Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I stop my knees from shaking?

A: I won't tell you that you won't get nervous, because the plain fact is, you probably will. But you should know this: most people do. In fact, if there's no adrenalin, it probably won't be much of a speech. The important thing is to keep it in perspective. Just use these tips, and you'll find that there's nothing to worry about.

Q: How should I prepare?

A: Write a speech to practice as soon as you can. That'll give you more time to hear how it sounds, and adjust it so it sounds like your usual style of speaking rather than your usual style of writing. And, more importantly, it'll make you so familiar with the speech that by the time you stand up, you'll know just what you want to say.

Once you have it written, practice whenever you can - in the car, in the shower. The more you prepare, the more confident you'll be.

Q: When is the best time for speeches?

A: You can have the speeches at any stage you like, but generally, they tend do be most successful before you eat, and after people have had some time to mix and drink.

Q: What else do I need to Know?

A: Be yourself, and speak your mind. This is a chance to say some things that mean a lot to you about people you care about, in front of all your friends and family. That's not a chance people get very often, so make the most of it.