There are a few things that you should really think about when you're writing your speech that can make it a great deal easier to give. And speeches that are easier to give are generally less scary, easier for your audience to listen to, and more effective as well. Here are some quick ideas to making your speech easier to write.

• Start off with a good hook to draw them in. People will be listening to a lot of speeches at a wedding, and you want yours to stand out. The best way to do that is to start by saying something that will catch their attention. This can be in the form of a personal story, or a hypothetical scenario that will make people think, or an anecdote about the couple etc. Anything that shows why you care about the couple or why other people should too will make your audience WANT to listen to what you have to say.

• Once you have made them want to listen, you'll want to make it as easy as possible for them to follow your speech throughout. The most effective way to do this, right after your hook is used, is to map out where your speech will go. For example: If you are planning to make your speech a funny one or sentimental.

• After you've mapped out your speech, all you have to do is follow your speech map. However you are hoping to speak about the couple, be sure not to drift from it. My favorite wedding speeches and toasts are those that offer both humor and sentiment.

Public speaking will probably always be scary to you no matter how many speeches you give or how many techniques that you practice. In a way, that's what makes it so fun, and so important. But with a little bit of practice, anyone can give an effective speech or toast at a wedding that will in time make it a bit easier.