The father of the bride’s speech is the top Daddy duty on your little girl’s big day. It’s a much-anticipated, heartfelt, and tear-jerking speech filled with joy and bittersweet nostalgia.

But writing a great father of the bride speech can be tricky. How do you strike the right balance between wit and sentimentality? How do you keep your audience engaged after a long wedding service? How do you properly capture your love, pride, and hope for their future in one 5-7 minute speech? Don’t stress. We’ve got you covered.

In this post, we’ve captured everything you need to know about writing a heartfelt and funny wedding speech. We break down what you should include, the structure of the wedding speech, a few top tips, and those 12 all-important examples of brilliant father of the bride speeches.

Ready to get going? Let’s jump right in!

What is a father of the bride speech?

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A father of the bride speech is the speech made by the bride’s father during the wedding reception. It should be 5-7 minutes long and end with a heartfelt toast to the new couple.

The father’s wedding speech is a beautiful mix of happy memories, heartfelt advice, and funny anecdotes about the bride. Typically the father of the bride speech welcomes your new son-or daughter-in-law to the family, is an opportunity for a father to reflect on his relationship with his daughter, and offers some words of wisdom to the happy couple as they start this new journey together.

What should you include in a father of the bride speech?

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Here are some key elements you should consider including in your father of the bride speech:

All about the bride. Talk about how wonderful your daughter is. Tell her guests about your love for her, her amazing accomplishments, and fabulous qualities. Be sure to let them know she got it all from you!
Welcome the bride’s partner. This is the perfect opportunity to welcome your new son- or daughter-in-law to the family. Share positive thoughts about them, their character, and your hopes for their future together.
Anecdotes and memories. Remember when your daughter came home a little too merry from her first grown-up party? Or the time she went on holiday and didn’t take any knickers? This is the perfect opportunity to share funny, endearing, or slightly embarrassing memories with your daughter. But remember, the point isn’t to make a joke of her on her special day. Any stories you pick should ultimately highlight the special bond you share.
Some pearls of wisdom and advice. Offer some sage words of wisdom to the newlyweds. Draw from your life experience and share insights about love, marriage, and building a strong, lasting relationship.

Father of the bride speech structure

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When structuring your father of the bride speech, following a clear and organised framework can be helpful. Try using this structure to get you started:

Introduction

The first part of your speech should focus on introducing yourself and thanking everyone for attending. Your role is to ensure that everyone feels welcome and appreciated at the reception.

Take a moment to acknowledge and express gratitude to those who have travelled to attend and those who have supported the wedding, whether morally or financially.

The thank yous

You should then move on to thank those who have helped organise the wedding. Give a shout-out to the bridesmaids, the ushers, and other friends and family who have been involved.

It’s also a nice idea to thank the wedding planner (if they used one) and the staff working on the wedding day. They’re as much a part of making the big day happen as everyone else.

This is also a good opportunity to remember any family members who could not attend or are no longer with you. Keep it upbeat, but it’s a nice way to remember those you’ve lost who were a big part of your daughter’s upbringing.

The bride

Now is the time to discuss your special relationship with your daughter. It’s the perfect chance to talk about her childhood, accomplishments, and the little quirks that make her so special. Share any funny stories or special adventures you’ve shared. These anecdotes will add a touch of nostalgia and humor to your speech, creating a heartfelt connection with the audience.

End this portion of the speech with how proud you are of the person she’s become. Talk about her loving relationship with her new partner, and don’t forget to sprinkle in a genuine compliment about how stunning she looks on her wedding day – a moment that will surely make her smile even brighter.

The happy couple

You should then welcome your new son- or daughter-in-law and their parents to your family.

It’s a great time to talk about the groom and your experiences with them. You can reminisce about the first time you met, share funny moments you’ve shared together, or highlight some of their endearing traits. By including the groom in your speech, you’re showing your support and building a bridge of connection between families.

Some words of wisdom

You should then move on to sharing some pearls of wisdom with the newlyweds.

You can draw from your experiences and the lessons you’ve learned along the way. You can talk about love, commitment, their future, and building a strong family.

If it’s more appropriate, some carefully chosen quotes about love and marriage or a nice reading are also great options. Remember to deliver your words with clarity and calmness, whatever path you choose. This is the penultimate part of your speech; you want to round it off well.

The toast

You should then invite everyone to join you in a toast to the happy couple. Raise your glass, and present the couple with their new shared name. Congratulations, you did it!

Father of the bride speech template

To help you navigate the complete breakdown of your speech, it can be helpful to have a visual guide to refer to. Check out our handy infographic below:

Top tips for delivering a brilliant father of the bride speech

Know where you fit into the overall wedding speech order. The father of the bride traditionally gives the first speech at the wedding reception. That means you go before the groom’s speech and are the first family member to address the guest. How you deliver your speech will set the tone for the rest of the reception, so keep it upbeat, funny, and light-hearted.
Don’t panic! Pre-speech jitters are natural. But remember, this is one of the best audiences you could be put in front of. Everyone there knows your daughter or her new partner, and everyone is there to celebrate and have a good time. Embrace the excitement and joy of the moment, and let that energy carry you through your speech.
Let your own personality shine through. This is a unique opportunity to connect with the audience on a personal level using charm and wit. Inject your speech with your personal touch, sharing heartfelt stories, cherished memories, and insights only you can provide. Embrace your authentic self and let your love for your daughter be the guiding light in your words.
Include a few jokes. Humor can lighten the mood, enhance feelings of joy, and engage the audience. Keep the jokes tasteful and relevant to the occasion. Share some light-hearted anecdotes or playful teasing about the bride or groom, keeping it in good spirits. It’s about making the audience smile and creating connections on this special day.

Top 12 father of the bride speech examples

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If you’re looking for some inspiration, check out our top 12 examples of great father of the bride speech ideas, from the simple and sentimental to the light-hearted and humorous. And remember that these are just examples. You can use them as templates for your own speech, but it’s important to speak from the heart, and add your own personal touch and unique family anecdotes.

A lot of traditional father of the bride speeches and examples will refer to a bride and groom, but you can simply change the references to your daughter’s partner and the appropriate pronouns if you’re attending an LGBTQ+ wedding.

Example 1: Classic father of the bride speech

Introduction: Good afternoon, friends, family, and neighbours. I’m delighted to be here today at the wedding of my beautiful little girl, [Bride’s name].

The bride: I don’t need to tell any of you here just how special [Bride’s name] is. If you’re here, you already know. [Bride’s name] is just incredible. She has this magical way of lighting up a room, not just with her smile, but with her warmth, her humour, and that little spark of mischief that’s been keeping me on my toes since she was a kid. She’s so different to her brothers, full of crazy ideas and spirit. But, equally, she’s someone who’s always cared deeply about the people in her life, who’s never been afraid to chase her dreams, and who has this unstoppable determination to make the world a little brighter wherever she goes.

I couldn’t be prouder to be here today in front of you all today, watching my little girl start this incredible new chapter of her life. Seeing her so happy, so confident, and so deeply loved— it’s every parent’s dream come true.

The happy couple: I’d also like to speak to [Groom’s name]. From the moment you came into [Bride’s name]’s life, it was clear you were something special. You didn’t just love her, you understood her. You’ve brought out the best in her, supporting her in everything she does with your steadfast reassurance. You’re kind, patient, and with just enough wit to keep up with her, which is no simple feat. Genuinely, welcome to our family. I wouldn’t want anyone else.

The thank yous: That ended up being a lot more emotional than I expected it to be! But, I mean every word from the bottom of my heart.

Speaking of the bottom of my heart, I want to say a huge thank you to everyone who’s made today so special. To all the friends and family who’ve travelled to be here. It means the world to us to celebrate this incredible day with you. Weddings aren’t just about two people; they’re about the love and support of everyone around them, and looking out at all of you, it’s clear that [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name] have a pretty amazing team in their corner.

Some words of wisdom: As the final point, I’ll tell you what my father told me on my wedding day: Marriage isn’t about big grand gestures, it’s about the small actions you take every day that make their life a little bit brighter. It’s about making them a cup of tea without being asked, sharing a laugh after a long day, and never forgetting to say “I love you”.

The toast: With that in mind, please raise your glasses to the newly minted Mr & Mrs [Surname].

Example 2: Light-hearted father of the bride speech

Introduction: Hello, hello, hello everyone. Friends, family, strangers who’ve wandered in off the street. My name is [your name], and I’m the very proud father of the bride. Now, I say ‘proud,’ but let’s not forget ‘bewildered,’ because how exactly did we get here so fast? It feels like just yesterday that [Bride’s name] was running around in a tutu, insisting she could be a princess, a superhero, and a rock star all at once. Honestly, she kind of pulled it off…

The thank yous: Before we get going I’d like to say a few thank-yous. First, to all of you for being here today—whether you’ve come from near or far, or just turned up for the free food and wine, it means the world to us that you’re here to celebrate [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name].

I’d also like to thank everyone who’s worked so hard to make today so special. From the beautiful decorations to the incredible food, everything has been perfect. Sincerely, thank you so much.

The bride: Now, onto the star of the show. [Bride’s name], what can I say? You’re every father’s dream come true. Funny, clever, beautiful, and a dab hand at an oil change. You’ve always been full of surprises—whether it was your ability to beat your brothers at just about anything, or that phase where you insisted you were going to be a pirate and made us all call you Captain [Bride’s name] for a month. And honestly, seeing you today, so radiant and happy, I can’t help but think, “Yep, she’s still my little superstar.”

The happy couple: [Groom’s name], I know we like to have a joke together, but in all seriousness, I’m just as proud of you as I am of [Bride’s name]. From the moment you came into our family, I knew there couldn’t be anyone else for her. You’re the perfect balance to her crazy energy, and you’ve got a knack for keeping her grounded while still letting her shine. You respect her, you support her, and—most importantly—you know how to handle her competitive streak. Honestly, anyone who can survive a family game night with [Bride’s name] and still come back for more deserves a medal.

Some words of wisdom: And if I could just share a couple of pieces of advice for you both as you embark on this wonderful journey called marriage, here they are. Be each other’s rocks, the other person’s biggest cheerleader. Stand behind them when they need it, and hold their head up when they can’t. Oh, and never underestimate the importance of an spontaneous bunch of flowers.

The toast: Everyone, please charge your glasses to the new, wonderful Mr and Mrs [Surname].

Example 3: Sentimental father of the bride speech

Introduction: Hi everyone, thank you so much for coming. For those of you who don’t know me, my name is [your name] and I’m the very proud father of the bride.

The thank yous: We’ll get the thanks yous out of the way before we all start crying (myself included). First, a huge thank you to everyone who’s travelled to be here today. Whether you came from just down the road or crossed oceans to join us, your presence means the world. This day wouldn’t be the same without each and every one of you. I’d also like to thank everyone who pulled together to make the day so special. From the food to the flowers and everything in between, the day wouldn’t have been possible without all your efforts. Thank you.

The bride: Parents spend a lot of time wondering what this day will be like. Who will they end up with, how will it all unfold, and what will I say when the time comes? Well, let me tell you, [Bride’s name], you’ve turned into someone more wonderful than I could have ever dreamed. I couldn’t be prouder of the person you’ve become. You’ve grown into someone who’s not only beautiful on the outside, but also kind, compassionate, and endlessly capable. Watching you navigate life with such grace and humour has been one of my greatest joys as a parent.

The happy couple: Now, let me talk about [Groom’s name]. From the first time we met, I could see what made you so special. You’re thoughtful, genuine, and you’ve got this steady calm about you that balances [Bride’s name] perfectly. You don’t just fit into our family—you’ve added to it in ways we didn’t even know we needed. It’s clear to everyone here that you adore [Bride’s name], and as her parent, I honestly couldn’t ask for more.

Some words of wisdom: I couldn’t be happier for you both. You’re starting this incredible journey together, and if there’s one thing I could share with you about marriage, it’s that the little things are what truly matter. It’s not the big gestures or the grand milestones. Although those are lovely, it’s the small, everyday acts of love and kindness that build a life together. The shared laughs, the quiet moments, and even the compromises about whose turn it is to take out the bins. Embrace every little moment. It’s an incredible journey.

The toast: On that note… if you could all please raise your glasses to the couple of the decade, Mr and Mrs. [Surname].

Example 4: Quirky father of the bride speech

Introduction: Welcome one, welcome all to the happiest day of [Bride’s name]’s life. My name is [your name] and I’m the very proud father of the bride.

The bride: When I think back to watching my beautiful little girl grow up, I can’t help but smile at the sheer whirlwind of personality she brought into our lives. [Bride’s name] was never one to do things by halves. Whether it was her brief yet passionate career as a magician (apologies to the neighbour’s cat for that one) or her insistence that she could set up a lemonade stand and manage the family finances at the age of seven, she’s always been determined, creative, and just a little bit chaotic—in the best way possible. As a teenager, of course, she had a knack for keeping us on our toes. From her “unique” fashion phases (I still have no idea how neon zebra print became a thing in our house) to the time she decided she’d become a world-class ukulele player overnight, life with [Bride’s name] has been anything but boring. And honestly? I wouldn’t change a single second of it.

Today, seeing her standing here, all grown up and radiant, I can’t help but think she’s still that same adventurous, passionate soul—just with better taste in shoes. [Bride’s name], you’ve turned into the kind of person any parent would be proud to call their daughter: kind, funny, and with a heart as big as your ambition.

The happy couple: And then there’s [Groom’s name]. The first time I met him, I thought, “He seems normal enough… let’s see how long that lasts.” Turns out, it wasn’t an act—[Groom’s name] truly is as genuine and good-hearted as he seemed.

What I quickly realised is that [Groom’s name] not only loves [Bride’s name], but he also gets her. He understands her quirks, supports her dreams, and even seems to enjoy her impromptu ukulele serenades. He’s braver than most, I’ll give you that. You’ve become an integral part of our family, [Groom’s name], and for that, we’re truly grateful. Just one piece of advice: always double-check what she’s ordering online after midnight. Trust me on this.

Some words of wisdom: In all seriousness, my main advice would be that marriage is about being a team. It’s not just about love, though that’s a big part of it. It’s about partnership, patience, and biting your tongue when someone insists they definitely know how to assemble IKEA furniture without the instructions. It’s about finding joy in the little things like laughing at the same old jokes or getting their favourite biscuits in without asking. You’ll find your rhythm, I know you will.

The thank yous: As a final point from me, I’d like to extend a sincere thank you to everyone who made this day possible. To my wife, who graciously returned my cheque book to me, to the wedding planner, who managed to coordinate this beautiful chaos with the precision of a Swiss watch, and to everyone who played a part in making today so special. Genuinely, thank you.

The toast: So, let’s wrap this up before I get too sentimental—or worse, attempt to tell a dad joke. Here’s to [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name]: may your life together be full of laughter, love, and plenty of biscuits. Cheers!

Example 5: Poetic father of the bride speech

Introduction: Ladies and gentlemen, allow me to introduce myself as the very proud father of [Bride’s name]. As I stand before you today, I find myself filled with a mix of emotions: pride, joy, a touch of nostalgia, and perhaps just a little disbelief at how quickly time has flown. It feels like only yesterday [Bride’s name] was my little girl, with wide eyes and big dreams, and now here she is, beautiful, radiant, and beginning the most wonderful chapter of her life.

The bride: [Bride’s name], from the moment you came into my life, you brought a light that I never knew I was missing. Watching you grow has been one of my greatest privileges. Every laugh, every challenge, every triumph has been a gift. You’ve always been a dreamer, a doer, and someone who leaves the world a little better just by being in it. I couldn’t have been prouder today to give you away to [Groom’s name], who I know will steer you steady through the course of life.

The happy couple: And then there’s [Groom’s name]. The first time I met him, I’ll admit, I had my questions (a father’s prerogative, after all). But it didn’t take long for me to see the depth of his character and the sincerity of his love for [Bride’s name]. He reminded me of the words of Jane Austen: “There is no charm equal to tenderness of heart.” [Groom’s name], you’ve shown us all your tender heart—not just in how you love [Bride’s name] but in how you’ve embraced our family. Truly, we are blessed to have you.

The thank yous: Thank you to everyone who made this day so special. Your presence, presents, and kindness have not gone unnoticed.

Some words of wisdom: I wish you the very best on your journey through life together. Today I am blessed to be able to share my wisdom with you, and this is: Marriage is a delicate balance of independence and togetherness. Remember, communicate openly, forgive freely, a little space is no bad thing, and never lose sight of the friendship that brought you together in the first place.

The toast: Ladies, gentlemen, and non-binary friends, please raise your glasses to the new Mr. and Mrs. [Surname].

Example 6: Thoughtful father of the bride speech

Introduction: Friends, family, esteemed guests… Welcome, to the wonderful wedding of [Bride’s name], my little girl, and [Groom’s name]. I cannot tell you how proud I am to be here today, representing my wonderful daughter on the happiest day of her life.

The thank yous: We’ll get the thank yous out of the way before I lose the ability to speak, no doubt. First off, thank you to everyone who’s made the effort to be here today. Whether you’ve travelled miles or just popped over from down the road, your presence means everything to us. This day wouldn’t be the same without the love and laughter you’ve all brought into this room.

A special thank you to everyone who’s worked so hard behind the scenes to make today so beautiful—the flowers, the food, the music—it’s all been perfect, hasn’t it? And a big thank you to [Groom’s name]’s family for welcoming [Bride’s name] into your hearts. Knowing she’s joining such a kind and supportive family makes this day even more special.

The bride: Now, let’s talk about [Bride’s name]. Where do I even begin? From the moment she came into my life, she turned my world upside down in the best possible way. She’s always been a little spark of joy, full of energy, mischief, and, let’s be honest, more than a few strong opinions. Growing up, she kept me on my toes—from her wild ideas about turning the garden shed into a “pet sanctuary” to her unwavering belief that glitter made everything better (and our carpets still haven’t recovered). But through it all, she’s shown a kindness and determination that I’ve always admired.

[Bride’s name], seeing you today, all grown up and glowing with happiness, I can’t help but feel a little emotional. You’ve become such an incredible person—strong, compassionate, and with a laugh that lights up the room. You’ve always been my little girl, but today, I’m handing you over to someone who I know will cherish and support you as much as I do.

The happy couple: [Groom’s name], let me just say, you’ve set the bar pretty high. The first time I met you, I could tell you were someone special. You weren’t just polite and charming; you had this calm confidence about you that told me you were here for the long haul. It’s been clear from the start how much you love [Bride’s name], but what’s even more important to me is how you understand her. You get her quirks, her passions, and her occasional stubborn streak (good luck with that, by the way). In all seriousness, I couldn’t wish for a better son-in-law, so thank you.

Some words of wisdom: If I can offer you one piece of advice, it’s this: don’t sweat the small stuff. Marriage isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up every day for each other, even when life gets messy. Be each other’s biggest supporters, keep laughing together, and don’t let anyone or anything come between you. You’re an unshakeable team, and I know you’ll do just fine.

The toast: Ladies and gentlemen, please raise your glasses to the health, wealth, and happiness of the new Mr and Mrs. [Surname].

Example 7: Personal father of the bride speech

Introduction: Well… what a day this has already been. Can you believe we’re here? Because I certainly can’t. Where has my little girl gone? My little girl who used to run around the house with mismatched socks and a million questions… I can’t help but reflect on how we got to this moment.

The thank yous: Before we get going, I’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone who made this day possible. From the bar staff to the priest and everyone in between, this day has been truly magical. Fit for a princess, truly.

The bride: Now, my [Bride’s name]. My little girl. You’ve grown into the most incredible woman—kind, smart, and strong—and yet, in my eyes, you’ll always be that little whirlwind of energy, full of curiosity and laughter. Watching you today, glowing, looking so happy, it’s hard not to feel a lump in my throat (and not just because of the speech nerves, I promise!).

You’ve taken every stage of your life in your stride, and today is no different. Seeing the love between you and [Groom’s name], it’s clear you’ve met your match. He makes your eyes sparkle and your laugh just a little louder. That’s all a dad could ever want for his daughter, to find someone who treasures her as much as we do.

The happy couple: To [Groom’s name], welcome to the family, mate. You’ve passed the ultimate test: her mother likes you. But truly, you’ve not only won her heart but ours as well. Seeing how happy you make her—it’s all we’ve ever wanted for her. As I stand here looking at you both, I can see the perfect balance you bring to each other. [Bride’s name], you’ve found someone who loves and respects you for the amazing person you are, and [Groom’s name], you’ve got yourself a partner who will stand by your side no matter what life throws at you. Together, you’re a force to be reckoned with, and I have no doubt that the future holds incredible things for you both.

Some words of wisdom: It won’t always be smooth sailing, of course. Marriage isn’t. But if you keep steering your ship with love, patience, and a good sense of humour, you’ll always find your way back to calm waters.

The toast: To Mr. and Mrs [Surname]. Wishing you a lifetime of love, laughter, and maybe a little bit of chaos because let’s face it, it keeps things interesting. Here’s to your happily ever after!

Example 8: Humorous father of the bride speech

Introduction: Time for the main event! I’m joking, of course. I know you’re all here for the cake. My name is [your name], and I’m the very proud, if a little emotional, father of the bride, and it’s my absolute pleasure to stand here today and say a few words.

The bride: Now, I have to start by saying how stunning [Bride’s name] looks today. Absolutely radiant, isn’t she? It’s hard to believe this is the same person who used to think that tidying her room meant shoving everything under the bed or into that chair—you know the one. The one where clothes go to die.

Growing up, [Bride’s name] was always the queen of organised chaos. Shoes in the fridge? Sure. Homework on the dog? Why not? But somehow, she always managed to keep it together, even if her surroundings didn’t. And you know what? That’s one of the things I love most about her. She’s not perfect—thank goodness, because none of us are—but she’s real, she’s genuine, and she’s got a heart as big as this room.

The happy couple: Now, let’s talk about the other star of the show—[Groom’s name]. From the moment I met you, I could see how much you loved [Bride’s name]. It’s in the way you look at her, the way you laugh at her jokes—even the bad ones—and how you’re always there to lift her up. You’re the kind of person every parent hopes their child will find: someone who will cherish, respect, and challenge them. So, thank you for loving [Bride’s name] the way you do.

The thank yous: Thank you to all of you, too. Everyone who has travelled from afar, everyone who helped make this day as special as it is. From the venue staff to the florist, and of course, the catering team, who ensured we’ve all been very well fed. Your efforts have not gone unnoticed, so thank you.

Some words of wisdom: But the biggest thanks of all go to [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name]. Not just for giving us an excuse to dress up and eat cake, but for reminding us all what love and partnership look like. You’ve brought all of us together today, and I think we can all agree—it’s been a pretty spectacular day.

The toast: So, let’s raise a glass to the happy couple: may your lives be filled with love, laughter, and maybe a tiny bit of tidiness (but only if it doesn’t cramp your style). To [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name]! Cheers!

Example 9: Heartfelt father of the bride speech

Introduction: Testing, testing… No, I’m joking. I know it’s on. Welcome, everyone to this special day. My name is [your name], and I’m the bride’s father. Honestly, I couldn’t be prouder to say that. What a moment this is in a father’s life.

The thank yous: Before we get started, I’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone who made this magical day possible. From the venue staff to the florist, the caterers, and everyone who worked behind the scenes. You’ve all helped create a day that’s nothing short of perfect.

The bride: [Bride’s name], you look absolutely stunning today. I mean, you always look lovely to me, but today you’ve outdone yourself. Watching you grow up has been one of the greatest privileges of my life. From the little girl with scraped knees and a fearless spirit to the incredible woman sitting here now… It’s been quite a journey, hasn’t it? And I couldn’t have been prouder to hold your hand throughout.

The happy couple: Until, of course, you met [Groom’s name]. From the moment we first met him, it was obvious he was something special. He’s got that steady, grounded way about him that balances out your whirlwind energy perfectly. And I’ve seen the way he looks at you, with so much love and admiration…. It’s all I could have ever hoped for you.

Some words of wisdom: Looking at the two of you, I’m filled with so much hope for the life you’re about to build together. If I can, I’d love to give you a little advice: Always dance in the kitchen. Even if there’s no music. Especially if there’s no music. Those silly, unexpected moments will remind you why you chose each other. Don’t just love each other—like each other. Be friends, partners in crime, and the person the other one wants to call with the good news, the bad news, and the “you won’t believe what just happened!”

And finally, remember that it’s the little things that matter most. Not the big gestures, but the everyday kindnesses. Like letting the other have the last slice of pizza, even when you really, really want it. Those are the things that build a lifetime together.

The toast: Ladies and gentlemen, please join me in a toast to the new Mr and Mrs [Surname]. I couldn’t think of anyone who deserves this more.

Example 10: Candid father of the bride speech

Introduction: Hello, everyone. Welcome to the wedding of [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name]. What a beautiful day this has been so far—and what an emotional one, too. I’ve been doing my best to hold it together, but seeing my little girl all grown up and starting this incredible new chapter… Well, let’s just say it’s a good thing I didn’t wear mascara.

The bride: [Bride’s name]. I love you. I know I don’t say that enough, but I could say it a million times and it still wouldn’t have been enough. As your dad, it’s been my greatest privilege to walk alongside you, to cheer you on, to wipe the occasional tear (and maybe cause a few when I said no to a hamster). Watching you grow into the woman you are today—strong, funny, and with a heart so big it barely fits in this room—has been nothing short of amazing.

There’s a bond between a father and his daughter that’s hard to put into words. It’s love, pride, and the occasional panic when you first ask for the car keys. But it’s also unshakable, no matter how far life takes you. And while today marks a new chapter in your life, know this: you’ll always be my little girl. Always.

The happy couple: [Groom’s name], thank you. I couldn’t think of anyone more deserving of her love. You and I both know that [Bride’s name] isn’t just any woman. She’s a force of nature. She’s clever, compassionate, and a little stubborn at times. But that’s part of what makes her so remarkable. And seeing the way you love her, not despite those qualities but because of them, fills me with so much joy.

From the moment I saw the way you looked at her, I knew. You weren’t just a boyfriend or a fiancé, you were her partner in every sense of the word. You’ve brought a calm, steady presence into her whirlwind world, and for that, I’ll always be grateful.

Some words of wisdom: So, to wrap this up—because I know no one wants to see me cry—I just want to say this: Marriage is a journey, and like all great journeys, it’s made up of small, everyday moments. Make those moments count. Laugh often, forgive easily, and never stop holding hands.

The thank yous: Thank you to everyone who helped out with today. What a fabulous day it’s been so far.

The toast: Let’s raise a glass to [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name]. [Bride’s name], you’ve always been my little girl, and while today you’re taking on a new title, “wife”, you’ll never lose that special place in my heart. And [Groom’s name], thank you for loving her the way she deserves. Together, you two are unstoppable, and I can’t wait to see the incredible life you’ll build.

Here’s to a lifetime of love, laughter, and the little moments that make it all worthwhile. May you always find joy in each other, even when the socks don’t match and the Wi-Fi’s gone down. To [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name]—cheers!

Example 11: Short and sweet father of the bride speech

Introduction: Hello, ladies and gentlemen. Are you all having a good time? My name is [your name] and I’m the bride’s father. I’m not one for speeches, so if it’s ok with you, I’ll keep it short and sweet.

The thank yous: A huge thank you to everyone who has made this wonderful day possible. It’s already been a day to remember, and I can’t wait for tonight to see everyone’s dodgy dance moves. Whether you travelled from afar, cooked the whole menu, or even just turned up ready to celebrate, thank you. It means the world to all of us, and I know it means the world to [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name].

The bride: [Bride’s name]. Look at you. My little girl, and now all grown up. I couldn’t be prouder of the person you’ve become. From day dot, you’ve been an absolute superstar, full of life, laughter, and just a little stubbornness. You’re more than I ever could have dreamed of, and you are truly my greatest achievement.

The happy couple: [Groom’s name], what can I say? You’re the perfect match for my daughter. You make her laugh, you support her dreams, and most importantly, you seem to have mastered the art of letting her win an argument now and then. That’s a skill that will serve you well! Welcome to the family—it’s a slightly chaotic but very loving one, and we’re thrilled to have you in it.

Some words of wisdom: Life will throw its surprises at you—both wonderful and challenging—but if you tackle them together, with a bit of patience and a lot of humour, you’ll be just fine. Oh, and remember, [Groom’s name], the answer to “Does this dress make me look…?” is always no.

The toast: So, let’s raise a glass to [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name]. May your life be filled with love, laughter, and just enough surprises to keep things interesting. And may you always find your way back to each other, even if someone’s gone and nicked the last slice of cake.

Example 12: Gender-neutral father of the bride speech

Introduction: Welcome, welcome, welcome everyone to the wonderful wedding of [Child’s name] and [Partner’s name]. Isn’t this a spectacular day? I couldn’t be prouder to be stood here today as [Child’s name]’s father, celebrating this incredible moment with all of you. Honestly, what a privilege it is to be part of such a special day, surrounded by so much love, joy, and probably a fair bit of prosecco.

The thank yous: First off, let me say a massive thank you to everyone who’s helped make today what it is. From the stunning venue to the delicious food and the flowers that I definitely can’t name but know look amazing—what an effort. And to all of you, thank you for showing up with your best outfits and your biggest smiles. It’s a real testament to how much love [Child’s name] and [Partner’s name] inspire.

The happy couple: Now, let’s talk about the stars of the show: [Child’s name] and [Partner’s name]. You two are a perfect match, like tea and biscuits or a Friday night and a takeaway. Watching your relationship grow has been like watching the best kind of rom-com—one that’s full of laughter, a bit of bickering over what to watch on Netflix, and a whole lot of love.

[Child’s name], I’ve always known you were destined for something extraordinary. You’ve always had this spark, this way of lighting up a room and making people feel instantly at ease. And then you met [Partner’s name]. From the moment I saw you two together, it was clear—this wasn’t just a spark. This was a full-on firework display.

[Partner’s name], thank you for loving my child as deeply as you do. You’ve not just joined our family—you’ve completed it.

Some words of wisdom: So, here’s a bit of advice from someone who’s been around the block a few times: Life is unpredictable. There will be highs, there will be lows, and there will definitely be arguments over who left the milk out. But if you keep choosing each other—every single day—you’ll weather anything that comes your way.

And don’t forget to keep laughing, even when the dishwasher’s broken, or someone’s forgotten to replace the loo roll. Laughter is the glue that holds it all together.

The toast: So, let’s raise a glass to [Child’s name] and [Partner’s name]. May your days be full of joy, your nights full of laughter, and your love for each other only grow stronger. And may you always find a reason to celebrate— big or small, rain or shine. To the happy couple— cheers!

Start planning your father of the bride speech today!

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The father of the bride speech is one of the most anticipated parts of the wedding reception. It’s your chance to tell the world how amazing your little girl is and how proud you are of her.

Make sure you leave plenty of time to plan your wedding speech. This way, you know you’ll be happy with the content and have plenty of time to practice. Follow a time-honoured structure, throw in a few jokes, and let your personality shine through. You’ve got this!

If you’re still feeling nervous, we can support you in writing a brilliant father of the bride speech. Whether you want to keep it simple or make it funny and heartfelt, we have plenty of wedding speech ideas to give you inspiration. Sign up to Bridebook today and write a cracking speech!