What is the usual order of speeches at a wedding reception?

At a traditional UK wedding reception, the host, often the father of the bride, speaks first to welcome everyone and thank the guests. Then the couple, or one of them, speaks to thank the hosts and the guests, and to share a few personal words. After that, the best person speaks, telling stories and proposing a toast to the couple.

The maid of honour often speaks next, or instead of the best person, and other friends or family may add short speeches. If you have multiple speakers, keep each one to a few minutes. The best person usually has the last word, ending with a toast that everyone can join.

You can change the order to suit your day. Some couples speak first to get it over with, then the host, then the best person. Others let the best person open and the couple close. The important thing is that everyone knows the order beforehand and the microphone works. If you have a humanist or religious ceremony, the speeches are separate from the legal part. For legal details about your ceremony, check with your register office or place of worship.