The big day is approaching at breakneck speed.
There are arrangements to be finalised and a stag do to endure, but all you can think about is your speech. This is your opportunity to thank everyone who helped you and your bride get to this point. However, a good groom's speech contains other important ingredients. Take a deep breath, relax and read our guide to becoming a consummate crowd-pleaser.
Then all you have to do is stand and deliver...

1. 

   Perfect timing

   Give yourself a time limit and stick to it. Seven minutes is plenty. If you're writing your speech out in full, think of it as 1,000 words.

2. 

   Set the tone

   Traditionally, the tone of a bridegroom's speech falls somewhere in the middle of that of the father-in-law and the best man.

   Strike a balance between entertaining your audience and expressing your thanks to everyone who helped you and your bride prepare for the big day.

3. 

   Break the ice

   An opening joke will catch people's attention, create a relaxed atmosphere and – most importantly – help calm your nerves. This is a family occasion, so keep it clean and avoid in-jokes, which may fall flat - try to appeal to everyone's sense of humour instead.

4. 

   Give thanks

   Here's where a few written notes will come in handy for even the most confident of speakers, so no one is forgotten.

   Tradition has it that the bride's father is the first to receive your gratitude, for his kind words and for giving his daughter away. This is also a good point to thank the mother of the bride. Reassure them that you will look after their daughter and are excited about joining their family.

   Next in line are those who helped finance the wedding, then your parents, who deserve a special mention for their years of support. Thank your guests for coming and for their (you hope) generous gifts. It's polite to acknowledge your minister or registrar before you come to your best man, attendants, bridesmaids and anyone else who deserves recognition for their help.

5. 

   Describe the day

   Tell everyone what a wonderful time you've had. It's inevitable that you won't be able to chat with all your friends and family in person at your reception, so leave some room in your speech to let them know what kind of an experience your wedding has been. Ad-lib about the day's little dramas.

6. 

   Talk to her

   Compliment your bride. Find the romantic within you and tell your friends and family what it is you love about her.

7. 

   Tell a story

   Explain how you first met and give your guests an insight into how your relationship developed. What makes you such a good match and why did you decide to get married? If it all gets too emotional, a gentle joke about your bride will lighten the mood.

8. 

   Time for a toast

   Now you're almost on the home straight, it's safe to start drinking: propose a toast to your attendants, parents and, of course, your wife. Finally, hand over to your best man for his speech and prepare for a verbal pummelling.