Practice Out Loud – a Few Times
Find a quiet space and read your speech out loud slowly.
Focus on how it feels, not how “perfect” it sounds.
Each time you practice, you’ll get a little more comfortable and a little less tied to the page.
Quick Tip: It’s totally normal to feel awkward the first couple of times. Keep going – it gets easier fast.
Mark Your Pauses
A well-placed pause can make a big impact.
Pause after a joke (let people laugh).
Pause after a big emotional line (let it sink in).
If it helps, lightly mark a few pauses or breathing spots on your printed speech.
Get Familiar – Not Memorized
You don’t need to memorize your speech word for word.
Instead, get familiar with the flow – know what story comes next and what feeling you want to land.
It’s 100% okay to glance down at your notes during the speech.
Bonus Tip: Print your speech out big and double-spaced. It’s easier to glance at without losing your place.
Practice Smiling and Looking Up
Practice looking up from your page every few sentences.
Smiling naturally when you talk will help you connect with the audience (and calm your nerves too).
Don’t Rush
Nerves tend to speed us up. Try to speak a little slower than feels natural.
Remember: Everyone wants to savor your words, not race through them.
Quick Fix: If you feel yourself rushing, take a slow, deep breath before your next sentence.
Have a Backup Plan
Bring two printed copies of your speech – just in case.
Hand one to a trusted friend who can slip it to you if needed.
Before You Start Speaking
Take a breath.
Smile at the couple (or the audience).
Remember: you’re not performing. You’re giving a gift.