Monday, July 18, 2011

Writing and Producing A Father-of-the-Bride Talk

By Emma Madison


Perhaps the most poignant speech of the wedding reception is the one given by the father of the bride. Whether it be of substance or not, it will most likely be the one that touches hearts the most. As every father experiences some reluctances in giving his daughter away, this speech is your opportunity to throw caution to the wind and bare sour heart to your daughter and her new husband.

Long before even the week of the wedding approaches, you should be having an idea of what it is you might want to say. Begin writing rough drafts that final week. It is thought that the father of the bride is the person with the most free time during the hustle and bustle of planning and putting on a wedding. If this is true for you, take advantage of these instances to be composing your speech.

Our best idea to you is to avoid thinking too much; just speak from the heart. The fathers who have done this far too often end up getting sidetracked in the high tales, breaking down from emotions, or forgetting entirely those chief points you wanted to point out. Why chance any of these troubles when you can set an outline of your speech to guide you along.

Do not be hesitant to wear your heart on your sleeve. Everyone knows you have varied emotions and will be expecting to see them today. Sharing treasured memories with your daughter and new husband and all of the invited guests will make for an unforgettable experience. A gentle tease or two is not that bad, but remember that on this day your daughter is, to the world, all grown up and wanting to be regarded as such. Be aware that she is not your cute baby girl anymore, but a mature woman.

Be sure to take the groom into account in your speech. As head of the family, you will want to welcome him. This man is going to be responsible for the joy and welfare of your daughter and you want to get on his good side as much as he does yours. Utter optimistic hopes and wishes for him and your daughter as they begin life together.

As that moment arrives, take a moment to compose yourself. Take a deep breath, get a drink of water, shake off your nervousness. You may anticipate having an easy time of it, but becoming emotional also may surprise you; it would be prudent to tuck a tissue into your pocket just in case. If you do feel a rush of tears, go ahead and indulge for a brief moment - don't try and talk through it. This may even make your speech more memorable and moving.

Remind yourself to relax and not rush through your speech. Put your notes in an quick accessible pocket (remember the clich scenes of the best man fumbling for the rings). Compose yourself. Glance yourself over for appearances. Take a sip of water and a deep mouthful of air. You have prepared what you want to say, and don't want to miss out anything.




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