Wedding related...need hints (speech)

I am making a speech for my sister's wedding. This is my first time doing this and I want it to be perfect. Yet, I know the speeches are one of those things people comment about if it's too long or over everyone's heads. I want it to be touching and personal, but not boring. Think back to your weddings or weddings you have been to, what makes or breaks a BP speech?

Thanks!

Re: Wedding related...need hints (speech)

My sister just asked me last night if I would do a speech for her wedding. I told her I would have to think about it. I hate public speaking.

Re: Wedding related...need hints (speech)

I think the best speeches I have heard have been a combination of heartfelt and funny and not too long. The worst speeches I've heard have been rambling or inappropriate (embarrassing jokes/stories or even swearing). I think it's more important to be heatfelt than funny. I think the more natural you are the more appreciated your speech will be. Also, there are definitely books that you can look for on the subject. I know my DH gave his brother a book on speeches for our big day (he was 16 and needed the encouragement - we're not that pushy).

Good luck.

Re: Wedding related...need hints (speech)

I cried at my friends wedding when her MOH made the speech (I didn't even know her). It was short and sweet and parts were funny bt the part that got me was when she thanked the groom for making her best friend so happy. I thought that was soooooo sweet.

Re: Wedding related...need hints (speech)

The best man at our wedding actually got heckled because he rambled on and on and repeated himself several times during the speech. He also congratuled my DH for "sealing the deal" and told him he was "in the big time now."