have you and your sister grown together throughout your lives?

What unique qualities do you have that make you the perfect Maid of Honor?

What fond memories do you have of your sister?

What have you learned from your sister over the years?

How has your sister been an inspiration to you?

What have you always admired about your sister?

How has your sister supported you throughout your life?

After you’ve gathered a few stories, consider potential themes you can weave throughout your speech.

Tip #4: Compliment the spouse.

You’ll want to say positive things about your sister’s spouse in your speech. Talk about how your sister’s spouse has influenced her life and how grateful you are to have them as part of your family. Feel free to share a funny or touching story about them. Just make sure the story is appropriate for the occasion!

Download Speeko (iOS/macOS) to brainstorm stories for your wedding toast.

Tip #5: Thank the guests.

This is a minor but critical detail that will make a significant difference. Begin your speech by thanking everyone for coming to the wedding and sharing this special occasion with your sister and her partner. Thank them again at the end of your speech for their support and love.

Tip #6: Balance the wit and emotion.

A good Maid of Honor speech is both humorous and heartfelt.

You don’t have to try to be a stand-up comedian, but you should include some humorous touches. You’ll put the audience at ease and create a welcoming atmosphere if you can make them laugh.

Include emotional moments as well. These will contrast nicely with the humorous parts of your speech and will keep your audience interested. A mix of funny and touching moments can help you develop a good story arc in your speech.

Tip #8: Use props.

Adding a prop to your Maid of Honor speech can be a great way to engage the guests and make your speech more memorable. Consider incorporating photos or videos of your sister and her spouse throughout the years, or bring along a sentimental object that holds special meaning to your sister. However, make sure that your prop doesn’t take away from the focus of your speech.

Download Speeko (iOS/macOS) to get A.I. feedback on your speaking style.

Tip #9: Practice makes perfect.

The key to delivering a great Maid of Honor speech is practice. You can follow Speeko’s template to prepare, write, and organize your speech. Once you’ve organized your speech, rehearse it over and over again. Try recording yourself with Speeko so you can see how you come across. Speeko will give you A.I. feedback on your public speaking skills, like if you’re speaking too fast or too monotone.

Another helpful method is to practice in front of friends or family members. Ask them for honest feedback on your delivery and content. And the more you practice, the less unknown there is to fear. You’ll ease those nerves and feel confident on the big day.

@isaac9ice #wedding #maidofhonorspeech #funnyvideos ♬ original sound - Isaac500🇩🇪🇳🇬

Tip #10: Have fun!

The ending of your Maid of Honor speech is just as important as the beginning. End with a heartfelt blessing that will leave your sister and her spouse feeling loved and appreciated. Consider ending your speech with advice for the newlyweds, a memorable quote that embodies their love story, or a callback to the theme of a story you told earlier in your speech. Be sure to end your speech with a smile and a toast to the happy couple.

What are good Maid of Honor speech examples?

Here are 5 examples of Maid of Honor speeches for a sister. Consider how each speech incorporates the tips above, and think about what you like about the examples you can use for your Maid of Honor speech!

💗 Example 1

Opening: Hello there, everyone! I’m honored to serve as my sister’s Maid of Honor on her special day. You all look stunning, and I’m grateful to be surrounded by such lovely people. I’d also like to take a moment to thank everyone for coming today. Your love and support are deeply felt.

My name is [Name], and I’ve known [Sister] for all 28 years of my life.

Key Idea 1: (Past) And when I think about my relationship with my sister, I have so many memories of her. Growing up, she and I were extremely close and shared so many experiences. Our bond has only grown stronger over time, from the time we spent playing dress-up and dancing around the house to the late-night conversations we still have to this day.

Key Idea 2: (Present) [Turn to the newlyweds] And I’d like to talk about my sister’s wonderful partner, [Spouse]. I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know you over the years, and I can say without any hesitation that you’re one of the most genuine, caring, and loving people I’ve ever met.

I remember meeting you for the first time when you came over to our parents’ house for dinner. We were all seated at the table, eating and chit-chatting. [Sister] was overjoyed, and you had this incredible way of making everyone feel comfortable and included. It was clear from the very start that you’d be an important part of our family.

Key Idea 3: (Future) And finally, with everything that’s happened today, I’m struck by this cliché but very real theme of love. Always remember that love is not just a fleeting emotion, but a commitment that requires constant nurturing and care. It’s like a delicate flower that needs attention, patience, and understanding to flourish. Keep watering it with kindness, appreciation, and laughter, and watch it bloom in the most remarkable ways.

Closing: [Turn to the wedding guests] So let’s raise a glass to love, to my incredible sister and her wonderful partner, and to all of you who’ve gathered to celebrate their love.

Cheers to [Sister] and [Spouse]! Congrats!

🎩 Example 2

Opening: Hi, everyone! For those who don’t know, I’m [Sister] ’s sister. And I feel incredibly honored to be here as her Maid of Honor on her special day.

I want to take a moment to thank everyone here for being a part of my sister’s special day. It means so much to her and our entire family.

Key Idea 1: (Past) When we were kids, we used to fight over everything, like who got to play with Barbie or who got the biggest slice of cake. But we also had a lot of fun together. We dressed up a lot and pretended to be pirates. Well, my sister was always a pirate, and she made me be her talking parrot!

I remember one day when my sister and I were playing dress-up, and [Sister] pulled out this old fedora hat from our dad’s closet. She put it on and strutted around, doing an impression of our dad. I couldn’t stop laughing. It was such a silly moment, but it’s one that I’ll always cherish.

Key Idea 2: (Present) [Turn to the newlyweds] Today, as a token of our childhood memories, I’ve brought that very same fedora with me. [Hold up the fedora] It can remind us of where we came from and how much we’ve grown since then. And I know that wherever life takes you two, you’ll keep making more and more memories to hold onto.

Now, let’s talk about [Spouse]. When I first met you, I wasn’t sure what to think. But as I got to know you, I realized how perfect you are for my sister. You’re kind, patient, and always put [Sister] first. I couldn’t be happier that she’s found someone who loves her for who she is.

Key Idea 3: (Future) As you embark on this incredible journey together, my advice to both of you as newlyweds is to always keep the future in mind. Embrace growth and change. You both will grow as individuals and as a couple. Embrace these changes and support each other's personal growth. Encourage one another to pursue your dreams and aspirations, and be willing to adapt and adjust as you face new challenges together.

Closing: [Turn to the wedding guests] Finally, I want to say how much I love my sister and how proud I am of the person she’s become. And to [Spouse], I’m honored to pass this honor to you as her new talking parrot. [Hand fedora to spouse]

Cheers to [Sister] and [Spouse]!

🎱 Example 3

Opening: Hello, everyone! I’m beyond honored to be standing here today as the Maid of Honor for my beautiful sister. Before I begin, can we just take a moment to acknowledge how stunning [Sister] looks? You’re glowing, sis!

I want to thank everyone for coming to celebrate this special day with us. I know I speak on behalf of our entire family when I say that your love and support mean the world to us.

Key Idea 1: (Past) As we all know, my sister has always been the type of person who goes after what she wants. I remember one time when we were kids, we were in a toy store, and she saw this Barbie Dreamhouse that she just had to have. But when she asked our parents to buy it for her, they told her she had to save up for it herself. So she did. She mowed lawns, washed cars, and even sold lemonade on the corner until she finally saved enough to buy that Dreamhouse.

Key Idea 2: (Present) [Turn to the newlyweds] And then, of course, she met the love of her life, and that’s where the story gets even better. [Spouse] perfectly complements my sister’s outgoing and adventurous spirit. I remember one time when you first started dating, and you took [Sister] on a surprise weekend trip to a remote island. Apparently, you took her kayaking and hiking and even did some skinny-dipping! I won’t go into too much detail, but let’s just say [Sister] had to call me to ask how to get the seaweed out of her hair.

Key Idea 3: (Future) [Turn to the wedding guests] I also want to share another story that has to do with this magic 8-ball. [Hold up magic 8-ball] My sister and [Spouse] love to use this magic 8-ball to make decisions. And one time, they were trying to decide whether to take a road trip or fly to a music festival. So they asked the 8-ball, “Should we drive or fly?” And the 8-ball told them, “Better not tell you now.” So they decided to do both! They drove halfway and then flew the rest of the way. That’s just the type of adventurous spirit these two will always have, and I just know that you’ll continue to go on exciting journeys together for the rest of your lives. Hang onto that feeling, and appreciate how rare it can be in this world.

Closing: [Turn to the wedding guests] Let’s all raise a glass and toast to the newlyweds. To a lifetime of love, joy, and adventurous, unpredictable futures. Cheers!

📺 Example 4

Opening: Hey, everyone! First of all, I want to give a shoutout to my sister, who looks absolutely stunning today. I know I’m not known for being emotional, but let me tell you, seeing her all dressed up and walking down the aisle really made me sentimental about how much she’s grown.

I also want to take a moment to thank all of you for being here to celebrate this special day.

Key Idea 1: (Past) I’ve known my sister for, like, ever. We’ve been through a lot together—from those awkward teenage years to dealing with all the wild drama as adults living on our own. But no matter what, we always had each other’s backs. And let me tell you, that bond only got stronger when she met [Spouse].

[Turn to the newlyweds] I gotta say, I was skeptical at first. I mean, who is this person, right? But after getting to know you, I can tell you’re the real deal. You’re kind and caring, and you love my sister more than anything. I always hear from [Sister] about how you surprise her with a big bouquet of flowers on random days—when she’s had a bad day, when she passes a big exam, or even when nothing else is going on. It’s such a thoughtful gesture, and it really shows how you pay attention to the little things.

Key Idea 2: (Present) [Turn to the wedding guests] I remember when [Sister] and I were in college, and we spent countless hours binge-watching Love Island. We laughed, cried, and screamed at the screen together. And [Spouse] was smart enough to join us one time. And that was when I really knew they were the perfect match. Seeing the two of them share that same joy and laughter—just like we did back in college—made my heart swell with happiness. Yeah, we don’t let anything get between us and our reality shows!

Key Idea 3: (Future) [Turn to the newlyweds] In all seriousness, I want to say that I couldn’t be happier for you and [Spouse]. The future is the biggest and longest chapter in this whole marriage book, right?

Listen, being married is like being on a rollercoaster—lots of ups and downs, twists and turns, and sometimes you might even throw up. But the key is to hold on tight and enjoy the ride together. Remember, you’re a team now.

Now, there will be times when you disagree, and that’s normal. Just remember that compromise is the secret sauce of a successful marriage. You know, like when you can’t decide between Chinese takeout or pizza for dinner, so you compromise and get both. Problem solved!

Oh, and communication. Talk to each other, really listen, and be open about your feelings. And hey, if you’re feeling lazy, you can always resort to emojis, but be sure they mean the same thing to both of you.

Now, you’ll face big decisions together—career changes, buying a house, maybe even having mini-yous running around. The future is unpredictable, and that’s the beauty of it. Embrace the unknown, take risks, and remember you’re on this adventure together. Life may throw challenges at you, but with love, trust, and a good sense of humor, you can conquer anything.

Closing: [Turn to the wedding guests] Now please join me in toasting our beloved couple. To the unknown, to the risk-taking, and to all the ups and downs that make life interesting. Congratulations! Cheers!

🚲 Example 5

Opening: Oh my goodness, hi, everyone! For anyone who doesn’t know me yet, I’m [Name]. I’m [Sister]’s Maid of Honor and—more importantly—her sister. It’s been quite a long road to get to today, but it was definitely worth it. I’ve never seen my sister this happy.

I want to take a moment to thank everyone who came to celebrate this special day with us. You’re all a part of my sister’s story, and I’m so glad you’re here to witness this happy moment. And of course, we can’t forget our parents, who did an incredible job raising us fierce and fabulous daughters. Thanks, Mom and Dad!

Key Idea 1: (Past) [Sister] and I grew up sharing everything: our clothes, our dreams, and even our Pop-Tarts. When we were little, we used to fight over who got the last Pop-Tart. Sometimes we’d even hide them from each other.

I have so many stories I could tell about [Sister], but there’s one that sticks out in my mind. It was when we were kids. [Sister] had just gotten a new bike for her birthday. She was so excited, but she had no idea how to ride it, and she was so nervous. So what did I do? I bribed her with a box of Pop-Tarts. That’s right. I gave her a Pop-Tart for every time she was able to move the pedals around. And you know what? It worked! She was cruising around the block in no time and doing circles around our parents.

Key Idea 2: (Present) [Turn to the newlyweds] And speaking of things that work, let’s talk about [Spouse]. I’ve never seen my sister so happy as she is with you. You’re funny, you’re kind, and most importantly, you love [Spouse] with all your heart. And you’re the only one who can make her laugh when she’s having a bad day. Even I’ve never been able to do that! So, [Spouse], thank you for being there for [Sister], for loving her unconditionally, and for making her so happy.

Key Idea 3: (Future) So, [Spouse], keep doing what you’re doing. Keep loving [Sister] with all your heart. Keep being that amazing person who puts a smile on her face. And, of course, keep those Pop-Tarts handy, just in case. You never know when a well-timed toaster pastry might save the day!

As we stand here today, celebrating your love, I can’t help but feel a wave of gratitude. Grateful for the journey that brought you both together and grateful for the beautiful future you’ll build as a team. Remember, as long as you’re holding hands and sharing the ride, you’ll come out stronger and happier on the other side.

Closing: [Turn to the wedding guests] So, let’s raise a glass to [Sister] and [Spouse] and a lifetime of love and laughter. Cheers!

Speeko for wedding toasts

Tap into the power of A.I. coaching to unleash your full speaking potential. Use Speeko ’s Wedding Toasts course to prepare, write, and organize your Maid of Honor speech. From gathering your stories to using humor, you’ll strengthen your skills and receive invaluable feedback on key areas of your speaking style.

Nico Aguilar is co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Speeko.

Bridal Shower 101

Inspiration | Events | Relationships

• 21 February 2023
• Advice , Wedding

Best Maid of Honor Speech For Sister

This blog post is all about the best maid of honor speeches for my sister.

As a maid of honor, it’s an incredible privilege to stand by your sister’s side as she begins her new life with her husband.

The wedding day is a celebration of their love, and your speech is an opportunity to express your support and share your own unique perspective on their relationship.

Crafting the perfect maid of honor speech for your sister and her husband can be challenging, but with the right inspiration and guidance, it’s possible to create a truly unforgettable tribute.

In this blog post, we’ve compiled some of the best maid of honor speeches for sister examples to help you craft a speech that’s tailored to your sister’s personality and the unique dynamics of your relationship.

From heartwarming stories to joyful sentiments, these examples provide a roadmap to creating a speech that perfectly captures the spirit of the occasion.

Whether you’re struggling to find the right words or looking for creative ways to express your feelings, this post has everything you need to deliver the perfect maid of honor speech for your sister and her husband.

Best Maid of Honor Speeches For Sister

First, we will break down the important components of your maid of honor speech. Here are some steps you’ll need to follow to create a loving, light-hearted, and funny speech to share with wedding guests.

Calm down, you’ve got this, and here is a way to overcome any anxieties you may have in completing your speech.

The number one thing when writing your Maid of Honor speech is to shift your mindset . Don’t think about this as a formal speech but think about it as a testimonial to life with your sister and how she makes your life better.

You have first-hand experience with this, by the way, you’re practically an expert on life with your sis. (You may not know EVERYTHING, but you know enough for a wonderful speech)

This will give your sister’s spouse and their family a glimpse of what to look forward to. Give a review of what they could expect from her and how lucky they are to have her.

1. Begin with a funny story about the bride. Since you are one of her closest people, you have an endless archive of stories to pick from. Whether it be from childhood, teenage years, or early adulthood.

Just make sure that the story really highlights some of her best qualities. This is sure to get the guests intrigued and maybe even laughing depending on the story you tell.

2. Share your love for your sister. This is the main part of the speech. Your sister chose you to do this honor so this is your chance to thank her and tell her how happy you are to be in this moment with her on her special day.

This is also a good chance to give the crowd some significant qualities about the bride they may not know. For example, some of the bride’s achievements and other things you admire about her.

3. Talk about her partner . Take a moment to talk about the person your sister is marrying. The positive qualities that you’ve noticed about them. You could give a funny story about their relationship. Talk about why they make such a great couple and how their qualities complement each other. \

4. Give advice to the couple. If you could, give some relationship/ marriage advice. Or give some general advice to the newlyweds. It’s important to keep this part light-hearted. You could do this by sharing a memory or quote.

5. Thank the guests for coming. Take time to thank the guests for being a part of the special day. You could also thank the parents of the couple, the wedding party, or anyone else who played a significant role in the wedding.

6. End with a toast to the couple. Offer your congratulations and well wishes to the newlyweds. Then ask wedding guests to join you for a toast to the lovely couple.

Best Maid of Honor Speech For Sister Examples

Here’s an example of a maid of honor speech from big sister to little sister.

Good evening, everyone! I’m thrilled to be standing here today as the maid of honor for my little sister [Sister’s Name]. As her big sister, it’s been such a joy to watch her grow up into the beautiful, intelligent, and kind-hearted woman that she is today.

One of my earliest memories of my sister is when we were kids, and she was always so determined to keep up with me. I remember she once tried to climb a tree that was way too tall for her, and she ended up getting stuck for hours until our dad came to rescue her. [Pause for laughter] But that’s the thing about my sister – she never gives up, and she always manages to find a way to succeed.

Speaking of success, I have to say that I’m incredibly proud of the person my sister has become. She’s a brilliant [Profession], a loving partner to her fiancé [Partner’s Name], and an amazing friend to everyone she meets. And let’s not forget her sense of humor – I’m pretty sure she inherited our dad’s love of puns, and I’m convinced that’s why we get along so well.

Now, I know I’m not the only one who’s excited to see my sister tie the knot with [Partner’s Name]. They make such a wonderful pair, and I know they’re going to have a lifetime of happiness together. In fact, I think they’re the perfect match – he’s the yin to her yang, the peanut butter to her jelly, the Ross to her Rachel. [Pause for laughter]

As the maid of honor, I feel like it’s my duty to impart some words of wisdom to the newlyweds. So, here’s my advice: never stop laughing, never stop loving, and never forget the things that brought you together in the first place. And when things get tough, remember that you have each other to lean on, and you have a whole family and group of friends who love and support you.

I want to take a moment to thank everyone here for being a part of this special day. To the parents of the bride and groom, thank you for raising such wonderful children. And to the rest of the wedding party, thank you for your hard work and dedication in making this day so perfect.

So, to my sister and her new husband, I raise my glass and offer a toast: may your love continue to grow and flourish, may your life together be filled with laughter and joy, and may you never forget that you have a big sister who loves you both more than words can express. Cheers!

Here’s an example of a maid of honor speech from little sister to big sister.

Good evening, everyone. For those of you who don’t know me, I’m [Your Name], and I have the pleasure of being the little sister of the beautiful bride, [Sister’s Name].

I have to admit, I’m feeling a little nervous up here. I’ve never given a speech before, and I’m pretty sure my sister only asked me to be her maid of honor because she knew I’d be too scared to say no. [Pause for laughter]

Growing up, my sister and I were as different as night and day. She was always the responsible one, while I was the wild child. She got good grades and followed all the rules, while I was constantly getting in trouble for breaking them. But no matter what, my sister was always there for me.

In fact, I remember one time when I was in middle school and had a huge crush on a boy in my class. I had no idea how to talk to him, so my sister took it upon herself to help me out. She spent hours coaching me on what to say, and even came to school with me one day to give me moral support. [Pause for laughter] Needless to say, it didn’t work out with that guy, but I’ll always be grateful to my sister for trying.

Now that my sister is getting married, I have to admit that I’m a little jealous. I mean, she gets to wear a gorgeous dress, have all her friends and family around her, and dance the night away with the man of her dreams. Meanwhile, I’ll be over here trying not to trip on my own two feet. [Pause for laughter]

All joking aside, I couldn’t be happier for my sister and her new husband. They’re perfect for each other, and I know they’re going to have a beautiful life together. And to my sister, I want to say: thank you for always being there for me, even when I was being a pain in the you-know-what. I love you, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for you and [Partner’s Name].

So, let’s raise a glass to the newlyweds. May your life together be filled with love, laughter, and plenty of adventures. Cheers!

My Speech Class

Public Speaking Tips & Speech Topics

Maid of Honor Speech [What to Say + Outline + Template]

Jim Peterson has over 20 years experience on speech writing. He wrote over 300 free speech topic ideas and how-to guides for any kind of public speaking and speech writing assignments at My Speech Class.

Giving a maid of honor speech is an honor – and also a responsibility.

If you’re invited to be maid of honor at a family member or friend’s wedding, you have a huge role in the wedding ceremony. Writing the perfect wedding toast or speech can often seem like the hardest part.

Coming up with the perfect toast for this special day is much easier when you have sample speeches to be inspired by. We’ve compiled an essential list of maid of honor speech examples, from roast to religious.

Read on for our step-by-step guide to writing a maid of honor speech, and then watch the examples below. Now you’re ready to prepare a great speech with confidence.

In this article:

How to Write a Maid of Honor Speech

Maid of honor speech topics blueprint, maid of honor speech outline, maid of honor speech examples.

Can We Write Your Speech?

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The Maid of Honor, sometimes also called the Bridesmaid or even the Matron of Honor, speaks after the Best Man. Remember, the audience has to listen to lots of speeches before and after you.

So, my tip number one is: Keep it brief and simple; for your own utility and the convenience of the guests.

Maid of honor speeches can take many different forms. They might be funny or sweet, creative or traditional . Often, the speech will incorporate different elements, like humor and nostalgia, to hit all the right notes. Most speeches are 5 to 10 minutes long, but wedding speeches can also take many shapes, from short toasts to extended performances.

These simple tips will help you write a maid of honor speech that’s a perfect fit for the wedding day.

Begin Early

When you need to write a maid of honor speech, you’ll want to start early.

Begin the brainstorming process as soon as you’re asked to be maid of honor or bridesmaid. This might involve jotting down fun memories or an embarrassing story you’ve shared with the bride. You can also consider talking about the groom, the bride and groom’s relationship, or how they met.

Write down some ideas early on and then take a few days or weeks to let them percolate. When you come back to your ideas, the speech outline will start to become more clear.

Try a Quote

A great way to start or end your speech can be with a beautiful quote that has meaning for the wedding day. It can be funny, emotional, or poignant. Just make sure it’s something that has meaning for the newlyweds and that wedding guests can resonate with as well.

Tell Stories

The best speeches combine quotes or big ideas about love with real stories. Stories are fun for guests to listen to, and give your speech a solid foundation.

Choosing the right stories about the bride, or the bride and groom, is important. Do you want your speech to be funny, inspiring, or touching? The stories you tell will help set the tone. Think about details: the sights, sounds, or sensations you remember will keep the audience’s attention. Just don’t let it get too long – most speeches should be 10 minutes or less.

Be Prepared

Your speech will go much better if you’ve practiced ahead of time – more than once. The more you practice, the more confident you will feel when the big day comes.

Practice reading your speech, and time yourself to make sure it’s the length you want. Keep in mind that at the wedding ceremony or reception there will be pauses for laughter or applause, which will make your speech a few minutes longer.

You might want to videotape yourself practicing, or even practice in front of a friend or family member to get some feedback on your delivery. Just make sure not to give it to the bride ahead of time – your speech should come as a surprise on the wedding day.

Don’t forget to bring notes, too. Even if you never actually look at them, they will help you feel more comfortable when you take the microphone, and can save you if you draw a blank when it’s time to start.

A heartfelt speech is better than a perfect one.

Don’t be afraid that you’re going to stumble over a word or mess up somehow. If you’ve practiced ahead of time and drafted your speech early, you’ve done all the preparation you need.

Take the stage with confidence, knowing that little mistakes and imperfections can sometimes make a speech that much more meaningful because it’s genuine. If you laugh or cry, the wedding guests are probably going to laugh or cry with you. Keep your sense of humor if the mic cuts out or you stumble over a word. Enjoy the moment!

Here are our maid of honor speech tips in a sample template plus the speaking do’s and don’ts in a matrimonial ceremony based on their complimentary life styles. You are invited and do not know what to say?

Use our template for outlining thoughts, ideas and facts about the bridal couple. I will show you what you should mention and what the text should focus on. If you are not an experienced talker: relax, you do not have to say much, less is more is often said and well put!

But always: public speeches should be from the heart! Be enthusiastic and sincere, but do not exaggerate.

Maid Of Honor Speech Template

INTRODUCTION

• Tell who you are for the ones who don’t know.
• Thank your friend for asking you to be in this wedding.
• How long have you known the bride and groom?
• Why were you selected to accept the honor giving the oral?
• Why did you accept the invitation?
• How did the two of them met?
• What did you think when you saw their friendship became more serious? Reflect on their complimentary life styles. Approach this from the female side. Be tasteful. The best man is at the grooms’ side … so his job is to cover that part, not you 🙂
• Can you come up with a funny story that illustrates the personality of the wedding couple? Think about characterizing sweet, inspiring, exciting or just average daily events or moments.
• Can you come up with a hilarious anecdote based on a real life situation?
• Conclude this part of this special wedding address with letting them know that’s why you were so happy when they announced their wedding. As I said before: keep it short. Stick to one funny story. Ask others if they really like it, if it’s funny enough to share.

THE CEREMONY

• Stress the importance of the matrimonial ceremony. Give your personal view.
• Use a famous quote about marriage, love or the future.
• Relate a short poem to the couple. Quotes and poems are a good starting point for inspiration.
• Wish the bride and groom a long and happy life.
• Express your love and best wishes for the future.
• If they have had hard times, then mention it briefly in one poetic sentence. Not more. Focus on this happy day!
• You can thank and toast to the bride and groom on behalf of the bride, but only if she asked you to do so.

Do’s And Don’ts

• Bring notes, know what you want to say. Too much improvisation can lead to babbling, stumbling or a too long maid of honor speech.
• Do not get too personal. Ask others if the stories you want to tell will not embarrass the bride and groom or the guests. Check double check is the motto.
• Do not come up with negative or depressing speech topics. Kee it nice and friendly for all.
• Avoid sexual tinted expressions, political engagement or religion issues and hold back your horses when you want to mention actual news or political stories.
• Read a draft out loud in front of somenone else and ask for opinions. Alter with the recommendations in mind.

Although maid of honor speeches can take many forms, having a classic speech outline will help you get started. If you’re not sure what to write, follow these simple steps and you’ll be able to write a beautiful, traditional speech.

1. Introduce Yourself

You can’t count on all the wedding guests knowing who you are or how you know the bride. Make time early in your speech to mention your name, what your relationship to the bride is, and how long you’ve known each other.

2. Thank People

Weddings can be expensive, stressful, and difficult to plan. It’s good to take a moment in your speech to thank the parents and other notable guests who helped make the wedding day happen.

3. Tell Stories

Next, you can launch into a story of your choice. There are many different directions you can take this part of the speech. An embarrassing story you share with the bride can get guests laughing, while a touching anecdote about the newlywed couple’s relationship might make happy tears flow.

4. Add a Quote

You can add a meaningful quote anywhere in your speech. The quotes you choose should have meaning to both you and the bride (and maybe the groom as well), and also be relatable to the other guests in attendance. If it’s an inside joke or an obscure reference that not many people will get, you may want to leave it out.

5. Give Heartfelt Emotion

Even the funniest roasts of the bride often have a moment when the speech becomes touching. No matter what the tone of your speech is, it doesn’t hurt to take a moment and recognize the beauty of the day. The best speeches often aren’t all funny or all sentimental – they’re a mix of both.

6. Finish Strong

Your ending will be the part of the speech guests are most likely to remember. Give a strong ending, whether it’s a quote, a final story, or proposing a toast to the bride and groom.

Sister Maid of Honor Speech

This sister wedding speech celebrates all of the fun of watching your family get married. The bride’s sister starts out with humor, telling family memories through a funny lens. However, she quickly gets emotional as she recounts how much her sister means to her.

“You’ve been a great mentor. You’ve been a beautiful impact on my life, and you taught me that there’s beauty in everyone no matter what they do.”

Best Friend Matron of Honor Speech

The best friend of the bride for over 10 years, this matron of honor has nothing but praise for the bride. She recounts how she approved right away upon meeting the groom, and how excited she was upon learning of their engagement.

“You have really, truly become like my sister. I knew I’d be telling you how beautiful you looked, but seeing you next to your handsome groom, you really are absolutely breathtaking.”

Short Matron of Honor Speech

This short speech starts with a funny memory of the bride talking about the groom years before their engagement. In just a minute and a half, the matron of honor brings both laughter and heartfelt emotion to her speech.

“Speaking from experience, marriage is a wild ride. But when you find that right partner, you never want the ride to end.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SRniSDMhWgM

Maid of Honor Toast

In a fun, beautiful toast to the bride, this bride’s sister thanks guests for coming, and then launches into memories of growing up together. She shouts out to both the bride and the groom for being important parts of her life.

“Katie is so much more than a big sister to me  – she’s my best friend, my mentor, and the unfailing reminder that sometimes being a sister is even better than being a princess.”

Matron of Honor Speech

This matron of honor gets guests laughing by pulling out a scroll to read from at the beginning of her speech. She recounts the embarrassing story of how the bride stole her spot on the varsity team when they first met. However, their friendship quickly blossomed, and the matron of honor touches on many of the fun things they did together as kids.

“I had the time of my life growing up with you.”

Funny Maid of Honor Speech

In a funny, lighthearted speech, this maid of honor recounts growing up with the bride, and even planning her wedding as little girls. The maid of honor also turns to the groom and thanks him for being the perfect partner for her friend. She fills the speech with memories, from embarrassing to sweet, and ends with a song for a truly memorable wedding moment.

“You’re all the things I hoped for my best friend and more, and I’m so grateful you found her and that you love her the way she really deserves.”

Roast Speech

This maid of honor kept guests laughing with her deadpan delivery of jokes in this short speech. Her stand-up comedy is perfect for the occasion, and she pokes fun at everyone from the bride to the groom to herself.

“When I first sat down and started thinking about what I want to say here tonight, I kept thinking to myself, ‘I can’t believe Erin’s getting married…in less than an hour. No, I’m kidding, I had it written before breakfast.”

Christian Maid of Honor Speech

A sweet speech from the bride’s best friend hits the right notes in a short amount of time. She compares the couple’s love to being like the love of Christ because it is so strong and so beautiful.

“The love that these two share is so strong, it doesn’t need a thousand stories, it doesn’t need a thousand words; it just radiates from these two.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AKKwOBW_8xY

Creative Maid of Honor Speech

This fun maid of honor speech starts with the bride’s sister recalling dancing to pop songs as a kid with her mom, who was pregnant with the bride. Then, she uses a musical interlude to tell the story of the bride’s life from a sister’s perspective. In a mashup of pop music covers, the maid of honor gives a great performance that gets the wedding guests clapping in time.

“[My mom and I] danced around the house to Cyndi Lauper’s ‘Girls Just Wanna Have Fun. And lo and behold, 9:30 am on day 9…DeeDee arrives. Apparently she also just wanted to have fun.”

Bridesmaid Speech

In this genuine, sweet speech, the bridesmaid’s excitement about the happy couple’s new marriage is truly evident. Her fun while holding the microphone is contagious to all the guests.

“I’m just so excited to be here, to witness the true love that is so evident between Taylor and Niko.”

Touching Maid of Honor Speech

This heartfelt, emotional maid of honor speech was given by a college friend of both the bride and the groom. She recounts the story of how she first met the bride, and then tells the bride and groom’s love story as she saw it unfold.

“It was obvious there was something truly amazing between the two of them. Four months of courting and a very, very, very confused Mark later, Mara finally accepted his proposal to be boyfriend and girlfriend – and the rest is history.”

Bridesmaid Toast

These bridesmaids toast the bride in song form. They celebrate the happy couple in their own words, and then shout out to notable wedding guests, keeping everyone entertained the entire time.

“Love is the reason we’re all here – that’s what you toasted for.”

Maid of Honor Speech

The maid of honor speech can be just as hilarious and emotional as the best man speech . Amusing, creative speeches like this one might get a standing ovation. The maid of honor uses a numerical countdown to format her speech, ending with the number one which is, of course, the bride.

“At the end of the day, you’re always gonna have that one person who’s in your corner, who’s your personal cheerleader.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uX9Y6OhkH1s

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Effortless Wedding Speeches

How To Craft The Very Best Matron Of Honor Speech

It’s always a great occasion in one’s life to be asked or requested to perform these traditional roles that the passage of time and the progress of man has not changed.

These are positions of honor in society and human relationships, and although the roles have evolved into ceremonial ones, these are nevertheless very important.

Congratulations on being asked to give a matron of honor speech. We are flattered that you are here, and we’re confident that we can help you out in putting together an amazing matron of honor speech.

This is a great occasion, and not just because it is two people close to you tying the knot. This is an important one for you too, the couple chose you among all those they know. You are valued, respected and loved. Very much.

What we’ll try to do here is to help those qualities shine in your reception speech so the guests get a fair appreciation of who you are to the wedded couple. Let’s get on with it shall we?

Starting Off Your Matron Of Honor Speech

As with everything else, what we need is a central idea. Think of it as a base ingredient if you love to cook, a core value if you are in the corporate world, or perhaps simply as the heart of a relationship.

There are no studies regarding the exact percentages that tell us whether the majority of Matrons of honor come from the side of the bride or the groom.

What we do know is that they are all well loved. Their thoughts and beliefs on marriage highly respected.

That is a very strong place to get material to begin. A wedding’s central idea is the union of two individuals in love and commitment. And you were asked because you are loved. Some of the areas you can draw from are:

• Childhood memories with the person getting married ; this should help you with how to start your speech
• Memories that illustrate the character of the person getting married
• Memories where you’ve both solved a dilemma (more on this in a bit)
• A crossroads moment, where a decision was made (more on this in a bit too)
• A nice simple table can help you, groom on one side and bride on the other
• Do the stuff from bullet #2
• If there are any similar, joining experiences that in hindsight might have brought their lives closer to meeting – that’s a gem. You are likely to be one of maybe six people who know that, and if they realize it only then, then it’s a great wedding gift.

At this point, don’t be in a rush to make a matron of honor speech yet. We are just at the part of preparing to look at what we want to say.

Choosing the Flow (How To Say It & What To Avoid)

And here we go with another list. So very sorry that it isn’t a non messy “do a Matron of Honor” speech, but like we said earlier, we want it to be a great one. So get another piece of paper or another “new document” on your word application and get your phone ready.

You’ll need more information before you can start working on your speech, and this needs some legwork.

This is also the area where you will get to have a fair approximation of what you can and what you should omit entirely.

Get The Guest List, And Check The Names

How well do you know the rest of the guests? This is important in the way you use the stories and anecdotes, as it will help you decide whether:

–> A more rounded background is required for the anecdotes you use is needed if not;

–> If your relationship with the couple started out more recently, this also affects the tone or wording of the speech

• Remember to be gracious and indirectly acknowledge that though you are so proud to be the one speaking at the moment, “there are a lot of people that have guided the couple through the years of their life” kind of thing.
• Focus the memory and the anecdote on the impact, to help you frame the relationship

How Large Is The Reception

• Use more concise and shorter sentences if it’s a larger group. This will keep everyone with you
• You can opt for a longer one for smaller more intimate receptions

Pitfalls You Need To Be Aware Of When Putting Together A Matron Of Honor Speech

In case only one of the parties is known to you….

• Validate if there are any multi cultural, belief or ideology based matters that should be avoided
• Politely check if any of the stories you may want to use will cause distress to any of the guests. A recounting of a cross roads of the child during his/her parent’s divorce for example.

Who Are The Guests From Their Professional Adult Lives

• This will help you avoid embarrassing one or both of the couple
• This helps you frame both in a good manner

And Finally Creating Your Speech

Knowing all these things will give you a good reference and a lot of latitude in creating a speech for the occasion.

See it’s not just a matter of making a formal or informal one, but rather more of creating one that is as unique as the couple getting married and the relationship you share with them.

Here’s A Sample Of A Speech Format

• A brief introduction
• It is always the best way to introduce yourself and say how you know the bride or groom, and yes, it might sound like a boring start of speech but unless this is a very intimate wedding party, chances are there will be guests present who will not know who you are.
• Also, it is best to use this as an opportunity to thank everyone for helping make the celebrations memorable. Get the little pleasantries out of the way early so they won’t be forgotten in the thick of things.
• A memory or two of your person (bride or groom)
• You know that person well and since you’re tasked with one of the most important jobs there is in the wedding party, it means that your stories matter. Just make sure to keep the trip down memory lane short, concise, brief and sweet.
• A sentimental story about the couple
• You know them more than most people in the room. Since you’re tasked with being her main support person for the day, it means that you have had a fair share of supporting the two of them during the course of their relationship prior to marriage. Give your audience a story of love, of sunrises and sunsets, of magic and then tie it up with…
• An advice for the couple
• You’ve been there before, starry eyed and hopeful. Regardless of personal experience, you have the backing of knowledge so take this chance to give them some wisdom. Know that what you decide to impart with them will remain with them for as long as they are together.
• Make the salutations short, light, and hopeful.

If you’ve heard a few matron of honor speeches before, you’ll agree with me that the best and oft remembered toasts are not the ones peppered with quotes, but rather those that hit the mark and sound true because it fits the couple and because the well wishes came from someone the couple respects and admires.

And who else to say it out than the person they have asked to be the Matron of Honor for their wedding. Good luck and best wishes to the couple and your Matron of Honor speech!

Want To Take Your Speech To The Next Level?

If you want to really make your speech in super high quality, I recommend that you check out the follow resource:

(Note: When you click the link, you’ll need to select “Maid Of Honor” (the one book is for both Maid/Matron Of Honor) for the appropriate resource.)

• Bridal Shower
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In This Article

• Speech Examples
• Speech Template
• How To Write The Best Speech
• Useful Speech Tips
• Quotes for the Speech
• Wedding Party & Reception

Best Tips for Maid Of Honor Speech 2024: Samples & Ideas

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Crafting a memorable maid of honor speech can be both an honor and a daunting task. It’s a chance to celebrate the bride in a heartfelt way while engaging the audience. Whether you’re a seasoned speaker or feeling the nerves, this guide will walk you through simple and effective steps to create a speech that will leave everyone touched and smiling. Remember, the key to a great speech lies in authenticity and personal anecdotes – sharing genuine stories and emotions will make your words resonate with everyone present.

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Maid Of Honor Speech Examples

Best friend maid of honor speech.

After years of helping Maids of Honor deliver awesome speeches, founder of Speechy and author of ‘The Modern Couple’s Guide to Wedding Speeches’, Heidi Ellert-McDermott, shares her tips. The first three-fifths of the speech should include revealing, entertaining stories that give an insight into the bride and your relationship with her. Don’t be shy of some affectionate teasing. 

In our recent research on wedding preferences, the maid of honor choice was crystal clear: the bride’s best friend. This role isn’t just about tradition—it’s about an unbreakable bond. A best friend’s speech resonates deeply, filled with shared memories and heartfelt wishes.

“If you haven’t had the chance to meet me yet, my name is X. (Bride) and I have been best friends for about 10 years. We met in high school gym class, and we couldn’t stand each other at first. As you can see, things eventually changed for the better. When (Bride) first asked me to be her Maid of Honor I felt flattered. But as the big day approached, she also told me to give a speech and a toast. I’m kind of the shy type and tried my best to get out of it. But, as (Groom) can tell you, it’s almost impossible to tell (Bride) No and get away with it. I wanted to tell you both how absolutely spectacular you look today. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a better-looking couple (except for maybe my boyfriend and I). And I hope you’re all having a lovely evening and I’d like to I wish you two all the love and happiness in the world. How blessed you are to celebrate your love on this beautiful day. I know there are many happy years ahead for you. Let’s all raise our glasses to the bride and groom, and wish them a lifetime of love and happiness!”

“I never had a sister, but (Bride) has been like a sister to me for all these years. We have similar tastes, we like similar clothes… I knew (Bride) had found the one when (Groom) walked into her life. Well, I’m fine with that – she saw him first! Actually, you could see that it was love at first, second, and third sight. He is her Prince Charming and it seems to me he gives her all she needs – a strong arm, a sympathetic ear, and his credit card.”

“I met (Bride) 6 years ago, as we tried to survive in the concrete jungle of NY. To thrive there, your tribe is essential. We are quite protective of each other, so I was a bit skeptical of (Groom) when he first came into the picture. But as time goes by, I can’t imagine anyone else but him to be her one and only. They say that anyone can be passionate, but it takes a real pair of lovers to be silly. Well, together, (Bride) and (Groom) are two of the goofiest people I know.”

“Hello everyone, my name is X, and by my dress, you can tell that I am the Maid of Honor today. For many years, we have been through thick and thin, and we have shared many memories. Today is another great day to add to our collection of sweet memories, so I’m really looking forward to the cake! I know you will have challenges as all relationships do. But you know what’s great about love and relationships and marriages? It is learning to grow together. Caring and sharing, and lots of tenderness. And maybe a bit of patience, or maybe even a lot. So let’s raise our glasses to the power of love, that makes all these wonderful things happen! Today you start a completely new chapter of your lives. What can I say? Never forget the two most important replies: ‘you’re right, dear’ and ‘okay, buy it’. Love and cherish each other! These two are a rare find in today’s world. Here’s to the groom who has a bride so fair, and here’s to the bride with a groom who is so rare.”

How to write a maid of honor speech for best friend?

• Introduction: Begin by introducing yourself and expressing how honored you are to be the maid of honor for your best friend.
• Fond Memories: Share special and cherished memories you’ve shared together, highlighting the bond you both share.
• Praise and Qualities: Speak about your best friend’s wonderful qualities, accomplishments, and the ways they have positively impacted your life and the lives of others.
• The Friendship: Emphasize the strength and significance of your friendship, and how it has grown over the years.
• Love and Support: Show appreciation for the bride’s partner and express your excitement about their journey together.
• Gratitude: Thank the guests for being a part of this special day and acknowledge the couple’s families.
• Toast: Raise a toast to your best friend and their partner, wishing them a lifetime of love, joy, and happiness together.

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Sister maid of honor speech.

According to our research, the second most popular choice for the maid of honor role is the bride’s sister. While tradition often places the best friend in the spotlight, a sister brings a unique depth to the role. Their shared history, growing up together, and the intrinsic bond make a sister’s speech incredibly touching. With a wealth of childhood memories and a deep understanding of the bride, a sister’s words carry immense emotional weight. When delivering the speech, draw upon this shared journey, express genuine emotions, and celebrate the love that binds not only siblings but also the newlyweds.

“As you may know, I am the bride’s younger sister. As we were growing up, I always wanted to be like her. Do the things she did, have the things she had –  I was probably a bit annoying, I always wanted to tag along. She taught me how to care, how to share, and how to try to reach for the stars. And as I grew up I wanted to be just as beautiful, caring, smart, and successful as her. (Bride) has always set an example for me to follow. Over the years she has shown me how to love and care. Today she shows me how to find a best friend, a partner, and a true lover, all in one person. I hope that I am just as lucky someday. It’s a great happiness to find someone who loves you as much as (Groom) loves my sister. Today, I want to thank both of you for being a part of my life, and to celebrate the love you both share. Like many sisters, we weren’t always best friends. I remember fights, screaming, and door-slamming, but I couldn’t have picked a better sister and a friend. Now that we are older, I can finally admit how happy I am to have grown up with such a great sister. Having a sister is one of the greatest things in life. Having a little sister is even better because I liked to be bossy. (Bride) always wanted to be a bit more like me… But actually, there is so much that I admire about her! I have watched her grow into the gorgeous woman that she is. It is a great honor for me to be her big sister!”

“First of all, I want to thank you all for being here with us today. As most of you know I am (Bride’s) sister. As we grew, we were as close as can be. We were always in trouble and I remember wondering if there will be a guy brave enough for someone as wild as my sister is. Well, here he is!My sis has just tied the knot. And I do believe that (Groom) is her perfect match. And today I realize that all she needs is a guy who will love her just the way she is, with all her craziness. Their commitment to each other inspires all of us because that’s what we call true love. So let’s raise our glasses to this amazing couple!”

“I want you to know that it took me 3 weeks to write this speech over and over again. And I couldn’t think of anything perfect enough to describe just how much I love you. I couldn’t find words to define the kind of sister you are to me. This is your big day and there is so much I want to say… I Googled a lot of maid of honor speech examples. The one piece of advice I kept finding over and over again was to start off with a quote. I did some research and I think their love is best described by Dr. Seuss:

“You know you’re in love when you can’t fall asleep because the reality is finally better than your dreams.””

“Love, be true to her; Life, be dear to her; Health, stay close to her; Joy, draw near to her; Fortune, find what you can do for her, Search your treasure house through and through for her, Follow her footsteps the wide world over – And keep her husband always her lover. – By Anna Lewis, from “To the Bride””

How to write a maid of honor speech for sister?

• Introduction: Start by introducing yourself and your relationship with the bride, emphasizing your sisterly bond.
• Anecdotes: Share heartfelt and funny stories that highlight your sister’s qualities, achievements, or memorable moments you’ve shared together.
• Praise the bride: Compliment her personality, kindness, and the positive impact she has on others.
• Address the groom: Welcome him into the family and share a warm message about their relationship.
• Express gratitude: Thank the guests for attending and acknowledge your parents and other family members.
• Toast: Raise a glass and propose a heartfelt toast to the newlyweds and their future happiness together.

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Funny Maid Of Honor Speech

As a close friend of the bride, you would have a lot of material for wedding speeches bridesmaids, you just need to know how to put them all together. A few sample wedding speeches would give you the right kind of inspiration to get you on your way.

“Well, for those of you who I haven’t had the chance to meet yet, my name is [NAME]. [BRIDE] and I have been best friends for around the last 10 years. We first met at work one day, when she stole my carrot cake out of the fridge in the lunchroom and I threw away her pineapple yogurt cartons in revenge.

I never had a sister, but [BRIDE] has been my stand-in sister for all these years. You could say we are even closer than sisters. We don’t fight like sisters, but we do wear each other’s clothes. Somehow she can still fit into my clothes but I can’t fit into hers anymore. I’m sure that is just because her dryer must be shrinking them. I knew [BRIDE] had found the one when [GROOM] walked into her life. Sure, she dated a few guys…after I was done torturing them.

But [GROOM] was different. Unlike those jerks, he was kind and thoughtful. And he had a job. You could see that it was love at first, second, and third sight. Clearly [GROOM] is charming and it seems to me he offers her what she needs – a strong arm, a kind ear, and an American Express Black Card.

I trust [BRIDE] and [GROOM] completely. I remember the time I asked them to watch my dog Benji when I went skiing in Europe. They were so nice to help out. I got back and Benji was so happy to see me. He was 40 pounds lighter and now he sees a therapist twice a week. Of course, we are having fun today. The test of this relationship will be over the long term. Will she still love [GROOM] when he leaves his underwear on the floor and cuts his toenails at the dinner table?

The answer is no. God, please, disgusting.

No, seriously, I know they will have challenges as all relationships do. And [GROOM] will learn what all men learn eventually. Keep your wife happy! Happy wife, happy life. No, really, what’s great about love and relationships and marriage is learning to grow together. The communication it takes to keep a marriage going is massive. But half the fun is working things out, talking, communicating, and launching kitchen appliances at each other – real love. Today has been a great day. Family and friends are here, the sun is shining and the champagne is flowing. And we’ll need it to get through this chicken dinner.”

Sometimes the hardest part of being a maid of honor to your bestie might be writing the wedding speech. Speaking with your friend face to face is always easy, however, making toasts or speeches in front of a group of people would be totally different and not as easy. This is why anecdotes and funny wedding speeches maid of honor could help you cruise through your speech while giving the wedding guests a laugh at the same time.

Funny Lines For Maid Of Honor Speech

• “I did some research on how to give the perfect maid of honor speech, and the first tip I found was to imagine everyone in their underwear. So, here we are, ladies and gentlemen, welcome to my nightmare!”
• “Being the maid of honor is like being a ninja. You have to be quick on your feet, prepared for anything, and ready to attack at a moment’s notice. But instead of throwing shurikens, I’m armed with embarrassing stories about the bride.”
• “As the maid of honor, I’ve been given the responsibility of keeping the bride calm and relaxed throughout the wedding planning process. Which is why I’ve been slipping her Xanax in her coffee every morning.”
• “When the bride asked me to be her maid of honor, I was thrilled. But then I realized it meant I had to give a speech in front of all these people. So if I faint halfway through, just drag me off stage and make it look like part of the act.”

Bridesmaid Wedding Speech

A list of example wedding speeches maid of honor could act as a template of sorts, helping you figure out just how to structure your speech.

Some of the best wedding speeches maid of honor, shine a light on the friendship between the bride and her maid of honor, as well as the beautiful personality of the bride. Most introductions begin with the story of meeting the groom for the first time. The intro is usually a good time to inject a funny quote, poem, or actual occurrence.

“Hi everyone, I am one of the bridesmaids at this wedding and I just wanted to say how happy and lucky I am to be here to celebrate [bride] and [groom’s] wedding with everyone. Today, everything looks effortless.

From the beautiful wedding ceremony to the food, music, and decorations at this venue, every little detail was planned by [bride] and [groom.] And lots of time was spent shopping for dresses and doing fittings. When you get to peek behind the scenes, you see how much work really gets put into planning a wedding. There were a lot of late nights and hours spent working on this wedding and I have to say that it all turned out quite beautifully. Let’s all give a round of applause for [bride] and [groom.]

[Bride] and [groom,] thank you for such a wonderful day. I raise my glass to the two of you and wish you nothing but the best in your life together. May each day be full of love and laughter between the two of you.”

Speeches are generally not as difficult as we imagine. So, you can relax, go through these samples, and create one of the best wedding toast speeches made of honor.

Short Maid Of Honor Speech Examples

“Greetings to all of you. I’m [Name], the maid of honor. I would like to express a few words about the lovely bride and groom. [Bride] has always been a wonderful friend to me, and it’s an honor to be her maid of honor today. And [Groom], I am delighted that you are joining our family. You two are a perfect match, and I wish you all the happiness and love in the world. Let’s raise a glass to the happy couple!”

“Hello, everyone. I’m [Name], the maid of honor. [Bride], you look breathtakingly beautiful today, and I feel grateful to be a part of your extraordinary day. [Groom], you’re a fortunate man! [Bride] is intelligent, gorgeous, and has a heart of gold. I am confident that you both will have a lifetime of love and happiness together. Congratulations on your special day!”

“Good evening, all. I’m [Name], the maid of honor, and for those who don’t know me, it’s lovely to meet you. I have known [Bride] for several years, and I have never seen her as happy as she is with [Groom]. You two bring out the best in each other, and it’s evident that you are destined to be together. It’s an honor to stand here today as a witness to your love and commitment. Congratulations to the joyful couple!”

“Hello everyone, I’m [Name], the maid of honor. [Bride], you’re my best friend and I couldn’t be happier to see you marry [Groom]. You two are perfect for each other and I wish you a lifetime of love and happiness. Congratulations!”

“Good evening, all. I’m [Name], the maid of honor, and I’m honored to celebrate [Bride] and [Groom]’s special day. [Bride], you’re my best friend and I’m so happy to see you with someone as wonderful as [Groom]. Wishing you both a lifetime of love and happiness. Congratulations!”

“Hi everyone, I’m [Name], the maid of honor, and I’m thrilled to celebrate my best friend [Bride] and her groom [Groom]. [Bride], I’m so proud of you and I know that [Groom] is the perfect partner for you. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness and love. Congratulations!”

“Good evening, everyone! For those who don’t know me, I’m [Your Name], and I have the incredible honor of standing by [Bride’s Name]’s side today as her maid of honor. First and foremost, I want to say how breathtakingly beautiful she looks tonight. As I stand here, I can’t help but reflect on the journey that led us to this moment. [Bride’s Name] and I have been inseparable since childhood, and I am beyond grateful for the memories we’ve created together. We’ve laughed together, cried together, and supported each other through life’s ups and downs. And now, as I watch her embark on this new chapter with [Groom’s Name], my heart overflows with joy. I’ve witnessed the love between them grow and flourish, and it’s truly something special. [Groom’s Name], thank you for making my best friend the happiest she’s ever been. To [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], may your love continue to blossom and may your journey together be filled with laughter, love, and adventure. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness. Cheers!”

“Hello, everyone! I’m [Your Name], and I have the honor of being [Bride’s Name]’s slightly crazy, but totally awesome, maid of honor! When [Bride’s Name] asked me to take on this role, I knew it would be an adventure. From choosing the perfect dress to planning wild bachelorette parties, we’ve had our fair share of laughs and tears. And let’s not forget about all the emergency wedding dress fittings! But in all seriousness, I couldn’t have asked for a better friend. [Bride’s Name] is compassionate, hilarious, and always there to lend a helping hand. She lights up every room she enters, and I know that [Groom’s Name] feels incredibly lucky to have her as his partner in crime. [Groom’s Name], welcome to the family! We’ve all been waiting for someone to take on the challenge of dealing with [Bride’s Name]’s terrible dance moves, and it looks like you’re up for it. To the happy couple, may your love be as endless as the dance floor at the reception. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness, laughter, and love. Cheers!”

“Ladies and gentlemen, distinguished guests, and most importantly, the beautiful couple of the day, [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]. I’m [Your Name], and I have the privilege of being [Bride’s Name]’s maid of honor. Today, I stand here with a heart full of emotions, for I’ve had the honor of witnessing the love between [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name] blossom into something truly extraordinary. Their love is like a gentle breeze, calming our souls and reminding us of the beauty in life. [Bride’s Name], you’ve always been the ray of sunshine in my life. Your kindness, grace, and unwavering love inspire all who know you. And now, as you embark on this new journey with [Groom’s Name], I know that you’ll be a guiding light in his life as well. [Groom’s Name], thank you for cherishing and loving [Bride’s Name] with all your heart. Your dedication to making her happy is evident in every glance you share.

Let us all raise our glasses to the newlyweds. May your love continue to grow, like the mighty oak standing tall through the changing seasons. May your days be filled with laughter, and your hearts forever intertwined. Congratulations, and here’s to a lifetime of happiness and love!”

When delivering a speech, remember to speak from the heart, keep it concise, and maintain a positive tone. Make sure to customize the speech to fit your relationship with the couple and the overall vibe of the wedding.

How to write a short wedding speech?

• Start by introducing yourself and briefly mentioning your relationship with the bride. This will help the audience understand your perspective and why you were chosen to be the maid of honor.
• Take a moment to express your gratitude for being a part of the special day and your well wishes for the newlyweds.
• Say a few words about the bride and groom, highlighting their qualities and how they complement each other. You can talk about their journey as a couple and your hopes for their future together.
• End your speech by raising a toast to the newlyweds.

Maid Of Honor Toasts

One of the tips for giving good wedding speeches – to use a good toast. A toast is basically well wished to the newlyweds and their family, followed by a signal for guests to raise their glasses.

If you are unsure what exactly to say, here are some beautiful maid of honor toast examples to inspire you.

• “And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight. – Philippians 1:9”
• “Be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you. – Ephesians 4:32”
• “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Here’s to love, laughter and happily ever after. – Romans 12:10″
• “As (Groom) and (Bride) start their new life together, Let’s toast to the new husband and wife!”
• “Here’s to the husband And here’s to the wife; May they remain Lovers for life.”
• “Here’s to the health of the happy pair; may good luck follow them everywhere; And may each day of wedded bliss be always as sweet and joyous as this.”
• “May you grow old on one pillow. May their joy be as bright as the morning, and their sorrows be shadows that fade in the sunlight of love.”
• “Let’s drink to love, which is nothing—unless it’s divided into two with someone you love. May your joys be as sweet as spring flowers that grow.”
• “As bright as a fire when winter winds blow; As countless as leaves that float down in the fall; And as serene as the love that keeps watching over us all.”

As the maid of honor, you need to find the one speech, that is short and sweet, and resonates with you! Great Maid of Honor wedding speeches often includes great quotes . Famous quotes have a way of painting a picture that our own words can’t seem to do on their own.

The Maid Of Honor Speech Template

Infographic.

The biggest worry that most maids of honor have is freezing and forgetting the speech. A great solution is breaking your speech into sections and writing them down on cards that you carry with you. As you practice your speech it will be easier to memorize, and having all the words with you will keep you from panicking.

To get you started, stick to our basic Maid Of Honor Speech Outline:

• Introduce yourself (your name, your relationship to the bride, and how long you’ve known each other)
• Thank everyone involved in the wedding planning for their hard work
• Talk about the bride (why she’s a good person and friend, share a story to illustrate it)
• Tell the love story (The most romantic version of how the bride and groom met)
• Talk about the groom (Compliment him, why he’s great for your friend, what he does for her etc)
• Celebrate the couple (Why they’re so good together)
• Wish the newlyweds wonderful things for the future You could also insert a quote or a poem.
• Toast to the bride and groom – Raise your glass, say: “Here’s to the happy couple”, take and sip and voila! You’ve nailed it!

How To Write The Best Maid Of Honor Speech Ever

We’ve all seen when speeches go wrong, so how you do you get it right? After years of helping Maids of Honor deliver awesome speeches, founder of Speechy , Heidi Ellert-McDermott, shares her tips.

• Introduce yourself & explain how you know the bride.
• Include humor throughout. Yes, your speech should be a loving tribute to a true friend, but it’s also meant to entertain a crowd.
• Once you’ve written your speech, try to edit it in half. Promise, your speech will be better the punchier it is. No one ever wished a speech was longer!
• Pay tribute to the bride’s partner with than a cursory platitude. Prove you genuinely know and like them!
• Rehearse as often as you can but use notes on the day. Delivering the speech shouldn’t be a memory test.
• Remember to smile throughout your delivery. It’s a powerful (and infectious) communication tool.

Don’t

• Resort to cheesy cliches about love and friendship.
• Google gags.
• Thank anyone. It’s not your job.
• Take up more than 10 mins mic time.
• Pretend the bride is perfect. Instead cherish the crazy character she truly is, with all her quirks and eccentricities.
• Talk over laughter when you deliver your speech. If you’ve written a funny line, leave a pause after you’ve said it to allow your audience to get the joke and respond. Don’t start talking till the last giggle has died down.
• Drink more than a glass of bubbles prior to your speech. Alcohol actually increases the stress hormone.

How to Get Started Maid of Honor Wedding Speech

• Know Your Audience: Consider the bride and groom’s personalities, the formality of the event, and the sensibilities of the guests. Tailor your speech to the audience.
• Start Early: Begin writing your speech well in advance. This allows time for revisions and practice. Don’t wait until the last minute.
• Personalize It: Share anecdotes and stories that reflect your relationship with the bride. Highlight special moments and inside jokes.

Examples of How to Get Started:

• Opening with a Quote: Start with an inspiring or humorous quote related to love or marriage. For instance,

“Maya Angelou once said, ‘Love recognizes no barriers.’ Today, we’re here to celebrate a love that knows no bounds.”

• Anecdotal Introduction: Begin with a personal story about your friendship with the bride.

“As I stand here today, I can’t help but think back to the time we met in kindergarten. Who would’ve thought that our friendship would lead us to this beautiful wedding?”

• Express Your Gratitude: Begin by expressing your gratitude for being chosen as the maid of honor.

“First and foremost, I want to thank [bride’s name] for giving me the honor of standing by her side today as her maid of honor.” Remember, the key to a memorable maid of honor speech is sincerity and a touch of humor, sprinkled with personal anecdotes that capture the essence of your relationship with the bride.

How To End A Maid Of Honor Speech

When figuring out how to write a maid of honor speech, keep in mind that the latter part of the speech should be where you talk about the couple. In that vein, it’s also important to know how to end the speech flawlessly. Here are a few tips.

• Keep it short and sweet. While you might have a lot to say, there are time slots for each speech, so keeping things short would be best.
• Use sentimental wedding quotes. You might have a maid of honor speech template you follow but adding inspirational quotes to your speech is a great way to wrap things up.
• Finish with a toast. At the very end, it is customary to raise a toast to the happy couple.

10 Maid Of Honor Speech Tips

After years of helping Maids of Honor deliver awesome speeches, founder of Speechy and author of ‘The Modern Couple’s Guide to Wedding Speeches’, Heidi Ellert-McDermott, shares her tips.

Planning Your Speech

• Think of the speechwriting process as writing a dissertation (only this time, don’t leave it till the night before your deadline!).
• Firstly, jot down all your ideas and favourite stories and then construct a central idea (narrative theme) that you stick to through. It could be that your friend is always right, or maybe the newlyweds prove that opposites really do attract. Whatever it is, make sure your speech flows from one idea to the next, rather than being a list of random thoughts.

Speech Structure

• Remember to introduce yourself and how you know the bride at the start of the speech and try to include humor within the first 30 seconds. Resist the urge to include any of those tired googled-wedding-gags and ensure your line is original and relates to the couple themselves or the surroundings you find yourself in.
• The first three-fifths of the speech should include revealing, entertaining stories that give an insight into the bride and your relationship with her. Don’t be shy of some affectionate teasing.
• Towards the latter half of the speech, introduce her partner and explain why the couple are suited. Again, make sure to include some good-natured humour here.
• The final fifth of your speech could be a full-on love-bomb of a tribute to your friend. Make sure you avoid the usual cliches and platitudes about friendship and instead, try to nail the bride’s individual characteristics and quirks that make you love her.

Edit Your Speech

• When you’ve finished writing your speech, try to edit it in half. You may not achieve it but once you get editing, you’ll be surprised by the amount of needless waffle that’s in there.
• Remember, a speech is better punchy, so be brutal. A good maid of honour speech is generally between 700 and 1,100 words. No more than 10 minutes airtime!

Choosing Quotes for a Memorable Maid of Honor Speech

Talking about love and trying to sum up a friendship, can be hard. Luckily, some other clever people have already done it and we can all exploit their genius! Whilst plagiarism isn’t ever cool, finding the perfect quote to supercharge your speech is a great idea. Founder of Speechy (the bespoke speechwriting service), Heidi Ellert-McDermott, shares her tips for hunting the perfect quote to honour your bestie.

How to Use Quotes

• Don’t resort to a generic ‘marriage advice’ quote. They’re over-used.
• Don’t overload your speech with quotes. One, maximum two.
• Quote recognisable names – or at least provide some context. Don’t quote someone you need to Google or someone who’s a random ‘relationship coach’.
• Once you add the perfect quote to your speech, script a comedy back ref or put it into the context of the couple’s real-life relationship.
• Remember, quotes can be used to add the necessary humor, as well as the sentiment.

Where to Find Quotes

• Don’t just search for ‘wedding quotes’ on Pinterest.
• Quotes become more meaningful if they come from somewhere that means something to the couple. Could the quote come from the bride’s favourite book, her partner’s favourite film, or maybe it’s from that song you play when you’ve both had a few too many dirty martinis.
• Quotes can be found everywhere from children’s books to rom-coms, from hip-hop classics to the great philosophers, from historical icons to classic sitcoms so enjoy the search!

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the maid of honor have to give a speech.

It’s definitely customary for the maid of honor to give a toast to the newlyweds at the reception, but usually, she gave a sweet speech.

How long should a maid of honor speech be?

A maid of honor speech should ideally be around 3 to 5 minutes in length. This timeframe allows you to convey your message effectively without losing the audience’s attention or making other speeches feel rushed.

What should be avoided in a maid of honor speech?

When delivering a maid of honor speech, there are a few things to avoid to ensure it is memorable for the right reasons:

• Avoid embarrassing or offensive stories: You shouldn’t share anything that may make the bride uncomfortable or might be inappropriate for the audience.
• Steer clear of inside jokes: Inside jokes may exclude or confuse other guests who are not familiar with the context. Keep your speech inclusive and relatable for everyone present.
• Don’t overshadow the couple: Avoid making the speech all about yourself or unrelated topics that detract from the celebration of the couple’s special day.
• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption can impair your ability to deliver a coherent and meaningful message.
• Don’t go on for too long: Avoid rambling or dragging out the speech, as it may lose the interest of the audience.

Remember, the maid of honor speech is an opportunity to celebrate the couple and express your love and support for them.

We hope that now you have everything you need for your perfect maid of honor speech. So just keep all of this in mind as you prepare and deliver your maid of honor speech, and you will be amazing. Make the bride proud she chose you!

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How to Write a Maid of Honor Speech: Wording Examples and Ideas

As a maid of honor, you’ll need to juggle several important duties – from organising an epic bridal shower to going wedding dress shopping and holding the bride’s bouquet.

But the most daunting task of all? Writing and delivering a maid of honor speech at the reception!

We totally get how terrifying this can be, which is why we’re here to help. Keep reading for our ultimate guide on writing the perfect maid of honor speech below, including some brainstorming prompts and wording examples to get you started.

How Long Should a Maid of Honor Speech Be?

Let’s get the good news out of the way first: your maid of honor speech doesn’t have to be long! Remember, you probably won’t be the only one speaking at the reception, so you’ll want to keep your speech short and sweet. We’d say the perfect maid of honor speech should ideally be between 2 to 4 minutes, and definitely no longer than 5.

What Should a Maid of Honor Speech Include?

Simply put, a maid of honor speech should be based around two key things: celebrating your relationship with the bride and celebrating her relationship with her new husband or wife. 

Maid of honor speeches usually includes a mix of personal anecdotes, compliments to the happy couple, and well wishes for the future. Your speech can include your favourite memories with the bride, but it should also strike the right balance by including some sentiments towards her partner and their relationship, too. Usually, you’ll start your speech by talking about the bride and wrap it up by talking about her and her partner as a couple.

So, what does this look like in action? If you’re looking for a helpful framework to follow, consider this tried and tested formula for a winning maid of honor speech below:

• Introduce yourself. It might seem obvious, but introducing yourself is important to give your speech context and explain your relationship with the bride. Don’t forget, there may be guests at the wedding who have no idea who you are!
• Talk about the bride. Begin your speech by complimenting the bride. What do you love about her? What makes her such a good person/best friend/sibling? Be specific with your compliments, too – rather than saying, “She’s such a generous friend”, share a specific moment that demonstrates this.
• Include a favourite anecdote. Do you have a favourite memory that sticks out when you reflect on your relationship with the bride? This is a good time to share one or two short anecdotes. They can be funny stories or more sincere and heartfelt moments.
• Compliment their partner. Now it’s time to bring her partner into the speech. What are your favourite qualities about them? What was your first impression of them? Why are they such a good match for the bride?
• Celebrate the couple. This is where you’ll want to highlight the relationship between the happy couple. Talk about what makes their relationship so special, what you admire about them as a couple, and how their lives have changed for the better.
• Share your well wishes. Tie it all together by offering your best piece of marriage advice, favourite quote, or some warm wishes for the future.
• Share a toast. Finally, raise your glass to toast the happy couple (and reward yourself with a sip of champagne, too!).

Things To Avoid In Your Maid of Honor Speech

Now that you know what to include in a maid of honor speech, is there anything you should strictly avoid? When it comes to correct etiquette, keep the following suggestions in mind to ensure your speech is well-received: 

• Sharing funny stories or gently “roasting” the couple is totally fine if that suits your relationship with them, but steer clear of anything inappropriate, rude, or embarrassing. Remember, there will likely be elderly relatives and important family members in the room, so keep it PG-rated.
• If you’re not comfortable using jokes or humour, then don’t! It’s better to keep your speech genuine and heartfelt, rather than trying to be funny. Of course, it’s completely okay to include some comedy, but don’t force it unless it’s true to who you are.
• While you and your BFF probably have a lifetime of inside jokes between you, try to avoid referencing these in your speech. If the majority of wedding guests won’t understand it, it’s probably not worth including.
• Finally, don’t bring up any old boyfriends or ex-partners! It probably goes without saying, but your maid of honor speech is about celebrating the happy couple – not bringing up unwanted memories from the past.

Maid of Honor Speech Writing Prompts

Still feeling stuck? The best place to start crafting your maid of honor speech is usually with a good brainstorming session. Use these questions and writing prompts to help you get the inspiration flowing:

• How did you meet the bride? 
• What was your first impression of her?
• How has your relationship evolved over the years?
• What’s your favourite memory with the bride?
• What’s your funniest story about the bride?
• What are the bride’s best qualities? How does she demonstrate this?
• How would you describe the bride in 3 words?
• How did you meet her partner?
• What was your first impression of her partner?
• What are her partner’s best qualities? How do they demonstrate this?
• How would you describe her partner in 3 words?
• How did you know her partner was “the one”?
• How did her partner propose?
• What do you admire most about the couple?
• What milestones have the couple celebrated?
• How has their relationship evolved over the years?
• Have they overcome any challenges or hardships together?
• What makes their relationship unique?
• What’s your favourite memory with the couple?
• How have they made an impact on your life?
• What are your hopes for their future together as a married couple?

Once you’ve spent some time answering these prompts, you should have plenty of fantastic material to work with. 

Maid of Honor Speech Examples and Ideas

Now, it’s time to start pulling everything together! Use these maid of honor speech templates and examples below to be inspired:

Maid of Honor Speech Example For Sister:

“Hi everyone. I wanted to start by thanking you all for being here today to celebrate this amazing couple. As most of you know, I’m (Bride’s) little sister, (Name). 

I think we can all agree that (Bride) has a personality like no other. She’s outspoken, feisty, and stubborn – but also the most caring, loyal, and funniest person I’ve ever known. Growing up, we were like two peas in a pod. We were always getting into trouble and causing mischief together – and truthfully, not much has changed! I’ll never forget the time we (insert relevant anecdote), or the time we (insert relevant anecdote). It’s memories like these that make me so thankful to have (Bride) as a sister.

I used to wonder if there would ever be a guy brave enough to handle (Bride). Well, my sister has just tied the knot, and I think she’s found her perfect match in (Partner). (Partner), I couldn’t have chosen anyone better for my big sister. You’re kind, patient, and just the right amount of crazy to fit into our family – as demonstrated by the time you (insert relevant anecdote). Most importantly, you love my sister for who she is – stubbornness and all.

Your commitment to each other inspires me every day, and watching your relationship grow over the years has been so special to witness. I wish you both nothing but the best for the future, and I know you’re going to have some unforgettable adventures together. So, with that, I’d like to invite everyone to raise their glasses for a toast. Here’s to the happy couple!”

Maid of Honor Speech Example for Best Friend:

“Hi everyone. For those who haven’t yet had the chance to meet me, I’m (Name). (Bride) and I have been best friends since college, where we quickly bonded over our shared love for (insert hobbies/interests). 10 years later, and I couldn’t be happier to be standing here today to celebrate the amazing person (Bride) is, and the amazing life she and (Partner) have created together.

There are so many traits that I love about (Bride). First, her wacky sense of humour and ability to find the funny moment in any situation – like the time she (insert relevant anecdote). Secondly, her thoughtfulness and generosity, especially when she (insert relevant anecdote). And finally, her ability to light up any room she walks into. (Bride), you look so beautiful tonight.

Now, onto (Partner). My first impression of (Partner) was that he was incredibly kind, friendly, and humble. All of these things are still true, but as I’ve gotten to know him better, I’ve also seen how hilariously goofy he can be. I’ll never forget when he (insert relevant anecdote). It was then I knew that he was “the one” for my best friend.

(Bride) and (Partner), you complement each other perfectly, and it’s easy to see how crazy you are about each other. I’m so honoured to call you my friends, and I can’t wait to see how you navigate this exciting next chapter together. I’ll leave with you a quote to take with you through marriage: (insert relevant quote). Here’s to (Bride) and (Partner)!”

Nailing Your Wedding Speech

Finally, don’t forget that practice makes perfect. Once you’ve crafted your maid of honor speech, spend some time rehearsing it before the day until you’re comfortable with your delivery. The more prepared you are, the more confident you’ll feel when the big moment comes!

And while the thought of writing a maid of honor speech can definitely be daunting, try not to put too much pressure on yourself. Simply speak authentically from the heart, and you can’t go wrong.

Want to be the best maid of honor ever? Read these 13 important maid of honor duties you can’t forget to do !

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How To Craft The Best Maid of Honor Speech For Sister On Her Wedding

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Published Date : February 14, 2024

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The right time and moment have come for you to create your maid of honor speech on your sister’s wedding day. Nothing is more significant than making it for her, who has been with you through thick and thin. We will talk about how to craft the best maid of honor speech for your sister at her wedding, including tips and examples!

Since this is a special event for your sister and her husband, you want to ensure everything is as perfect as possible. Thus, you must give a speech with all the right qualities, such as personal, emotional, heartfelt, witty, and more. 

However, delivering your maid of honor speech for your sister on her big day is challenging, and you might feel slightly pressured. 

No need to worry about that matter because I have covered you! 

I’ll share some helpful tips and examples to ensure that you craft something remarkable with your maid-of-honor speech for your sister to make the whole room feel upbeat, delighted, and touched.

What is a Maid of Honor Speech?

The maid of honor speech , in its simplified structure, is a minute speech in which you will speak about how much you love your sister, how you can’t believe how she and her husband wonderfully found each other, and how you can’t wait to see them build a happy life together. 

Moreover, you will give several anecdotes, such as childhood memories, tales from your summer camp together, or spilling information that only you know. You will laugh, cry, and make a toast for the people as well. 

Still, if a part of you is worried about how things may come together, we have a few tips, a maid of honor speech outline, and examples you can see in the latter part of this article. 

What is the Expectation of the Maid of Honor?

A maid of honor can be many things for the bride: a ball of energy, a worker bee, and even an emotional lifeboat. This idea may sound like plenty of pressure, but it is not so bad because you will enjoy it. 

You might be in charge of the bachelorette party and bridal shower and lead the bridesmaids’ troop in every part of the planning until the wedding day. 

As the maid of honor for your sister’s wedding, you must know your expectations and what you are getting into. The table shows the duties expected of the maid of honor throughout the wedding process. 

How to Write a Maid of Honor Speech

Although you have been with your sister from your diaper days until adulthood, it is still quite hard to compose a perfect maid of honor speech for her wedding day, given that you might also fear  public speaking .

Nonetheless, you don’t have to feel troubled because we are here to guide you in crafting and letting out your creative juices. The start is always tricky, but you will eventually have fun while creating your maid of honor speech for your sister once you have grasped the idea.

Covered below are some essential pointers, such as a maid of honor speech outline and tips for writing it.

Maid of Honor Speech Outline

Obtaining a classic Maid of Honor speech outline can help you prepare and start even though the Maid of Honor speech takes several distinct forms.

 If you are unsure what to write and include, you can follow these steps to create a traditional and beautiful maid of honor speech for your sister that everybody will love. 

1. Introduce Yourself to Everyone

First, consider that not all wedding guests know who you are and how you are related to the bride. 

You should start your speech by introducing your name and relationship with the bride, and if you are her best friend, mention how long you have known each other. 

2. Thank All the Guests

Planning a wedding is quite stressful, expensive, and demanding much time. It is best to take a moment in your maid of honor speech for your sister to thank your parents.

I also thank the guests who were present and helped make a memorable wedding day happen. 

3. Share Some Stories

After introducing yourself and thanking the people, you can now start sharing some stories of your choice. This part of the maid of honor speech outline has many distinct paths you can take.

You may share an embarrassing experience you and the bride share to get the wedding guests laughing. You can also choose a touching anecdote about the couple, which might make everybody cry.

4. Add a Meaningful Quote

You can add a meaningful and relevant quote to add more depth to your maid of honor speech for your sister. In selecting the quotes, make sure they have meaning for you and the happy bride. 

The quote can also be relatable for the groom and the attending guests. I recommend leaving out the inside jokes you and the bride only know because not everyone will get a hold of it. 

5. Convey a Heartfelt Emotion

In this part of the maid of honor speech outline, regardless of what tone you want for your speech , it is always preferable to take a moment and acknowledge the beauty of the couple’s big day. 

Even the funniest speeches during the wedding have a touching moment because everyone can feel the speaker’s heartfelt emotion. 

Remember that in making your maid of honor speech for your sister, you must consider a combination of being funny and sentimental to maintain the best balance. 

6. Give a Strong Ending

Give a strong speech ending by telling a final story, a quote, or making a toast for the newlyweds. Consider that your maid of honor speech ending will be the part guests are most likely to recall, so this maid of honor speech outline’s section reminds you to be creative. 

The Dos and Don’ts

Since you are familiar with your maid of honor speech outline, let us get into the “dos and don’ts” of your maid of honor speech for your sister on her wedding day. Knowing the things and thoughts to include and not is essential to ensure that you craft the best possible wedding speech ever. 

7 Tips for Writing a Wedding Speech for Your Sister

Being the maid of honor includes specific tasks, and one of them is to spend some time, effort, and feelings to write a notable wedding speech for your sister. 

We doff our hats to you if you love speaking in front of us. However, if the thought of being in front of a crowd makes you want to pee, don’t panic because we have some tips.

We have listed seven helpful tips to teach you how to craft your maid of honor speech for your sister on her big day. Eliminate those nervous butterflies and deliver it with poise and confidence . 

1. Prepare and start creating your speech as early as possible.

Starting early for your speech is preferable to having enough time to gather your thoughts and write something genuine. Allot time for yourself at least three weeks before the wedding day to prepare and begin writing your maid of honor speech .

Trust us; we know it is tempting to procrastinate doing your speech , considering that talking in front would only accumulate around three to five minutes. However, don’t listen to that laziness kicking in your system.

No matter how good and creative you are as a public speaker, it is best not to wing your speech ; instead, it is better prepared, especially for a significant occasion.

2. Make your speech more personal.

Don’t be worried when your tears start flowing and the tissues come out of your pockets during your maid of honor speech . Let your sister acknowledge how much you treasure and love her and that you are always there when she needs you.

Above all, extend your heartfelt gratitude to your sister because she chose you as her maid of honor on her most awaited day. 

3. Have a perfect balance between being witty and emotional

You must be engaging and funny because you don’t want the wedding guests to be bored and have a snooze fest. However, remember that you are also not a stand-up comedian that day. 

Ensure that you crack some jokes but with limitations. Create your maid of honor speech for sister extra-special by balancing emotions and personal moments.

4. Include meaningful moments that you shared with the bride

You are the bride’s sister; of course, you have known her all your life. This thought indicated that you have to tell everybody about your moments together.

Your maid of honor speech for your sister focuses on her best qualities . You can describe your relationship and explain your unbreakable bond with her as you grew up and even to this day.

5. Practice your speech

Practicing for your maid of honor speech is also practicing your speaking skills . There are various ways in which you can practice, such as the following:

• Utilize your smartphone and take a video of yourself while delivering it. Review the footage and clean your speech based on your comments to yourself.
• Use the mirror technique to watch yourself in real-time and observe your facial expressions and speaking skills .
• Have someone as your audience and listener , and gather their feedback regarding delivering your maid of honor speech .

Give an epic Maid of Honor speech , practice with Orai

6. Give some compliments to the groom.

Besides focusing on your sister’s best qualities, which I previously mentioned, add some compliments about your sister’s spouse. You may want to tell everyone about your first impression or when your sister told you about him.

In another case, if you knew the groom first and played cupid for them, you can explain to the wedding guests what made them realize their love for each other. You can also say his attributes that will make your sister happy for the rest of their lives as one. 

7. Thank the guests at the beginning and end of your speech

Lastly, thank all the guests at the beginning and end of your speech . This gesture is a sign of acknowledging their time and effort in attending a significant occasion. 

The Formula for a Maid of Honor Speech

Not everyone gets excited about speaking in public or at a large gathering. You might worry or fear about public speaking and get some jitters on the spot. 

If you are super nervous and freaked out during your speech , besides the maid of honor speech outline, use the formula for a maid of honor speech :

• “I love you both (the bride and groom) so much.”
• Add an anecdote about the newly married couple and their relationship.
• I wish for their happiness together.
• Make a toast

How Can the Sister of the Groom Prepare a Speech?

Your brother has been there with you your whole life. On his wedding day, he might ask you to be one of the speakers who will give a speech to him and his lovely wife. 

To help you prepare and nail that sister of the groom speech , here are some steps to take and consider:

• Gather your thoughts.
• Decide on your speech structure.
• After having a good idea about the theme, start writing it.
• Review and revise if necessary.
• Take time to practice your speech .
• Deliver it well.

What is a Suitable Gift to a Bride From Her Maid of Honor?

Most wedding attendants always want to give the bride and groom a gift that they will love. Of course, as the bride’s maid of honor, a part of you wants nothing but to hand an extra special gift to your sister. 

She selected you as her right-hand woman on her once-in-a-lifetime wedding day, so a creative and meaningful present is a method to exhibit how significant she is in your life. 

If you are currently searching for an ideal gift for the bride, we listed the best presents a maid of honor can give to lessen your work. 

• Personalized Kimono Robe with the bride’s initials
• Custom-made sister necklace
• Bridal ring dish
• Cosmetics bag
• Spa kit/Spa gift card
• Wedding journal
• Personalized “Mr. & Mrs.” champagne flutes
• Instant camera

Some Great Examples

Since I already mentioned the introduction about the maid of honor speech , maid of honor speech outline, and some helpful tips, we are now down to the maid of honor speech examples sisters do on the wedding day. 

Besides the usual sister-of-the-bride speeches, you can check an example of the maid-of-honor speech for best friend below. Use them as a reference, and let that creative juice come out!

For Best friend

Is your best friend now marrying the man of her dreams and choosing you to be her maid of honor? Don’t panic with your speech because we got you a heartfelt maid-of-honor speech for your best friend, an example that indeed stirs everyone’s emotions.

For Little Sister

Big sisters are like mothers to their little sisters. You grow together, and seeing such an important person get married can get extremely emotional. Incorporating some anecdotes from your childhood into your speech is a great idea. Emotional speeches are heart-touching and can easily be one of the important highlights of the wedding. Here’s an example that you might want to check out:

For Big Sister

During your sister’s wedding day, you might want to deliver a funny speech that will make everyone laugh and feel touched. Here is an example of a funny maid of honor speech for big sister:

What is the third key idea discussed in the speech, and what advice does the speaker give the newlyweds about marriage?

Forget the crystal ball! Their future’s an adventure, so buckle up! Embrace the unknown, hand in hand, and see where your hearts take you. Life throws curveballs, but with love, trust, and laughter on your side, you’ll hit them out of the park. Talk it out, compromise, and conquer every joint decision, from dream jobs to houses. The future’s unpredictable, but that’s its beauty! See it as an exciting playground, not a scary unknown. Grab hands, take risks, and laugh along the way. Remember, with love as your compass, you can weather any storm together. Now, raise a glass to the grand adventure that awaits!

What is the second key idea discussed in the speech, and what does the speaker mention about their shared experiences with the sister?

Remember those epic Love Island marathons in college? Laughter, tears, and maybe even some TV-throwing – good times! Little did we know, those reality show sessions were an audition for [Sister’s spouse’s name]. They could handle the drama just as well as we could! Seeing them join the fun, laughing and yelling alongside us, I knew they were perfect for [Sister’s name]. Don’t worry, though, our reality show nights are still sacred – nothing can break that bond! But now, we can share the laughs with one more amazing person. Cheers to [Sister’s name] and [Sister’s spouse’s name], and to reality TV for bringing us all together!

What is the first key idea discussed in the speech, and what does the speaker say about the bond between the sister and her spouse?

Admit it, I had my doubts at first. But [Sister’s spouse’s name] won me over, fast. Not just kind and caring, they pour their whole heart into [Sister’s name]. Random flower surprises? This is just one example of the little things they remember. The love runs deep. They make each other laugh, support their dreams, and face life’s adventures as a team. It’s heartwarming to see, and I couldn’t be happier for my amazing sister!

What advice does the speaker give to the newlyweds for their future?

Life’s an adventure, not a stagnant scene. Remember, you’re both growing, changing, blossoming! Support each other’s journeys, embrace the new versions of yourselves, and watch your love bloom even brighter. Chase those dreams, cheer each other on, and remember, teamwork makes the dream work. Life throws curveballs, but you’ll hit them out of the park together if you stay flexible and united and face every challenge hand-in-hand. Now, raise a glass to the ever-evolving, always-amazing you two!

How does the speaker describe their sister’s partner?

Remember that warm family dinner? [Sister’s name] glowing, everyone laughing – that was when I knew [Sister’s spouse’s name] was special. They have a way of making everyone feel welcome, seen, and heard. They’re not just kind; they’re some of the most genuine, caring people I know. Over the years, that hasn’t changed. They fit right in, enriching our family with their warmth and humor. They were meant to be part of our lives. Cheers to [Sister’s name] and [Sister’s spouse’s name], the perfect addition to our crazy crew!

How does the speaker describe their relationship with their sister in the past?

Hey everyone! [Sister’s name]’s Maid of Honor here, and so thrilled to celebrate her today! 28 years of sisterhood – that’s a lot of laughs, secrets, and late-night talks. Remember childhood giggle fests and living room dance parties? We were more than sisters, we were best friends. And seeing her kindness and compassion blossom over the years fills me with pride. Our bond only grew stronger through thick and thin, laughter and tears. So thankful for this amazing woman and honored to be her Maid of Honor as she starts this new chapter! Cheers to [Sister’s name]!

What is the opening of the speech, and who is speaking?

Hello everyone! Can I hear a cheer for the happy couple? As [Sister’s name]’s Maid of Honor, I’m beyond excited to celebrate with you all today. Seeing so many familiar faces here today – and let’s face it, everyone looks incredible! – fills my heart with warmth. Your love and support mean the world to her and me. So, thank you for coming, and let’s raise a glass to [Sister’s name] and [Partner’s name]!\

Can you use props in your speech?

Spice up your speech , but don’t let props steal the show! Photos, videos, or special objects can add heart and humor, but remember, they’re there to support your words, not replace them. Choose wisely, use sparingly, and make sure they seamlessly connect with your stories and emotions. Keep the spotlight on you and your message; your props will do their magic, leaving everyone with a heartwarming memory!

How long should your Maid of Honor speech be?

Aim for 3-5 minutes of magic! Keep it short, sweet, and heartfelt. Think of bite-sized stories with genuine emotions, and avoid droning on forever. Leave them wanting more, not wishing for you to be done. Remember, you’re making memories, not endurance tests. Make it concise, personal, and captivating – your sister and the guests will thank you!

What are some ideas for sharing defining moments in your relationship with your sister?

As a large language model, I don’t have personal experiences like having a sister. However, I can help you choose defining moments to share. Reflect on shared challenges you’ve overcome, secrets that make you laugh, or times her friendship saw you through tough situations. Highlight how you’ve grown together or the lessons you’ve learned. Did she inspire you? Share that admiration. Recall joyful memories, her unwavering support, and how she makes you a better person. Choose stories that showcase love, growth, resilience, and the unique bond of sisterhood. Remember, keep it personal and focus on themes that resonate with your relationship. Good luck!

How do you write the perfect Maid of Honor speech?

Forget formulas. Find your voice! Your Maid of Honor speech should sing with your unique connection to the couple. Pick a theme that ties it all together – love, laughter, a defining moment of theirs. Start warm, thank guests, and introduce yourself. Share a cherished memory that reflects the bride’s amazingness. Then, paint a funny, touching story of their love. Look ahead, expressing joy for their future, sharing dreams, or offering lighthearted advice. Finally, raise a glass with heartfelt wishes for a lifetime of happiness. Remember, it’s less about structure and more about genuine emotion. Let your love and connection shine through!

Can you provide examples of Maid of Honor speeches for a sister?

The examples inspire and guide you in writing your Maid of Honor speech for your sister. Consider what you like about the examples and how you can personalize them. Look for techniques like personal stories, humor, and genuine emotions. Five specific examples are provided for further inspiration.

How can you end your Maid of Honor speech on a memorable note?

Express your joy for the couple’s union with a smile and a heartfelt toast. Incorporate a callback to a theme or story from the speech , linking it to their journey and your wishes for their future. Choose a memorable quote that embodies their love story. Share insights about love and marriage, encouraging them to grow together. Highlight their positive impact on your life and express your gratitude towards them. Offer a heartfelt blessing, expressing your wishes for their happiness and prosperity. Your speech should leave them feeling loved, appreciated, and excited for their journey together.

How can you balance humor and emotion in your speech?

Hook them with a funny intro, then let the feels flow! Start with lighthearted stories or jokes to draw attention, then gradually weave in more emotional anecdotes and heartfelt messages. This ebb and flow between humor and sentiment creates a captivating arc and keeps the audience engaged. Steer clear of offensive humor – aim for tasteful jokes that complement the happy occasion. To strike the perfect balance, blend funny moments with personal stories that showcase your bond with the bride. Hand in hand, laughter, and tears make for a truly memorable speech !

How can you compliment the spouse in your Maid of Honor speech?

Keep it clean and celebratory! Skip anything too private or embarrassing that might raise eyebrows. Pick a funny story that shows their personality or a sweet moment that reflects their connection. Express your gratitude for the joy they bring, mentioning how they make gatherings special and create lasting memories. Share how they’ve impacted your sister, highlighting their support, empowerment, or encouragement. Remember, it’s a happy occasion, so keep it warm and joyful!

How can you make your Maid of Honor speech personal?

Make it personal, heartfelt, and packed with sisterly love! Highlight her unique qualities through special memories and inside jokes. Don’t be a comedian, but sprinkle in some wit to keep folks engaged. Share stories that showcase your bond and make the audience feel your love. Be genuine, express gratitude for being her Maid of Honor, and shower her with love! Remember to mention her best qualities through specific stories, letting everyone see how amazing she is. This speech will be extra special because it comes straight from the heart!

Being your sister’s maid of honor is both a privilege and a responsibility . It might be nerve-wracking to give your maid of honor speech for your sister on her wedding day, but always remember that your heartfelt words will make your utmost efforts worth it. Find more public speaking tips and examples, and check out Orai, your AI-powered speech coach ,  to practice your speech skills:

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Matron of Honor Speech – Ideas and Sample

Jittery about your matron of honor speech at your best friend's wedding? Don't worry! This article will help you prepare for the big day! Read on to find out.

Jittery about your matron of honor speech at your best friend’s wedding? Don’t worry! This article will help you prepare for the big day! Read on to find out.

So, your best friend has asked you to be her matron of honor at her wedding. You’re elated but at the same time, you’re skeptical about how you’re going to carry out such a huge responsibility, that too, in front of a crowd! Being a matron of honor is one of the most wonderful roles that you can play as a woman. It entails a whole lot of planning and responsibilities as well. As if that was not enough, you have the speech to worry about. This Wedessence article will come to your rescue with some useful tips.

Ideas to Write the Matron of Honor Speech

The very fact that you’re the matron of honor means you’re quite close to the bride. This is, in itself, a tank of resources that you can use in the wedding speech. The following ideas can be used for your speech.

► Childhood Stories : If you and the bride have been friends since childhood, you obviously have a long list of childhood stories that you can share with the people at the wedding. Funny stories are well-appreciated but make sure they are not embarrassing for the bride or her family.

► Relationship of the Bride and Groom : You obviously know the groom well from the time your friend started dating him. You can say something about how their relationship has evolved with time and has been nurtured by both of them equally to reach the turning point of marriage! Use anecdotes from your lives together as friends to show how their love blossomed in front of you.

► Compliment the Couple : A wedding is the happiest day in one’s life. The bride and the groom look stunning on that special day. So it’s a good idea to begin with what an attractive couple the bride and the groom make and move on to how their love makes them glow.

► Humor : Humor is one of the best ways to start and end a speech. It is a tool that you can use throughout your speech to ensure that your audience does not get bored. A word of advice would be to use humor only if you are confident that you will be able to pull it off. Be careful while using humor in your speech. Jokes about the couple that no one will understand, or worse, offend them have no place in it! If you have funny stories involving ex-flames or spouses or any other family-related story, it’s better to keep them for a more private occasion, NOT the wedding reception!

► Words of Advice : You are already married and know what a married life is all about. You can use this as a bonus and give the lucky couple some valuable advice that they can use. Make these simple and DO NOT sound patronizing. Induce a little humor in this as well so that it does not get boring and you get your point across as well. Avoid terms like ‘you should…’ and ‘you must..’. They may make you sound overbearing. Instead, use words like ‘I suggest….’ or simply ‘Just do this or that…..’.

► Spiritual Words : In case the couple is spiritual, you can use a spiritual angle. A spiritual tone can work wonders for a matron of honor speech. Quotes or verses that match the wedding sentiment will be well-appreciated by the couple, the families, and all the guests present as well.

I’m sure you’ll come up with something great to write for your friends! If you’re too nervous, carry note cards so that you don’t fumble while speaking. Ask the band to play some great wedding songs after your speech so that it complements your speech. Just remember, a whole lot of sentiment, a dash of humor, and a pinch of advice are the best ingredients for a perfect matron of honor speech. Good luck!

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Matron of Honor Speech Example

There are a lot of things to do as a matron of honor and maybe the most important is the speech. Check out our example below for inspiration and the structure article that we prepared exactly for this occasion:

Hello everyone, I’m happy that I had the opportunity to here. I am the sister of the bride called Kimberley and the matron of honor. I would like to thank all of you for joining Alyson and Greg in celebrating this amazing day. When Alyson asked me to be her matron of honor, I can’t tell you how excited I was. I knew that the job would let me share this day with my sister to be a part of all those special moments that come at such a massive wedding. I knew it would be an incredible day and all of you know that Alyson and Greg know what I know that it would be one laugh after another, after another. But what made it truly special was that I have to get to share this day with you Alyson.

The girl I always wanted to be and the woman I’ve always respected. I’ve always looked up to you, you’re my big sister. We may not look like twins anymore like everyone said we did in the old pictures. But the way you cherish life and love is something I try every day to bring into my own life. Greg, that was earnest of me that made me realize how special you’re to me and my sister. The first time I heard her say your name, it was with the widest smile I’ve ever seen. What I love since you came into her life is that your smile and joy has never faded.  When I knew then I had seen with my own eyes as you shared holidays, birthdays and weekends with our family is that your love Alyson makes her happier than I’ve ever seen her in my life.

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And I mean, how couldn’t it? Have you heard their engagement story? They’re on YouTube lately, watched ABC news; some people put their ring in the dessert or propose over a candlelit table. Not Greg, he needed a matching band in the middle of New York City to tell Alyson how much he loved her. It was a perfect story but not because of how big it was, not because of how many people liked it on YouTube but because it was so perfectly Alyson’s and Greg’s.

When I tried to think about what a matron of honor is supposed to do to think of someone for some important advice for your new life together, to share some of the important lessons that I’ve learned in my six years of marriage I realize something, that love you that you both have, that hilarious laugh all day, sometimes over the top passion for life in each other make part of this speech very easy. Because   my first piece of advice is to never stop laughing, can you think of a couple that makes this part seem so easy? I’ve never seen two people who smile, laugh and enjoy the moment as much as the two of you.

Enjoy every moment with each other, cherish them.  When he doesn’t want to eat his vegetables out, laugh. We she wants to spend first salary on sweaters for yours, laugh. Because if you can manage to laugh at each other with each other, you’re doing just fine; that laughter love could carry you through the ups and the downs and wearing a smile makes everything seem better. Second, never forget that marriage is a give and a take. It’s adapting to the changes that life brings your way. Again, this one isn’t unusual to them at all, is it? A New York City girl moving not to a new state but also a new country, a new language; for some people that would be hard but not for Alyson and Greg.

At the core of their love is the belief the sincerest conviction that between the two of you everything and anything can be made perfect. You can’t predict what life would be bring but with God and your love for each other, you can adapt to find good in everything, to build a loving and blissful relationship between husband and wife and of course–dare I say –the kids. Third, embrace the little things, the times that he opens the door for you or gives you his coat when it’s cold outside for hours after a hard day, the times that she sends you an unexpected text saying what you mean to hear; take those moments and cherish them. Measure the hope in one fabric, the unexpected smile and the flatter of the heart and then never let it go. Because it’s those little things that will always remind you the most of how blessed you’re that God gave you each other.

The purity of love is that there’ll never be enough   words to describe it but those moments are always enough to bring you back to how special you are to each other. Those times, those small gestures; well, they could be breathtaking. Finally, always remember that God brought you both together for a purpose. Love is powerful; it’s the virtue that holds all others together. Whatever plan that God may have for your futures, you know it’s certain to you that he gave you each other to get there as a couple, to love each other, to support each other, make each other stronger and to feel a journey with the joy and smiles only the two of you can have. So, ladies and gentlemen, would you raise your glass with me and toast to Alyson and Greg.

Alyson and Greg grow more love for each other and every day become close to each other as you explore the immeasurable happiness and unconditional love that God has for both of you. To Alyson and Greg. Thank you.

Host: Let’s give a round of applause to Nicole and Lauren, our maids honor.

Are you nervous? Afraid you might forget the words? Not sure if you can do it in front of all those people? Still do not know what to write to be witty and funny? Check out our  Total Guide to Wedding Speeches & Toasts .

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Maid of Honor Speech Examples

January 3, 2017 By Kate

When it comes to giving a Maid of Honor speech, there are a few things that you will want to keep in mind. Even if you are using a speech example below, you will want to make sure that you add personal details. In this article, we have listed numerous Maid of Honor speech examples to help you with the writing process.

How To Write a Maid of Honor Speech

When you start your speech, make it a point to let the crowd know who you are and what your relationship to the bride is. How do you know her? Where did you meet? You can just mention these facts briefly before you begin to delve into your speech.

Another thing that you can do in your speech is tell a story about a bride. You can even tell a story about the first time that you met the groom. Most of the best Maid of Honor speeches start with the bride and end with the couple.

Some details worth including are what the bride was like before she met the groom, and what she is like now that the groom is in her life. From seeing her laugh a lot more to noticing how much more she smiles now, these are details that the guests will love to hear.

While it might be common sense for some, you will want to make sure that you know what not to say in a wedding speech. Avoid talking about ex boyfriends or embarrassing stories where the bride got too drunk.

As for preparing for the actual event, make sure that you rehearse the speech. Practice it in front of at least one person. Rehearsing a speech in a room alone is just not the same.

It is even better to practice the speech in front of one of the bridesmaids. Keep practicing the speech. You do not need to memorize the speech, but the words in it should feel like second nature.

If you are worried about your nerves during the actual wedding speech, you can try to focus your eyes on the bride. Seeing a familiar face as you speak can help to ease your nerves.

Make sure that it is clear when the speech is over. Some phrases that will indicate this include, “let us toast to the bride and groom, “congratulations to the happy couple, and so on.

These are just some tips when it comes to preparing a great speech. Read the sample speeches below for more inspiration.

1. Once in a while, in the middle of an otherwise ordinary life, love bestows on us a fairy-tale, a romance that is true and pure. I have never seen another couple as in love as these two people here who have been married today and I am so honored to know and love them. Congratulations to you both and to the beautiful future that lays ahead of you.

2. Love is not always perfect, but when the right people are together, they will always fight to make it work. Nothing in the world can tear them apart. These two people sitting in front of me are the epitome of true love and I am so lucky to have been a part of this special day and bear witness to this proclamation of love. Let us toast to the happy newlyweds.

3. When I first met [bride’s name], we were both just young girls. Even then, I knew that she was someone special. She is one of the kindest, most generous people that I know.

And now, she is no longer a girl but a woman who has met her equal, another person in this world that is as deserving of her as she is of him. Together, they make a wonderful pair and I know that they will make each other so happy in their new life together.

4. As some of you know, I am fiercely protective of [bride’s name.]  I would do anything for her and she is one of the most important people in my life. Over the years, we have laughed together, cried together, and had so many amazing memories. I am truly blessed to have someone like her in my life.

Since I am so protective of her, you can imagine how skeptical of [groom’s name] I was when he first came into the picture. I wondered what his intentions were. Was he good enough for such a unique and special person?

I soon learned that [groom] is just as amazing as [bride.] He worships her and would do anything to see her smile. They complement each other in the most perfect way. They are two twin souls that were destined to find each other. And I could not be happier for the two of them.

5. Before I begin my speech, I would just like to say that [bride’s name,] you look absolutely beautiful tonight and [groom,] you don’t look so bad yourself. It has been quite a day. An unforgettable, whirlwind of a day that celebrates the fact that two people fell in love.

Not only do I feel privileged to know these two people, I also feel lucky enough to have witnessed the love they have for each other. Their love for one another has made them even better people than they were before. Together, they are even stronger. Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. _________!

6. Anyone can be passionate, but it takes a real pair of lovers to be silly. When bride and groom are together, they let their guard down. Together, they are two of the goofiest people I know, and I mean that in the best way possible.

7. They say that a successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person. Many of us have been lucky to fall in love before. But real love is when you are able to fall in love with that same person over and over again.

8. You are able to surprise each other in ways that are always new. And it is not always just good times that make you fall in love. You can fall in love during the hard times as well, when you have to lean on each other and cry on each other’s shoulders.

9. With bride and groom, I see this kind of love. For all the time that they have spent getting to know each other, they still continue to fall in love as if they are still in the honeymoon stages. To never get tired of one’s smile, the little gestures of thoughtfulness that they show that they still care, even after all this time. That is real love.

10. I know I am not alone when I say that it is a joy to see bride and groom fall in love with each other, day after day. The beauty of such a love is something that words cannot fully describe.

So I end my speech by raising my glass to the bride and groom. Let us continue to witness and celebrate the remarkable love that this remarkable, beautiful couple shares.

11. Thank you all for coming here. Some of you have traveled far and wide to be here today. Some of you drove and some of you even flew to all be in the same room today, all so we could celebrate the love of these two people who are beautiful both inside and out.

It is amazing to see all the people who love bride and groom in the same room as they embark on this new adventure together.

12. When I first met [bride], I knew that there was something special about her. We were drawn to each other as friends and my life truly would not be the same without her. Over the years, we have shared some really great memories.

But little did I know that something in her life was still missing. I realized that when she met [groom’s name.]

After she met [groom], it was as if something clicked. We didn’t know it just then, but something was planted that would continue to flourish and grow.

Ever since these two met, something has changed. [Bride] is not exactly the same person she was before. She was strong before, but she is even stronger now. And while she was happy then, she is even happier with [groom] by her side.

With [groom], [bride] is the best version of herself. And I think [groom] is much better with [bride] in his life as well. Here’s a toast to the two of you.

13. These two newlyweds are a rare find in today’s world. Between the two of them, this couple has beauty, brains, and two hearts of gold. Here’s to the groom who has a bride so fair, and here’s to the bride with a groom who is so rare.

14. There can be so much sadness and loss in the world, but we also know that there is good in this world as well. With all of the things that happen that make us feel caught up in a storm, some of us are lucky enough to have something or someone to hold on to.

The best thing to hold onto in life is each other. When you have something to hold on to, then you have hope for the day and for many days to come

When I look at the bride and groom, I know that what they have will stand the test of time. Their love was made to weather the toughest of storms and their trials and tribulations will only further prove their love and devotion to one another. May the love that you have for each other continue to grow each and every year.

15. Growing up, [bride] was a little cynical. She did not really believe in true love or fairy-tale endings. I, on the other hand, was the more romantic one. I would tell her, much to her annoyance, that she only felt that way because she had not met the right one yet. And guess what? I was right.

When [bride] met [groom,] it was as if the universe had shifted. All the birds were singing and it was as if the sun had never shined brighter. That is how the world was through [bride’s] eyes when she finally fell in love with [groom.] As a romantic person, I have been lucky enough to watch this love story unfold.

Now we are all seated here, celebrating the union of two people who are very special to us. Let us toast to their health and the many happy years that they will share together.

16. As many of us know, marriage is not happy all the time. There will be disagreements and sometimes there will even be arguments. Whether To keep your marriage brimming with love in the loving cup, whenever you are wrong, admit it, and whenever you are right, shut up.

17. Whether you are a firm believer of destiny or think that happy things can just happen by accident and mere chance, there is no denying that these two amazing people are perfect for each other. Either way, these two have happened each other. It is a once in a lifetime love, and we are all so lucky to be able to be along for the ride.

18. Hello, everyone. Thank you all for coming together to celebrate the love that [bride and groom] share. Many of you know that I am [bride’s] older sister. As most older sisters are, I have always been overprotective of her, even before she was born. When she was born, she was my baby sister.

I was determined to look after her, take care of her, and protect her, though I did push her around a little bit. But if someone else messed with her, then they had to answer to me.

As we grew older, the need to protect her didn’t go away. I wanted to always have her back at school and throughout her relationships and friendships with people. I always wanted her to know that I’d be there for her, especially when things got tough.

And then one day, [bride] met [groom.] I came to realize that this person really, truly cared her. Not only did her care about her, he loved her. From the way he looks at her to the way he always tries to make sure that she is okay, there is no mistaking his love.

And I will admit, it was hard to let go of my sister a little. We have always been inseparable. But I am so happy that she found someone who cares about her so much. I know that [groom] will keep her happy. And she will keep him happy as well.

19. Helping to plan the wedding has been an absolute whirlwind full of emotions both good and stressful. Planning a wedding takes lots of work and lots of people made this beautiful day happen. [Bride] and [groom,] thank you for taking me on this journey with you. It has been a beautiful day and we all still have plenty of dancing and celebrating to do.

Maid Of Honor Speeches For Sister

20. Hi everyone, I am [bride’s] sister. As many you all know, the two of us come from a big, happy, wacky family. Through all of the years together, my many siblings and I have loved each other with everything that we had, but we would also often fight each other with all of our strength, especially when it came to sharing, taking turns, and agreeing on who got to be in charge.

Throughout the years there have been a lot of laughs and a few fights, but my brothers, sisters, and I have always maintained our shared belief that a family is life’s greatest blessing of them all.

When [bride] finally introduced all of us to [groom], I was a little worried for him. Maybe we would be too big of a family or we would scare him away. But he was brave and he ended up fitting right in, and now I can proudly say that he is one of us. He belongs to our clan now and I certainly hope he feels that way.

Welcome to the family, [groom.] To [bride] and [groom,] may they keep our family growing one day.

21. Hello, everyone. I am [bride’s] older sister. When our parents first let me know that I was going to have a little sister, I was so excited. The day that she was born, I couldn’t believe how beautiful my baby sister was.

Growing up, she was always my playmate and best friend and I made sure that she was my sidekick. Over the years, [bride] and I had many adventures together.

Of course as we grew older, we grew apart at times and began to forge our own paths. But we always found our way back to each other. I admit that when we became older, there were times that I really missed her and how we used to be.

But seeing who [bride] has become and what she has accomplished has made me feel in awe of her. I knew that whoever could win her heart would have to be someone special. And [groom] is certainly just as special as [bride.] Together they make a formidable pair.

Congratulations to my sister and to my new brother-in-law.

22. As [bride’s] older sister, I have always felt responsible for her. I wanted to protect her from everything and growing up, I always tried to keep her safe by my side. For a while she was so much small than me, after all. But then she grew, and grew, and next thing I knew it, we weren’t little girls anymore. Sometimes I can’t believe how much she has grown, how old we’re both getting.

And when I met [groom,] I was a little skeptical. I still felt like the overprotective big sister, and sometimes I still do, but I quickly learned that [groom] was the real deal. But I am glad that she found such a wonderful person to spend the rest of her life with.

I know that these two newlyweds will be happy together. And [groom,] you take good care of my baby sister.

23. Hi, everyone. Thank you all so much for being here today. Most of you know that I am [bride’s] sister. For those of you who don’t know the pair of us too well, we were peas in a pod, two wild kids always looking for trouble.

We were always running to fast, knocking things over, and laughing a little too loud. But boy were we always happy. My sister is a free spirit with a knack for adventure and as we got older I remember thinking, “good luck to the guy that’s able to tame her.”

Well, as you know, she just tied the knot with [groom.] And I realized that she never needed anyone to tame her at all. She needed someone to love her for who she is. [Groom] is just as crazy as [bride] in the best way possible. They encourage each other to be fearless and they are always strong for each other. That is true love.

Let us all raise a glass to this beautiful cowgirl and her handsome cowboy.

24. Hello everyone, I am [bride’s] sister. I don’t think I surprise anyone when I say that I love my sister. She is worthy of all the love in the world and I am beyond thrilled that she has found that in [groom.] They are so like each other and so perfectly matched. I know that [groom] will take care of her and that [bride] will take care of him.

25. I am [bride’s] sister and maid of honor. Through the years, we have been through ups and downs. No matter where life took us, love was always there through the best and worst of times.

When one of us was crying, our love for each other comforted us and when we were celebrating, our love helped us to share that happiness with one another. In that way, love is food for the soul.

It is said that where there is great love, there are always miracles. No matter where you are, no matter what you are doing, love is the thing that can sustain you and keep you going. It can give you hope and fill you with so much optimism for the future ahead.

The love that [bride] and [groom] have for each other is something that is truly magical and miraculous and I for one am grateful to be able to witness it.

26. You all know that I am [bride’s] sister. We were brought up in a home full of love and laughter by two amazing parents who are sitting right there. If you haven’t already guessed it, we are a very closely knit family. Even as adults, we all still maintain a close relationship with our parents and with each other.

So how exactly did [groom] manage to infiltrate our family? He was a great listener, always fun to talk to, and he has a great sense of humor. He is also pretty generous and thoughtful.

But none of that would not have mattered if he did not love [bride] with all of his soul. When we all saw how much he loved her, we knew that he belonged in our family. And when we see how much she loves you, it is something that is so beautiful to witness.

So, [groom], welcome to the family. We might be wacky and even crazy at times, but you are one of us now!

27. As [bride’s] sister I am pretty used to having her all to myself. We always played together as children and sometimes we did fight. And as we grew older, we continued to hang out all the time. I got so used to having her all to myself.

When [groom] came into the picture, it took some getting used to. I never had to really share my sister before. And [groom] was someone new, I didn’t know him that well at the time.

Time passed and as I got to know [groom,] I learned that he was a pretty cool guy. I even think of him as a friend now, though now that he is married to my sister, he is my brother now too.

Over time I realized that [groom and bride] share a really special bond. I’ve seen the way they look at each other, as the rest of you have, and when I see how real their love is, it makes me hope that one day I find someone like that. I am glad that [groom] is in my life, and more importantly, I am thrilled that he and [bride] found each other.

I like to think of it this way: I have not lost a sister. Instead, I have gained a brother, and an amazing one at that. Welcome to the family, [groom.] Let us all raise a glass to the happy newlyweds.

28. As most of you know, I am [bride’s] younger sister. Growing up, I was the baby of the family. I always had a lot to learn and [bride] was my biggest example of how to be. I have to admit, being the baby sister can be really annoying. A lot of the time, you find yourself wanting to break out of your shell. At the same time, [bride] set a lot of great examples for me as an older sister.

As a sister, [bride] taught me how to share. She taught me how to be a caring sister and friend and she taught me what it means to be a good person. As much as I tried to resist it, I found myself often following in her footsteps? How could I not want to be the smart, sensitive, and successful person that she is?

Even now, [bride] has set a huge example for me by finding someone who is worthy of her love. She has found a person who is her soul mate, her better half, and her equal. I hope to one day find someone who is right for me the way that these two have found each other. I am equally lucky to have both bride and groom in my life, and I am so happy that they found each other.

You may also enjoy Mother of the Bride Speeches.

29. Hi, everyone. I am [bride’s] sister. Since we are so close in age, we would play together all the time. We had our dolls to play with and we would pretend to be princesses.

She was always looking for her Prince Charming. Prince Charming was handsome, thoughtful, generous, loving, and kind. Of course we got older and we grew up. We realized that fairytales aren’t real and yet, one day, she met [groom.]

Now, many of you know [groom.] He’s a modern man and I don’t think he would exactly describe himself as a Prince Charming. But in a way, that’s what he is to [bride.] He is thoughtful, kind, generous, loving, and he isn’t ugly to look at either.

And while he doesn’t have a coat of arms or a valiant horse to ride on, he sure swept [bride] off her feet. And no one has ever been able to do that before, not even when we were playing pretend as little girls.

Sure, we’re in the 21 st century now. But what these two have is a modern fairytale, a true romance that is one for the books. Let’s raise a glass to these two storybook lovers who have finally tied the knot.

Maid Of Honor Speech For Best Friend

30. Hello, everyone. For those who do not know me, I am a good friend of [bride.] We have known each other for [number of years] years. After all this time, I feel like I know [bride] inside and out. And after knowing [groom] for [number of years] years, I am proud to say that I can call him a good friend as well.

To be a part of this close circle of friends that has gotten to know bride and groom individually, is a blessing. But to be a part of the group that has gotten to watch them grow as a couple and become man and wife is a truly wonderful experience that has given me hope and brought tears to my eyes.

I cannot think of another couple that is more perfectly matched in their own unique way and like the rest of the people in this room, I look forward to the next chapter in their lives.

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Maid of Honor Speech Examples

Looking to reference some maid of honor speech examples as the friend or sister of the bride? If you’re feeling stressed and overwhelmed, referencing maid of honor speech examples can be a great source of inspiration.

Why am I providing maid of honor speech examples?

I’m a professional wedding speech writer and I work with the maid of honor or the best woman to write custom wedding speeches all the time.

I understand how challenging it can be to convey how you feel about someone so special to you, in a speech that comes with the pressure of every wedding guest watching you.

Since I’m an expert in understanding the structure of a powerful MOH speech, I’ve outlined maid of honor speech examples according to the various sections of the speech.

As you reference these examples, remember to use them as inspiration.

I’m a big believer in custom wedding speeches. Copy and paste might feel like an instant stress-reliever but nothing will be quite as emotionally meaningful and special as a personalized speech.

So as you reference these maid of honor speech examples, be sure to add your own twist to these examples when you sit down to write your speech.

And remember that if you’re still struggling, I can help .

Maid of Honor Introduction Examples

Every solid maid of honor speech begins with an introduction. Be sure to state your name and how you know the bride. While it’s important to communicate these two basic facts, also be sure to inject your personality into the beginning.

Good evening, everyone. My name is Addie and I’m the bride’s sister.

Hi y’all. Welcome! My name is Megan and I’ve been best friends with the bride since we were just two-years-old.

Welcome, everyone! I’m Cassie, the maid of honor. But more importantly, the brides ride or die.

Do you see how each example accomplishes the same objective but has a slightly different tone to it? Write a first line that sounds like you.

Storytelling Examples for your Maid of Honor Speech

The key to an impressive maid of honor speech will be your stories. You must include fun, captivating, and entertaining stories if your speech is going to be memorable and meaningful.

Each story you tell should serve two purposes:

To entertain

To show something positive, fun, or interesting about the bride

I recommend having two to three concise stories within your maid of honor speech. Each story should flow into the next using an overarching theme.

To help you come up with story ideas, consider these questions:

When did you laugh the most together?

How has the bride been there for you?

When did you realize how special the bride is?

What are some of your most memorable travel adventures together?

What did you do for fun as kids or in college?

What things do you have a mutual love of?

How have you changed as a person because of the bride?

Story Example:

Back when we were in college, Amanda would always drag me to her favorite bar, The Karaoke Cave. I’d always go but under the one condition that we’d order onion rings and I wouldn’t have to sing.

Yet, every time, I’d end up on stage with Mandy, belting out the lyrics to Girls Just Wanna Have Fun. Like, singing at the top of my lungs!

I’d like to blame the bucket of beers we always ordered but I know that it was never the liquid courage that inspired my Cyndi Lauper impression.

It was from Amanda.

Amanda’s outgoing spirit and zesty energy have always inspired me to do things that I never thought I could.

And, karaoke duo or not, whatever we wound up doing, I have always just had fun with my girl.

This is a fun and short anecdote that shows the effect that the bride has on the people she loves.

This concept could also be a potential theme. In that case, you’d use that theme to lead into a completely different story but tie everything together with this theme so the speech flows together.

Examples for How to Talk about Her New Spouse

Every maid of honor speech talks about the bride. But the speech should also include her partner.

Here are some examples of how you can include her new spouse into the speech:

Talk about the first time you met them. What was your initial impression?

Detail out qualities you admire in them and why these characteristics will make them a good partner for the bride.

If you’re also friends with her new spouse, tell a story or two about your relationship.

If you are not the biggest fan of her spouse, focus on how they make your friend happy.

Examples for How to End Your Maid of Honor Speech

The ending of your MOH speech should include an action for guests to take and a wish for the couple.

Let’s make a toast! To the gorgeous bride and her partner for life. I love you both!

Cheers to many more happy memories and a love that only gets stronger with every passing year.

A great way to end the speech is if you can include something in the last line that points to a concept you talked about earlier in your speech.

For example, let’s say at the beginning of your speech, you told several stories about how your sister always made you laugh. Then, this could be a great ending for you:

Everyone, please raise your glass. Here’s to my sister and her new wife. May you two share a life together full of endless laughter.

Maid of Honor Speech Examples for the Sister

If you’re the bride’s sister, here are some examples you could consider customizing for your own speech.

Even though Sarah is my younger sister, the truth is, I’ve always looked up to her.

Growing up, Lisa felt like more of my shadow than my best friend. But over the years, we’ve set aside our arguments over clothes and nail polish, and have found common ground through navigating our careers, finding love, and most importantly…our unwavering love for the Backstreet Boys.

As the younger sister, I’ve always admired Beth and tried to be just like her. There was the time, I begged my mom to make me the same Halloween costume as her and the time I auditioned for the softball team, even though I hate sports. But I’ve never wanted to be more like my sister than today with how happy and deeply in love she looks.

Need more help with writing your maid of honor speech?

If these maid of honor speech examples aren’t enough to help you write your speech, let’s work together to write your custom maid of honor speech .

As a wedding vow and speech writer, I work with maids of honor to write emotionally-strong, fun, and impressive speeches.

Get in touch now to see how we can work together.

Love my vows Katelyn!!!! It’s such a relief to have this out of the way so I can focus on all the rest of the stuff I need to do!  You were my very favorite part of the process!! Your experience and confidence in the process took all the stress out of writing my vows!

— Natalie, Florida

I thought the process was outstanding. You did a great job communicating, and I thought the turnaround time for editing was perfect. I also thought the video interview was great in that it was personal and meaningful!

I am a storyteller, not a speechwriter. I was incredibly intimidated about writing one.

So thankful to find Katelyn to get my thoughts all in order. Very proud of how the speech came out. Looking forward to giving it!

— Jennifer Whitley, Texas

I had such a wonderful experience working with Katelyn. She truly helped mold perfect vows that I can’t wait to tell my fiancé on our wedding day!  Katelyn was friendly, sweet, and super easy to work with. I will definitely be calling her up if I have to give another speech in the near future.

— Jordanne, California

Katelyn was professional, easy to talk to, and made the interviewing process fun. She came well prepared with unexpected and thought-provoking questions to get a better understanding of our love story and who we are as a couple.

She was a pleasure to work with and made the vow writing process enjoyable.

— Kimi Kinsey, South Carolina

Working with Katelyn on my maid of honor toast was an incredible experience. She really took the time to understand my relationship with my best friend and used my responses to craft a toast that put my thoughts and feelings into words in a way that I never would have been able to do on my own.

Before working with Katelyn, I was nervous and stressed about giving (and writing) such a big, important speech. But now I’m so relieved that it’s done, and I honestly can’t wait to stand up and tell everyone exactly what my best friend means to me.

— Allyssa, New Jersey

I didn’t actually know this service existed until I discovered Katelyn! It was such a fun experience to video chat with her about my best friend who is getting married this summer.

I don’t have to stress about writing this a few weeks before my best friend’s wedding. Thank you so much and I can’t wait to read it at my best friend’s wedding!

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How to Write a Maid of Honor Speech

Follow these expert tips to knock your maid of honor speech out of the park.

Photo by Janine Licare

In This Article

You've been asked to play a huge role in your best friend's wedding—maid of honor! But, the job comes with a slew of important tasks , including giving the maid of honor speech. While this is a moment to celebrate your friendship, the idea of getting up in front of a crowd can be nerve-wracking if you're not used to giving speeches.

As staunch advocates of BFF love, we've taken it upon ourselves to create a go-to guide for penning the perfect speech to see your bestie off on their new life with their partner. With a few tips and tricks along with plenty of practice, your maid of honor speech will go off without a hitch.

With expert insight from professional speechwriter Katelyn Peterson—founder of vow- and toast-writing company Wedding Words —and examples of real-life speeches, we have all the details you need. Read on for helpful tips and guidelines to deliver an absolutely unforgettable maid of honor speech .

Meet the Expert

Katelyn Peterson is a speech writer and the founder of vow- and toast-writing company Wedding Words .

Maid of Honor Speech Template

While every maid of honor speech will be different, we've put together an outline to get you started on yours.

Start with the bride; end with the couple.

Of everyone at the wedding, you have the best insight into how much your bestie's partner has changed them for the better. Your maid of honor speech needs to be about the friend you knew long before meeting their soulmate and then pivot to what role they have played in their life. Maybe your friend is even funnier now, or maybe you've simply never seen your BFF so happy. This is also a great way to incorporate their new spouse into the speech if you don't really know them that well; speak to the way that they complement each other or how your BFF's new spouse has made them a better person.

Pepper in anecdotes.

Stories do a better job of getting your point across than blanket statements do. "Each anecdote you share should have an underlying theme that ties all the short stories together," says Peterson. "Reveal that theme near the end of your speech , and you’ll achieve a strong emotional impact."

End with a positive outlook.

The nature of this speech is not so much about your relationship with your friend, but the bond the couple shares. Make sure all of the separate components of your toast draw a positive conclusion, ending in how happy the couple is together and your best wishes for their marriage .

Maid of Honor Speech Tips

Keep in mind these helpful tips from professional speechwriter Katelyn Peterson to ensure you nail your maid-of-honor toast .

Kick-start the creative process by writing down any memories , emotions, or ideas that make you think of your BFF. "I recommend free-writing for 20 minutes," says Peterson. "When you’re done with this exercise, you should have some quality material that you can weave into the form of a speech." This allows you to create a blueprint of all the major points you want to make—more or less creating a roadmap for your ideas—and then fill it in with supporting information.

Ditch Generic Praise

"Use entertaining and engaging stories to show the bride’s personality ," advises Peterson. There's a big difference between simply saying, "She is such a great friend!" versus telling a story that illustrates just that.

Half the guests may not know your BFF all that well, so use this moment to paint a picture of how amazing they are. Bring their character to life with details only you could know.

Remember it isn't about you.

While a lot of the anecdotes should be about your time with your friend, you should not be the focal point. After you briefly introduce yourself (remember: most of the people probably won't know who you are or your relation to the couple), you shouldn't be making any additional references to yourself. You're simply the vehicle to explain why the newlyweds are so fantastic.

Do not mention exes.

No one wants to be reminded of past relationships , particularly in front of their family, friends, and new life partner. Keep the tone of your speech positive, and it will reflect positively on you also. You don't want to come across as though you're trying to roast your friend.

Keep it short.

The longer your speech, the more opportunities you'll have for people to start losing attention. "Keep your speech under five minutes," suggests Peterson. "Anywhere between two to five minutes is great."

Be sure to pause for a few seconds after each joke to let the audience laugh. When you immediately start speaking right afterward, you won't give people a chance to laugh or even understand the next line. Keep in mind that starting the speech on a funny note can help you capture the attention of the audience for a minute or two, but it's the meaningful content that will keep them enthralled until the end. "Your goal should be to have guests laughing and wiping tears away by balancing humor with sincerity," says Peterson.

If you experience public-speaking jitters, try looking just above everyone’s head. This can minimize your anxiety while allowing guests to think you're looking right at them.

Don't use inside jokes.

If the joke or situation is something other wedding guests would have to be there to understand, avoid using it. If people don't understand the context behind it, it will probably go over their heads. It's okay to poke a little bit of fun at your friend, but keep it light. Don't say anything that would be embarrassing or make them feel uncomfortable.

"The more you recite your speech out loud, the more comfortable you’ll become," notes Peterson. Practice your speech twice a day, starting at least a week beforehand, and record yourself a couple of times so you can hear your pacing and tone. Rehearse the speech in front of friends, too, in order to see if your jokes get a laugh, and try practicing in a mirror to nail your physical presence.

How to Get Started

Here are a few questions to ask yourself to start brainstorming ideas for your speech.

• Who will be speaking before or after you, and how will this affect the content of your speech? (You might want to include a reference to their toast in your speech, thank them for an introduction, or introduce the next speaker.)
• What would your friend want their in-laws and newly acquired family to know about them, and how can you attest to those qualities or characteristics from your own experiences with them?
• What's a warm memory of the newlyweds that always makes you smile? (Ask yourself: If their relationship were a Hollywood movie trailer, what key moments would be featured?)
• When you picture the couple's life together in a few years (or from this moment forward), what do you see? Is there any advice you can give them for their lifelong journey ahead?
• Is there something you want to say to your bestie's new spouse? (Perhaps a few lighthearted tips on how to handle more trying situations that you've learned from your own experiences with them.)

Maid of Honor Speech Examples to Make Your Own

If you're feeling stuck, here are three examples of speeches from real bridesmaids to inspire your own.

"Good evening, everyone. I’m Cami, the maid of honor and the bride’s best friend. Over the past 15 years, I’ve witnessed Madison prioritize everyone else’s happiness, but today, we get to honor hers. With Madison being my most fun-loving friend, I knew she’d be down to join me on a two-week adventure traveling throughout Europe. We lived together, but nothing cements a friendship quite like sharing a full-size bed in dingy hostels from the Netherlands to Spain. Madison’s luggage kept breaking, and she went through four suitcases in 14 days! There we were, strolling down a busy street in Madrid and Madison’s clothes were falling out of her over-packed suitcase, painting the path behind us with her sundresses and socks. But she never let her rundown luggage ruin the trip. She just kept rolling with it. Literally. I can always depend on Madison to roll with any situation, to show up for the people that she loves, and to have a good time.

But the truth is everyone in this room is better for knowing you, Madison. You love so deeply, selflessly, and unconditionally. And I know that Pete is the best partner for Madison because I’ve seen him mirror these traits for her. No matter what may come your way, your combined patience, resilience, and love will make you an unstoppable team. And most importantly, I know you two will continue to keep rolling with it . Cheers!" —Cami

"I’m Ashley and welcome! I was introduced to Sarah through a mutual friend to evaluate if she would be a fit as my future roommate. I showed up to that first dinner wearing a casual sundress and flats. Meanwhile, Sarah walked in with voluminous curls, smoky eyes , red lipstick, and a smile that showed me she deserved that Miss Florida title in ’04. I just thought, 'Who is this girl?' Over the next two hours, I learned that this girl was the coolest, funniest person and that I had to live with her. We moved in and it was truly an immediate fit from watching the same shows to downing bottles of the same wine. Despite our homebody nature, we did enjoy our Saturday nights running around the city. One night after several margaritas, Sarah and I found ourselves locked out of our house. So we came up with the best plan we could imagine: Let’s cannonball into our pool. There we were: Two tequila-loving girls cannonballing to see who could create the biggest splash. From that night on, whenever we went out, we’d ask ourselves one key question: 'Is it going to be a cannonball in the pool kind of night?'

And just like she’s always filled the gap in our friend group—we know that John has entered her life to level her out in the best of ways, too. Let’s raise a glass to Sarah and John! May your life together be full of cannonball-in-the-pool kind of nights." —Ashley

"Hi, my name is Makena and I’m the bride’s younger sister and maid of honor . As I look at Winnie and Miles today, I see two people in the most loving, trustworthy, and nurturing relationship I’ve ever witnessed. It shouldn’t come as a surprise to me that even on her wedding day, Winnie is teaching me about life and love. Because the truth is Winnie has been my lifelong teacher. She’s the one who taught me how to read and how to ride a bike, but my most memorable teaching moment was when I was 11 years old.  We had this mutual understanding—or so I thought—that we would not read each other’s journals. But I, of course, read hers and naively assumed she did not read mine. I learned the truth when I opened my journal one day to see an entire page filled with Winnie’s handwriting. There in the middle of my journal was a critique from my sister detailing out how I could improve my writing.

I know that if it weren’t for my sister, I would not be the person I am today. I’m inspired daily by the woman she is. Her confidence is unshakable, her excitability is contagious, and her determination is awe-inspiring. Winnie will finally get to experience what I’ve felt like my entire life with her. She’ll be cared for, unconditionally loved, and will learn every day with Miles as her lifelong teacher through love. Please raise a glass to Winnie and Miles! May you two never stop learning from each other as you continue to love each other." —Makena

First things first: Don't overcomplicate it! Stay authentic to yourself and keep it simple by telling a story, sharing why you love the bride, and toasting the newlyweds.

Keep it short and sweet! Having a two to five minute speech that is both sentimental and humorous is the best way to honor the couple in a way that is engaging and memorable .

Close out your speech with a simple, light-hearted joke and a toast to the newlyweds . This will create the perfect opportunity for a combined cheer and chuckle from the crowd .

A Guide to Wedding Reception Toasts

Who Gives a Speech at a Wedding Reception?

How to Write a Wedding Toast

Tips for the Father of the Bride Speech

How to Write a Best Man Toast

Advice for the Maid of Honor Speech

What to Know About a Newlywed Toast

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60 Quotes to Use for Your Wedding Toast

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Matron of Honor Toasts

Amy has a B.A. in Communications and has worked in a wide variety of industries.

Learn about our Editorial Policy .

The Matron of Honor is expected to give a toast to the happy couple. This special honor is reserved for the bride's close friend. The Matron of Honor may appreciate a few tips in crafting a toast that's straight from the heart.

Let Your Matronly Experience Show

As a married woman, you know what it is like to be dating, engaged, and a newlywed. You have all ready "been there, done that" in the world of weddings. Use your experience to create a wedding toast that is unique to your position. After all, there is a reason your friend (or sister or relative) chose you to be her right-hand woman-you have the knowledge, passion, and love for the bride like no one else. Add in your experience as a past bride and newlywed, and you have everything a bride could need in her best woman.

• Maid of Honor Speech Examples for the Sister of the Bride
• Wedding Toast Examples for a Speech They'll Remember

Writing matron of honor toasts is often the same as writing a maid of honor speech . You want to touch on your friendship with the bride, the couple's relationship, and wish them best for the future. However, add a little extra into your speech by drawing on your experience as a married woman. Do this one of two ways:

• Give heartfelt advice for their future marriage.
• Create a funny speech that touches on silly things throughout the first year of wedded bliss.

Although many people can give advice on the above without being married, you will bring an extra special touch to the toast if you focus on things in your unique experience.

Future Advice

Because you are friends with the bride and the groom, you can give them personalized advice from the point of a matron of honor. They will feel especially touched if you incorporate advice they know you personally have followed through upon. Personalized stories relating to the couple's relationship and how it will result in a happy future by following your advice is a good way to write this into your speech.

Try to avoid using clichés and instead focus your advice on practical matters or matters of the heart, depending on how sentimental you want to be. Meaningful quotations are excellent additions into your toast.

Funny Speech

If you enjoy a friendly banter with the couple, write a speech that will leave guests in an uproar. Write a hilarious speech riddled with jokes that focuses on all the surprises the couple is in for as newlyweds. Draw upon your own newlywed experience to help illustrate each point (but make the observations general-after all, the speech is about the couple, not you!). Another way of writing funny matron of honor toasts is to take clichés about married life and tell how each part of the couple will break that cliché somehow. For example, you might say:

Everyone always told me never to go to bed angry. Sara and Ben, I'm passing that advice onto you. Only we all know you won't follow it-after all, when you work opposite shifts, you're lucky to make it into bed together at all (wink, wink!).

With funny speeches, be sure to make it audience appropriate. The above suggestion might be fine with some couples and not others. Knowing your audience is a big part of speech writing.

Check in With the Maids

Many brides-to-be choose a maid of honor and a matron of honor. In these cases, it is a good idea to collaborate with the maid in order to write interesting and unique toasts. You certainly do not want to have similar quotations or anecdotes in your speeches.

If you are close to the maid of honor, consider writing a joint speech. Two heads may really be better than one when it comes to making public toasts. Bounce ideas off one another and practice frequently so you get the rhythm of the speech down.

Regardless of whether you are the only best woman or not, it is a good idea to check in and see what the other bridesmaids think of your speech. They are all close to the bride and know her and the groom in different ways, making them perfect sounding boards for your ideas.

Final Tips for Matron of Honor Toasts

Writing a matron of honor wedding toast can be challenging, even for the best of friends and knowledgeable writers. Start writing the wedding speech several weeks in advance, giving you plenty of time to polish the final version.Other tips include:

• Keep the speech to around four or five minutes, tops.
• Practice in front of friends and the mirror.
• Use a notecard with an outline instead of reading verbatim from a typed page.
• Speak slowly and clearly, with enough volume for the whole room to hear easily.
• Remember to raise your glass in a toast to the couple at the very end of the speech.

If you are still having trouble writing a speech, do an internet search to find help. Many websites offer free wedding speeches or free wedding toasts you can personalize. Others, like Speeches.com , offer a free trial membership for building a speech based upon some personal information you enter.

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Funny maid of honor speeches for sister.

Table of Contents Show

Be yourself, don’t be afraid to get personal, take a trip down memory lane, don’t crack offensive jokes, don’t be a party pooper, avoid inside jokes, keep it bride-centered, end on a strong note, sample 1: a funny maid of honor speech by a smart-mouthed younger sister , sample 2: when your elder sister is finally marrying her best friend, and you’re her maid of honor, sample 3: a funny maid of honor speech by the older sister , sample 4: a funny maid of honor speech by a twin sister , sample 5: a sentimental yet funny maid of honor speech by an adopted sister , sample 6: a funny maid of honor speech by a sister who adores the bride , is the maid of honor’s speech compulsory, how long should a maid of honor’s speech be, does the maid of honor speech have to be funny, final thoughts.

Your sister is getting married and she has requested for you to be her maid of honor.

Depending on your personality, you are either really nervous or completely confident.

But no matter your disposition, one thing is for sure; you’ve got to deliver, and you’ve got to deliver well. 

No need to sweat it though; we’re here for you. Behold, your ultimate guide to writing and delivering a maid of honor speech that’s as warm as it’s funny. 

This post will give tips for delivering a stellar maid of honor speech. 

We’ve also included some samples of funny maid of honor speeches for sisters to get your creative juices flowing. 

Tips For Your Maid of Honor Speech

While it’s great to be funny and all, it’s more important to be yourself; if you’re one to work up the crowd, go for it.

If you’d rather insert a few jokes, that’s fine too. Just make sure you’re comfortable speaking. 

It’s alright to get personal.

Talk about how much your sister means to you and how grateful you are that she found someone who would love her as much as the groom does.

An excellent tool for a bridesmaids’ speech is reminiscing on some of your favorite memories together. 

There’s no point giving a speech if no one can hear you. Try your best to be audible.

If you’re using a mic, make sure to speak into the mic. If the room is small, ensure you raise your voice, so it carries through the crowd. 

Funny is good but don’t forget that there are people at the wedding with different sexual orientations, ethnicities, and opinions.

Stay away from  jokes about sensitive topics to avoid the greatly feared “awkward silence.” 

This might seem like a given, but it isn’t always.

Try not to get carried away by the merriment before your speech. Very few things are worse than a drunk maid of honor’s speech. 

In your speech, be careful not to divulge any information or say anything that makes the couple uncomfortable.

Avoid sore subjects by all means.

Sure, the bride is your sister, and you’ve got a lot of inside jokes.

But, remember that there are other guests present too, guests who do not share the same bond that you and your sister share.

Inside jokes will be lost on such guests, and while your sister may find it funny, you won’t be carrying the other guests along.

If you must crack an inside joke, make it brief and limit it to one. 

It’s the bride’s day. As a result, try not to dwell too much on yourself. Instead, talk about the bride and, if you can, the groom.

Talk about how beautiful their relationship is, highlight your sister’s strengths, and how she comes through for you.

Do not talk about her flaws; today is not that day.  

You should put a lot of thought into your closing. Consider ending with a toast or a famous quote. 

Samples of Funny Maid of Honor Speech for Sister 

“Hello everyone, I’m Abby, Chloe’s cute younger sister, who doubles as her best friend, gossip partner, shoulder to cry on, and today, her maid of honor.

I am so delighted to be here today. Thank you all for making time to celebrate Chloe and Ben’s love. 

When I first met Chloe, I was in diapers, and even though she was as well (there’s only a two-year gap between us), she didn’t pass up the opportunity to give me the stinky eye. 

But then, I doubt anyone would have done better. I was a 7-pound beauty with dreamy eyes and a captivating smile, even at two days.

However, growing up with Chloe was a dream.

In you, I found more than just a sister. You’ve been my bully and then my defender.

My friend, teacher, confidante, shoulder to cry on, party partner, and closet (you have such excellent taste, and we’re the same size, what’s a girl to do?). 

You’ve always been so confident and sure of yourself that it only made sense that I’d follow in your footsteps.

When you first met Ben, I remember you coming home that night and saying you’d met your soulmate on a subway, of all places. 

And since I’ve always followed your footsteps, I guess I’ll be hitting the subway more often now. 

But, on a more serious note, I’m thrilled you found your soulmate in such a wonderful guy. With Ben by your side, I’m sure you’re in safe hands.

He’s the sweet to your sour, the calm to your loud, and above all, he’s crazy about you. I would know since I’m crazy about you too. 

And now that you’re going off to start a new life with Ben, I’ve got to admit I’ve got mixed feelings about this.

Not because of Ben, Ben’s a great guy, but because I’m going to miss you so much it hurts. 

But like I said, Ben is a great guy, and I have no reservations about leaving you in his care.

I trust him to love you, care for you, and manage your mood swings like a pro (I gave him the rundown). 

I can’t wait to see all the great things you’ll accomplish as a team and, of course, meet my little nieces and nephews. 

Your future together holds so much promise.

Here’s to Chloe and Ben’s long and fruitful life together. Like the great writer said, if music be the food of love, play on. 

“Hope we are all having a wonderful time. My name is Abby. I’m the sister of the bride and her maid of honor.

I must admit that it came as a surprise when my sister asked me to be her maid of honor. I mean, she has so many great friends, and we’re always at each other’s throats.

But I guess that’s how we express our love for each other. And honestly, there’s nowhere I’d rather be than here. 

As some of you can tell already, I’m pretty nervous, and public speaking isn’t exactly my forte, but as maid of honor, I must give the speech, so here goes nothing. 

Ben and Chloe have been best friends for as long as I can remember.

Growing up, Ben was at my house so much that several people mistook him for our cousin or brother.

Heck, even I mistook him for my brother at some point. 

You’d think that going to separate schools would have weakened their bond, but alas, It only made it stronger. 

I’ve always known Chloe and Ben were perfect for each other. When we were kids, I used to mercilessly tease Chloe about Ben.

It always got a rise out of her and usually ended with her chasing me around the house with the first thing she could lay her hands on. 

But fast forward to a few years later, and guess who’s saying “I Do” to her best friend? Haha! 

Chloe, you’ve been my sister, best friend, and everything in between.

Even though we don’t see eye to eye on many things, I’ve always known that I could trust you to show up when it mattered the most.

And honestly, I’ve never seen a more beautiful bride. 

Ben, you’ve not just been my sister’s best friend; you’ve been the older brother I never had.

You’ve defended me, encouraged me, and been the voice of reason when Chloe and I were at each other’s throats growing up.

I couldn’t have asked for a better brother-in-law. 

You guys have been a team for so long that I can’t remember a time when you weren’t. And as you start this new life together, I’ve got three pieces of advice for you:

• You were friends before you became lovers. Yes, you had your fair share of spats and quarrels, but nothing you went through was ever able to diminish the quality of your friendship or weaken your bond. Remember this when things get rocky. 
• Talk about everything. Even though you’ve spent a good part of your life together, this is the first time you’ll be living as man and wife. There are sides of yourself you might just now be discovering. You’re going to grow old together, so don’t forget to grow together. 
• Make sure to name your first child after me. It’s the least you could do since I predicted this union from the start. 

Can we all raise our glasses as I propose a toast to Chloe and Ben? 

May your days be long and your love ever young. 

To Chloe and Ben. 

Let me start by thanking you all for coming today. I know it means so much to Ella and Tony. It means so much to me as well. 

For all who don’t know me, my name is Becky, and I’m the older sister of this stunning bride. I know I don’t look like it, but I promise you it’s true. 

Ella watching you grow into this wonderful, self-sufficient, confident, and beautiful woman has been a joy. 

I know we weren’t always close. Growing up, I was busy being intelligent and popular while you were always the quiet, sensitive, and homely one.

And it wasn’t until we both went to college that our relationship blossomed into what some would call inseparable today. 

But from the moment we hit it off, we’ve celebrated every victory and mourned every loss together. I couldn’t be more grateful. 

As the older one, I’ve always tried to be there for you, protect you, comfort you, and call you out when you were out of line.

But I’ve got to admit that you’ve been all that and more to me. 

You’ve always been the kinder and softer of both of us—the voice of reason and calm when everything was going to hell in a handbasket.

And you’ve no idea how grateful I am that you now have Tony to share life with. 

When Ella first met Tony, she came home that night with a twinkle in her eyes, telling me she’d met the guy with the dreamiest smile.

You see, Ella’s kryptonite has always been a great smile.

Of course, I laughed it off. There are tons of guys with great smiles, right? Wrong! Else Tony wouldn’t be here today. 

I knew Tony was IT when Ella agreed to get all dressed up, even wear heels, for their first date.

Anyone who knows Ella knows she hates those contraptions called heels, not my words but hers.

In fact, I’m willing to bet she’s got slippers underneath this gown, haha. 

At that time, I remember wondering what was so great about Tony anyway.

Then I’d only seen his picture, and while Tony is pretty easy on the eyes, I have seen my fair share of devastatingly handsome men (all on TV, of course). 

But meeting Tony changed everything. 

Tony, you’re kind, sincere, and utterly in love with my sister. Heck, even a blind man could see it. I see how you steal glances at her and make excuses to touch her.

I’ve also observed how you challenge her to be her best self, how you support her dreams, and how concerned you are about her growth.

I honestly could not have asked for a better man for my sister. And, of course, it doesn’t hurt that you’ve got a big fat bank account.

You’re both so blessed to have found each other. Your love is so beautiful, and I can’t wait to see how your story plays out.

Can we raise our glasses in a toast?

To Ella and Tony. 

I wish you a long and fruitful love. May your story be of the caliber that’s etched into the sands of time for eternity.

May your accounts overflow with abundance, and your children surround your table. 

I love you both. Cheers!

Good evening everyone. Thank you so much for making time out of your busy schedules to share in Bela and David’s joy. 

Bela and David, thank you for hosting us. I think we can all agree that we’re having a swell time.

The music is excellent, and the food is fantastic (I should know, I chose the menu myself). 

For those who’ve been wondering, no, you’re not in some alternate universe where the bride can split into two different people.

You’re still on planet earth, and this hot replica of the bride is her twin. So hi everyone, I’m Nuella, Bela’s twin. 

Before I go any further, I’d like to make sure everyone has a drink in their hand. The tipsier you are, the funnier you’ll find me… hopefully…

Really though, I already have a hard enough time being funny in private. How else am I to pull this off in front of you all when I’m so bad at public speaking?

Oh well, here goes nothing. 

When I first met Bela, we were in my mom’s womb, well, obviously.

And while Bela has always been the sharp, funny, and outgoing one, I was more of the introverted, quiet, genius one. 

But Bela never let me step back or cut myself short. She never allowed me to miss out on life because I “liked my space.”

Instead, she was always there for me, pushing and cheering me on. I’ve been bold enough to chase my dreams because Bela has always been there to propel me forward. 

Bela and I have shared almost everything for as long as I can remember.

We shared a womb for nine months, shared a room for 18 years, shared clothes, shoes, make-up, the craziest experiences (all instigated by Bela, of course), and everything in between.

And, Belz, like I love to call you, I can boldly confess that you’ve been my biggest cheerleader and best friend. Not just because we’re twins but because you’re a genuinely good person.

You have a large heart and are always ready to help anyone. You literally light up the whole room. 

And that’s why I was so excited when Bela brought David home for dinner last year.

Although I’d heard all about him (believe me when I say all, you don’t want to know how much), meeting him in person was still a breath of fresh air. 

From the lingering glances to the quiet conversations and subtle touches and all those other weird stuff we see in romance movies but don’t believe actually happens in real life, I could tell that they were madly in love with each other. 

I also observed how David put Bela first on so many occasions. How he genuinely rooted for her and supported her dreams and ambitions.

I could see why Bela fell in love with David. I honestly could not have asked for a better match for my twin. 

So thank you, David, for loving Ella unconditionally and making her so happy. I know my sister is safe in your hands. 

As you start this new phase together, I wish you both a lifetime of happiness. It’s my genuine desire that 40, 50 years from now, your love doesn’t water down.

Instead, I hope it blossoms and deepens and becomes more and more like the stuff movies talk about. 

To Bela and David!

May your love, like fine wine, get better with age. I love you both so much. Welcome to the family, Dave. 

I hope you’re all having a wonderful time. My name is Lisa, and I’m the bride’s sister. Yes, I know what you’re thinking.

No, I’m not her step-sister; I was adopted by the Smith family when I was eight. 

Today I’m her maid of honor and have been handed the privilege of giving a speech.

Ann has always known I’m shy when it comes to public speeches.

When she told me about this, I felt it was her getting back at me for the debate prank I played on her in her penultimate college year.

Thankfully, Google is still actively in business, right?

I consider myself lucky to have Ann as a sister. Even though I was adopted and we were the same age, she never once made me feel like I wasn’t part of the family.

She’s been everything I’d need in a sister and more. 

Growing up, she was annoyingly fond of dragging me along with her prim and proper way of life.

She disturbed my sleep every time, never allowing me to sleep in or miss classes. And we all know how important sleep is. 

When John came into her life, she’d come back from their nights out gushing about how amazing the date went. And even though I had not met John, I felt like I knew him already.

Still, I was ready to go the extra mile to verify if he was the right one — we’ve always been protective of each other. It was the least I could do.

But I soon discovered there was no need.

John is the kind of man every woman should have for keeps. He is everything she has ever dreamed of, and he makes Ann so happy. 

And whenever I saw the way John looked at my sister with so much love and passion, I couldn’t blame those who envied them from a distance. 

I remember one time when Ann caught a cold, and John drove all the way to Seattle to take care of her.

I had never seen anyone as concerned about my sister as he was that day. That, for me, was the icing on the cake. 

John and Ann, your love is pure. Your care and respect for each other is so evident in how you relate to each other. 

I’ll round off my speech with this piece of advice.

Never forget that marriage is about discovering passion, even in the purest of friendship. A solid marriage is one where forgiveness and tolerance flow freely. 

Can’t believe how smart that made me sound. Thank you, google! 

To Ann and John

Cheers to a beautiful union!

Good evening everyone.

For those who don’t know me, my name is Cherry, or as Kendal calls me, “cupcake.” And I’m the bride’s younger sister slash maid of honor. 

I’m so excited to be standing before you today. Kendal and I have imagined this day a thousand times, and I almost can’t believe it’s happening. 

Growing up, I idolized Kendal. I remember tagging along and copying her every chance I got.

I would cut my hair the exact way she cut hers, throw a tantrum when I wasn’t allowed to hang out with her and her friends, and even try to talk and walk the way she did.

I was probably a bit annoying. Well, more than a bit, really. 

But no matter how annoying I was or how much I got in her way, Kendall never pushed me aside or complained.

She was always the perfect example of patience and endurance. And believe me, she endured a lot; I wasn’t an easy kid. 

Kendall is always so concerned and ready to help. I’m sure everyone here has experienced her kindness at least once. 

One scenario that comes to mind was when I was way behind schedule on my thesis defense.

Kendall would come back from work tired and still stay up all night to help me study. 

She’d help me with my research and even went as far as helping me type them; please don’t tell my school authorities. She didn’t have to, but she did! 

I’ve met a lot of nice people, but Kendall stands tall. She’s amazing! And I’m not saying this because she’s my sister. 

She has always set an example for me to follow, and I can say that I am the happiest to see she has now found an example to follow.

I’m delighted she has found someone who can match the love she gives. That’s one of the reasons why I’m so pro this union.

Although I must admit that I didn’t think their platonic friendship would ever lead to marriage, here we are six years later, listening to two lovers read out their vows to each other, saying “I do” forever.

To think back to their first ever date. She wasn’t as enthusiastic about him as she is now.

I had to get the gown and the shoes; it took loads and loads of encouragement from her friends to try it. 

I vividly remember her worrying that things could go sour and ruin their great friendship. But look how things turned out, straight out of a Hollywood love story.

It’s pretty rare to find a couple that complements each other so easily.

John’s her knight in shining armor, and it’s obvious he meets all her needs – a listening ear and a shoulder to lean on.

As I round off my speech, I’d like to drop this beautiful quote I saw on the internet while trying to piece this speech together.

It says, “A perfect marriage is just two imperfect people who refuse to give up on each other.” 

To John and Kendal, I say, never give up on each other. I may not be experienced in marriage, but I want to see the love you guys share last a lifetime.

On this day, Kendal, I wish you and John the very best.

Cheers to an amazing couple!

Cheers to a lifetime of passionate friendship

Cheers to Kendal and John

Frequently Asked Questions

As with almost anything pertaining to a wedding ceremony and reception, the Maid of Honors Speech though traditional, is not compulsory.

It depends on the bride. However, if your sister does want it, it would be rude to turn her down, won’t it?

Three to five minutes should do the trick. It should be long enough to communicate your message (how special the bride is to you and how happy you are for her) but not too long that it begins to bore the other guests. 

The maid of honor speech doesn’t have to be open mic event funny. However, it shouldn’t be so serious that it becomes boring either.

What is most important is that you infuse some personality into it. If you’re an outright funny person, feel free to go all in with the jokes.

If you’re not, one or two jokes could suffice. 

Composing a maid of honor speech can be scary, especially if you’re not a fan of public speaking.

However, remember that the best maid of honor speeches are those that are sincere, honest, and full of warmth. 

Introduce yourself, tell the bride how much she means to you, and share a story or two.

Let the guests know how happy you are that the couple found each other and end with a toast. With this outline, you can’t go wrong. 

Final tip? Practice before the big day.

Repeatedly practicing your speech will help you commit it to memory. It will also help you sound more natural on the big day. 

If you can, you should also get someone to listen to you practice your maid of honor speech. Second opinions always prove helpful.