Back in 2015, I married my beautiful wife Erin. I spent many hours writing my speech, I found many helpful examples online. I hope my speech helps future grooms.

Speech

I would like to thank my father-in-law for his kind words and his toast.

I have been looking forward to saying this for a very long time — It gives me huge pleasure and pride to say, Ladies and Gentlemen on behalf of my WIFE and I, we would like to thank you for sharing our special day with us. Many of you have traveled here at great expense. We are honored that you could join us.

We also want to thank you for all the wonderful gifts and cards, we are very touched by your generosity.

Wife Call Out

Wow, my wife looks amazing today… (a little gawking)

In the coming minutes, I will be making a few toasts, so be sure your glasses are full!

Firstly, Charlie and Lisa…

From the first day I met Charlie and Lisa and Erin’s sisters, Kelsey and Megan, they have made me feel like part of the family.

Although, I have to admit, the first time I was in their home, I was nervous. My first thought was, I wonder if her parents will like me? My second thought was, I wonder if her dad owns a gun? Luckily for me, I had nothing to worry about.

Erin’s mother, Lisa, well, what can I say about her. She’s thoughtful, caring and she makes dam good food.

Taylor and Kelsey, first off, congratulations on the new addition to your family. Secondly, I want to say I am honored to be your brother-in-law.

Charlie and Lisa, I am proud to say that I am your son-in-law and thank you for raising such a beautiful, intelligent and caring daughter. I will do my best to keep Erin happy — and of course, I promise to do everything she tells me to do.

To my parents.

Like some of you, I grew up with step parents. In my mind, I didn’t have 2 parents, I had 4 and I wouldn’t be the person I am today without them.

Unfortunately, my stepdad Bruce, my stepmother Dorothy and my Mom are no longer with us…

If my mom was with us, she would be enjoying every moment of our special day and she would be helping us, probably more than we want. She was strong, caring and didn’t tolerate attitude. She is deeply missed.

So, with them in mind, would you please raise your glasses and join me in a toast: “to absent friends and family”.

I’d like to acknowledge some of my family members who have traveled to be here today. My Auntie JoAnn and Uncle Cedric who flew in from Alaska and my cousins who DROVE out from North Carolina with my uncle Steve. Thank you for being here today.

I’d like to make a toast. Please raise your glasses: “To family”.

Brides Maids

Erin’s bridesmaids, Kady, Krystan, Kelsey and Megan… Without you guys, I’m not sure how Erin would have made it through the day. Thank you for being here for her.

And I’m sure everyone will agree with me, when I say you all look very lovely today.

Groomsmen

My four groomsmen, John, Jeremy, Nick and Sean, have been a huge help in making the whole day a success. Each one has traveled to be here and it wouldn’t have been the same without you guys. Thank you.

Thank you’s

You might find this hard to believe, but having a wedding is a lot of work. More than I expected. We have gotten a lot of help from friends and family — we deeply appreciate your contributions. There are a few people that we’d like to mention.

Bro and Sister

My brother and sister, John and Anna, they have been here most of the week helping with the wedding preparations.

Uncle Joe

Uncle Joe, for creating our beautiful wedding cake. It looks amazing. Although, I’ll need to try a couple pieces to make sure it’s safe for everyone to eat.


Beth

Beth and I assume your entire family, maybe even Rick… for creating the flower arrangements, they look amazing!

Kathy

Kathy, Thank you for being the officiant for our wedding. It means a lot to us.

Erin

For those who don’t know, Erin and I met ballroom dancing. We both took ballroom dancing in college. When I established myself in Sacramento I sought out a dance studio and Erin did the same when she returned home from college. As fate would have it, we picked the same studio…

With dancing being such a big part of our lives, I decide that I had to propose on the dance floor. I don’t remember the song which was playing, but I gave her a spin and then went down on one knee with the ring in hand so when she spun back around she would see me on one knee with the ring.

I’m feel lucky to have met a woman like Erin.

(Turn to Erin) Erin, a few years ago, I took on the care of my dad — you’ve supported me every step of the way. When I took on the duty of cleaning his property, it was “when do we start.” In some cases, you cared more about his stuff than I did. For me, this speaks volumes about your integrity and your heart. I feel honored and lucky to have you as my wife.

Closing

In closing, I’d like to once again thank you for joining us on our special day and I hope you enjoy the rest of the evening.