2torial #0634: Learn2 Serve as Best Man Write a speech Most of the time, the Best Man does best to hold his tongue, stand to the side, and do as he is told. However, he does get his 15 minutes of fame at the wedding reception, when he's expected to deliver a speech that is at once witty, heartfelt and full of hope for the young couple's future. Sounds hard, but following this three-part outline will help ease the pain. And remember, a wedding party is about the most forgiving audience you'll ever have. They'll laugh uproariously at the lamest joke and rush to congratulate you, even if you didn't project your voice beyond the icing on the wedding cake. A) Embarrass the groom Recount an embarrassing anecdote from the groom's past, but one that also manages to endear him to the audience, e.g., the pratfall he took after winning the big race. There are likely to be guests who have never even met the groom, so use this opportunity to let them know a little about his character, why you cherish his friendship, etc. B) Flatter the bride Let everyone in the room know why this particular woman is a perfect match for the groom and why they're destined for a lifetime of marital bliss. You might recount how the couple met; what tactics the groom employed to win her over; or the time he confided to you that he was in love and ready to pop the question. C) Words of hope and gratitude Thank the groom for choosing you as his best man; pay homage to the parents of the bride and/or whoever else made the wedding possible; and end with a rousing toast to the couple's future.   Step 3