A best man speech should ideally be between 5 and 10 minutes long. The most common recommendation is around 7 to 10 minutes, which usually corresponds to about 1,100 to 1,300 words. This duration allows enough time to include meaningful anecdotes, heartfelt tributes, and moments of humor, while being short enough to keep the audience engaged. Some sources suggest a minimum of about 6 minutes (around 750 words) if a shorter speech is preferred, but anything much shorter might feel insufficient. Speeches longer than 10 minutes tend to lose the audience's attention.
Here is a typical timing breakdown for a best man speech within this duration:
- Introduction: about 45 seconds
- Stories about the groom: 4-5 minutes
- Tribute to the bride or groom’s partner: 1 minute
- Genuine tribute to the groom: 1 minute
- Raise a toast and closing: 45 seconds
This structure helps keep the speech balanced, entertaining, and memorable.
In summary, aiming for about 7 to 10 minutes is best for a quality, well- received best man speech.