Speech by Cherie English
My daughter married on Sunday 29 August. I used your web site to help me put together my speech. It was difficult to do as I was giving her away as her father had passed away 5 years ago. I wanted to talk about her dad, but not bring the occasion down. Many thanks for your help, my speech was very well received, I got some lovely compliments. Fortunately I have only one daughter, so I will not have to repeat this exercise.
We have included third party products to help you navigate and enjoy life’s biggest moments. Purchases made through links on this page may earn us a commission.
Speech Type: Father of the bride/groom
Speech Creator: Cherie English
Speech Date: Sep2004
Good afternoon ladies and gentleman, and welcome to the wedding of Gemma and Steve. Many of you have travelled quite a distance to join them on their special day, and I am sure you will agree it has been very worthwhile.
Firstly, a big thank you to Gemma and Steve, who had very definite ideas on how they wanted today to be – and through their thoughtful planning and tireless efforts have made today a tremendous success for everyone.
Secondly, I would like to thank Steve's parents Belle, Bill and Pete and my husband David, for all the help and support they have given in making today as memorable as possible for Gemma and Steve.
Of course, there are people who aren't with us today, who are greatly missed. Gemma's granddad Eric passed away a few weeks ago after a short illness. Gemma's dad – Trevor who passed away five years ago today would have been the proudest day of his life. I'm sure Trevor is here with us in spirit, sending his love as always to his darling daughter.
About 4 years ago Gemma set off on a great adventure, to travel to Thailand and Australia. She planned to be away for about a year. Although this broke my heart, and part of me wanted her to stay safe at home, I was also very proud of her and admired her spirit of adventure. Gemma has always trodden her own path and I knew that one way or the other life would never be the same again. Little did I know that this was just the start of an even greater adventure, for during this trip Gemma met Steve. They were inseparable and spent the remaining months travelling around Australia and sharing a great adventure together, times I'm sure they will remember for the rest of their lives.
When the visas ran out Gemma returned to Yorkshire and Steve returned to Somerset. Steve came to stay with us for Christmas, and at the end of the holiday it wasn't only Gemma who was sorry to see him go home. Then began many weeks of travelling up and down the motorways – until the goodbyes got too painful, and Steve upped sticks and moved to Yorkshire to be with Gemma.
We are all delighted with the outcome, Steve is attentive, caring, loving, hardworking, intelligent, and one of the most practical people I have ever met. I know that rightly, Belle, Bill and Pete are very proud of him. I am very pleased and proud to welcome him as a son in law.
Gemma you look as lovely as you are, you are a wise, caring and a loving daughter. Your ability to amaze and delight me is endless.
To all of us who know Gemma and Steve, and have spent time in their company, it is clear to see their love for each other, Gemma and Steve may you grow old on one pillow.
It is now my pleasant duty to propose a toast to the happy couple. I know you all join in wishing them a long and happy life together. Ladies and Gentlemen please charge your glasses and join in the toast to the happy couple GEMMA and STEVE.
