Speech by Brian Hollins

Speech Type: Father of the bride/groom
Speech Creator: Brian Hollins
Speech Date: Mar2005
Ladies, Gentlemen and Men In Kilts!

For those of you who don't know me, I'm Brian, Amy's Dad, and I welcome all of you here today to celebrate Amy and Mike's wedding.

When Amy picked Hawaii for her wedding, I was delighted … first, because it's such a great place and second, I thought I was getting off lightly because not many people would come. Wrong!! The turnout has been overwhelming and Rene and I thank all of you for making the trip, in some cases literally from halfway around the globe. We have guests today from nine states, four countries and three continents, including a large contingent from Scotland.

I want first of all to thank our very good friend Geoff for lugging his bagpipes all the way from California and playing for us at the ceremony. What a great way for Amy to be reminded of her Scottish roots. Geoff, we've been told there is no resident piper on the Big Island, so if you ever want to switch careers … Also, a very appreciative thank you for the bridesmaids – what a Bevy of Beauties! – for spending all morning with Amy giving her the support she needed for the big moment. And thank you Emily for reading that wonderful poem at the ceremony.

At this time I want to formally welcome Mike into our family. (Looks at son-in-law…) Mike, we look forward to getting to know you and your family better over the months and years to come. You know, when Amy first told us about Mike we had a feeling he was destined to become someone special in her life. Perhaps because he was her third boyfriend in a row called Mike – surely some kind of sign. What's more, he had an excellent job! That definitely scored points with us!

And what can I say about Amy? Doesn't she look terrific! Some of you know that Rene and I take Italian lessons and we recently came across a very appropriate expression – when an Italian wants to tell a woman “You are looking lovely today”, he says “Oggi tu sei un fiore”. Literally that means “Today you are a flower”.
(Looks at daughter…) Amy, cara… oggi tu sei un fiore.
And if you all knew how much time Amy has spent choosing all of the wonderful flower leis, bouquets and arrangements for today then you'd know just how appropriate that is.

Your mum and I are so proud of you today Amy, You were an absolute delight to bring up and now here you are, married. And we are so happy you've made such a great choice for your life partner. Speaking of which, I'll close with my advice on how to help your marriage become a lifelong partnership. Always show respect for each other and everything else will fall into place. Oh, and Mike, it's a good idea to often use those three little words … “Yes, you're right!”.

And now, would you all please stand, lift up your glasses and join me in a toast to our newlyweds … “May their upcoming trip around the world be but the first step in a long and happy journey together … to Amy and Mike!”.