Speech by Colin Boorman

Speech Type: Father of the bride/groom
Speech Creator: Colin Boorman
Speech Date: 09/03/2015 16:21:05

For those of you that don't know me, I am Colin, Shaila's husband and by default the Brother in Law of Manisha. It would appear that I have the dubious pleasure of making the second speech   – although I am sure you are really waiting for the star speakers – the Groom and Best Man, Osborn and Adrian.

Ladies and gentlemen, I'd like to thank all of you for being here today, especially those of you who knew that I'd be making a speech – some people just never learn.

To all our guests, to family, relatives, in-laws, friends, friends of friends, gate crashers and hangers-on – let me extend a warm welcome to Manisha and Osborn's wedding reception celebration. Thank you all for coming. And thanks to everyone who has given their time and effort into helping to make this day such a special occasion.

Some of you might be asking why I am making a speech here, a question I've been asking myself since Manisha first asked me back in April. It is customary for the father to give away the bride, but unfortunately Manisha's father passed away 3 years ago. I know he would have loved to be here and was very proud of his daughter and would be especially proud of how wonderful and happy she is looking today. Perhaps like the rest of us he never thought this day would actually come around. Manisha's father Keshlaval picture is here in the corner with a smile on his face, but also with a look of total disbelief.

I have known Manisha since she was about 12 years old, from the first time she walked past my car whilst I was waiting for Shaila, she looked beautiful and friendly then, and still is to this day. I have seen her grow up, seen her ups and downs, she succeeded in her career and prospered and is able to stand on her own feet. The overwhelming memory is of an open hearted friendly and loving person but someone who needs to learn sussegaad so a choice of a Goan should be perfect. Manisha can be very determined and strong willed and she and I have occasionally had fall outs, that's what happens when two strong willed people come together. The trick is not to let it linger (30 years of being with her sister has taught me something after all). Manisha is not really an ogre but I know she does take lessons! I love her to bits and am so pleased that she has found someone to share the rest of her life with.

Osborn, I have met with many of Manisha's boyfriends in the past but can honestly say that with you she seems very content, happy and dare I say it almost sub-servient.  It won't last. You two will have arguments but the best thing about arguing is the making up afterwards. The best advice I can give you is admit it and give in when you're in the wrong. You also have to remember you're always wrong because that's marriage! The only way to get what you want is to make her think it's her idea in the first place – it works for me anyway! Accept the burnt offerings and offer plenty of humble pie.

Just a few tips for you Osborn don't try to be too clever. In your conversations keep sentences to three words, “I'm sorry”, “I'm wrong” and “I Love you” all work wonders. You can even throw in the odd white lie every now and again “You're right” is one that springs to mind.

Don't try to construct sentences of four or more words – you can quickly get into trouble. “I told you so”, “See, I was right”, “It wasn't me”, “My mum used to..”, “It's not like it was…” are sentences guaranteed to make her blood boil and keep you awake at night wondering where that kitchen knife has disappeared to………..

Remember too that before today holding her hand was a sign of love, from now on it's the first line of self-defence.

I must say that you chose a good date to be married, the 10th is an easy date to remember, so no excuses for forgetting your anniversary. Of course it helps if your Sister in Law reminds you by phone on the 8th.

It has been said that everybody should get married, because nobody deserves to be happy all their lives. I remember thinking after 29 years of marriage to Shaila, that you don't get that long a sentence for murder – so what did I do wrong? Then I looked at her and thought, whatever it was I'm glad I did it.

So you two have to remember that this journey is forever. I hope to see you in 30 years’ time and hope you will be just as happy and as much in love with each other then, as you are today. So Osborn, you are stuck with her for life, make the most of it be happy, and above all else make Manisha happy!

I know that Osborn has chosen well and I believe that Manisha has too and I wish them a long, happy and prosperous future together.

So Ladies and Gentlemen I'd like to ask you to raise your glasses to Manisha & Osborn, Mr & Mrs………