Wedding vows and speeches

How to write your vows or a wedding toast

1. 1

   Pick your role. Vows, best man, maid of honor, a parent, the officiant or your own. Each has its own template.

2. 2

   Answer a few questions. Your real stories first: how you met them, one moment that says who they are, what you wish them.

3. 3

   Write to a length. Vows run 1 to 2 minutes; a best man or maid of honor toast 3 to 5. The timer shows yours as you type.

4. 4

   Practice out loud. Read it aloud with the timer running. Most people speak more slowly on the day than at their desk.

5. 5

   Print your cue cards. Big type, numbered cards, and your phone as a backup.

Frequently asked questions

Can the couple read my speech?

No. Your speech is yours. The couple sees that you are writing and about how long it runs, never the words, unless you tap Share. You can undo that at any time.

Can my partner read my vows?

No. Each of you sees only how long the other's vows run and whether they are ready, never a word.

How long should a best man toast be?

Three to five minutes. At 130 words a minute with pauses for laughs, that is about 350 to 590 words.

Do I need an account?

No. You can write from the couple's link or this page with no account. Add your email to keep your speech safe and open it on another phone.