An extraordinary traditional event during any weddings is the “father of the bride” speech. It can be really complex to open up on the subject on the feelings of your “little girl” in front of a large group of people. Here is a guide in carrying out a refined, unforgettable father of the bride speech at your daughter’s wedding reception.

Write the Speech

Come up with memories and words of wisdom you would like to share with your daughter and her new husband.

The Speech Outline

1. Be certain to first mention the audience. Thank them for their presence at your daughter’s wedding and for showing their support for her and her new husband on their wedding day and beyond. Thank the parents and family of the groom.
2. Next, offer tribute to your daughter. Tell her how beautiful she looks.
3. Continue into your speech. Talk about the day your daughter was born or how you felt about her as a little girl.
4. Next, talk about how she’s grown and changed over the years. Offer the audience a picture of how she went from Daddy’s little girl to a strong, beautiful woman today.
5. Tell your audience how you felt when you found out your little girl was going to get married. Tell them how you felt when you walked her down the aisle and gave her away. Give them a picture of your daughter through your eyes.
6. Provide a few words of wisdom to your new son-in-law about love.

Make Your Speech Unique

A speech does not just have to be a speech. Make use of this elegant moment to show your daughter how proud you are of her. Why not create a slideshow of photos? Use this as a backdrop for your speech. Ten slides should be plenty. Here’s a basic outline for a father of the bride slideshow:

1. Display a photo of your daughter on the day she was born. Tell how you felt that day.
2. Show a photo of her on her first day of school. Tell your feelings of that day.
3. Illustrate a photo of your daughter as she learns to ride a bike or just won a big soccer game or got a part in her first play. Tell your feelings and pride of that day.
4. Add in a photo of her on her first day of high school, behind the wheel of her first car, her graduation day, the first day of college, etc. Explain the way you felt on those days.
5. Finish up with a photo of your daughter with her new husband. Conclude your wishes for them and your love for your little girl.

From the Heart

When your speech comes from the heart, it will be memorable for both you and your daughter. Remember, she’ll always be your little girl. Show her that with your words.