No formal speeches?

Hey. Just double check with them that they don't want to give a speech, you never know that might want to really do it even if they are scared. You could get them to some readings if you really wanted to have something. But honestly you could skip speeches, It's what 15/20mins in total? It goes by so fast

You don't need anything to replace them if you choose not to have them - though I agree with PP that it would be good to double-check. Mostly speeches happen at the end of the meal when people are chatting, so skipping them just gives folk extra time to mingle.

Hi Danielle,

You're absolutely right, there's no need to stick to the traditional route of formal speeches if it doesn't feel right for your wedding party. A wonderful alternative could be something like the "Mr and Mrs Quiz."

This light-hearted game can bring a ton of fun and laughter without the stress of public speaking. Someone from your circle could prepare a list of playful questions such as who's more bossy, who's the better cook, who's more likely to shed a tear during a movie, etc.

This way, you're not just filling the time but also creating an engaging and enjoyable experience for everyone. Remember, the key is to make the day memorable and comfortable for all, and this could be a great way to achieve that!

Photo attached is from my wife's recent wedding where they did this.

View quoted message Gorgeous photos! Congratulations to you both

We didn’t have speeches because my husband hates public speaking and no one else wanted to do one when I gave them the choice haha! They weren’t missed at all! We got married at 3pm which is obviously later than some, but I still don’t think speeches fill that much time anyway and most people don’t want to spend an hour on them lol xx

I once had a wedding where instead of formal speeches by the usual suspects, it was put out to the room and there were so may people who wanted to stand up and say something it went on longer than the usual formal speeches !

Quite often I see that when a groom is not keen you can do a combined Bride and groom speech although its actually more of a list of thank you's than a speech.

Another thing that happens a lot is that couples opt for the speeches to be done before the meal so that those that are not comfortable can then enjoy their food. This also is a good way of keeping them short as you don't want to keep guests waiting longer for their food.

Me and my partner are also thinking this too so you’re not alone in this.
I’m not expecting anyone to do a speech and that’s okay with me and my partner

I recently went to a wedding where they made a video of multiple short speeches which was brilliant!

You could get your guests to record speeches and play it on the day. I want to do something like this as well as I only want a small lunch get to together adding wedding ceremony x

Thank you everyone for such great suggestions and support with this! Feeling much more confident doing something different ❤️