Speech by Don Whitehead

Speech Type: Father of the bride/groom
Speech Creator: Don Whitehead
Speech Date: oct 2003
Ladies and Gentlemen
As father of the bride, it is my privilege to make a speech but I have to say, making this speech is a bit like being invited to go to bed with the Queen Mother
It's a great honour but it's something you don't look forward to.

I would like to start by saying on behalf of Barbara and myself ,what a pleasure it is to welcome Ann and John, Paul's parents, together with relatives and friends of both families.
Today, we are surrounded by the friends and family who have been important to Becky and Paul during their lives. Some have travelled a long way to be here today and we appreciate their presence.
Others are many many miles away but I am sure they are with us in spirit.

Now I've got strict instructions from my wife and daughter.
Don't tell jokes & keep it short so I don't intend to bore you for too long…

Historically the 28th June has always been a special day .
On this day Henry VIII was born and Queen Victoria was crowned but today is even more special because this is the day our only daughter was married.

We have four children and we are proud of them all and Becky in particular always lit up our lives.
It's just a pity she never learned how to switch the damn lights off.

The first wedding speech I ever gave was in 1962 when I married Becky's mum. I remember clearly what a great feeling being in love gave me.
I used to lie awake all night thinking about something she said. After we married and had four kids I'd usually fall asleep before she finished talking.

Having spent my whole working life in sales ,I have to say it was a bit of a shock to be told I had to give Becky away.
"Sell" I understand but "give away" is not a phrase I normally use .
Of course before you can sell something you have to be able put a value on it and if Barb and I had been able to do that this marriage would not have taken place.
No-one could afford the value we put on our daughter .

I am nervous but just before the wedding the vicar noticed that Becky was a little nervous.

She was told to relax and just remember 3 things: First the aisle, because that is what she had to walk down. Second the altar, because that is where she will make her vows.
Finally, remember that we will all be singing a hymn during the service.
You can imagine John's face when he heard her mumbling
Aisle, Altar, Hymn – Aisle,Altar,Hymn.

Paul, we are delighted to welcome you into our family.
By now, you know what you have let yourself in for but I just want you to know that Barbara and I took to you instantly.
We have found you to be a kind and considerate man who deserves a good wife.
Thank goodness you married Becky before you found one!

Anyway ,thank you all for listening to my ramblings – now all that remains is for me to ask you to join me in a special toast to my beautiful daughter and her new husband

So here's Health and happiness to The Bride and Groom! Becky and Paul