special occasion speech

4 Tips to Give a Perfect Special Occasion Speech (With Examples)

• The Speaker Lab
• August 13, 2024

Table of Contents

Special occasion speeches are the secret sauce to making any event unforgettable. Whether it’s a wedding toast, a retirement tribute, or a commencement address, these speeches have the power to make people laugh, cry, and everything in between. But crafting the perfect speech? That’s easier said than done. To help you out, we’ve got your back with a treasure trove of special occasion speech examples to help you nail your next big moment in the spotlight. Whether stirring deep emotions or sharing a laugh, we’ve got the secrets on structuring your speech in ways that resonate long after you’ve left the stage. Let’s jump right into it.

What Is a Special Occasion Speech?

A special occasion speech is a talk given during celebrations or events honoring someone or something. If you’ve ever been to a wedding, graduation, or award ceremony, chances are you’ve heard one. These speeches tend to be on the shorter side, usually no more than 10 minutes. While some special occasion speeches commemorate a legacy or celebrate an achievement, others set a mood or capture the spirit of the occasion.

Unlike informative or persuasive speeches, special occasion speeches cover a much broader range of topics and events. Common examples of special occasion speeches include eulogies, toasts, and award acceptance speeches. All are meant to mark the significance of a particular occasion.

Importance of Special Occasion Speeches

A well-executed special occasion speech has the power to elevate an event and create lasting memories for everyone involved. It’s an opportunity to connect with your audience on a deeper level and leave a lasting impact. So next time you’re called upon to give a special occasion speech, embrace the opportunity. With the right preparation and delivery, you can create a moment that will be cherished for years to come.

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Types of Special Occasion Speeches

Now that we’ve covered the basics of special occasion speeches, let’s dive into some examples of the different types you might encounter. From weddings to funerals to retirement parties, there’s a special occasion speech for every milestone moment in life.

Ceremonial Speeches

Common ceremonial speaking events include weddings, bar mitzvahs, awards ceremonies, funerals, and political events. These special event speeches often involve honoring individuals, recognizing achievements, and marking important transitions in life. Some examples of ceremonial speeches include:

• Speeches of introduction
• Speeches of presentation
• Speeches of acceptance
• Speeches of dedication
• Speeches of farewell
• Speeches for commencements
• After-dinner speeches

Each of these speeches serves a unique purpose within the context of the event. For instance, a speech of introduction is meant to introduce the main speaker and build excitement for their message. A speech of dedication, on the other hand, might involve honoring a new building or memorial.

Inspirational and Motivational Speeches

In addition to ceremonial speeches, special occasion speeches also encompass inspirational and motivational speaking. These speeches aim to stir emotions, encourage the audience, and deliver a poignant message that resonates.

Motivational speeches are often given at events like conferences, conventions, and team-building retreats. They’re designed to energize and inspire the audience to take action or adopt a particular mindset.

Some of the most iconic special occasion speeches in history fall into this category. Think of Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech or Steve Jobs’ commencement address at Stanford University. These speeches left an indelible mark on their audiences and continue to inspire people to this day.

Whether you’re giving a ceremonial or inspirational speech, the key is to tap into the emotions of the occasion and deliver a message that strikes a chord with your audience. By familiarizing yourself with different examples of special occasion speeches and their purposes, you’ll be well-equipped to craft a speech that rises to the occasion.

Examples of Special Occasion Speeches

Special occasion speeches come in all shapes and sizes. They’re the speeches that mark the big moments in our lives—the graduations, the anniversaries, the retirements. While the specifics of each speech may change, the goal is always the same: to celebrate, to inspire, and to make the moment unforgettable.

So, what exactly do these speeches look like in action? Let’s take a closer look at a few common examples.

Graduation Speeches

Graduation speeches are a rite of passage for students everywhere. Whether you’re the valedictorian, the class clown, or somewhere in between, giving a graduation speech is a chance to reflect on the past and look forward to the future.

The key to a great graduation speech? Keep it personal, keep it positive, and keep it short. Share a funny story from your time in school, thank the people who helped you along the way, and offer some words of wisdom for the road ahead. And don’t forget to throw in a few well-placed jokes – after all, laughter is the best medicine for pre-graduation jitters.

Anniversary Speeches

Whether you’re celebrating a wedding anniversary, a business milestone, or any other special occasion, an anniversary speech is a chance to look back on the journey so far and celebrate the love, hard work, and dedication that got you there.

When crafting an anniversary speech, focus on the highlights of your time together. Share a funny story about how you met, reminisce about the challenges you’ve overcome, and express your gratitude for the people who have supported you along the way. And don’t be afraid to get a little sentimental—after all, anniversaries are all about the warm and fuzzy feelings.

Retirement Speeches

Retirement is a bittersweet moment. It’s a chance to celebrate a lifetime of hard work and dedication, but also a reminder that a chapter is coming to a close. As the retiree or a colleague, a retirement speech is an opportunity to look back on the highlights of a career and express gratitude for the memories and friendships made along the way.

When giving a retirement speech, focus on the retiree’s accomplishments and the impact they’ve had on the company or organization. Share a funny story or two about working together, and don’t be afraid to get a little emotional—after all, saying goodbye is never easy. Of course, be sure to end on a positive note, wishing the retiree all the best in their next chapter.

No matter the occasion, the key to a great special occasion speech is to speak from the heart. Whether you’re celebrating a graduation, an anniversary, a retirement, or any other milestone moment, your words have the power to make the day even more special. So take a deep breath, raise your glass, and let the speeches begin.

How to Write a Special Occasion Speech

So you’ve been asked to give a special occasion speech. Whether it’s a toast at your best friend’s wedding or a eulogy for a loved one, these speeches can be both meaningful and challenging to write. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with our tips on crafting a memorable special occasion speech from start to finish.

Crafting a Special Occasion Speech Outline

Before you start writing, it’s important to create an outline for your special occasion speech. This will help you organize your thoughts and ensure a logical flow. Start by jotting down the key points you want to cover and the overall message you want to convey.

Your special occasion speech outline should include an introduction, body, and conclusion. In the introduction, grab the audience’s attention and set the tone for your speech. The body of your special occasion speech should expand on your main points and include anecdotes or examples to illustrate your message. Finally, the conclusion should tie everything together and leave a lasting impact on your listeners.

Writing the Introduction

The introduction of your special occasion speech is crucial for capturing the audience’s attention and setting the stage for what’s to come. Start with a hook—a question, quote, or personal story that relates to your topic and draws people in.

For example, if you’re giving a wedding toast, you might start with a funny story about how you met the bride or groom. Alternatively, if you’re delivering a commencement address, you could begin with an inspiring quote that sets the tone for your message. The key is to make your special occasion speech introduction engaging and relevant to your audience.

Developing the Body

The body of your special occasion speech is where you’ll dive into your main points and supporting examples. This is your chance to share personal stories, anecdotes, and insights that relate to your topic and resonate with your audience.

As you develop the body of your special occasion speech, keep in mind the overall theme and message you want to convey. Use transitions to smoothly move from one point to the next, and don’t be afraid to show some emotion. After all, these speeches are often given at meaningful life events.

Concluding Your Special Occasion Speech

The conclusion of your special occasion speech is your chance to leave a lasting impact on your audience. Summarize your main points and circle back to your introduction to create a sense of closure. You might end with a call to action, a heartfelt message, or even a raise of your glass for a toast. Whatever you choose, make sure your special occasion speech conclusion is strong and memorable.

Tips for Delivering a Memorable Special Occasion Speech

Now that you’ve written your special occasion speech, it’s time to think about delivery. After all, even the most well-written speech can fall flat if not presented effectively. Below are some tips to help you deliver a truly memorable special occasion speech.

Know Your Audience

When it comes to giving a special occasion speech, it’s crucial to think about your audience. Who will be listening to your words? What’s the occasion? Understanding your audience will help you tailor your language, tone, and message to resonate with them.

For example, a wedding toast will have a very different feel than a eulogy . Consider the formality of the event, the age range of the listeners, and any cultural or personal sensitivities. The more you know about your audience, the better you can craft a speech that speaks directly to them.

Select Appropriate Language

When writing a special occasion speech, it’s important to choose your words carefully. You want to strike the right tone—whether that’s heartfelt, humorous, or inspiring—and use language that is appropriate for the occasion and audience.

Avoid jargon or complex terminology that may be lost on some listeners. Instead, opt for clear, concise language that effectively conveys your message. And of course, always steer clear of any offensive or insensitive remarks. The words you choose can make all the difference in how your speech is received.

Incorporate Humor Effectively

Humor can be a great way to engage your audience and add levity to a special occasion speech. However, it’s important to use humor sparingly and appropriately. A well-placed joke or funny anecdote can help break the ice and make your speech more memorable, but too much humor can detract from your overall message.

When incorporating humor, make sure it is relevant to your topic and audience. Avoid inside jokes or humor that may be offensive or fall flat. The key is to use humor strategically to enhance your speech, not overshadow it.

Create a Strong Ending

The ending of your special occasion speech is just as important as the beginning. This is your chance to end on a high note and leave a lasting impression on your audience. Consider ending with a call to action, a poignant quote, or a heartfelt message. You might also circle back to a theme or anecdote from earlier in your speech to create a sense of closure. Whatever you choose, make sure your ending is strong, memorable, and ties together the overall message of your speech.

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FAQs on Special Occasion Speech Examples

What is a special occasion speech example.

A toast at a wedding or a tribute during retirement parties. These speeches celebrate moments and honor people.

What are good topics for a special occasion speech?

Topics can range from personal achievements, like graduations, to collective milestones, such as anniversaries or award ceremonies.

How do you speak on special occasions?

Talk from the heart. Keep it brief but impactful. Tailor your message to the event and audience.

How do you write a special speech?

Pick your main message then outline key points around that theme. Add stories or jokes if fitting and end with something memorable.

By studying up on special occasion speech examples, you can be better prepared for your next speech. Remember, a great special occasion speech is all about connecting with your audience, telling a story, and leaving them with a message that sticks. With these examples as your guide, you’ve got everything you need to knock it out of the park. So go forth and speak with confidence! You have the tools needed to create a speech that will be remembered long after the occasion.

• Last Updated: August 6, 2024

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Special Occasion Speech

Understanding Special Occasion Speech: Types, Steps, Examples and Tips

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Have you ever been asked to give a special occasion speech and felt completely lost?

Your speech needs to be perfect, but how can you ensure that it touches hearts and leaves a lasting impact?

But don't worry—this blog is here to help. We offer practical tips, clear examples, and proven techniques to guide you in creating a speech that resonates.

So, let’s find out how!

• 1. Special Occasion Speech Definition
• 2. Types of Special Occasion Speech
• 3. How to Write a Special Occasion Speech?
• 4. Special Occasion Speech Outline Example
• 5. Special Occasion Speech Topics
• 6. Ideas for Special Occasion Speeches
• 7. Special Occasion Speech Examples - H2
• 8. Tips for Writing A Good Special Occasion Speech

Special Occasion Speech Definition

A special occasion speech is a speech given to mark a significant event or moment. These types of speeches are meant to celebrate, honor, or remember the occasion and the people involved. They can vary greatly depending on the event, but they always aim to connect with the audience on an emotional level.

Special occasion speeches include toasts at weddings, eulogies at funerals, acceptance speeches at award ceremonies, and farewell speeches at retirements. Each type follows its style of speech writing according to the audience, purpose and nature of the event.

These speeches are typically concise, targeted, and customized to suit the event. They often highlight the importance of the occasion, express gratitude, and share personal stories or reflections. By doing so, they help to make the event more meaningful for everyone involved.

Watch this video to become more familiar with the special occasion speech.

Types of Special Occasion Speech

There are many special life events that require special occasion speaking. People show their gratitude, appreciation, and condolence through their speeches. As the list of events grows, the list of speeches grows simultaneously. 

The list of special occasion speeches is very long, so for simplicity, we have grouped them into two different categories: 

• Ceremonial Speaking
• Inspirational Speaking

Let’s discuss these special occasion speech types in detail. 

Ceremonial Speeches

Ceremonial speeches are given at ceremonies by the observance of formality and decorum. The ceremonies are special occasions that people arrange to celebrate something. There are eight common types of ceremonial speaking. Let's examine them one by one.

• Speech of Introduction

An introduction speech is a mini-speech given by the host of an event to introduce the upcoming speaker. This speech is very precise and short, given only to familiarize the audience with the speaker going to deliver a speech. 

A good introduction speech could be like this:

This introduction has creatively introduced the speaker and her topic while making the audience interested in her speech.

Acceptance Speech

The speech of acceptance is given by a person who has just received an award, a prize, or an honor. The speaker usually starts by thanking everyone and ends with expressing appreciation. The speech of acceptance basically has three main components:

• A special thanks to the prize or award giver.
• Other special thanks to those who have helped in achieving the goal
• The prize or the award needs to be put into perspective.

When you prepare for an acceptance speech , you need to think of the people you want to thank. List down their names in the order you want to thank them. Take a look at the acceptance speech example given below:

Acceptance Speech Example

• Presentation Speech

The presentation speech is given while presenting an award, prize, or honor. The basic purpose of the presentation speech is to recognize the person’s accomplishments about the honor or award. These speeches provide the following components:

• Highlights the award’s significance that is being given
• Highlights the merits of the award recipient
• Enhance the credibility of the award and the event by personalizing the speech

Have a look at the following presentation speech example and learn to make the award/prize and the person being honored center of the attention.

Presentation Speech Example

• Dedication Speech

Speech of dedication is delivered to dedicate something to someone. It is usually given at an inauguration ceremony, a building named after someone, a new shop opens, and so on. 

The dedication speeches are intended to highlight the importance of a project and to whom it has been dedicated. When preparing for a dedication speech, you need to consider the following factors:

• How you are involved in the dedication
• Explain what is being dedicated
• Explain who was involved in the project
• Explain the importance of the project

Here is a dedication speech example for you.

Dedication Speech Example

A toast is a kind of brief tribute to a particular person or a specific event. It is designed to appreciate and congratulate the people being toasted. It allows the speaker to recognize the person’s achievements and give the best wishes for the future.

While delivering a toast, keep these key points in mind:

• Keep it brief and specific to the event.
• Focus attention on the person being toasted
• Avoid any inside joke which is not accessible to all of the audience as toasts are public.
• End the toast by praising the person being toasted

Check out this amazing special occasion speech toast example:

Toast Speech Example

A roast is an interesting and funny speech because it is designed to praise and humorously insult the person being toasted. It is usually delivered at the end of a banquet to honor a person's life achievements.

Follow these tips to write an interesting toast:

• Think about the person who is being roasted.
• Look for any amusing story or a strange habit of the person being roasted.
• Poke fun at them but avoid targeting a specific person.
• Avoid the things that are truly private or might hurt the specific person’s emotions.
• Choose the jokes and stories that work best with all of the audience.
• Make your speech as humorous as possible.
• Leave with a positive note and appreciate the person. 

Here are a few funny special occasion speech topics for you: 

• Roast of the Office Prankster
• A Funny Tribute to the Family Tech Guru
• A Roast for the Coffee Addict
• Roast of the Social Media Star
• A Tribute to the Eternal Latecomer

Make sure you follow all these tips so that you can easily write an amazing toast.

A eulogy speech is a special occasion speech given in honor of a person who has died. It is delivered to pay tribute to the departed soul. It is given by the priest, imam, or any other religious leader. 

When preparing a eulogy, the speaker needs to do the following things:

• Get a lot of information about the departed soul. It will help to personalize the eulogy.
• Remind the audience about the deceased person and his/her life achievements
• Tell the deceased’s story.
• Celebrate the deceased’s life and mourn their death

Eulogies can take various forms, and they often encompass three main types:

• Praise Eulogy: Celebrates the achievements, qualities, and positive impact of the deceased, aiming to inspire and uplift.
• Lament Eulogy: Expresses grief, sorrow, and loss, providing a cathartic outlet for those in mourning.
• Console Eulogy: Offers comfort and hope to the grieving audience, often with religious or spiritual elements, for strength and healing.

Look at the eulogy speech format in this eulogy example. 

Eulogy Speech Example

• Farewell Speech

It allows you to say goodbye to a current part of your life as you are moving to another part. The speeches are very common at college and university farewell parties. The graduating class says farewell to the institute as they are moving forward.

The goal of the farewell speech is to thank and appreciate the people who are currently a part of your life. As you move forward to the next position, pay tribute to the people who have helped you achieve your goals. A farewell speech gives you a chance to commemorate and remember the good times you have had. 

Here is a farewell speech example for you.

Farewell Speech Example

• After Dinner Speech

After-dinner speech is directed toward a specific group. It aims to entertain yet inform the audience about a particular issue. They are quite tricky because of their dual role, but with practice, anyone can deliver an effective speech.

As the name suggests, these speeches are delivered at dinners after they are done. A dinner speaker makes a serious point by efficiently using humor to make a significant mark on the audience and occasion.

Inspirational/ Motivational Speaking 

The goal of the inspirational speech is to inspire the audience to believe something or act upon something. It aims to inspire the audience to take a particular action regarding personal or professional growth.

Here are the few types of inspirational speeches:

• Goodwill Speech

Goodwill speeches are delivered to build a goodwill relationship with the audience. These speeches seek to introduce an entity or a person to another group, organization, or country.  These speeches are informative as well as persuasive in nature.

There are three types of goodwill speeches:

• Public Relations Speech - intended to enhance the speaker’s or the organization’s image.
• Justification Speech - attempts to defend why a particular action has taken or will be taken.
• Speech of Apology - given to accept the mistake, apologize, and ask the audience for forgiveness.

All of the goodwill speeches not just inform the audience but attempt to persuade them at the same time. 

• Commemorative Speech

Commencement or commemorative speeches are usually given at graduation ceremonies during which the degrees are being awarded to the students. 

It is a kind of celebration that marks an important milestone in graduates’ lives.  It is usually given by a well-known person who is recognized by many i.e. the president of the country.

The commemorative speech has these basic components:

• Highlight the importance of the day in the graduates’ lives
• Count the accomplishments of the graduating class
• Gives best wishes for the future endeavor
• Put the light on future goals. 

Here we have a good commemorative speech example for you.

Commemorative Speech Example

Pep talks are a type of inspirational speech designed to boost morale, instill confidence, and encourage perseverance among teams or groups.

These speeches are commonly used in sports, business, and educational settings where motivating a group is crucial for success. A well-crafted pep talk can energize the audience, helping them overcome challenges and maintain a positive attitude.

Here's a deeper look into what makes a successful pep talk:

Key Components:

• Positive Reinforcement: Highlight past successes and strengths of the team to build confidence.
• Clear Goals: Outline the objectives and emphasize the importance of each individual's role in achieving them.
• Emotional Appeal: Use passionate language and compelling stories to connect with the audience's emotions.
• Encouragement: Offer words of encouragement and support, stressing that obstacles can be overcome through teamwork and perseverance.
• Call to Action: End with a strong, motivating call to action, urging the team to give their best effort and remain focused.

Pep talks are effective because they tap into the collective energy and spirit of the group, reinforcing the belief that success is attainable through effort and unity. 

How to Write a Special Occasion Speech?

It is a well-known fact that there is no universal recipe for writing a perfect special occasion speech, yet we want to provide you with the basic process that keeps you inspired. 

Here is the step by step process of writing a special occasion speech:

Step 1 - Understand the Occasion

The first step in writing a special occasion speech is to thoroughly understand the event you’re addressing. Identify the nature of the event—whether it's a wedding, retirement party, award ceremony, or funeral. 

Knowing the specific occasion helps you tailor your speech to the context. Equally important is understanding your audience. Consider who will be listening to your speech and what their expectations might be. This insight will help you connect with your audience on a personal level.

Step 2 - Decide on Your Message

Next, decide on the central message you want to convey. 

This could be an inspirational message, a celebration of achievements, or an honoring of someone’s memory. Once you know the purpose of your speech, choose a central theme that ties everything together. 

For instance, at a wedding, your theme might revolve around love and commitment, while at a retirement party, it might focus on gratitude and accomplishments. Your message and theme will serve as the backbone of your speech.

Step 3 - Gather Content

With your message and theme in mind, start gathering content that supports them. 

Collect relevant stories, memories, or anecdotes that illustrate your main points. These personal touches make your speech more relatable and engaging. 

Additionally, consider using meaningful quotes or references that resonate with the occasion and audience. These elements can add depth and significance to your speech.

Step 4 - Create an Outline

Creating an outline helps organize your thoughts and ensures your speech flows logically. 

Start with a strong introduction that grabs the audience’s attention. Introduce yourself and explain your connection to the event or honoree. In the body of your speech, organize your main points in a logical order. 

Each point should support your central theme and be backed up with stories and examples. Finally, craft a memorable conclusion that summarizes your key points and leaves a lasting impression on your audience.

Step 5 - Write the Speech

Now it’s time to write your speech. Keep it concise and to the point—special occasion speeches are typically brief. It's usually good to start with a hook, so, find something that can grab your audience’s attention.

Use simple language that is easy to understand and avoids complex vocabulary and jargon. Write in a conversational tone that reflects your personality and suits the mood of the event. This will make your speech more engaging and easier to deliver naturally.

Step 6 - Revise and Edit

Once you’ve written your speech, take the time to revise and edit it. 

Read your speech out loud to see how it flows and to ensure it sounds natural. Seek feedback from trusted friends or family members who can provide valuable insights and suggestions. 

Based on their feedback, make necessary adjustments to improve clarity, engagement, and overall impact.

Step 7 - Practice and Rehearse 

Finally, practice delivering your speech multiple times. Focus on your tone, pace, and body language. 

Rehearse until you feel comfortable and confident. Visualize yourself giving the speech in front of the audience, which can help reduce anxiety and improve your delivery. The more you practice, the more polished and effective your speech will be.

By following these detailed steps, you can write a special occasion speech that is heartfelt, meaningful, and memorable. 

Special Occasion Speech Outline Example

There is no one perfect way to write a speech for a special occasion. However, we want to provide you with an example to help you get started.

Here is the special occasion speech outline template for your reference:

Special Occasion Speech Topics

As special occasion speeches are event-oriented, you might know about the topic already. Yet, it’s essential to ensure that you choose the best idea and turn it into a memorable talk. 

Here are some good special occasion speech topics for you:

• Prepare a special occasion speech on a famous person and remind the audience about his accomplishments.
• Give a maid of honor toast at your best friend’s wedding.
• Deliver an acceptance speech for winning an award.
• Present an employee of the year award.
• Give a roast when your best friend is leaving the organization.
• Deliver a keynote address at a company’s annual convention.
• Deliver the best man speech to a wedding couple
• Deliver a commemorative speech to mark an essential milestone in graduates’ lives.
• Give a good introduction to the new president of the United States.
• Prepare a farewell speech for your exit party.

Ideas for Special Occasion Speeches

Here are some basic examples of special occasion speeches you can use:

Special Occasion Speech Examples - H2

Check out these amazing special occasion speech samples and see how amazing they are written. You can also take help from speech examples to write your speech.

Short Special Occasion Speech Examples

Funny Special Occasion Speech Examples

Award Acceptance Special Occasion Speech - Example

Farewell Special Occasion Speech - Example

Special Occasion Introduction Speech - Example

Graduation Speech for College Students - Example

Need more examples? Find an extensive list of expertly written speech examples for inspiration!

Tips for Writing A Good Special Occasion Speech

Whether you’re giving a toast at a wedding, delivering an address at an awards ceremony, or speaking at any other special event, these tips will help your words ring true with your audience. 

• Plan Ahead: Research the topic and gather ideas for your speech. Set aside time to write, rehearse, and practice.
• Think About Your Audience: Consider their interests and what resonates with them. Tailor your content accordingly.
• Choose Your Words Carefully: Ensure your speech sounds natural and heartfelt. Use vivid imagery to enhance your message.
• Use Humor Sparingly: Add warmth and engagement with humor, but keep it tasteful and relevant.
• End on a High Note: Conclude with a strong, memorable closing that leaves a positive impression.

Once all these elements come together effectively then you'll be well on track for creating an unforgettable moment!

All in all , writing a good speech that is specific to the event and the audience is somehow tricky. But you don’t have to worry anymore, as this guide comprehensively covers all aspects and examples of occasional speech writing.

Wondering can someone do my essay ? MyPerfectWords.com, your go-to online speech writing service , offers exceptional help, crafting special occasion speeches at budget-friendly rates.

Get custom essay help from us today and wave goodbye to the anxieties of composing a stellar speech.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which best defines a special occasion speech.

A special occasion speech, by definition, is a type of ceremonial speaking. It involves delivering a speech specifically written to commemorate or signify the importance of a particular event, such as weddings, graduations, or funerals.

What's the purpose of a special occasion speech?

The purpose of a special occasion speech is to celebrate, honor, or recognize a particular event or individual. It aims to evoke emotions, inspire, or convey gratitude, depending on the nature of the occasion.

Why is it good to keep special occasion speeches short?

Keeping special occasion speeches short ensures that the audience remains engaged and attentive throughout the speech. It also respects the time constraints of the event and allows for a more impactful and memorable delivery.

What is another term for special occasion speaking?

Another term for special occasion speaking is ceremonial speaking, as it often involves delivering speeches at formal ceremonies or events.

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18.2 Special-Occasion Speeches

Learning objectives.

• Identify the different types of ceremonial speaking.
• Describe the different types of inspirational speaking.

M+MD – Birthday Speech – CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.

Many entertaining speeches fall under the category of special-occasion speeches. All the speeches in this category are given to mark the significance of particular events. Common events include weddings, bar mitzvahs, awards ceremonies, funerals, and political events. In each of these different occasions, speakers are asked to deliver speeches relating to the event. For purposes of simplicity, we’ve broken special-occasion speeches into two groups: ceremonial speaking and inspirational speaking.

Ceremonial Speaking

Ceremonial speeches are speeches given during a ceremony or a ritual marked by observance of formality or etiquette. These ceremonies tend to be very special for people, so it shouldn’t be surprising that they are opportunities for speech making. Let’s examine each of the eight types of ceremonial speaking: introductions, presentations, acceptances, dedications, toasts, roasts, eulogies, and farewells.

Speeches of Introduction

The first type of speech is called the speech of introduction , which is a minispeech given by the host of a ceremony that introduces another speaker and his or her speech. Few things are worse than when the introducer or a speaker stands up and says, “This is Joe Smith, he’s going to talk about stress.” While we did learn the speaker’s name and the topic, the introduction falls flat. Audiences won’t be the least bit excited about listening to Joe’s speech.

Just like any other speech, a speech of introduction should be a complete speech and have a clear introduction, body, and conclusion—and you should do it all in under two minutes. This brings up another “few things are worse” scenario: an introductory speaker who rambles on for too long or who talks about himself or herself instead of focusing on the person being introduced.

For an introduction, think of a hook that will make your audience interested in the upcoming speaker. Did you read a news article related to the speaker’s topic? Have you been impressed by a presentation you’ve heard the speaker give in the past? You need to find something that can grab the audience’s attention and make them excited about hearing the main speaker.

The body of your introductory speech should be devoted to telling the audience about the speaker’s topic, why the speaker is qualified, and why the audience should listen (notice we now have our three body points). First, tell your audience in general terms about the overarching topic of the speech. Most of the time as an introducer, you’ll only have a speech title and maybe a paragraph of information to help guide this part of your speech. That’s all right. You don’t need to know all the ins and outs of the main speaker’s speech; you just need to know enough to whet the audience’s appetite. Next, you need to tell the audience why the speaker is a credible speaker on the topic. Has the speaker written books or articles on the subject? Has the speaker had special life events that make him or her qualified? Lastly, you need to briefly explain to the audience why they should care about the upcoming speech.

The final part of a good introduction is the conclusion, which is generally designed to welcome the speaker to the lectern. Many introducers will conclude by saying something like, “I am looking forward to hearing how Joe Smith’s advice and wisdom can help all of us today, so please join me in welcoming Mr. Joe Smith.” We’ve known some presenters who will even add a notation to their notes to “start clapping” and “shake speakers hand” or “give speaker a hug” depending on the circumstances of the speech.

Now that we’ve walked through the basic parts of an introductory speech, let’s see one outlined:

Specific Purpose: To entertain the audience while preparing them for Janice Wright’s speech on rituals.

Introduction: Mention some common rituals people in the United States engage in (Christmas, sporting events, legal proceedings).

Main Points:

• Explain that the topic was selected because understanding how cultures use ritual is an important part of understanding what it means to be human.
• Janice Wright is a cultural anthropologist who studies the impact that everyday rituals have on communities.
• All of us engage in rituals, and we often don’t take the time to determine how these rituals were started and how they impact our daily routines.

Conclusion: I had the opportunity to listen to Dr. Wright at the regional conference in Springfield last month, and I am excited that I get to share her with all of you tonight. Please join me in welcoming Dr. Wright (start clapping, shake speaker’s hand, exit stage).

Speeches of Presentation

The second type of common ceremonial speech is the speech of presentation . A speech of presentation is a brief speech given to accompany a prize or honor. Speeches of presentation can be as simple as saying, “This year’s recipient of the Schuman Public Speaking prize is Wilhelmina Jeffers,” or could last up to five minutes as the speaker explains why the honoree was chosen for the award.

When preparing a speech of presentation, it’s always important to ask how long the speech should be. Once you know the time limit, then you can set out to create the speech itself. First, you should explain what the award or honor is and why the presentation is important. Second, you can explain what the recipient has accomplished in order for the award to be bestowed. Did the person win a race? Did the person write an important piece of literature? Did the person mediate conflict? Whatever the recipient has done, you need to clearly highlight his or her work. Lastly, if the race or competition was conducted in a public forum and numerous people didn’t win, you may want to recognize those people for their efforts as well. While you don’t want to steal the show away from winner (as Kanye West did to Taylor Swift during the 2009 MTV Music Video Awards, for example http://www.mtv.com/videos/misc/435995/taylor-swift-wins-best-female-video.jhtml#id=1620605 ), you may want to highlight the work of the other competitors or nominees.

Speeches of Acceptance

The complement to a speech of presentation is the speech of acceptance . The speech of acceptance is a speech given by the recipient of a prize or honor. For example, in the above video clip from the 2009 MTV Music Video Awards, Taylor Swift starts by expressing her appreciation, gets interrupted by Kanye West, and ends by saying, “I would like to thank the fans and MTV, thank you.” While obviously not a traditional acceptance speech because of the interruption, she did manage to get in the important parts.

There are three typical components of a speech of acceptance: thank the givers of the award or honor, thank those who helped you achieve your goal, and put the award or honor into perspective. First, you want to thank the people who have given you the award or honor and possibly those who voted for you. We see this done every year during the Oscars, “First, I’d like to thank the academy and all the academy voters.” Second, you want to give credit to those who helped you achieve the award or honor. No person accomplishes things in life on his or her own. We all have families and friends and colleagues who support us and help us achieve what we do in life, and a speech of acceptance is a great time to graciously recognize those individuals. Lastly, put the award in perspective. Tell the people listening to your speech why the award is meaningful to you.

Speeches of Dedication

The fourth ceremonial speech is the speech of dedication . A speech of dedication is delivered when a new store opens, a building is named after someone, a plaque is placed on a wall, a new library is completed, and so on. These speeches are designed to highlight the importance of the project and possibly those to whom the project has been dedicated. Maybe your great-uncle has died and left your college tons of money, so the college has decided to rename one of the dorms after your great-uncle. In this case, you may be asked to speak at the dedication.

When preparing the speech of dedication, start by explaining how you are involved in the dedication. If the person to whom the dedication is being made is a relative, tell the audience that the building is being named after your great-uncle who bestowed a gift to his alma mater. Second, you want to explain what is being dedicated. If the dedication is a new building or a preexisting building, you want to explain what is being dedicated and the importance of the structure. You should then explain who was involved in the project. If the project is a new structure, talk about the people who built the structure or designed it. If the project is a preexisting structure, talk about the people who put together and decided on the dedication. Lastly, explain why the structure is important for the community where it’s located. If the dedication is for a new store, talk about how the store will bring in new jobs and new shopping opportunities. If the dedication is for a new wing of a hospital, talk about how patients will be served and the advances in medicine the new wing will provide the community.

At one time or another, almost everyone is going to be asked to deliver a toast . A toast is a speech designed to congratulate, appreciate, or remember. First, toasts can be delivered for the purpose of congratulating someone for an honor, a new job, or getting married. You can also toast someone to show your appreciation for something they’ve done. Lastly, we toast people to remember them and what they have accomplished.

When preparing a toast, the first goal is always to keep your remarks brief. Toasts are generally given during the middle of some kind of festivities (e.g., wedding, retirement party, farewell party), and you don’t want your toast to take away from those festivities for too long. Second, the goal of a toast is to focus attention on the person or persons being toasted—not on the speaker. As such, while you are speaking you need to focus your attention to the people being toasted, both by physically looking at them and by keeping your message about them. You should also avoid any inside jokes between you and the people being toasted because toasts are public and should be accessible for everyone who hears them. To conclude a toast, simply say something like, “Please join me in recognizing Joan for her achievement” and lift your glass. When you lift your glass, this will signal to others to do the same and then you can all take a drink, which is the end of your speech.

The roast speech is a very interesting and peculiar speech because it is designed to both praise and good-naturedly insult a person being honored. Generally, roasts are given at the conclusion of a banquet in honor of someone’s life achievements. The television station Comedy Central has been conducting roasts of various celebrities for a few years.

In this clip, watch as Stephen Colbert, television host of The Colbert Report , roasts President George W. Bush.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BSE_saVX_2A

Let’s pick this short clip apart. You’ll notice that the humor doesn’t pull any punches. The goal of the roast is to both praise and insult in a good-natured manner. You’ll also see that the roaster, in this case Stephen Colbert, is standing behind a lectern while the roastee, President George W. Bush, is clearly on display for the audience to see, and periodically you’ll see the camera pan to President Bush to take in his reactions. Half the fun of a good roast is watching the roastee’s reactions during the roast, so it’s important to have the roastee clearly visible by the audience.

How does one prepare for a roast? First, you want to really think about the person who is being roasted. Do they have any strange habits or amusing stories in their past that you can discuss? When you think through these things you want to make sure that you cross anything off your list that is truly private information or will really hurt the person. The goal of a roast is to poke at them, not massacre them. Second, when selecting which aspects to poke fun at, you need to make sure that the items you choose are widely known by your audience. Roasts work when the majority of people in the audience can relate to the jokes being made. If you have an inside joke with the roastee, bringing it up during roast may be great fun for the two of you, but it will leave your audience unimpressed. Lastly, end on a positive note. While the jokes are definitely the fun part of a roast, you should leave the roastee knowing that you truly do care about and appreciate the person.

A eulogy is a speech given in honor of someone who has died. (Don’t confuse “eulogy” with “elegy,” a poem or song of mourning.) Unless you are a minister, priest, rabbi, imam, or other form of religious leader, you’ll probably not deliver too many eulogies in your lifetime. However, when the time comes to deliver a eulogy, it’s good to know what you’re doing and to adequately prepare your remarks. Watch the following clip of then-Senator Barack Obama delivering a eulogy at the funeral of civil rights activist Rosa Parks in November of 2005.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pRsH92sJCr4

In this eulogy, Senator Obama delivers the eulogy by recalling Rosa Parks importance and her legacy in American history.

When preparing a eulogy, first you need to know as much information about the deceased as possible. The more information you have about the person, the more personal you can make the eulogy. While you can rely on your own information if you were close to the deceased, it is always a good idea to ask friends and relatives of the deceased for their memories, as these may add important facets that may not have occurred to you. Of course, if you were not very close to the deceased, you will need to ask friends and family for information. Second, although eulogies are delivered on the serious and sad occasion of a funeral or memorial service for the deceased, it is very helpful to look for at least one point to be lighter or humorous. In some cultures, in fact, the friends and family attending the funeral will expect the eulogy to be highly entertaining and amusing. While eulogies are not roasts, one goal of the humor or lighter aspects of a eulogy is to relieve the tension that is created by the serious nature of the occasion. Lastly, remember to tell the deceased’s story. Tell the audience about who this person was and what the person stood for in life. The more personal you can make a eulogy, the more touching it will be for the deceased’s friends and families. The eulogy should remind the audience to celebrate the person’s life as well as mourn their death.

Speeches of Farewell

A speech of farewell allows someone to say good-bye to one part of his or her life as he or she is moving on to the next part of life. Maybe you’ve accepted a new job and are leaving your current job, or you’re graduating from college and entering the work force. Whatever the case may be, periods of transition are often marked by speeches of farewell. Watch the following clip of Derek Jeter’s 2008 speech saying farewell to Yankee Stadium, built in 1923, before the New York Yankees moved to the new stadium that opened in 2009.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HJrlTpQm0to

In this speech, Derek Jeter is not only saying good-bye to Yankee Stadium but also thanking the fans for their continued support.

When preparing a speech of farewell, the goal should be to thank the people in your current position and let them know how much you appreciate them as you make the move to your next position in life. In Derek Jeter’s speech, he starts by talking about the history of the 1923 Yankee Stadium and then thanks the fans for their support. Second, you want to express to your audience how much the experience has meant to you. A farewell speech is a time to commemorate and think about the good times you’ve had. As such, you should avoid negativity during this speech. Lastly, you want to make sure that you end on a high note. Derek Jeter concludes his speech by saying, “On behalf of this entire organization, we just want to take this moment to salute you, the greatest fans in the world!” at which point Jeter and the other players take off their ball caps and hold them up toward the audience.

Inspirational Speaking

The goal of an inspirational speech is to elicit or arouse an emotional state within an audience. In Section 18.2.1 “Ceremonial Speaking” , we looked at ceremonial speeches. Although some inspirational speeches are sometimes tied to ceremonial occasions, there are also other speaking contexts that call for inspirational speeches. For our purposes, we are going to look at two types of inspirational speeches: goodwill and speeches of commencement.

Speeches to Ensure Goodwill

Goodwill is an intangible asset that is made up of the favor or reputation of an individual or organization. Speeches of goodwill are often given in an attempt to get audience members to view the person or organization more favorably. Although speeches of goodwill are clearly persuasive, they try not to be obvious about the persuasive intent and are often delivered as information-giving speeches that focus on an individual or organization’s positives attributes. There are three basic types of speeches of goodwill: public relations, justification, and apology.

Speeches for Public Relations

In a public relations speech, the speaker is speaking to enhance one’s own image or the image of his or her organization. You can almost think of these speeches as cheerleading speeches because the ultimate goal is to get people to like the speaker and what he or she represents. In the following brief speech, the CEO of British Petroleum is speaking to reporters about what his organization is doing during the 2010 oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cCfa6AxmUHw

Notice that he keeps emphasizing what his company is doing to fix the problem. Every part of this speech is orchestrated to make BP look caring and attempts to get some amount of goodwill from the viewing public.

Speeches of Justification

The second common speech of goodwill is the speech of justification, which is given when someone attempts to defend why certain actions were taken or will be taken. In these speeches, speakers have already enacted (or decided to enact) some kind of behavior, and are now attempting to justify why the behavior is or was appropriate. In the following clip, President Bill Clinton discusses his decision to bomb key Iraqi targets after uncovering a plot to assassinate former President George H. W. Bush.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6mpWa7wNr5M

In this speech, President Clinton outlines his reasons for bombing Iraq to the American people and the globe. Again, the goal of this speech is to secure goodwill for President Clinton’s decisions both in the United States and on the world stage.

Speeches of Apology

The final speech of goodwill is the speech of apology. Frankly, these speeches have become more and more commonplace. Every time we turn around, a politician, professional athlete, musician, or actor/actress is doing something reprehensible and getting caught. In fact, the speech of apology has quickly become a fodder for humor as well. Let’s take a look at a real apology speech delivered by professional golfer Tiger Woods.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xs8nseNP4s0

When you need to make an apology speech, there are three elements that you need to include: be honest and take responsibility, say you’re sorry, and offer restitution. First, a speaker needs to be honest and admit to doing something wrong. The worst apology speeches are those in which the individual tries to sidestep the wrongdoing. Even if you didn’t do anything wrong, it is often best to take responsibility from a public perception perspective. Second, say that you are sorry. People need to know that you are remorseful for what you’ve done. One of the problems many experts saw with Tiger Woods’s speech is that he doesn’t look remorseful at all. While the words coming out of his mouth are appropriate, he looks like a robot forced to read from a manuscript written by his press agent. Lastly, you need to offer restitution. Restitution can come in the form of fixing something broken or a promise not to engage in such behavior in the future. People in society are very willing to forgive and forget when they are asked.

Speeches for Commencements

The second type of inspirational speech is the speech of commencement , which is designed to recognize and celebrate the achievements of a graduating class or other group of people. The most typical form of commencement speech happens when someone graduates from school. Nearly all of us have sat through commencement speeches at some point in our lives. And if you’re like us, you’ve heard good ones and bad ones. Numerous celebrities and politicians have been asked to deliver commencement speeches at colleges and universities. One famous and well-thought-out commencement speech was given by famed Harry Potter author J. K. Rowling at Harvard University in 2008.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nkREt4ZB-ck

J. K. Rowling’s speech has the perfect balance of humor and inspiration, which are two of the main ingredients of a great commencement speech.

If you’re ever asked to deliver a commencement speech, there are some key points to think through when deciding on your speech’s content.

• If there is a specific theme for the graduation, make sure that your commencement speech addresses that theme. If there is no specific theme, come up with one for your speech. Some common commencement speech themes are commitment, competitiveness, competence, confidence, decision making, discipline, ethics, failure (and overcoming failure), faith, generosity, integrity, involvement, leadership, learning, persistence, personal improvement, professionalism, reality, responsibility, and self-respect.
• Talk about your life and how graduates can learn from your experiences to avoid pitfalls or take advantages of life. How can your life inspire the graduates in their future endeavors?
• Make the speech humorous. Commencement speeches should be entertaining and make an audience laugh.
• Be brief! Nothing is more painful than a commencement speaker who drones on and on. Remember, the graduates are there to get their diplomas; their families are there to watch the graduates walk across the stage.
• Remember, while you may be the speaker, you’ve been asked to impart wisdom and advice for the people graduating and moving on with their lives, so keep it focused on them.
• Place the commencement speech into the broader context of the graduates’ lives. Show the graduates how the advice and wisdom you are offering can be utilized to make their own lives better.

Overall, it’s important to make sure that you have fun when delivering a commencement speech. Remember, it’s a huge honor and responsibility to be asked to deliver a commencement speech, so take the time to really think through and prepare your speech.

Key Takeaways

• There are eight common forms of ceremonial speaking: introduction, presentation, acceptance, dedication, toast, roast, eulogy, and farewell. Speeches of introduction are designed to introduce a speaker. Speeches of presentation are given when an individual is presenting an award of some kind. Speeches of acceptance are delivered by the person receiving an award or honor. Speeches of dedication are given when a new building or other place is being opened for the first time. Toasts are given to acknowledge and honor someone on a special occasion (e.g., wedding, birthday, retirement). Roasts are speeches designed to both praise and good-naturedly insult a person being honored. Eulogies are given during funerals and memorial services. Lastly, speeches of farewell are delivered by an individual who is leaving a job, community, or organization, and wants to acknowledge how much the group has meant.
• Inspirational speeches fall into two categories: goodwill (e.g., public relations, justification, and apology) and speeches of commencement. Speeches of goodwill attempt to get audience members to view the person or organization more favorably. On the other hand, speeches of commencement are delivered to recognize the achievements of a group of people.
• Imagine you’ve been asked to speak before a local civic organization such as the Kiwanis or Rotary Club. Develop a sample speech of introduction that you would like someone to give to introduce you.
• You’ve been asked to roast your favorite celebrity. Develop a two-minute roast.
• Develop a speech of commencement for your public speaking class.

Stand up, Speak out Copyright © 2016 by University of Minnesota is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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