We’re breaking down everything you need to know about writing the father of the bride speech. Image by Salt Atelier.

Giving a speech at your daughter’s wedding is a special and memorable occasion. It’s a chance to share your love, pride, and fond memories with her, her new partner, and everyone important in her life. However, the idea of writing a speech can be daunting. You may be wondering where to start. While crafting the perfect father-of-the-bride speech can feel overwhelming, with a bit of guidance, you can create something truly unforgettable.

From structure to timing, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about writing and delivering a heartfelt speech that will have everyone talking.

How to Write a Father of the Bride Speech

While you’ll want your wedding speech to be completely unique, it can help to follow a template when you start to write and then let the original ideas flow from there.

1. Welcome the guests and introduce yourself: Begin by greeting everyone and stating who you are. 
2. Thank the guests for coming: Express your gratitude for their presence and support. Acknowledge those who traveled far to attend. This doesn’t have to be specific. A statement such as “We’re so grateful for everyone who traveled to help us celebrate today.” is sufficient.
3. Talk about the bride: Share some anecdotes about your daughter. Highlight her qualities, achievements, and what makes her special to you.
4. Pay tribute to the woman she has become: Highlight your pride in her achievements and character. Reflect on her journey from childhood to the present.
5. Talk about how the bride met her new spouse: Briefly recount their love story. Mention how happy you are that she has found someone special.
6. Give some advice on marriage: Offer a piece of wisdom for the newlyweds. Keep it light-hearted and meaningful.
7. Raise a toast to the happy couple: Conclude with a toast to the bride and groom, wishing them a future filled with happiness and love.

Image by Martin Wilk Photography

How Long Should a Father of the Bride Speech Be?

Aim to keep your speech between 5 to 7 minutes. This is long enough to cover all the essential points but short enough to keep everyone’s attention. Remember, brevity is key to maintaining engagement.

When Does the Father of the Bride Give a Speech?

Traditionally, the father of the bride speech is given at the wedding reception after the meal, but this can vary depending on the wedding schedule. It’s often the first speech, setting the stage for others to follow.

Should I Include Jokes?

Adding a touch of humor can enhance your speech and bring some laughter to the room. However, it’s crucial to tread carefully and avoid embarrassing your daughter or making guests uncomfortable. Keep the humor as respectful and loving as possible.

Can I Use Quotes?

Absolutely! Incorporating a well-chosen quote can add depth and resonance to your message. Look for relevant and meaningful quotes for the occasion for you and your daughter, or consider sharing a quote or song lyrics that have been meaningful to the two of you while she was growing up. Whether they offer wisdom, inspiration, or heartfelt sentiment, quotes can help convey your emotions and thoughts in a memorable way.

Image by Nikk Nguyen

Top Tips for Writing Your Father of the Bride Speech

To help you deliver a memorable and touching speech, here are some top tips to guide you through the process.

1. Ask for help: Don’t hesitate to ask for advice from friends and family or look up examples online.
2. Focus on a good introduction: A strong start sets the tone for the rest of your speech. Begin with a warm welcome and a brief introduction of yourself to engage your audience from the beginning.
3. Keep it short and sweet: Stick to the key points and avoid lengthy thank-you lists. Although the speech is primarily for your daughter, to keep the audience engaged, keep it straight and to the point.
4. Don’t be too embarrassing: Share heartfelt stories, but avoid anything that might make your daughter uncomfortable. Keep the tone respectful.
5. Incorporate Inspirational Quotes: A well-chosen quote can add depth to your speech. It can emphasize your points and add a touch of wisdom. Make sure it’s relevant.
6. Skip ex mentions: Focus on the present and future, and avoid discussing past relationships.
7. Mention the bride’s mother and new in-laws: Recognize and appreciate the new family connections. It shows respect and acknowledges the joining of two families.
8. Embrace your emotions: It’s okay to get a little teary. Your genuine emotions will make your speech that much more touching and memorable. Let your love and pride shine through.
9. Practice makes perfect: Rehearse your speech multiple times to ensure you deliver it smoothly. Familiarity will boost your confidence and help you stay calm.
10. Stay positive and calm: We know that public speaking isn’t for everyone. Take deep breaths and speak slowly to keep nerves at bay. Remember, it’s a joyous occasion, and everyone is there to celebrate and support your daughter.

Image by Lindsey Boluyt Photography

Father of the Bride Speech Examples

Feel free to personalize these speeches to fit your own style and relationship with your daughter and her spouse.

Heartfelt Speech

“Good evening, everyone. It’s truly an honor to stand before you today as the bride’s father. I want to thank each of you for gracing us with your presence on this momentous occasion. Whether you’re near or far, your love and support have added an extra layer of warmth to this already special day, and we’re deeply appreciative.

Now, let me paint a picture of my daughter. From the moment she entered our lives, she brought an abundance of laughter and love. Her kindness, resilience, and infectious spirit have always been a source of immense pride for me. I’m reminded of a cherished memory… [insert memory here] …those moments truly defined her, shaping her into the remarkable woman she is today.

And speaking of remarkable, let me introduce you to the equally wonderful person she’s chosen to share her life with. Their love story is nothing short of magical, a testament to fate and the beauty of true companionship. It warms my heart to witness them embark on this new chapter together, hand in hand.

To the happy couple, as you journey forward together, may you always communicate openly, cherish each other’s quirks and differences, and never lose sight of the love that brought you together. Now, if you’ll all join me in raising your glasses, let’s toast to [Daughter’s Name] and [Spouse’s Name]. May your love continue to deepen with each passing day, and may your marriage be adorned with endless moments of joy and laughter. Here’s to the newlyweds! Cheers!”

Funny Father of the Bride Speech

“Good evening, everyone! Allow me to introduce myself. I’m the nervous wreck who’s been pacing in the back all day, but you can just call me the proud father of the bride! I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of you for gracing us with your presence today. Your being here not only adds to the joy of this occasion but also ensures that my attempts at humor won’t fall flat. For that, I am eternally grateful.

Now, let’s talk about the real star of the show—my daughter. From the moment she entered this world, she’s been a whirlwind of chaos and joy, giving me gray hairs and endless laughter in equal measure. But on a serious note, watching her transform from a tiny bundle of chaos into the incredible woman standing before us today has been nothing short of a rollercoaster ride filled with unforgettable moments.

And now, she’s found someone brave enough to join in on the chaos. Let’s give it up for [Spouse’s Name]! To the happy couple, let me offer you a piece of advice: marriage is all about compromise – she’s always right, and he’s… well, let’s just say he’s learning! So here’s to the newlyweds! May your journey together be as enduring and joyful as the ever-growing list of chores she’s already started delegating to you, [Spouse’s Name]! Cheers!”

Short but Sweet Speech

Good evening, everyone. As the bride’s father, I want to thank each of you for being here today to celebrate this joyous occasion with us. Your presence here means the world to us, and we’re grateful for the love and support you’ve shown to [Daughter’s Name] and [Spouse’s Name]. [Daughter’s Name] has always been the light of our lives. Her kindness, laughter, and love have enriched our family in countless ways. As I look at her today, I couldn’t be prouder of the woman she has become. She’s grown into a beautiful, compassionate, and strong individual, and I know she will bring these qualities into her marriage.

To [Daughter’s Name] and [Spouse’s Name], as you embark on this journey together, always remember to cherish each other, communicate openly, and never lose sight of the love that brought you together. So here’s to the happy couple. May your love continue to grow stronger with each passing day, and may your marriage be filled with endless love, laughter, and happiness. Cheers!”

Image by Memorybox Photography

Sentimental Speech

“Good evening, everyone. Today, I stand before you as the father of the bride, filled with love and gratitude for each of you who have joined us to celebrate this special day. Thank you all for being here to witness and support [Daughter’s Name] and [Spouse’s Name] as they begin their journey together. Your presence here is a testament to the love and bonds that unite us all. As I look at my daughter, [Daughter’s Name], today, I am reminded of the countless memories we’ve shared and the joy she has brought into our lives. From her first steps to this moment, she has been a beacon of light and love. 

[Daughter’s Name], you have grown into a remarkable woman, full of grace, kindness, and strength. Your journey to this day has been marked by moments of joy, laughter, and growth, and I am honored to have witnessed every step of it. And now, you have found your perfect match in [Spouse’s Name]. Your love story is a testament to the power of fate and the beauty of true love. Together, you complement each other in the most beautiful ways.

To [Daughter’s Name] and [Spouse’s Name], as you embark on this new chapter together, remember to always be patient, kind, and forgiving. Hold onto the love that brought you together, and cherish each other’s hearts. So here’s to [Daughter’s Name] and [Spouse’s Name]. May your love continue to deepen and grow with each passing day. May you find strength, comfort, and joy in each other’s arms, and may your marriage be blessed with a lifetime of happiness and fulfillment. Cheers!”

Father of the Bride Speech with Meaningful Quote

Good evening, everyone. Today, I am honored to stand before you as the bride’s father. Thank you all for joining us on this special day to celebrate the love and union of [Daughter’s Name] and [Spouse’s Name]. Your presence here means the world to us, and we are grateful for the love and support you have shown to our family. Your presence adds warmth and joy to this celebration, and we thank you for being a part of it.

I want to share a story about my daughter, [Daughter’s Name], that truly captures her essence. When she was just a little girl, she had this uncanny ability to make everyone around her smile. Her laughter was infectious, and her kindness knew no bounds. As she grew older, she carried that same light and love with her, touching the lives of all who knew her. Today, as I look at her, I see a woman who embodies compassion, strength, and grace. I am immensely proud of the person she has become.

There’s a quote that reminds me of [Daughter’s Name] and [Spouse’s Name] ‘s love story: “Love recognizes no barriers. It jumps hurdles, leaps fences, penetrates walls to arrive at its destination full of hope.” This quote perfectly encapsulates the journey of love they embarked upon together. To [Daughter’s Name] and [Spouse’s Name], as you begin this new chapter together, remember to always cherish and nurture your love. May you continue to support each other, laugh together, and face life’s challenges as a team. So here’s to [Daughter’s Name] and [Spouse’s Name]. May your love story continue inspiring others, and your marriage be filled with endless joy, laughter, and love. Cheers to the newlyweds!”

Image by Emma Quinn Photography

Speech? Check. Up next? The father-daughter dance. Still need a song? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. We’ve curated a list of 50 unforgettable tracks that capture the unique bond between you and your dad.

Image by Erin and Geoffrey Photography