How to end a best man speech

Why the ending matters most

Guests forget the middle of most speeches. They remember how it started and how it finished. A strong ending also rescues a wobbly speech: if a joke didn't land earlier, a warm, confident close puts you back on solid ground.

The four beats of a good ending

1. Signal. Let the room know you're nearly done. "Before I finish" or "So, to wrap up" gives people a moment to find their glasses.
2. Turn to the couple. Most of the speech is about the groom. The end should be about both of them.
3. One sincere line. No joke here. Say what you actually hope for them.
4. The toast. Invite everyone to raise a glass, pause, and say both names. Our best man toast guide covers the etiquette, including whether people stand.

Closing lines to adapt

Warm

• "I've watched him become a better man since he met you. I can't wait to see what you two build together."
• "Some people make each other better just by being in the same room. These two are like that."
• "The best thing I can wish you is more of exactly what you've got now."

Light

• "I'll finish the way he finishes every phone call, by suddenly saying goodbye. Please raise your glasses."
• "I was going to finish with some marriage advice, then I remembered I'm not qualified. So here's a toast instead."
• "He's spent years asking me for advice and ignoring it. [Partner's name], I have a feeling he'll listen to you."

Short and simple

• "So please join me in raising your glasses to the happy couple."
• "Ladies and gentlemen, to the newlyweds."

Saying the toast

• Say "please raise your glasses" and wait until most people have.
• Say the names in the order the couple prefer. If in doubt, ask them, or use the order on the invitation.
• Look at the couple, not your notes, for the last line.
• Any drink works for a toast, water included.

What not to do at the end

• Don't end on a joke at the groom's expense. It's the last thing his new in-laws hear.
• Don't add "anyway, that's it". Finish on the names.
• Don't forget to hand back. If there's a host or another speaker, a quick "and now over to..." keeps things moving.
• Don't rush. Nerves speed people up most at the end. Slow down for the final two lines.