How do you start a best man speech?

Begin with a simple introduction. Say your name and how you know the couple. This matters because guests come from different parts of their lives, and not everyone will know who you are. Thank the couple's parents and the guests for coming. You can also thank the venue staff if you wish, though this is optional. Then raise your glass and propose a toast to the couple. This gets the room on your side early and gives you a natural moment to pause. After the toast, you can move into your first story or a light joke. Keep the opening under a minute. Avoid starting with an apology or a long pause. Do not begin with a controversial story or an inside joke that only a few people understand. A clean, warm start means the rest of the speech has room to breathe. If you are nervous, practise the first two sentences until they feel automatic. That way, even if your mind goes blank later, you have already started well. Remember that the couple have asked you to speak because they trust you. Your job is to honour that trust, not to impress everyone with comedy. A kind opening will carry you further than a clever one.