The ideal length for a wedding toast is under 3 minutes.
The human attention span at a wedding reception—especially when alcohol has been served and dinner is on the tables—is exactly three minutes. If a speech hits the 4-minute mark, the crowd will start looking at their phones. If it hits 6 minutes, people will start going to the restroom.
Pro Tips for a Great Speech:
1. The Structure: Say who you are, tell a brief funny story, explain how they changed when they met their partner, and offer a heartfelt wish for their future.
2. Hold the mic correctly: Hold it horizontally, pointing directly at your mouth. Rest your thumb on your chin to keep it steady. Never drop your hand to your chest.
3. Wait for the laughs: If you deliver a punchline, stop talking. Wait for the laughter to peak and begin to fade before starting your next sentence.
4. Don't tap the mic: When the DJ hands you the microphone, it is live. Tapping it or blowing into it will send a deafening pop through the subwoofer system.