Writing your wedding thank you speech might feel like a big deal – but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re planning to say a few heartfelt words after dinner or want to close the night with a toast, this is your chance to share a little love with the people who made your big day unforgettable.
Let’s take the pressure off. Here’s how to write a short, meaningful thank you speech (with real examples to help you get started).
Photo Credit: Ariana & Alex
Start with a Warm Hello
Set the tone with something casual and sincere. A simple “Hi everyone, thank you so much for being here” goes a long way. You don’t need to be poetic – just be yourself.
“Hi everyone! It’s hard to put into words how much it means to see all of your faces here tonight. We’re beyond grateful.”
Thank Your VIPs First
Mention those closest to you – parents, wedding party, siblings, or chosen family. If someone went above and beyond (like your aunt who baked 200 cupcakes), now’s the time to say so.
“To our parents – thank you for your love, support, and occasional wedding planning interventions. We truly couldn’t have done this without you.”
Thank Your Guests
Even if you don’t name everyone individually, acknowledging your guests is a must. Include a special nod to anyone who travelled far, helped with setup, or braved the weather.
“To all our friends and family who came from near and far – even those who dealt with cancelled flights or icy roads – we’re so thankful to share this day with you.”
Add a Personal Touch
This could be a funny behind-the-scenes moment, a touching memory, or something simple that made the day extra meaningful.
“We’ll never forget finalising our seating chart by candlelight during a power outage. If that’s not marriage training, I don’t know what is.”
Wrap It Up with Gratitude or a Toast
Close with a final thank you and, if you like, a toast to love, the future, or simply the people around you.
“Thank you for helping make this the best day of our lives. We’re so lucky to have you in our corner. Let’s raise a glass to love, laughter, and a lifetime of memories. Cheers!”
You May Also Be Interested In
The Ultimate Guide for Bride and Groom Entrance Songs
Average Catering Cost for Weddings in Toronto & the GTA
Top 10 Birthday Party Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Wedding Thank You Speech Outline
If you’re feeling stuck, here’s a simple format to guide you:
- Greeting: “Hi everyone! Thank you so much for joining us today.”
- Thank your family: “To our parents and families, we’re so grateful for your support, love, and encouragement.”
- Thank your wedding party: “To our wedding party – thank you for saying ‘yes’ to every idea and being there every step of the way.”
- Thank your guests: “To all of our guests – thank you for being here. Your presence means the world to us.”
- Personal touch: “We’ll always remember [insert a memory here, like dancing under the stars or a chaotic dress fitting].”
- Closing: “Here’s to the best day ever – and even better days ahead. Cheers!”
Photo Credit: Toronto Wedding Studios
How Long Should a Wedding Thank You Speech Be?
Aim for 2 to 5 minutes. That’s long enough to be meaningful, but short enough to keep everyone’s attention. Focus on quality over quantity – one or two thoughtful sentences go further than a long list of names.
Tip: write down a few key notes, practise once or twice, then let yourself speak naturally. Nobody expects a TED Talk.
Photo Credit: Jessilynn Wong Photography
Wedding Thank You Speech Examples
Short & Sweet
“Hi everyone! We just want to say how grateful we are that you’re here today. To our families and friends—thank you for the love, the support, and the laughter. To everyone who helped bring this day together—thank you for making it unforgettable. We love you all. Cheers!”
Sentimental & Emotional
“Tonight feels like a dream. To our parents—your love and guidance have shaped us in every way. To our friends—you’re our chosen family. Thank you for standing by us through the planning chaos, for every late-night pep talk, and for reminding us what this day is really about. We are truly blessed.”
Funny & Real
“Thank you all for coming—even if it was mostly for the open bar. To our wedding party: you survived group chats, outfit fittings, and a million last-minute details. We owe you big time. And to everyone still here after our first dance remix—thank you for staying. Let’s party!”
Final Tips for a Great Speech
- Be yourself – sincerity matters more than perfection
- Keep it brief and meaningful
- Practise, but don’t over-rehearse
- Speak slowly and clearly
- Smile and enjoy the moment
Remember: your guests are already on your side. Speak from the heart, and you can’t go wrong.
Photo Credit: Mango Studios
Your wedding thank you speech doesn’t need to be perfect – it just needs to come from the heart. Whether you keep it short and sweet or add a few personal touches, your words will mean the world to the people who shared your big day. Keep it real, speak with love, and you’ll create a moment everyone remembers.
Have a speech tip or story to share? Drop it in the comments – we’d love to hear it!
