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6 Maid of Honor Speech Examples

Giving a maid of honor speech is a beautiful way to celebrate your bond with the bride and convey your heartfelt wishes for the newlyweds.

As you stand before the wedding guests, your words have the power to evoke laughter, tears, and cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Maid of Honor Speech Examples

To help you write a speech that perfectly captures your unique relationship with the bride and the essence of this joyous occasion, we’ve compiled six maid of honor speech examples.

These samples showcase various styles, tones, and lengths, ensuring you’ll find inspiration for your own unforgettable tribute.

Here are six maid of honor speech examples to inspire you:

1. Short and Sweet

[Bride’s Name], my dear friend, I am so honored to stand by your side today as you embark on this new chapter of your life with [Groom’s Name]. Your friendship has been a constant source of joy, laughter, and support throughout the years. I’ve watched your love story unfold, and it’s clear that you two are meant for each other. Your love radiates, and it’s a privilege to witness the beginning of your forever.

[Groom’s Name], thank you for making my best friend so incredibly happy. I know you will cherish and love her always. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness, adventure, and endless love. Cheers to the happy couple!

— END OF SPEECH —

Commentary: This short and sweet speech is perfect for a maid of honor who wants to express her love and support for the bride and groom without being too lengthy. It’s ideal for intimate weddings or when the maid of honor prefers to keep things concise and heartfelt.

2. Heartfelt and Emotional

[Bride’s Name], my sister, my confidante, and my best friend. Today, as you stand beside the love of your life, I can’t help but reflect on the incredible journey that has led us here. From the moments of laughter and tears we’ve shared to the challenges we’ve faced together, you have always been my rock, my guiding light.

[Groom’s Name], I have watched you love and support [Bride’s Name] with unwavering devotion. Your love story is one of patience, understanding, and true partnership. I know that together, you will weather any storm and celebrate every triumph. Your love is an inspiration to us all.

As you embark on this new adventure, I want you both to know that my love and support will always be with you. May your marriage be filled with laughter, joy, and endless moments of happiness. Here’s to a love that will stand the test of time, to a friendship that will never fade, and to a future filled with all the blessings life has to offer. Cheers to the happy couple!

Commentary: This heartfelt and emotional speech is perfect for a maid of honor who shares a deep, lifelong bond with the bride. It’s suitable for weddings where the maid of honor wants to express her love, gratitude, and unwavering support for the newlyweds, while also reflecting on the special moments and challenges they’ve faced together.

3. Humorous and Lighthearted

[Bride’s Name], who would have thought that the girl who once convinced me to sneak out of the house for a midnight ice cream run would be the first of us to get married? I guess your sweet tooth finally paid off!

[Groom’s Name], you’re a brave man for taking on the challenge of being [Bride’s Name]’s partner in crime. I hope you’re ready for a lifetime of adventures, laughter, and the occasional impromptu dance party in the kitchen. Trust me, with [Bride’s Name] by your side, there’s never a dull moment.

On a more serious note, I’ve watched your love story unfold, and it’s clear that you two are perfect for each other. Your love is the kind that makes people believe in soulmates and happily ever afters. I know that together, you will build a life filled with joy, laughter, and endless love.

So, let’s raise our glasses to the happy couple. May your marriage be filled with all the ice cream, dance parties, and laughter your hearts can handle. Cheers to a love that’s as sweet as it is strong!

Commentary: This humorous and lighthearted speech is perfect for a maid of honor who wants to inject some fun and laughter into the wedding festivities. It’s suitable for weddings where the bride and groom appreciate a good joke and enjoy a more relaxed, casual atmosphere. The speech balances humor with heartfelt sentiments, ensuring that the message of love and support shines through.

4. Sentimental and Nostalgic

[Bride’s Name], as I stand here today, I can’t help but think back to the countless memories we’ve shared over the years. From the days of playing dress-up and dreaming of our future weddings to the late-night conversations about love, life, and everything in between, you’ve always been my constant, my safe haven.

I remember the moment you first told me about [Groom’s Name]. Your eyes sparkled with a joy I had never seen before, and I knew that he was the one for you. Watching your love story unfold has been one of the greatest privileges of my life.

[Groom’s Name], I want to thank you for loving [Bride’s Name] the way she deserves to be loved. Your patience, kindness, and unwavering support have been a testament to the depth of your love. I know that with you by her side, [Bride’s Name] will always have a partner who cherishes and supports her dreams.

As you embark on this new chapter, I want you both to know that my love and support will always be with you. May your marriage be a beautiful tapestry woven with the threads of your shared memories, hopes, and dreams. Here’s to a love that will always find its way home, no matter where life’s journey takes you. Cheers to the happy couple!

Commentary: This sentimental and nostalgic speech is perfect for a maid of honor who wants to take a walk down memory lane and celebrate the special bond she shares with the bride. It’s suitable for weddings where the bride and groom appreciate a more emotional and reflective tone, as the speech focuses on the journey that has led them to this moment and the love that will guide them through their future together.

5. Short and Funny

[Bride’s Name], I never thought I’d see the day when you’d willingly wake up before noon on a weekend, but here we are at your wedding! Miracles do happen.

[Groom’s Name], you must be pretty special to have captured [Bride’s Name]’s heart. I mean, she’s never shared her secret stash of chocolate with anyone, but I’ve seen her sneaking you a piece or two. If that’s not true love, I don’t know what is.

All jokes aside, I couldn’t be happier for you both. Your love is the kind that makes the world a little brighter and reminds us all of what truly matters. I know that together, you’ll create a life filled with laughter, love, and endless happiness.

So, let’s raise our glasses to the happy couple. May your marriage be filled with all the joy, laughter, and chocolate you can handle. Cheers to a love that’s as sweet as it is strong!

Commentary: This short and funny speech is perfect for a maid of honor who wants to keep things light and humorous while still expressing her love and support for the newlyweds. It’s suitable for weddings where the bride and groom enjoy a good laugh and appreciate a more casual, laid-back atmosphere.

6. Lengthy and Heartfelt

[Bride’s Name], my dearest friend, I stand here today with a heart full of love and gratitude for the incredible bond we share. From the moment we met, I knew that you were someone special, someone who would change my life in ways I never could have imagined.

As children, we dreamed of the day when we would stand beside each other on our wedding days, promising to be there through every twist and turn life had to offer. Little did we know that those dreams would become a reality, and that I would have the honor of standing by your side as you marry the love of your life.

[Groom’s Name], I want to thank you for being the partner that [Bride’s Name] has always deserved. Your love for her is a testament to the power of true partnership, and I know that together, you will build a life filled with joy, laughter, and endless love. I’ve watched you love and support [Bride’s Name] through every challenge and celebrate every triumph, and I know that with you by her side, she will always have a safe haven to call home.

As I look back on the memories we’ve shared, [Bride’s Name], I can’t help but feel overwhelmed with emotion. From the late-night conversations about our hopes and dreams to the tears we’ve shed during life’s toughest moments, you have always been my rock, my guiding light. Your strength, resilience, and unwavering love have been an inspiration to me, and I know that they will continue to guide you as you embark on this new chapter of your life.

[Groom’s Name], I want you to know that you’re not just gaining a wife today; you’re also gaining a family. We welcome you with open arms and promise to love and support you just as we do [Bride’s Name]. Your love for each other is a beautiful reminder of what truly matters in this world, and I know that together, you will create a legacy of love that will inspire generations to come.

As you stand here today, surrounded by the love and support of your family and friends, I want you both to know that my love for you knows no bounds. I promise to be there for you through every joy and every sorrow, to celebrate your triumphs and to hold your hand during life’s toughest moments. Your love is a beautiful reminder of what it means to find your soulmate, and I know that together, you will create a life filled with all the happiness and love your hearts can hold.

So, let’s raise our glasses to the happy couple. May your marriage be a beautiful tapestry woven with the threads of your shared memories, hopes, and dreams. May you always find comfort in each other’s arms and joy in each other’s laughter. And may your love continue to grow stronger with each passing day, reminding us all of the power of true partnership and the beauty of a love that knows no bounds. Cheers to [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], and to a lifetime of happiness together!

Commentary: This lengthy and heartfelt speech is perfect for a maid of honor who wants to express the depth of her love and gratitude for the bride and the special bond they share. It’s suitable for weddings where the maid of honor and bride have a long history together and have supported each other through life’s ups and downs. The speech is emotional, reflective, and focuses on the power of true love and partnership, making it ideal for couples who value heartfelt expressions of love and support.

Writing the perfect maid of honor speech is a beautiful way to celebrate your bond with the bride and express your heartfelt wishes for the newlyweds.

By drawing inspiration from these examples and tailoring your words to your unique relationship, you’ll create a speech that will be remembered for years to come.

Remember, the most memorable speeches come from the heart.

Whether you choose to be humorous, sentimental, or a mix of both, let your love and support for the bride and groom shine through.

Your words have the power to make their special day even more unforgettable, so speak from the heart and enjoy every moment of this joyous occasion.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Nailing Your Maid of Honor Speech

• Chapelle writes articles for The Knot Worldwide. She covers all things wedding-related and has a personal interest in covering traditions and history.
• Before joining The Knot Worldwide, Chapelle was an editorial intern for Subvrt Magazine.
• Chapelle has a degree in English writing from Loyola University New Orleans.

As a wedding party member, you'll likely be asked to speak at the wedding. In fact, giving a maid of honor speech is one of the most important maid of honor duties to complete on the big day. You may be a gifted orator, which means writing (and giving) a speech will be a breeze. But if the thought of speaking in front of a crowd makes you a little nervous, don't panic. With the help of Heidi Ellert-McDermott, professional speech writer and founder of Speechy , we've provided you with everything you need to know about the matron of honor speech. Learn what to say, how to say it and exactly how to get rid of any nervous butterflies. Use these tips, template, outline and more to write a perfect maid of honor speech that'll bring the house down.

In this article:

Printable Template | How to Write | Examples | Tips | FAQs

Printable Maid of Honor Speech Template

For those looking for a quick and simple reminder of how to write a maid of honor speech, bookmark this template. You could even save it as your phone or laptop wallpaper while you're writing to keep you on task.

How to Write a Maid of Honor Speech Outline

So, how do you write a matron of honor speech? It helps, but you don't need to be a professional speechwriter to write a special toast for the newlyweds. Use this guide to create a heartfelt message that'll make everyone laugh, cry or both.

1. Reflect on your relationship with the couple.

Think about your relationships with each person in the couple. This is your time to write down any personal moments you shared with them. These moments can bring some tears or laughs, but they show the wedding guests how you know the happy couple. Maybe you and one of the newlyweds went on an epic trip to Europe together. Or you and the newlyweds have known each other since high school and have plenty of silly and embarrassing stories from that time. No matter which memory you choose for your maid of honor speech, pick your favorite (appropriate) story and have fun with it.

2. Celebrate the couple's relationship.

Another part of your matron of honor speech should be dedicated to the couple's relationship. You can talk about when they first met, when you knew they were in love, or how you knew they were meant to be. If some details are a little fuzzy, talk with the other honor attendants or close friends of the couple to help refresh your memory. Overall, you want to paint a picture of how the couple was when they first met, how they've grown together and why they complement one another.

3. Avoid taboo topics.

There are certain topics you shouldn't have in your maid of honor speech. It doesn't matter how you try to deliver it. These taboo subjects are liable to offend someone:

• Negativity about marriage in general.
• Past relationships.
• Previous marriages/divorces.
• Drinking, drugs, gambling.
• "Adult" humor or any other mention of sex.

Remember, you don't want to cause any drama. Keep the focus of your speech on uplifting the happy couple and celebrating their love for one another.

4. Add jokes—but not too many.

Feel like you have a comedic gift? Consider adding some jokes, one-liners or funny marriage quotes to your maid of honor speech. Ensure you don't use any inside jokes or references only you and the newlyweds would understand. Your speech should be something every wedding guest can appreciate and laugh at. This also means your jokes shouldn't be too harsh or bring up any taboo wedding speech topics we previously listed.

Be deliberate about where you put your jokes and spread them out. You want them to add comedic relief to a sentimental toast, not seem like a stand-up routine. Start your speech with a funny opening line so the guests can laugh and get an idea of what kind of person you are—plus, laughs give you time to overcome any nerves you might have.

5. Create your maid of honor speech outline.

Get creative and personalize your maid of honor speech as much as you want. A customized script is much more endearing for guests. But when it comes down to it, a great wedding toast will include the following remarks:

• Start with an introduction—along with an explanation about your connection to the happy couple.
• Next, give a word of thanks to the couple for inviting you to be part of their special day.
• Say one or two personal anecdotes, like a favorite memory, joke or sweet sentiment that most guests will understand.
• Provide encouraging advice or a thoughtful quote about the newlyweds' future.
• Finish with a closing remark and an invitation for guests to raise their glasses.

Maid of Honor Speech Examples

Need more than a maid of honor speech template to help you? Then choose your favorite sample maid of honor speech below and use it to help get your creative juices flowing.

Funny Maid of Honor Speech

Hello! For those of you who haven't had the chance to meet me yet, my name is [Your Name]. [Newlywed's Name] and I have been best friends since high school, which means we've been on each other's top eight friends list for a while. That's for my old Myspace users out there.

Typically, public speaking makes me beyond nervous, but I knew I had to make a speech for one of the most important people in my life. I've known [Newlywed's Name] for a long time and have appreciated every special moment we've shared over the years. [Newlywed's Name] has a beautiful soul, and I'm so happy that [Newlywed's Name] has found someone who complements it.

As everyone probably knows [Newlywed's Name] isn't a shy person, so the fact that [Newlywed's Name] would always giggle and blush whenever referring to 'the hot coworker' and I knew something special was going to come out of it. I've gotten to know [Spouse's Name] really well over the years, and I can honestly say [Spouse's Name] is one of the most genuine and caring people I've ever met.

Everyone aims to find their one true love, their soulmate, the person that's going to love and cherish them for the rest of their lives. And that moment came for [Newlywed's Name]...when they met me 18 years ago. But in all seriousness, I wish you and [Spouse's Name] a long and wonderful marriage. Congrats to you both, and I hope you find a lifetime of happiness together. Cheers!

Find your kind of venue

Maid of honor speech for best friend.

Good evening everyone! I thought the most nerve-wracking part of being a maid of honor was giving the speech, but fixing [Newlywed's Name] shoe malfunction before the wedding ceremony is high on the list.

I think I've calmed down by now, so I'll continue. My name is [Your Name], and I've known [Newlywed's Name] since college. We sat next to each other one time in an eight A.M. Spanish class and have been inseparable ever since. We've known each other for so long I would consider us siblings now, and I'm so blessed to have such a wonderful person in my life.

[Spouse's Name] is charming, intelligent, thoughtful and to quote [Newlywed's Name] after their first date, 'sooo cuteee.' I consider myself a top-notch wingwoman and matchmaker, but even I couldn't have picked a better person for [Newlywed's Name] to fall in love with. Anyone can take one look at them together and see that they're a perfect example of 'meant to be.'

I'm honored that you both have not only chosen me to be a significant part of your big day but also a significant person in your lives. I'm excited to watch you two enjoy this new chapter in your lives as a married couple. I love you both so much!

Maid of Honor Speech for Sister

Hello everyone! If you couldn't tell already from our almost identical faces, I'm [Bride's Name] sister. We're only two years apart, so we've always been really close. We would do everything together, like that one time we got gum stuck in our hair on the same day and spent hours combing peanut butter into each other's hair to help get the gum out. Unfortunately, this didn't work out, and we had to chop a lot of hair off.

Regardless of all the trouble we've got ourselves into, I can't imagine sharing such fun memories with anyone else. I've always looked up to [Bride's Name] and continue to think of her as a great role model to me and many others. I feel so happy and proud to call [Bride's Name] my sister.

[Spouse's Name], you've come into our lives seamlessly, and I've never seen my sister happier. You're such a funny and loving person, and to this day, every time my sister talks about you, she gets giddy. I really do think you guys are perfect for one another, and I can't wait to see how you grow even more as life partners.

Everyone raise your glass to congratulate [Bride's Name] and [Spouse's Name]. May each day be full of love and laughter!

Maid of Honor Speech for Cousin

Shout out to Ellert-McDermott for writing the passionate maid of honor speech below.

Ladies and gentlemen, friends and family and all you lucky souls who scored an invite to the wedding of the century. My name is [Your Name], and I have the pleasure of being the maid of honor today, or as I like to call it, the 'official party planner, the emergency dress fixer and human tissue dispenser.'

You all know [Bride's Name] as this gorgeous, successful, brilliant person you see before you today, but I know her as my little cousin. And I don't care how many promotions she gets, how many exotic countries she visits or how married she gets, that's who she'll always be to me. Yes, the girl who, for several years, ate nothing but chicken nugget sandwiches and had a special tree she liked to wee behind when we visited Grandma.

Being the only girls in our tribe of siblings, we quickly became best friends and partners in crime. We loved playing dress-up, but rather than pretending to marry our Prince Charmings, we'd pretend to be lawyers or scientists. And we wonder why no one wanted to hang out with us.

Our geekiness lasted well into our teens and developed into a mild addiction to One Direction, "Glee" and astronomy. We'd spend hours staring into our telescopes, wondering what we would say when we became the first astronauts to land on Mars. Sadly, that dream never came to fruition, but [Bride's Name], as we all know, did become a lawyer—an incredibly successful one at that.

But seriously, watching [Bride's Name] achieve her dreams has been a delight because she's quite simply one of life's special people. I feel incredibly lucky to have been blessed with such a fun-loving, wise and caring cousin––a special type of friend who's duty-bond to be in my life forever.

I always knew that [Bride's Name] deserved to be loved by someone special, and I'm delighted to say that person is [Newlywed's Name]. I've had the privilege of getting to know [Newlywed's Name] well over the last three years, and I must say, you're a brave soul for marrying into our family and having to cope with our crazy Christmas traditions. But I think you've figured out our secret. The louder we are, the more we like you. And just to clarify, we like you very much.

You have a kind heart, a wonderful wit and you're willing to dance to One Direction after we've had a few beers. I can also see how much you love my cousin. I can see that you 'get her;' that you know just how she likes her coffee, that you understand her sarcasm is a sign of affection and that you appreciate how intelligent she is even if she insists on watching "Selling Sunset" at every opportunity she can.

You're an incredible couple, and I've no doubt your love will continue to grow with every passing day. As your maid of honor, I couldn't be happier for you, and I look forward to sharing more happy memories with you guys in the future. And with that, everyone please join me in a toast to the happy couple and a life filled with love and laughter.

Short Maid of Honor Speech

I would like to quote the famous American author, Mark Twain, who once said, 'To get the full value of joy, you must have someone to divide it with.' This perfectly explains why [Newlywed's Name] and [Spouse's Name] have always radiated so much joy since they've met each other.

I do not doubt [Newlywed's Name] has found the person they will spend the rest of their life with. You both make a beautiful couple and may you continue to get the full value of joy out of life with one another.

Congratulations, [Newlywed's Name] and [Spouse's Name]!

Maid of Honor Speech Tips

Completing your matron of honor speech is a big accomplishment, but the work doesn't stop when you write the closing line. The right delivery is what makes it. Here are confidence tips for your maid of honor speech and other speaking engagements.

Don't procrastinate.

We recommend you start writing your maid of honor speech at least two months before the wedding day. As an honor attendant, you're expected to attend and plan numerous prewedding events, like dress fittings, the bach party and the rehearsal dinner , which means you won't have much time to write as the wedding day approaches. Also, it doesn't hurt to write a few drafts and ask someone you trust to edit your work. By preparing in advance, you'll be able to focus on writing a toast you're excited to read in front of a crowd and not have to worry about leaving a wedding event early so you can go home and write.

Add stories, not adjectives.

"Adjectives are just white noise in wedding speeches. Describing the newlywed as 'kind,' 'fun' or 'beautiful' is nice but doesn't really add much. Illustrate their characteristics and qualities by sharing the evidence of them in action," Ellert-McDermott, author of "The Modern Couple's Guide to Wedding Speeches," says.

Be true to yourself.

This is the time to open your heart and share a few favorite memories or silly stories that capture your relationship with the newlyweds. So don't feel pressured to write a maid of honor speech that sounds overly professional. A great maid of honor toast is about speaking honestly and naturally, so write how you generally speak. Don't forget this isn't the time to use inappropriate language since you'll be speaking to the couple's nearest and dearest. Your writing should feel like a natural extension of the way you talk. A genuine speech from the heart is impactful.

Remember to mention the partner.

"Yes, the focus of your speech is your friend and your relationship with them, but don't forget what the day's actually about. Try to make your tribute to their partner seem like more than a cliched afterthought," Ellert-McDermott advises.

Write it down.

Yes, you're expected to make an amazing speech, but that doesn't mean you must memorize it. Writing the entire speech word for word or just jotting down bullet points of your speech's outline can work wonders for your confidence. We suggest you read your maid of honor speech on index cards instead of reading it off your cell phone. Phones are more convenient, but the phone screen light that washes over your face as you're reading your speech distorts wedding photographs. To avoid ruining any wedding images, write your speech down instead. ( Psst. People say handwritten notes boost brain activity and optimize memory.)

Practice in front of an audience.

Practicing your speech is just as important as writing it. As with any public speaking gig, you'll become more comfortable with the material as you practice it. Read your toast aloud a few times to catch any spelling or grammar errors. This will also help you find a rhythm—you'll know exactly when you want to pause for reactions and emphasize certain points, which is key for staying within a designated time frame. You can also read your words to another wedding party member for feedback. When the time comes to stand up in front of the crowd, you'll be grateful for the pre-performance audience.

Stay calm, cool and collected.

Whether this is your first time giving a wedding speech or you're a pro, it's normal to feel a little nervous beforehand. Take a few deep breaths to calm your nerves and collect your thoughts. Speak slowly and clearly, and remind yourself that guests are excited to hear what you're saying. As nerve-wracking as it might feel to give a big speech at your loved one's wedding, their heartfelt reaction to your words will make your efforts worth it. As soon as your speech is over, you'll be free to celebrate with the newlyweds and the rest of the wedding party.

Don't forget to smile.

"Because they're nervous, speakers often forget to smile as they deliver their speech, but it's a simple and effective way to create a good vibe in the room. A smile is literally infectious, so make sure it looks like you're actually enjoying your time on the mic," Ellert-McDermott says. Putting on a soft smile also helps the photographer capture stunning pictures of you killing your speech.

Maid of Honor Speech Frequently Asked Questions

Delivering a unique maid of honor speech can seem daunting, but we're here to help you take the stress out of it. Here are answers to common questions regarding the maid of honor speech.

Does the maid of honor have to give a speech?

It's expected for a maid of honor to give a speech, especially if the other honor attendants are planning on giving one, but it's not required. Giving a maid of honor speech can be a fun experience, but it isn't for everyone. If public speaking makes you nervous, you can express yourself in other ways, like through song, dance or by creating a sweet love story presentation about the happy couple.

How long should a maid of honor speech be?

In addition to the matron of honor speech, there might also be a best man speech , toasts from the couple's parents or even a thank-you message from the newlyweds. Since there are several speeches to fit in with meal courses, dancing, games and additional reception activities , keep your salutations short and sweet. Aim to make your maid of honor speech a minimum of four minutes and at most six minutes—Ellert-McDermott suggests anything between 700 and 1000 words.

Wedding guests will be excited to hear your well-wishes and funny stories, but a long MOH speech can lose the wedding guests' interest (especially if it's full of too many personal inside jokes). A four-minute speech gives you enough time to speak about the couple's love story, offer a personal anecdote or two and finish with encouragement for married life.

How to Start a Maid of Honor Speech

"Like every other speaker, the maid of honor should say a quick hello and introduce themselves to the guests. They should explain how they know the bride and try to add some humor early on too. Tailor your speech to suit the style of the wedding. Is it a rock n roll affair or a traditional bash with children present? Consider your audience and decide if 'ladies and gentlemen' is necessary or overly formal (generally, it's the latter)," Ellert-McDermott notes.

How to End a Maid of Honor Speech

"Towards the end of the speech, the maid of honor should reiterate their joy in seeing their friend getting married. They may refer back to special memories they share with the bride and explain why she is such a great friend to them. The final few lines should be about wishing the couple well in their future life together and proposing a toast to them both," Ellert-McDermott suggests. Here is an example of a personal maid of honor toast ending from Ellert-McDermott:

Here's to a lifetime of drinking mojitos and dancing on tables. To Sophie and Taylor.

When does the maid of honor give a speech?

If the couple is following the traditional wedding speech order , the maid of honor gives her speech after the newlyweds' parents. Typically, following the maid of honor is the best man. That wedding speech order isn't for everyone since a couple's wedding party size and reception timeline impact the order too. Also, sometimes couples opt to have all the wedding speeches delivered during the rehearsal dinner. So check with the to-be-weds about the order to confirm your spot in the toast lineup.

What to do if there are multiple maids of honor?

If you are one of the multiple maids of honor , you and the others should keep your maid of honor speeches to three to five minutes long. Before delivering your speeches, we suggest you and the other maids of honor go over them together to make sure they aren't too similar (and if they are, to adjust accordingly). If you and the other maids of honor have a close relationship, want to create only one speech or you don't want to give your speech alone, consider doing a joint maid of honor speech. By doing a combined speech, you have more opportunities to be creative, like setting each other up for jokes or performing a heartfelt song together.

• 5 Maid of Honor Speech Examples

Congratulations, your dear friend or maybe your sister has asked you to be their maid of honor . What an honor, indeed! Along with standing by their side and planning a bachelorette party, you’ve also been asked to give a maid of honor speech.

Before you panic, know that we have your back. As wedding officiants, we’ve written words for thousands of weddings, coached couples through writing their vows, and helped wedding party members with their speeches and readings. We’ve got you covered!

Below you’ll find our sure-fire template for writing your speech and five maid of honor speech examples to inspire yours . Plus, some of our best tips to ensure your speech goes as smoothly as possible!

Follow this maid of honor speech template

Step 1: introduction.

Start off your maid of honor speech by introducing yourself. Who are you and how do you know the couple of the hour?

Step 2: About the bride

Next, share some sweet memories that you share with the bride. Is there a funny story about how you first met or when you knew you’d be friends for life? Or maybe a memory that perfectly encapsulates the bride’s personality?

Step 3: About their partner

While you may be BFFs or related to the bride, this wedding is about both the bride and their partner. Don’t forget to include their other half! Even if you don’t know them well, try to think of a story to share or reflect on how they’ve changed the bride’s life.

Step 4: About the couple

As you start to wrap up your speech, speak about the couple as a pair. What do you admire about them? What do you wish for their future together? If appropriate, what advice do you want to share?

Step 5: Toast

Lastly, end your MOH speech with a toast. Don’t forget to ask all of the guests to join you in raising their glasses as you celebrate the newlyweds!

by Jocelyn Buchart Photography

5 examples of maid of honor wedding speeches

What better way to inspire your own writing and see our template in practice than by checking out some maid of honor speech examples? Read through these and you’ll be ready to pull out your pen and get to writing.

1. Maid of honor speech to your sister

Good evening! For those who don’t know me, my name is [Your Name], and I have the incredible privilege of being the maid of honor and the very proud sister of our beautiful bride, [Bride’s Name].

Growing up with [Bride’s Name] was nothing short of an adventure. I remember one summer, we decided to camp out in our backyard. [Bride’s Name], being the determined person she is, insisted we build the tent ourselves. We ended up with more of a fabric sculpture than a tent, but we laughed all night under the stars, making memories I’ll cherish forever.

When [Partner’s Name] came into the picture, I knew they were special. One particular moment stands out: we were at a family gathering, and I saw how naturally they fit in. They were playing with our younger cousins, completely at ease and making everyone laugh. That was when I realized they was not just another passing relationship; they were someone truly remarkable.

Seeing [Bride’s Name] and [Partner’s Name] together is witnessing a perfect harmony. They complement each other in the most beautiful ways. [Bride’s Name] brings spontaneity and passion, while [Partner’s Name] brings calm and thoughtfulness. Together, they create a balance that inspires all of us to believe in true love.

Please join me in raising your glasses. Here’s to [Bride’s Name] and [Partner’s Name]. May your lives together be filled with endless love, laughter, and adventure. Cheers!

2. Funny maid of honor speech

Hi everyone! I’m [Your Name], and I have the great pleasure of being [Bride’s Name]’s friend and maid of honor. I’m here to share some stories and, hopefully, a few laughs.

First, let me tell you about the time [Bride’s Name] and I decided to take up yoga. It sounded like a peaceful, zen activity. Fast forward to us tangled in poses that should come with a warning label. [Bride’s Name] managed to turn falling out of tree pose into a graceful dance move. Needless to say, our yoga career was short-lived, but the laughter we shared was worth every awkward stretch.

Now, let me tell you about [Partner’s Name]. When I first met [Partner’s Name], it was at a Halloween party. He was dressed as a giant taco, and [Bride’s Name] was a hot sauce bottle. It was clear from the start that they were a match made in culinary heaven. Anyone who can rock a taco costume with that much confidence is alright in my book!

As a couple, [Bride’s Name] and [Partner’s Name] are like a perfectly mixed cocktail – [Bride’s Name] is the fun, fizzy soda, and [Partner’s Name] is the reliable, steady whiskey. Together, they make every moment delightful, with just the right amount of buzz and warmth. Their adventures, from epic road trips to quiet movie nights, are filled with laughter and love.

So, let’s raise our glasses to [Bride’s Name] and [Partner’s Name]. May your days be as bright and bubbly as your personalities, and your nights as cozy and comforting as your love. To a lifetime of happiness and humor – cheers!

by Tulle & Tweed Photography

3. Maid of honor speech for your best friend

Good evening! My name is [Your Name], and I have the absolute pleasure of being [Bride’s Name]’s best friend and maid of honor. I’ve known [Bride’s Name] for [number] years, and tonight, I’m thrilled to share in this beautiful celebration of love.

From the moment I met [Bride’s Name], I knew she was someone special. She has this incredible ability to light up any room with her smile and make everyone around her feel valued and loved. We’ve shared so many wonderful memories together – late-night talks, adventures, and countless laughs. Through it all, I’ve watched her grow into the amazing person she is today.

Then along came [Partner’s Name]. From the first time I saw them together, it was clear that [Partner’s Name] was a perfect match. I saw the way [Partner’s Name] looked at [Bride’s Name], with so much love and admiration, and I knew [Bride’s Name] had found someone who truly understood and cherished her. [Partner’s Name], you complement [Bride’s Name] in the most beautiful ways, bringing out the best in each other.

[Bride’s Name] and [Partner’s Name]’s love is built on mutual respect, deep understanding, and unwavering support. They share a bond that is both inspiring and heartwarming, showing us all what true love really looks like. Seeing them together gives me faith in the power of love and partnership.

So, let’s raise our glasses to [Bride’s Name] and [Partner’s Name]. May your life together be filled with endless joy, unwavering love, and countless beautiful moments. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness and a love that grows stronger every day. Cheers!

4. Maid of honor speech with quotes

Hello, I’m [Your Name], and I have the absolute joy of being [Bride’s Name]’s maid of honor. Tonight, we’re gathered to celebrate the love story of [Bride’s Name] and [Partner’s Name], a story that has inspired all of us.

When I first met [Bride’s Name], I was immediately drawn to her infectious laughter and boundless kindness. One of my favorite quotes by Maya Angelou says, “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” [Bride’s Name], you have always made everyone around you feel cherished and loved, and I am so grateful for your friendship.

From the very beginning, I could see the connection [Bride’s Name] and [Partner’s Name] shared. [Partner’s Name], your tenderness and care for [Bride’s Name] are evident in everything you do, and it’s clear that you two were meant to find each other.

Together, [Bride’s Name] and [Partner’s Name] create a beautiful partnership built on love, respect, and shared dreams. Their love story brings to mind another favorite quote, this one by Rumi: “The minute I heard my first love story, I started looking for you, not knowing how blind that was. Lovers don’t finally meet somewhere. They’re in each other all along.” Watching the two of you together, it’s clear that you have found in each other what your hearts have always sought.

So, let’s raise our glasses to [Bride’s Name] and [Partner’s Name]. May your journey together be filled with the same love, joy, and tenderness that you share today. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness and to a love that continues to grow. Cheers!

5. Short maid of honor speech

Hello everyone! I’m [Your Name], and I have the incredible privilege of standing here today as maid of honor for [Bride’s Name] and her amazing partner, [Partner’s Name].

[Bride’s Name], from the moment we met, your kindness and spirit have always stood out. Meeting [Partner’s Name], I saw the perfect match for you— she is someone who complements your strengths and shares your dreams.

Together, you two exemplify the true meaning of love and partnership. Watching you grow and build a life together has been nothing short of inspiring.

So, let’s raise our glasses to [Bride’s Name] and [Partner’s Name]. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness, love, and endless adventures together. Cheers!

by Nomad by NK

Our best maid of honor speech advice

1. write your speech out and practice it.

We are big proponents of having speeches on paper, not on your phone! Phones look tacky in photos and leave you worrying about wifi or battery life. Instead, write or type your speech onto a piece of paper.

And take time to practice! While you don’t have to memorize your speech, you should be familiar with all of the words. If you’re nervous, practice in front of the mirror or a few friends until you feel more comfortable.

2. No inside or embarrassing stories

Save the cringe jokes for the bachelorette party! Your maid of honor wedding speech is not the time to share detailed inside stories no one will understand, tell embarrassing jokes that will make any grandparents present blush, or bring up exes or illegal activities.

You can still be humorous but keep things PG. If you’re not sure if your joke goes too far, run it by a trusted friend.

3. Don’t forget the bride’s partner

Just because you’re BFFs with the bride doesn’t mean you can forget their partner. Remember this wedding is about both of them, not just a walk down memory lane for you and your bestie.

If you haven’t spent a ton of time with their partner and can’t think of any stories to tell, focus on what you do know. How do they make the bride feel? How have they influenced her life? How do they complement each other?

4. Only share thanks and advice that are appropriate

One thing we see a lot in MOH and best man speeches is the speaker thanking all of the guests for attending. While we understand this is a nice sentiment, it’s not actually appropriate. Only the hosts of the wedding should be doing this. It would be like attending someone else’s birthday party and thanking everyone for coming – not your job!

Another thing we hear is speakers giving marital advice. Again, this is a very nice gesture. However, you need to consider if it’s appropriate for you. If you haven’t been married, you don’t need to give marital advice. Instead, just offer well wishes to the couple.

5. Stick to your time limit

Typically, maid of honor speeches are 2-5 minutes long. However, double check with the couple how long they want your speech to be. Whatever length of time they give you, stick to it! No one wants to sit through a long speech and very short speeches can feel abrupt and insincere.

6. Pace your drinking

As a member of the wedding party, it’s likely you’ll be a few drinks in before it’s speech time. So we want to remind you to pace yourself. You don’t want to give a speech where you’re slurring your words, falling down or repeating yourself.

Find out exactly when your speech is happening and ensure you’re sober enough to deliver it. A little liquid courage beforehand is okay but too much could be a disaster. Save the celebratory shots until after the speeches are done.

by Kaitlin Day Photography

CHECK OUT MORE OF OUR WEDDING SPEECH RESOURCES:

• 4 Mother of the Groom Wedding Speech Samples
• Father of the Groom Rehearsal Dinner Speech Samples
• How to Write Your Wedding Speech as the Mother of the Bride
• How to Write Your Wedding Speech as the Father of the Bride
• How to Write an Incredible Best Man Speech
• 12 Tips for Wedding Readers
• The Ultimate Wedding Toast Guide
• How to Write A Killer Bride or Groom Wedding Speech

Contributors

Riana Ang-Canning