Six weeks out

Confirm when you speak, for how long and who speaks before you
Ask the couple about topics to avoid and names to include
Collect two or three stories from friends or family

Four weeks out

Choose one main story and cut the rest
Write a rough draft without editing
Check pronunciation of every name

Three weeks out

Read it aloud and time it
Remove inside jokes most guests won't understand
Check that it's kind enough for grandparents

Two weeks out

Rehearse out loud daily, standing up
Mark pauses and where you'll look up
Practise in front of one trusted person

The week of

Print large-font notes or cue cards
Ask whether there's a microphone and how to hold it
Plan the exact words for the toast at the end

On the day

Eat something and go light on drinks before you speak
Keep notes in an easy pocket
Breathe, smile, slow down — and raise your glass

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The wedding speech checklist