Speech by Mike Prince

Speech Type: Father of the bride/groom
Speech Creator: Mike Prince
Speech Date: 08/05/2014 15:40:10

I've really been looking forward to this!!

Where's my mother? Oh there she is bless her. Ninety years old, nine children an absolute diamond of a lady. I remember many years ago her telling me that Syrup of Figs was the best laxative. All I can say is that she's obviously never had to do this.

Good afternoon everybody, I'm Mick, Lauren`s father and on behalf of my wife Sue,Chris`s parents, Sandra and Neil, and of course the happy couple Lauren and Chris, can I say what a pleasure it is to welcome the friends and relatives of both families to share this very special day.

Despite my trepidation I have to say that it is a real privilege to be able to stand here and talk about my beautiful daughter Lauren on this her special day. This is also a rare (almost unique) opportunity for me to speak for a full 10 minutes without being interrupted. 

Today would also have been Sue's dad Bill's 93rd birthday were he still with us so perhaps it's also fitting to remember all those who are no longer with us and who we know would have thoroughly enjoyed an occasion such as this. It is nice to think that they are here in spirit and perhaps had a word with the “big fella” upstairs to arrange such lovely weather for us.

It was a very proud moment for me to walk Lauren down the aisle today and officially hand responsibility for her over to Chris. (Good luck with that mate). Have to say though I'm a trifle disappointed to have to GIVE her away. Sue knows all about bargains and I think she would agree you've got one hell of a bargain there mate. Mind you I have gained a cracking son-in-law in Chris so I suppose it has evened itself out somewhat.

 Wonderful occasions such as these don't just happenso it would be remiss of me not to thank everyone involved. It has required a great amount of time, effort and planning and my thanks go to all those who have contributed and played a part in helping to put this together. I know from my own experience the hour after hour that Sue and Lauren have spent sitting at the kitchen table scouring the internet pausing briefly from time to time to shout “Dad come look at this and bring your debit card. I'm just glad that I don't have a credit card any more. It was stolen a few years back. I was going to report it but a statement came in and I realised the thief was spending less than Sue so I let them keep it.

Thanks too must also go to Hollieand the staff here at Upper House for providing such a wonderful venue for our celebrations.

Now what about Lauren? Doesn't she look stunning?

I could talk all day about the many wonderful memories we've shared with Lauren but don't worry I'm not going to. I'm hungry too! In any case Lauren`s asked me earlier not to say anything that would embarrass her so that doesn't leave me much left to say.

It has been said that having a child takes love to a new level and on the 29th August 1985 (and on the 8th September 1990 of course) I realised how true that was. In fact I think it was me who said it.

Since Lauren was born Sue and I have had the pleasure of watching her grow from a bonnie baby, to a precocious drama queen of a child, to a hard working school child and student and finally into the beautiful woman we see today. It's been a fantastic journey.

I may be biased but not only is she a beautiful lady but she is also a lovely person who really values the love and friendship of those around her. Not only that but she is (like me of course) outgoing, sociable and fun to be with.

So when did Chris`s name first crop up. Well three years ago almost to the day we took a short break in a luxury lodge near Gisburn. Lovely place with a hot tub on the decking where my son Joe will tell you don't want to spend 20 minutes soaking away with your mobile phone in your shorts pocket! Anyway young Eden one of the bridesmaids had come with us on this occasion and we became aware that she was showing a lot of interest in the texts Lauren was receiving. Eventually we asked what was going on and Eden told us that Lauren had received a text from someone named Chris who asked if he could be her boyfriend. I asked “What's he like” Lauren said “He's nice” so I said “Say Yes then”. It wasn't as if I was trying to get rid of her or anything it just seemed the obvious answer.

Anyway she was right as Chris is a lovely fellow about whom I can honestly say I have never heard anyone say a bad word. I've liked him since I first met him and it is comforting for us to know that Lauren is in such safe hands with someone who loves her as much as we do. He's has certainly done everything in style too proposing on a horse-drawn carriage in New York's Central Park hence all the references to the Big Apple around the place. When me and Sue got engaged it was in a Chinese Restaurant in Percy Street Hanley (and I don't even like Chinese food!).

I believe it's part of my duty to offer some advice to the newly-weds about how to ensure a long and happy union. Having survived 37 years myself perhaps I am qualified to do so I don't know.` If I have to give Chris any advice it is this. Chris she is carved out of the same rock as Sue so if she asks you to do something she is actually TELLING you to do it and straight away. As you have already discovered I believe saying “after this Flash Gordon film has finished” is not a wise move.

You only really need to remember two phrases which usually sort out any problems quite quickly and effectively. These are:- 

Yes dear you were right or

Yes dear I was wrong

Can't really offer any advice to Lauren because she has had such a good teacher so it would be pointless to try.

Finally I hope you will all enjoy lunch and the rest of the day's celebrations (I know I will now) but before I sit down can I ask you all to join me in a toast to the happy couple. Raise your glasses please to join me in wishing Health and Happiness to the Bride and Groom Lauren and Chris! The new Mr. and Mrs. Mycock!