How to write a father of the bride speech

The role of the father of the bride is an important one and one which some look on with a mixture of joy and apprehension. These days walking your daughter down the aisle and giving her away are symbolic gestures but both are a proud moment for any father and one which you will both treasure forever. The second obvious duty is the speech and however you feel about the unenviable job of being the first speaker of the day, at least you don't have the full glare of witty expectation the best man is expected to produce.

Speech-wise, you do have a number of key things to mention:

Officially welcoming guests from near and far and thanking them for being there on the day
Welcoming your son-in-law to the family
Paying tribute to family and friends who are no longer with us by proposing a toast to departed
Proposing a toast to the bride and groom and wishing them much happiness for their future as husband and wife.

These points aside, the floor is yours to impart some words of wisdom to the newly weds and say a few words about the daughter you love. Every father's approach to this is different and of course your daughter will be expecting a few funny tales from her childhood and teenage years – she might be less than impressed if you really dish the dirt but the chances are if you are genuine in your meaning, she will love you for it, whatever you say.

It's not always the best idea to run through a catalogue of your daughters career moves, from nursery to her last pay rise – of course you are rightly proud of your little girl's achievements but not everyone will want, or need to hear what grade's she got in high school. Focus on a few key elements to express your pride in your daughter and tell a few funny stories about things she got up to before the groom entered the scene. Speak to your wife or family to get some good tales together if you find it hard to gather your thoughts.

Here's a check list to tick off before the big day.

Practice your speech until you are familiar with it
Find out if there is going to be a microphone available. This makes it a whole lot easier as you won't have to strain to be heard
Thank everyone who has contributed to the wedding
Thank the guests for coming including anyone who has traveled far
Say some words about your daughter and tell her how proud you are
Say some words about your new son in law and welcome him to the family
Propose a toast to the bride and groom