Speech by Paul Runnacles

Speech Type: Groom
Speech Creator: Paul Runnacles
Speech Date: Dec2004
I was going to start my speech with ladies and gentlemen, but that's not my style.
So… Distinguished guests, those of lesser distinction, and those of no distinction at all, family, relatives new and old, in-laws and outlaws, friends, friends of friends and Yorkshire men! Welcome to our wedding reception.

Right, that's my speech over, now I'm married I've had the rest written by Lou

For the very first time I'd like to say ‘on behalf of my wife and I’ I would like to thank you for coming to share our special day. Some of you have travelled a long way to be here, especially Auntie Jan, Uncle Graham, Auntie Ann and Cousin John and my good friend Ritchie, and we are delighted everyone could make it. We would also like to thank you all for your cards, kind thoughts and wonderful gifts.

Tradition now dictates that I tell an amusing anecdote about Lou, but self-preservation not to mention Lou herself dictates I don't. So I may not see you all later!
The first time I met Lou was at her house, and she kicked her parents out. If I had known they were down the pub I'd have introduced myself a lot sooner! Anyway, we rented out a video which we planned to watch, but Lou can talk for England (I know now why the phone company loves us)! So if any one has a copy of There's Something About Mary meet me by the bar later and we can discuss a rental fee!!

There are so many thank yous to say, but I would like to start by thanking Lou's mum and dad for welcoming me into your family with open arms, and giving me your blessing to marry your beautiful and caring daughter. I would also like to thank my parents for all their love and advice, and for pointing me in the right direction – even if I didn't follow it (that is after all what sons are for and do best). Thank you to both sets of parents for all you have done towards the wedding; it is greatly appreciated.

GIFTS

My next thank you is to the maid of honour, bridesmaid and pageboy. You all looked fantastic today and were a great help in keeping Lou sane. As for Ollie, if you charm the women as much as you have today you will soon be standing here!

GIFTS

A big thank you to Simon, my best man…well the best I could get to say yes. This morning he even gave me a list of nice wonderful comments to say about him, but it just reinforced my belief he is a compulsive liar and to ignore everything he says about me! Seriously, you have been a great mate for more years than I care to remember and there is no one I would rather have by my side for the wedding.

GIFT

Finally to Lou – my wife, my best friend and the love of my life. You look stunning and blew me away when you walked down the isle today. It confirmed that the best decision I ever made was to ask for your hand in marriage. You enrich my life and make me the happiest man alive, and I hope I can make you half as happy.

Before I finish I would like to read a quote I came across while researching the speech, and will keep with me. Happy marriages begin when we marry the one we love, and blossom when we love the one we married.

I leave you with this thought and await my character assassination
Thank you and enjoy the rest of the day