Although the details of wedding celebrations vary from one culture to another, the overall basic form is actually pretty consistent – and many modern wedding traditions go back a long ways in history.

Western culture derives primarily from two very male-oriented, patriarchal traditions – that of the Middle East and the Hellenistic societies of ancient Greece and Rome. Therefore, it should not be surprising that wedding speeches from the earliest times were made by the patriarchs – the fathers of the bride and groom. (Keep in mind that in those days and places, marriage was more likely a business transaction or a political alliance than a love match.)

Often, these wedding speeches consisted of a short blessing or invocation of the gods. In the more matriarchal cultures of Celtic Europe, it was actually traditional for the mother of the bride to offer the blessings and the toasts. This tradition was preserved when the Celts began to embrace Christianity between the

In modern-day North America, we tend to be a lot less formal. Although it is usually the best man who offers the first speech, it is pretty much acceptable for any member of the wedding party to do so these days.

Now, since this is expected of a best man, he can usually prepare ahead of time. However, what if you are called upon unexpectedly to give a speech at a wedding? After all, public speaking is very difficult for most of us.

Remember that you are among friends. Keep it short and sweet - speak simply, speak honestly, and speak from the heart. After all, isn't that what the wedding day is all about?