Wedding Speeches - The Correct Body Language For Every Wedding Speech

Most people spend all of their time writing the content of their best man speech or father of the bride speech and some almost no time on body language. This is a mistake because up to 65% of all communication is non-verbal!

The success of your wedding speech will in large part depend on your gestures, eye contact and posture. In this article, we will be dealing with body language and offer some tips on how to make your body movement work to your advantage.

Eye contact = Credibility

You want to create an air of honesty and confidence during your speech. Eye contact is crucial. Some speakers look down at their notes and even look down at their shoes. How can you expect an audience to believe in you and your message?

Posture = Confidence

Don’t be a slouch when it comes to posture. Your arms should hang naturally by your sides. Your chest should be pushed out slightly, and your back should be straight. If you roll your shoulders back you will improve your posture naturally.

Gestures = Your Message

Gestures are generally your hand movements. You can open your palm to express openness. You can make a teepee with your hands to express unity. You can make a fist to express a forceful point. It is important that your gestures are consistent with your message.

Avoid Weak Body Language

There are certain no-no’s when it comes to body language. Here are some tips:

1. Hands out of your pocket. Let your arms hang naturally but pretend that your pockets are sewn shut.
2. Rock from side to side. Nervous speakers will shift their body weight from side to side which creates a rocking motion.
3. Don’t grab the lectern as if it is a life raft. Some people hold onto the lectern and use it as a safety net. Let your arms hang naturally.

If you use the above tips you’re body language will create an air about you that is confident and forceful. In addition, the message of your wedding speech will resonate with more members of the audience.

By Alexander Thornton

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