Mother of the Bride Speech

Mother of the bride speeches are much more common these days than ever before. If you are the mother of the bride, you very well might be called upon to say a few words at your daughter's wedding. Be sure to write your speech out in advance and practice it several times, to avoid making any embarrassing errors when the moment arrives.

Practicing among family and friends before the big moment will help you avoid being overly nervous. The mother of the bride should give a light, yet emotionally powerful speech conveying all the emotions she is feeling towards her daughter on that special day.

It is a good idea to begin the speech with a welcome to everyone who has traveled to be there on that special occasion. If you are hosting or co-hosting the wedding, this is also a polite way of informing everyone.

The speech should be light-hearted, sentimental and even humorous. Like most public speaking engagements, the mother of the bride speech would do well to have a strong opening. It is always a good idea to begin with a famous quote or even a quote from someone attending the wedding.

When beginning the speech, keep in mind that not necessarily every person there will know who you are. This is why it is also a good idea to introduce yourself first, and let everyone know what your relationship to the bride and groom is.

Next, say a few words of welcome to your new son-in-law and his parents. Talk about how happy you are to welcome him as a member of your family. You can also say a few words about how happy you have been watching your daughter and son-in-law's relationship develop over time. Talk about the shared values and virtues that you see in the lovely couple.

Then it is time to say a few words about your daughter. Talk about her personality, her interests and passions in life. It is okay to tell funny, moving anecdotes as long as you do not embarrass her in front of her family and friends. Remember, this is her time to shine and not yours so avoid jokes or stories that are at the bride's expense.

Next, if you have other children, it is a good idea to talk about your daughter's relationship with them over the years. Highlight the positive aspects such the way in which she has served as a role model for them or they have been a role model to her. Mention all your children by name. Give them credit on this special day, too.

Welcome the groom's mother and father, acknowledge their presence, and highlight the fact that you are quite happy to have them as members of your extended family. If you are speaking on behalf of your husband, acknowledge him at several points in your speech, and let everyone know that the feelings you have are shared by him, as well.

You should also give advice on marriage, if you think it is appropriate for you to do so. If not, then just leave this part out of your speech or just acknowledge in a humorous way that you're not the right person to give marriage advice.

Finally, your speech should end with a modest word of blessing for the newly wed couple and make it obvious that your mother of the bride speech has ended so that applause will be imminent.