Ladies & Gentlemen…

~ Diné ~

Public speaking. Don’t we all just love it!

When it comes to making speeches at weddings, most people try to avoid it because they hate speaking in front of a large crowd. Unfortunately, some people aren’t so lucky as they are expected to give a speech. If you are apart of the bridal party, you might just be one of those ‘lucky ones’, chosen to get up there and make a toast. The joys of speech making.

So who is generally expected to say a word or two at weddings?

  • The Best Man
  • Parents of the Groom/Bride
  • The Maid of Honour
  • The Groom
  • Not expected, but becoming more popular: The Bride

Speeches at weddings are tricky as people expect you to come up with something sentimental or funny. They want tear-jerkers, whether it is through crying or laughing. Here are a few tips of what to do, and what NOT to do;

What to do:

  1. Keep it short
  2. Add a funny story
  3. Be sentimental
  4. Practise!!!
  5. Look at the guests…eye contact is the key!

What NOT to do:

  1. Get drunk
  2. Mention past relationships
  3. Use inappropriate language
  4. Take a joke too far
  5. Reveal information that might cause trouble between the couple

If you try to be funny, but no one laughs…don’t panic! Tell the guests that they were ‘meant’ to laugh because you intended that part to be funny; and just refuse to go on until you get a response from them. It’s sure to work!

Don’t stress, the couple will appreciate your efforts regardless of whether your speech is a success or a failure. As long as you mention how adorable they are, and you wish them well for the future-you should be sweet!

Happy speech making!

The First Dance

~ Diné ~

The ‘first dance’ after you wed, is a moment in your life that you will remember for years and years to come. Whether it will be the song you remember, the look on your husband/wife’s face, or the atmosphere; it will be memorable for sure.

Stepping out in the middle of the dance floor, with all eyes solely on you, can be intimidating for some. For that reason, it is important to choose a song that you will feel comfortable dancing to, as well as choosing a song that represents your love for each other.

Some people prefer the traditional approach to the first dance, generally that of a waltz. Traditional songs are beautiful and create a great atmosphere for such a significant moment. Some traditional songs include;

  • ‘Can You Feel The Love Tonight’ – Elton John
  • ‘A Love Story’ – Mariah Carey
  • ‘A New Day Has Come’ – Celine Dion
  • ‘Can’t Help Falling In Love’ – Elvis Presley
  • ‘The Way You Look Tonight’ – Tony Bennett

If you feel the traditional approach isn’t how you imagine your first dance to be, you might want to consider spicing it up a bit. A couple became a YouTube sensation after they posted their first dance online. They began the first dance as usual, slow and romantic. However, halfway through the song, the music cut out and was replaced by ‘Baby Got Back’, an upbeat song.

Other couples saw this idea and jumped at it, personalising their own ‘first dance’. Some even decided to get their bridesmaids/best men involved, ready to start the night on a fun note.

Whether you decide on the traditional approach, the modern approach, or a mash-up…it’s a special dance, regardless of your choice. Have the time of your life, because it will be the last ‘first dance’ you ever do!