What makes this speech so great? Listen, and let's discuss…

What She Did Right

Speech Prepared Ahead of Time

Since you're reading this, I know you're well aware of the need to be prepared ahead of time. In this Maid of Honor's case, it would have been wise to have a speech review. (I'm guessing she either had it reviewed, or already had very good taste.)

Why? Because when you're friends with the Groom before he met the Bride, you have to be careful how you talk about your relationship. After all, you're most likely talking in front of 100+ guests and you don't want to say something perfectly harmless that will get misunderstood somehow. Believe me, I've read and reviewed many, many speeches for complete strangers. When you don't know the Bride, Groom, and person toasting, misunderstandings can happen where you least expect them!

Comfortable With Her Speech

Yes, you can see her reading right from the page…a no-no. But I must say, even though she's reading it, you can tell by how comfortable she is that she's practiced it. This isn't the first time she's read the speech out loud, and it shows. She didn't fumble the words and she didn't forget where she was at - she even looked up to make eye contact.

If you're so nervous you think you'll completely forget your speech, bring it with you. When the speech sounds sincere and heartfelt (and doesn't sound like you're reading something you've never seen before) the audience will almost forget it was read from a page.

Aware of Surroundings

Watch until the very end. Did you see it? She knew right where her champagne glass was. With that type of strategic positioning, one can guess she knew she'd be standing with a microphone in one hand and her speech in the other. So she set her glass close by, purposely

Not Too Funny, Not Too Serious

Of course, you can go completely serious, after all, it's expected of the Maid of Honor. But a good blend of serious with funny is the absolute best approach!