The bride's father is announced by either the toastmaster or best man to propose a toast of "health and happiness" to the happy couple. Before the toast is made he would normally welcome all the guests at the reception, say a few complimentary words about his daughter and then welcome the groom into his family.

Although groom speeches don’t need to be long, there are several elements a groom should include. As the groom speaks after the bride’s father he should thank him for his speech and the guests for celebrating with you; also give thanks for the gifts you have received. Then on to thank both sets of parents and it is usual to give a small gift to each of the mothers (usually a bouquet of flowers) End with thanks for the best man and toast the bridesmaids.

The best man's speech is the most light-hearted and humorous of the speeches and is usually expected to be the high point of the reception. Always allow more time for this speech as more and more grooms are choosing to have two best men! The best man is often chosen on his ability to make this speech with both humour and integrity. It is also the best man's responsibility to reply to the groom on behalf of the bridesmaids.