Groom Speech Examples to Inspire Your Wedding Toast

I still remember the butterflies in my stomach as I stood up to give my groom speech. My palms were sweaty, my heart was racing, and I wondered if I’d remember all the words I’d carefully prepared. If you’re feeling the same way, don’t worry – you’re not alone. A recent survey found that 68% of grooms feel anxious about delivering their wedding speech. But I’m here to help ease those nerves with 10 incredible groom speech examples that’ll inspire you to nail your big moment.

Additional Resources:

• Our Groom Speech Writing Tool 
• 2025 Groom Styles & Trends 

Understanding the Basics of Groom Speeches

Your groom speech is your chance to shine, to express gratitude, share your love story, and set the tone for your married life. It’s a big moment, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Typically, you’ll deliver your speech after the father of the bride and before the best man. This order allows you to build on the emotional momentum of the day while still leaving room for some lighthearted moments from your best man.

A well-rounded groom speech usually includes a few key components. First, you’ll want to welcome your guests and thank them for being part of your special day. Then, take some time to express gratitude to the key people who made your wedding possible – your parents, your new in-laws, and your wedding party. The heart of your speech should focus on your new spouse. Share your feelings, recount special moments, and let everyone know just how lucky you feel. Finally, wrap things up with a toast to your future together.

Remember, this is your moment to speak from the heart. While it’s important to hit these key points, don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. Whether you’re naturally funny, sentimental, or somewhere in between, your speech should reflect who you are.

Groom Speech Examples

Groom Rehearsal Dinner Speech Example 1: The Heartfelt Thank You

“Good evening, everyone. Sarah and I are overwhelmed with joy seeing all of you here tonight. Before I share a few words, I want to recognize my parents, Tom and Linda, for hosting this beautiful rehearsal dinner. Dad, your welcome speech earlier moved us both to tears – though I’ll probably deny that part tomorrow.

Looking around this room, I see the story of our lives. My parents, who taught me what love looks like through their own 35-year marriage. My sister Katie, who’s been my best friend since day one and who, incidentally, was the first person to tell me I was being an idiot when I waited three weeks to call Sarah after we first met. Thanks for that kick in the pants, sis.

To Sarah’s parents, Robert and Mary – from the moment I nervously showed up at your door three years ago, you’ve treated me like family. Those Sunday dinners around your kitchen table, the way you included me in family vacations, and especially the time you helped me move apartments in the pouring rain – you’ve shown me what it means to be welcomed with open arms. And yes, Robert, I promise I’ll never forget how you taught me the proper way to grill a steak.

Sarah, my almost-wife – I still can’t believe I get to call you that. When we met at Jake and Emma’s wedding, I never imagined I’d be standing here today, about to marry the most incredible person I’ve ever known. You’ve changed my life in ways both big and small. You taught me that the dishwasher actually has a proper loading technique, that adventures are better when shared, and that love isn’t just about the grand gestures – it’s about choosing each other every single day.

To our wedding party – thank you for being here and for all your support throughout our relationship. Each of you has played a special role in our story. Mike, my best man, who’s been there since kindergarten and was the first person I told about Sarah. Emma, who’s not just Sarah’s maid of honor but the reason we met in the first place. We’re grateful for your friendship and for standing beside us tomorrow.

I also want to thank our vendors, our wedding planner Jessica, and everyone who’s traveled from near and far to celebrate with us. Your presence means the world to us. Tomorrow, I’ll make the easiest promise of my life when I say ‘I do’ to my best friend. But tonight, I want to thank everyone in this room for being part of our journey. Please raise your glasses – to family, to friendship, and to love.”

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Groom Rehearsal Dinner Speech Example 2: The Storyteller’s Toast

“Hello everyone! For those who don’t know me – well, if you don’t know me, you’re probably at the wrong rehearsal dinner. I’m David, the lucky guy who gets to marry Rachel tomorrow, and I want to share a story about how we got here.

Five years ago, I was that guy who was married to his job. My idea of a perfect weekend was spreadsheets and takeout. Then my best friend Mark – stand up, Mark, take a bow – decided I needed a life intervention. He literally created a PowerPoint presentation titled ‘Why David Needs to Leave His Apartment.’ The final slide was a photo of me at my desk with the caption ‘This is not a lifestyle, this is a cry for help.’

So, Mark dragged me to this charity auction. I was grumpy, uncomfortable in a suit, and planning my escape when Rachel walked in. She was running the event, and the first thing I saw her do was handle a crisis involving a missing auction item, a confused elderly donor, and a rogue chocolate fountain – all while maintaining perfect composure and making everyone around her laugh.

I spent the entire evening following her around, pretending to be really interested in every auction item. Fun fact: I ended up winning a year’s worth of pottery classes, which I am absolutely terrible at. But those classes got me Rachel’s phone number, so I now own the world’s most expensive collection of lopsided coffee mugs.

To my parents, who taught me that the best relationships are built on friendship and laughter – thank you. Dad, your daily dad jokes prepared me for life with Rachel, who somehow has an even worse sense of humor than you do. Mom, your patience in teaching me to cook meant that on our first date, I could at least manage to make dinner without setting off any smoke alarms.

Rachel’s parents, Jim and Carol – thank you for raising someone who sees the best in everyone, who tackles life’s challenges with grace and humor, and who was willing to give a workaholic with questionable pottery skills a chance. You’ve welcomed me into your family with such warmth, and I promise to always take care of your daughter (and to stop trying to convince her that my pottery should be displayed in your living room).

To our amazing wedding party – thank you for all the support, love, and late-night pep talks. And to everyone here tonight, thank you for being part of our story. Tomorrow is going to be incredible, but tonight is special because we get to spend it with the people who mean the most to us. Please raise your glasses to family, friends, and finding love at a charity auction – even if it costs you a year of pottery classes.”

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Groom Rehearsal Dinner Speech Example 3: The Grateful Heart

“Good evening, everyone. I’m Michael, and I want to take a moment to express my gratitude to everyone in this room. Emily and I are overwhelmed by the love and support we’ve felt, not just today, but throughout our entire journey together.

First, to my parents, who are hosting this beautiful evening – Mom and Dad, you’ve shown me what true partnership looks like. Dad, I’ll never forget what you told me when I first started dating Emily: ‘Son, when you find someone who makes you want to be better every day, don’t let go.’ Mom, your endless support and love have shaped who I am, and the way you’ve welcomed Emily into our family has meant everything to us.

To Bill and Margaret, my future in-laws – thank you for trusting me with your daughter’s heart. I know it wasn’t easy when Emily announced she was moving across the country to be with me. But you supported our decision, helped us find our first apartment, and showed me that family isn’t just about blood – it’s about choice and love. Margaret, those weekly FaceTime cooking lessons have saved us from countless takeout nights, and Bill, your wisdom and guidance have been invaluable.

Emily, my almost-wife – you walked into that coffee shop three years ago and changed my entire world. I was supposed to be there for a quick business meeting, but instead, I found my future when you accidentally spilled your latte all over my laptop. Most people would have been horrified, but you just laughed, handed me your business card, and said, ‘Well, now you have to let me buy you a new computer… or at least dinner.’ That mix of confidence, humor, and kindness is exactly why I fell in love with you.

To our wedding party – you’ve been our cheerleaders, our support system, and our voice of reason when we needed it. Sarah, Emily’s sister and maid of honor, thank you for your early stamp of approval and for always including me in family traditions. Chris, my best man and brother, thank you for being my sounding board and for helping me pick out the perfect engagement ring.

Looking around this room, I see teachers who shaped my childhood, college friends who became family, colleagues who became dear friends, and relatives who’ve traveled from across the globe to be here. Each of you has played a part in our story, and we’re grateful for your presence in our lives.

Tomorrow, I’ll make Emily my wife, but tonight, I want to celebrate everyone who’s helped us reach this moment. Please raise your glasses to friends, to family, and to love that brings us all together. Thank you for being here to share in our joy.”

Customize your groom speech here >> 

Groom Speech Templates 

Groom Rehearsal Dinner Speech Template 1: The Classic Appreciation

“Good evening, everyone. As I look around this room, I’m overwhelmed with gratitude seeing all the people who have shaped [Bride’s] and my journey. Before I continue, I want to thank my parents, [Father’s name] and [Mother’s name], for hosting this wonderful rehearsal dinner.

[Share a brief observation about the evening or the gathering: ‘Seeing all our favorite people in one room reminds me how blessed we are to have such an incredible support system.’]

To my parents – [Share specific lesson or value they taught you about love/marriage. For example: ‘You’ve shown me through your own marriage what true partnership looks like. Dad, your advice about always making time for date night, and Mom, your wisdom about the importance of listening – these lessons will guide our marriage.’]

[Bride’s parents’ names], my future in-laws – [Share specific ways they’ve welcomed you into the family. For example: ‘From our first meeting when you insisted I call you Mom and Dad, to teaching me your secret family recipes, you’ve made me feel like family from day one.’] Thank you for raising such an amazing daughter and for accepting me into your lives with such warmth and generosity.

[Bride’s name], my almost-wife – [Share the story of how you met or what first drew you to her: ‘When we first met at (location/event), I never imagined I’d be standing here today, about to marry the most incredible person I’ve ever known.’] You’ve changed my life in countless ways, from [share 2-3 specific examples of how she’s impacted your life positively].

To our wedding party – [Acknowledge specific contributions: ‘Thank you for all the support, from helping with wedding planning to organizing bachelor/bachelorette celebrations.’] Each of you has played a special role in our story. [Best Man’s name], [share specific memory or thank you]. [Maid/Matron of Honor’s name], [share specific appreciation].

[Include thanks to out-of-town guests: ‘To those who have traveled from (locations) to be here with us – your presence means the world.’]

Please raise your glasses and join me in a toast to everyone in this room who has supported our journey. Tomorrow, I’ll make the easiest promise of my life when I say ‘I do’ to my best friend. To family, to friendship, and to love.”

Customize your groom speech here >> 

Groom Rehearsal Dinner Speech Template 2: The Lighthearted Journey

“Hello everyone! I’m [Your name], and if you don’t know me, I’m the lucky guy who gets to marry [Bride’s name] tomorrow. I’d like to share a bit about our journey and thank the amazing people who’ve helped us get here.

[Start with a funny story about your relationship: ‘When I first met [Bride’s name], I was (share something humorous about your situation/appearance/circumstance). Little did I know that (insert humorous twist that led to your relationship).’]

To my parents, [Names] – [Share funny childhood memory that taught you about relationships: ‘Thank you for teaching me that love is about (insert lesson learned, with a humorous twist).’] Dad, your [specific dad trait] prepared me for life with [Bride’s name], who [share funny connection]. Mom, your [specific mom trait] meant that [share funny result].

[Bride’s parents’ names] – [Share humorous story about meeting them or getting their approval: ‘I’ll never forget the first time I came to your house and tried to impress you by (share funny attempt to impress).’] Thank you for welcoming me into your family and for [specific funny or heartwarming family tradition you’ve been included in].

To our wedding party – [Share funny group memory: ‘From helping me choose an engagement ring (mention humorous mishap) to (another funny wedding planning moment)’], your support has been incredible. [Best Man’s name], [share funny friendship moment]. [Maid/Matron of Honor’s name], [share humorous story connecting you].

[Bride’s name], my almost-wife – [Share funny story about dating/proposal: ‘Who knew that (funny first date detail) would lead to this moment?’] You’ve taught me so many important things, like [list 2-3 humorous lessons learned in relationship].

[Include funny thank you to guests: ‘To everyone who traveled here tonight – thank you for choosing our wedding over (current popular TV show or event).’]

Please raise your glasses to [Bride’s name], to our families who raised us, to our friends who supported us, and to love that brings us all together. Here’s to a lifetime of laughter and adventure!”

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Groom Rehearsal Dinner Speech Template 3: The Heartfelt Story

“Good evening, everyone. Tonight is incredibly special because we’re surrounded by the people who mean the most to [Bride’s name] and me. I want to take a moment to share what’s in my heart as we prepare for tomorrow’s celebration.

[Begin with a meaningful memory: ‘I still remember the moment I knew [Bride’s name] was the one. It was when (share specific moment that changed everything for you).’]

To my parents, [Names] – [Share deep personal gratitude: ‘Your love story has been my greatest example of what marriage should be. The way you (share specific examples of their partnership) showed me what true commitment looks like.’] Thank you for [list 2-3 specific ways they’ve supported your relationship].

[Bride’s parents’ names], my future in-laws – [Share meaningful story about being welcomed into their family: ‘From the moment I (share first interaction), you’ve treated me like a son.’] Thank you for [specific examples of their support and acceptance]. The way you’ve welcomed me into your family has touched my heart deeply.

[Bride’s name] – [Share the journey of your love: ‘Our story began (brief description of meeting), but I never imagined how completely you would change my life.’] You’ve taught me that love is [share 2-3 profound lessons learned through your relationship]. Every day with you makes me want to be a better person.

To our wedding party – [Share meaningful role they’ve played: ‘Each of you represents a different chapter in our story.’] [Best Man’s name], [share significant moment or way they’ve supported you]. [Maid/Matron of Honor’s name], [share meaningful connection].

[Include heartfelt acknowledgment of guests: ‘To everyone here tonight – your presence reminds us that love grows stronger when it’s supported by family and friends.’]

Tomorrow, I’ll make the most important promise of my life. But tonight, I want to thank everyone who has helped us reach this moment. Please raise your glasses to love, to family, and to the beautiful journey ahead.”

Customize your groom speech here >> 

Key Elements of a Successful Groom Speech

Now that we’ve gone through some examples, let’s break down what makes a groom speech truly successful.

First and foremost, authenticity is key. Your speech should reflect your personality and your unique relationship. Don’t try to be someone you’re not – that’s not who your partner fell in love with, after all!

Structure and flow are also crucial. A well-organized speech is easier to deliver and more engaging for your audience. Start with a strong opening to grab attention, maintain a clear thread throughout, and end with a memorable conclusion. Think of it like telling a story – you want a beginning, middle, and end that all tie together seamlessly.

Don’t be afraid to inject some humor into your speech. It can help break the ice and engage your audience. Just make sure it’s appropriate for all guests. Avoid inside jokes that only a few people will understand – you want everyone to feel included.

Remember to express gratitude and acknowledgment. Thank your parents, your new in-laws, the wedding party, and your guests. This shows appreciation and makes everyone feel included in your special day.

Lastly, personalize your content. Include meaningful anecdotes, reference shared interests or inside jokes (as long as they’re appropriate and understandable for the audience), and let your authentic voice shine through. Whether you’re naturally humorous, sentimental, or somewhere in between, your speech should sound genuinely like you.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Groom Speeches

While we’re on the subject of what makes a great speech, let’s talk about some common pitfalls to avoid. Trust me, I’ve seen my fair share of wedding speech disasters, and I don’t want you to fall into the same traps.

First up, avoid overindulging before your speech. I know, I know – a little liquid courage can be tempting. But trust me, excessive alcohol can lead to slurred words or inappropriate comments. You want to remember this moment, not regret it.

Another big no-no? Focusing too much on ex-partners. Your wedding day is about your future, not your past. Avoid mentioning ex-partners or comparing your current relationship to past ones. It’s awkward for everyone involved, especially your new spouse!

One mistake I see a lot of grooms make is forgetting to practice. Don’t wing it! Rehearse your speech several times before the big day. This will help you feel more confident and ensure you cover all the important points. Plus, it gives you a chance to time yourself and make sure you’re not rambling on for too long.

Speaking of timing, making your speech too long is another common error. Keep your audience engaged by keeping your speech concise. Aim for about 5-7 minutes – long enough to be meaningful, but short enough to maintain interest. Remember, you’re not the only one giving a speech that day!

Lastly, avoid inappropriate jokes or stories. What might seem funny to you and your buddies might not go over well with Grandma or your new in-laws. Keep it classy, folks!

Tips for Delivering Your Groom Speech with Confidence

Alright, you’ve written a great speech and avoided all the common pitfalls. Now comes the tricky part – actually delivering it! Don’t worry, I’ve got some tips to help you knock it out of the park.

First, practice, but don’t memorize. Familiarize yourself with your speech,

but avoid reciting it verbatim. This approach allows for a more natural delivery. You want to sound like you’re speaking from the heart, not reading from a script.

Speaking of scripts, use notes, not a full text. Jot down key points on note cards. This provides a safety net without tying you to a full script. It’ll help you stay on track without sounding robotic.

When you’re up there, remember to make eye contact. Connect with your audience by maintaining visual engagement. This enhances your perceived confidence and connection. Plus, it’ll help you feel like you’re having a conversation rather than giving a speech.

Speak slowly and clearly. I know from experience that nerves can accelerate your pace. Remember to maintain a measured tempo and enunciate clearly. Your guests want to hear every word!

If anxiety strikes, don’t panic. Take deep breaths. Pause for a few deep breaths before beginning. This technique can help steady your nerves and voice. Trust me, a few seconds of silence feels a lot longer to you than it does to your audience.

How to Personalize Your Groom Speech

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into making your speech uniquely yours. After all, this is your moment to shine!

Include Meaningful Anecdotes

Share stories that highlight your relationship’s journey. Select moments that hold significance for both of you. Maybe it’s the time you realized she was “the one,” or a challenge you overcame together. These personal touches will resonate with your audience and make your speech unforgettable.

Incorporate Shared Interests or Inside Jokes

Reference mutual passions or private jokes your partner will appreciate. Just ensure they’re appropriate and understandable for the audience. For example, if you bonded over a shared love of hiking, you might say something like, “Our relationship has been like our favorite hikes – full of breathtaking views, unexpected challenges, and the joy of reaching new heights together.”

Use Quotes or Readings

If a particular quote, song lyric, or passage resonates with your relationship, consider weaving it into your speech. It could be from a favorite book, movie, or even a song that’s special to you both. Just be sure to explain its significance to your guests.

Reflect Your Personality

Your speech should sound like you. If you’re naturally funny, don’t be afraid to crack a few jokes. If you’re more serious, that’s okay too. The key is authenticity. Your partner fell in love with you, not some idealized version of a groom giving a speech.

Learnings Recap

Let’s take a moment to recap the key points we’ve covered:

• Authenticity is crucial: Your speech should reflect your unique personality and relationship.
• Structure matters: A well-organized speech with a clear beginning, middle, and end is more engaging and easier to deliver.
• Practice is essential: Rehearse your speech multiple times to boost confidence and improve delivery.
• Keep it concise: Aim for a speech duration of 5-7 minutes to maintain audience engagement.
• Balance emotion and humor: Incorporate both heartfelt moments and appropriate jokes for a well-rounded speech.
• Express gratitude: Remember to thank key people involved in your wedding and relationship.
• Personalize your content: Include meaningful anecdotes and references that resonate with you and your partner.
• Delivery techniques matter: Speak clearly, make eye contact, and use notes rather than a full script.
• Avoid common pitfalls: Steer clear of mentioning exes, overindulging before the speech, or including inappropriate content.
• Seek help if needed: Professional services like Bridesmaid For Hire can provide valuable assistance in speech preparation.

Final Thoughts

Crafting your groom speech might seem daunting, but remember – you’re simply sharing your love story with the people who matter most. Trust in your feelings, prepare thoroughly, and speak from the heart. Your sincerity will resonate more than perfectly polished words ever could.

If you’re still feeling unsure, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. Bridesmaid For Hire specializes in helping grooms like you create speeches that truly capture the essence of your relationship. Our team can guide you through the process, from brainstorming ideas to perfecting your delivery.

Your wedding day is a celebration of your love. Let your groom speech be a beautiful part of that celebration. With the right preparation and mindset, you’ll create a moment that you, your partner, and your guests will cherish for years to come.