Speech by Daniel Francis

Speech Type: Groom
Speech Creator: Daniel Francis
Speech Date: 17/07/2011 15:52:31

OK, time for me to say a few words.

Don't worry, I've not written much today. Are you sure you won't take her back? Oh, OK.

Firstly, tradition dictates that I thank the parents. So can I please raise a toast to Bob and Rose, for all their help and support in setting this all up. Oh, and thanks Bob for that fantastic speech.

“To Bob and Rose”

Next, I need to thank my own parents, Gillian and Roger, without whom I wouldn't be here. We've had ups and downs over the years, but when it came to it they were there for me and for that I'll always be grateful.

“To Gillian and Roger”

I also need to thank Helen, or Nel as I know her, and Alex, Emma's sister and my brother. They've been fantastic confidants for both Emma and I over the years always being there for both of us.

“To Nel and Alex”

Also, it's the time of year that we remember those who aren't here. We've lost a few loved ones over the years, people I know who would have been here in a heartbeat. I don't need to name them, I just want to say that they're in our thoughts and if it's possible then I'm sure they're all here with us.

That leaves me with just one person left. Mrs. Emma Francis, or Boylie as I've come to know her. We first met, online as a matter of fact, eight years and one week ago. It was in a Chat Room that's actually been closed down now. Emma's name on there was “Soothing Buttery Babe” and somehow we just hit it off. Within a week we'd met in real life. In fact, on that first day I met Nel, Emma's cousin and her Aunt and Uncle. I guess I should have taken that as a sign! Three months later we were engaged, a year after that we were living together. Now here we are.

This week I've been looking through every book from Socrates to Shakespeare, trying to find someone who could put into words the way Emma and I feel about each other. But what I realised is, there are no words for it. And when you have it you trust it, and you believe in it. Take a chance on it. And you're willing to sacrifice anything to keep it no matter what the cost.

Thank-you all for coming today and for sharing this with us.

“To you all”