Welcome to Rick and Shell's Wedding pages

Best man's speech by Rick's brother-in-law

Best man's speech...

Ladies and gentlemen, family and friends I would like to welcome you to Richard and Michelle's wedding.

First of all I would like to say a big thank you on behalf of the bride and groom to you all, I know they really appreciate you all being here to celebrate their special day.

For those of you who don't know me my name is John and I am Richard's brother-in-law. When I first agreed to be the best man I was very touched and honoured that Richard had asked me.

But those feelings have gone right out the window now... as I stand here terrified before you.

Well it's said that being asked to be best man, is like being asked to make love to the queen, its a great honour but nobody wants to do it.

I have been asking my friends and family for advice about my speech, and one of them came up with this. he said: John think of your speech like a mini-skirt, i.e. short enough to keep everyone interested but long enough to cover the bare essentials. With that in mind here we go:

On behalf of Erin, Nigel, Jack, James and Ryan I would like to thank Richard for those kind words.

I would personally like to thank them for all the effort they have put in to today as without it today would have not been possible.

Now before I launch into the traditional character assassination of the groom. I would like to read some cards and messages out from people who unfortunately could not make it here today.

I think we all agree Michelle looks one in a million today and that she is, Richard I think you've done extremely well marrying Michelle.

You have found someone who is beautiful, charming, smart, funny and caring. And Michelle.... What can I say well, erm... You've got..... Richard.

When Richard was born his mum nearly called him Thursday, because his mum took one look at him and said, 'right lets call it a day'.

But more seriously I have known Richard for about 15 years he was a spotty 14 year old back then and had his fair share of attitude too.

I used to go round to his house to see his sister but ended up building Lego models with him for most of the night then launching them off ramps into the furniture at his sister's and parents dismay.

If we were not doing that we would be on the computer upstairs listening to the latest Bon Jovi or Metallica Album as loud as we dare.

I would like to tell you about some of the skeletons in Richard's closet but there are none, There's simply no room it's full of old computer parts, radio's and CDs.

As Richard has grown up he has turned into a caring, smart, funny, responsible individual who I am proud to know.

It's participation time now Richard..... Michelle if I can ask you to place your hands flat on the table and Richard could you place your hands on top of Michelle's... Richard take a deep breath and enjoy this moment...... as this is the last time you will ever have the upper hand.

I would like to finish with a little tale that my dad told me about marriage.

Marriage is frustrating son.

In the first year the husband speaks and the wife listens.

In the second year the wife speaks and the husband listens.

In the third year they both speak and the neighbours listen.

Personally I would like to also thank those involved in organising today. The venue is perfect, the service was great and the food was outstanding and I know the rest of today will be a great success.

Finally it gives me great pleasure and not to mention relief to invite you all to raise your glasses and join me in a toast in wishing you both health and happiness and a wonderful life together.

To the Bride and Groom.