How to Write the Best Father of the Groom Speech

If you're the father of the groom, you've likely been there for everything from your son's first diaper change and scraped knee to the blossoming relationship he's built with his partner. Now, they've decided to tie the knot, and he's asked you to give a father of the groom speech.

This responsibility of the father of the groom is a great honor, and a good opportunity for you to share your innermost feelings with the couple about their future together. You're a big part of their wedding day, so guests will want to hear what's on your mind. It may feel a bit daunting to deliver a father of the groom toast, but don't worry—it's all about speaking from the heart.

Want to learn how to deliver a heartfelt message that will be remembered for years to come? We've got the dos and don'ts of father of the groom wedding speech etiquette below, plus some free father of the groom speech samples to help get you inspired. Get ready to write one of the best father of the groom speeches ever. Good luck, Pops! You got this.

In this article:

• Father of the Groom Speech Length
• Father of the Groom Speech Template
• Father of the Groom Speech Examples
• Father of the Groom Speech Jokes
• Father of the Groom Speech Mistakes

Father of the Groom Speech Length

If you're asking yourself, "How long should a father of the groom speech be?" the answer is no more than 4 to 6 minutes (or less, if possible). In order to keep guests engaged during your father wedding speech for your son, brevity is key. Expect that there will be some overlap between speeches (like thanking guests for coming). Use funny or touching stories about your son's childhood in order to make your speech stand out.

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As for when does the father of the groom give his speech, if the wedding follows a traditional format, you'll probably give the father of the groom speech at the rehearsal dinner since the groom's family traditionally hosts that event. You might also give your speech at the wedding reception, likely before the best man speech.

Father of the Groom Speech Template

Public speaking isn't typically a favorite pastime, so don't feel like you're alone if it isn't yours. But it's an honor to be part of this special moment, so if you're asked to share some words of wisdom for your son and your future son-in-law or daughter-in-law, of course, you want to crush it.

If you're sitting at your desk with writer's block, thinking to yourself, "How am I supposed to write a speech for my son on his wedding day?" never fear! Below, we've included some guidance in the form of some father of the groom wedding speech examples, as well as some clever jokes you can incorporate into your toast.

Your son's wedding day is a very personal day for your family—you'll share lots of tender moments as you look back over your son's life before he met and chose to marry his partner. So the best advice when it comes to how to write a father of the groom speech is simply to write from your heart. You know your son better than just about anyone, so there's no need to worry about saying the wrong thing. Even if you and your son have had a rocky relationship in the past, remember that he's still asking you to share in his big day, so he wants to hear what you have to say.

1. Introduce yourself.

Everyone will undoubtedly know who you are, but begin your wedding speech from the father of the groom by sharing your name and stating that you're the groom's dad. If you're also the best man or a groomsman, mention that as well.

2. Thank all the guests for coming.

Thank the happy couple's family and friends for taking part in the celebration and attending the big day. This can be as simple as, "Thank you all for being here this evening," or you can make it more conversational by adding a "Wasn't that a beautiful ceremony?" or "I hope you're all enjoying dinner."

3. Share a heartfelt message about your son.

Take a few moments to share some sweet words about your son. This can be an anecdote from childhood, a few observations about his character or personality or a reflection of the relationship you two share. The rehearsal dinner speech by the father of the groom (or reception toast) is your chance to get personal, so feel free to be honest and heartfelt, funny and a little sentimental.

4. Give your son's new spouse (and their family) a shoutout.

When it comes to doling out your appreciation to different people in your father of the groom toast, it's customary to thank your son's new spouse's parents and family members, especially if they've traveled a long way to attend the celebration. Then, thank your new daughter or son for making your child so very happy. This is also a good place time to mention how you're looking forward to your families uniting, whether it's a blending of cultures or just someone to celebrate the holidays with.

5. Speak about the couple's relationship.

While you've already mentioned your son's new spouse, take this opportunity to speak about their relationship. If you're not sure where to start, think about the first time you met your new child-in-law, how you've seen them support each other, how you knew your son was in love or share a funny or sweet memory the three of you share that showcases the best of their partnership.

6. Raise your glass in a toast.

It's up to you how you'd like to end your speech for your son's wedding. You can share advice, speak loving words or end with a joke. As you wrap up your speech in front of the microphone, a brief and meaningful introduction to the next speaker in line (if there is one) is always appropriate.

Father of the Groom Speech Examples

It's finally time for your important speech. Just relax, take a deep breath and talk about some of the memorable moments you've shared with your son. Then, welcome your new daughter or son and close your speech with some meaningful words of wisdom or advice for the new couple.

Looking for some free father of the groom speech examples? We've got a few that just might give you the inspiration you need in order to finish writing your wedding toast for the happy couple.

Father of the Groom Rehearsal Dinner Speech

If you're delivering your groom's dad speech at the rehearsal dinner instead of the big day, this example includes how to address those pre-wedding jitters, give day-of advice and more.

Good evening, everyone! I hope you're enjoying dinner. I'm [Your Name], [Groom's Name]'s father. I just wanted to take a moment to say a few words. From the moment [Groom's Name] was born, I've seen him through a lot of big moments: taking his first steps and saying his first words, learning how to ride a bike and drive a car, his first act of teenage rebellion and graduating high school. Yes, all those moments—big and small, the easy ones and the tough ones—have made me proud. But nothing has made me prouder than standing up here tonight on the eve of his wedding.

Like all kids, [Groom's Name] made some questionable decisions growing up. That [fashion/music/etc.] phase wasn't his finest moment, but sometimes, as parents, you have to let your kid learn from their mistakes. But when he first introduced us to [Spouse's Name], I knew that this was something he'd gotten right. [Spouse's Name] is smart, kind, funny and they genuinely love my son for who he is. I'm so excited to see them get married tomorrow and begin their incredible new life together.

You've done good, kid. Congratulations to the soon-to-be newlyweds!

Father of the Groom Wedding Day Speech

This father of the groom toast example is a perfect guide for what to say during the wedding reception. Tailor it by adding specific anecdotes and details or simply use it as inpso to help you write your own!

Welcome! My name is [Your Name] and I'm [Groom's Name]'s father. I'd like to start by welcoming each and every one of you and to say thank you for sharing in this most special day. From the first time I saw my son with [Spouse's Name], I knew they shared something very special.

I know that because [reason]. I'm reminded of all the times my son [did this or that] as a child and how much I hoped he would grow up to find the perfect partner. And in [partner's name], I see that perfect partner.

So today, I'm welcoming [Spouse's Name] into our family with open arms. I'm truly excited for what the future holds for you, son, and for your [lovely wife/handsome husband/wonderful spouse]. I know you two will share a happy life together.

Short Father of the Groom Speech

Not every dad's speech at his son's wedding has to be long and wordy. This father of the groom speech sample is free to use if you're looking to keep things short and sweet.

Thank you everyone for coming today. [Groom's Name], I love you with all of my heart and always will. You've turned into a fine young man, and seeing you so happy with [Spouse's Name] makes this day perfect. I wish you many happy days ahead, no matter where life takes you.
Sentimental: Hello, and thank you for coming. It means so much that each and every one of you has come to share in [Groom's Name] special day today, and I only wish that [relative who died] could be here as well. Son, seeing you with your [new wife/husband/spouse] is nothing short of heartwarming. I wish you both the best of everything in your new life together.

Funny Father of the Groom Speech

As the creator of dad jokes, it should come as no surprise that humorous father of the groom speeches are some of the most popular. Use the sample below, along with our father of the groom speech jokes, to have everyone doubled over with laughter.

Ladies and gentlemen, family and friends, thank you all for being here today to celebrate the beautiful union of [Groom's Name] and [Spouse's Name]. I'll admit, it's a little surreal standing up here today as my son embarks on this wonderful adventure called marriage—partly because it feels like just yesterday I was trying to stop him from shoving a LEGO up his nose and now I'm the old guy giving a speech at his wedding!

Over the past [X] years, I've watched my son grow into the young man who is now about to take on the most important role of all—being a husband. And I'll be honest, I'm thrilled for him, but I can't help but feel a little sympathy for [Spouse's Name], who's about to spend the next 50+ years listening to his snoring. But in all seriousness, I've seen how deeply they love and respect each other, and I couldn't be happier to welcome [Spouse's Name] into our family.

To my son and his stunning spouse—today marks the beginning of an incredible journey where you never know what's around the corner—but, whatever it is, you'll figure it out as long as you're together (along with the occasional bottle of wine). So, here's to love, laughter and constatnly arguing about what to have for dinner. I'm so proud of you both and can't wait to see the amazing life you'll build together. Cheers!

Emotional Father of the Groom Speech

If you're looking for a father of the groom speech idea that will bring tears to everyone's eyes, this emotional sample could be just the thing you need.

[Couple's Names], while you have loved and cared for one another for a long time, today makes it official: You are now a married couple. I give you all of my congratulations and I hope you feel the outpouring of love and support for the both of you that is in this room today.

[Couple's Names], separately you are two wonderful people, but together, you are even better. You finish each other's sentences and can communicate without saying a word. You know how to make each other laugh and smile, and you know how to comfort each other as well. You are two peas in a pod—there is no question at all that you were always meant to be together. I have so much love and respect for the two of you, for the lengths that you would go to in order to make each other happy. Never lose what you two have because it's priceless. Let us all raise a glass to the wonderful couple, my son [Groom's Name] and his spouse [spouse's name].

It's official! [Couple's Names] are now newlyweds. What does this mean, exactly? Well, for starters, you are family now. You have your parents, siblings and friends, but at the end of the day, you must come first for each other. From this point forward, you will be inseparable. You are not just living side by side—now you will be living as one team, a unit that will make important decisions and meaningful memories together. Remember to be kind to each other. Be patient and understanding. Don't forget to communicate, to laugh and to love each other. Do these things and you will have a great recipe for a happy, long and successful marriage.

As [Groom's Name]'s father, I have always made it a point to let him know how loved and appreciated he is. He knows how much he means to me and how important he is in my life. So I thought that I would take this opportunity to instead sing my praises for my newly coined [daughter-in-law or son-in-law]. [Spouse's Name], you are such a wonderful person, and I'm so glad my son found a partner in you. As of today, you are officially my [daughter/son/child].

Dad as the Best Man Speech

Did your son ask you to stand beside him on his big day? If you're the lead groomsmen of the wedding party, you may want a specific wedding speech for a son from his father who's also the best man. Give this one a whirl!

Good evening, everyone! Thank you so much for being here tonight. I'm honored to be [Groom's Name]'s father—and also his best man. Over the past couple of years, [Groom] has asked me three particularly important questions. The first was about two years ago when [Groom] first introduced us to [Spouse's Name]. He pulled me aside in the kitchen and asked, "Dad, what do you think of [Spouse's Name]? I knew then that things were serious. He'd never asked my opinion on a partner before. So, I looked him in the eye and answered honestly. I patted him on the back and said, "Son, [Spouse's Name] is smart, funny and is clearly crazy about you. They're a good person and they support you. I think you may have found your person.

About a year later, after I had really gotten to know [Spouse's Name] and seen them interact together even more, I knew without a doubt that—as usual—I was right. Then, the day after [Groom's Name] told us he and [Spouse's Name] were engaged, he came up to me in the backyard while I was flipping steaks on the grill and asked, "Dad, will you be my best man?" Let's just say it was the smoke from the grill that caused the tears. From the moment [Groom's Name] was born, he's been my little guy, my best friend. Growing up, we did everything together. Even when he got older, went to school, made friends and eventually fell in love with [Spouse's Name], we always stayed close and made time for each other. Still, I was a little surprised when he asked me to stand up at the altar with him today—and it meant more to me than I can ever put into words.

Speaking of words, the last important question he asked me was in the groom's suite just this morning. I was helping him get ready, tying his tie, when he asked me, "Dad, do you have any advice?" And we all know he wasn't asking for who to pick for his fantasy football league. So, I thought about my own marriage of [X] years. And I could've told him a hundred different things: be patient, always listen, never go to bed angry, communicate. And those are all important, as are a million other things. Instead, I told him what's worked best for me and what I wish someone had told me on my wedding day: laugh every day. When you're happy, when you're sad, when you're arguing, when you're frustrated, when you're surprised—whatever you're feeling. Do your best to make each other laugh whenever you can, from a little giggle to a hearty cackle. It really is the best medicine and the best reward.

To my son and new [daughter-/son-child-in-law], congratulations. I can't wait to see what your future holds.

Father of the Groom Speech Jokes

Need ideas on how to make your father of the groom speech funny? Try some of these jokes on for size.

• "The couple has requested that I don't share any embarrassing stories... so that's it from me. Thanks for listening!"
• "[Groom's Name], I love you so much, and I really hope you'll feel the same about me after you hear my speech."
• "I was trying to figure out the perfect wedding gift for you, and it's this speech."
• "Gosh, what an emotional day it's been. Even the cake is in tiers."
• "The couple actually had a bit of trouble finding someone to make a speech today. They started by asking their funniest friend, and they said no. Then they asked their most charming friend, and they said no. After that, they asked their best-looking friend and, again, they said no. Then they asked me, and after already turning them down three times, I decided I couldn't refuse again."
• "I think we can all agree that it's been a fantastic day. But unfortunately, that ends right here with my speech."
• "Loyal. Kind. Honest. Generous... That's enough about me! I'm here to talk about [son's name]."

Father of the Groom Speech Mistakes

Although you can craft your father of the groom speech any way you'd like, there are a few things you should avoid doing or saying. Check out these father of the groom speech tips below.

• Don't tell embarrassing or hurtful stories about your son.
• Don't make negative or cynical comments about your new child-in-law; Focus only on the positive.
• Don't over-imbibe before delivering your toast. This could derail your speech and cause you to say things you didn't intend to say.
• Don't make inappropriate or off-color jokes. You don't want to offend anyone during your speech.

Additional reporting by Shyla Watson