When most couples picture their wedding film, they think of the walk down the aisle, the first kiss, or the first dance. But time and again, the moments that give your wedding video its emotional heartbeat are the speeches. Whether it’s your father sharing a heartfelt story, your best friend making everyone laugh, or your partner pouring their heart out, speeches bring your story to life.

As a wedding videographer, I can tell you that speeches are one of the most powerful tools in shaping the narrative of your film. They can turn a beautiful highlight reel into something personal, timeless, and unforgettable. Yet too often, speeches are left to chance — hurriedly written the night before or delivered without much thought about how they’ll translate on camera.

That’s why I’ve put together this guide, not just for you as a couple, but also for the VIPs in your life who will be standing up to speak. My goal is to help you create speeches that feel natural in the room and truly shine on film.

Your wedding film is more than just a record of your day—it’s a cinematic keepsake that allows you to relive your most meaningful moments for years to come. And while hiring a professional videographer is key, there are several simple (and completely free) things you can do to elevate your wedding film and make it even more breathtaking.