Top 5 Factors for a Funny Best Man Speech

Keep these tips in mind and you’ll bring down the house

The reception speech can be your crowning achievement, or your most embarrassing moment ever. You will help set the mood for the evening, and with a well delivered oration, you can kick the party into overdrive. There are many elements to consider, and inserting humor is a great way to make a statement. Below are the top 5 factors for a funny best man speech, and taking each into consideration will help you give a memorable performance.

1. Make it Witty

When writing the speech, brainstorm clever observations and anecdotes that highlight the happy couple. Don’t chose stories that might place them in a bad light, but things that are warm and supportive. Slight ribbing is allowed, but whatever you do, stay away from the dark side. Saying something mean just to gain a laugh is a sure way of severing your ties with the couple for life. Consider what will bring a good hearted laugh, and ask yourself if your audience will ‘get’ your joke. It may be brilliant, but if it goes over the crowd’s head, you’ll have a silent room.

2. With Timing, Practice Makes Perfect

A funny best man speech is just like telling a good joke. Not only should you consider what words to use, but how they are delivered. Take a pause after a witty comment to let it sink in with your audience. Don’t rush through a story just to get to the punch line. Every few sentences take a pause. Let the crowd follow along and enjoy the tale.

3. Keep it Non Offensive

Just as you don’t want to say something mean, you do not want to be offensive to the other guests. Your joke may sound harmless, but before delivering it, consider if anyone might find it in bad taste. Stay away from religious subjects, sexual innuendo, or drug references. Keep a close eye on political topics, as well as gender roles. Be sensitive, and you’ll do well.

4. Eye Contact

Your best man speech is being delivered for the audience’s entertainment, not simply to be told. Make eye contact with people in the room, holding their gaze for a few seconds before moving onto the next. This technique draws them into your speech so that they are participants as well as an audience.

5. Confidence

You are the best man for a very good reason – you are the subject matter expert. Remember this to help build your confidence. This is your moment to shine, and the more presence you command with your audience, the better your chances are for delivering a funny best man speech.