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Open Mic

Boys and girls, there was no post last week because my best friend got married on Feb. 28th and I was her Matron of Honor.  She's more important than the blog.  I'm sure you understand.

One of the MOH's duties is to make a toast to the bride and groom.  I've heard beautiful toasts and off-the-cuff disasters at weddings, and I wanted mine to be good.  While inspiration will sometimes strike at the right moment, a well thought out speech will never go wrong.  Secretly, also, I wanted the bride to tear up just a teensy bit.  Happy tears!
Before you tell me that this has nothing to do with authorship, I will tell you, authors are talking everywhere, whether on blogs, news programs, radio, YouTube, Cons, signings, or in classrooms.  And they all sound intelligent and well put-together.  Public speaking is part of being an author.  So, for a pre-fab speech, here's what I would consider:

Plan ahead
You won't always have this option, but if you do have twenty minutes to put together a two minute speech, use it.  You won't be sorry.

Focus on why you are standing in front of these people, not yourself
- Consider the audience -
   Jokes that will work with twenty-somethings may only give you crickets with a crowd of retirees, and might not resonate with thirteen-year-olds either.  Plan accordingly, again, if possible.
- Begin with thanks and an introduction -
   Always.  Thank whomever asked you to speak and also the person/entity putting on the event (if they aren't one in the same).  Introduce yourself and state why you are there.
- Anecdotes -
   People like to feel that they have a personal connection, and hearing stories that actually happened is an outstanding way of making that connection in their brains.  Even though they might not have been there at the time of the "incident," they will feel included because you chose to share the story with them.
- Humility -
   It looks good on everyone.  Don't forget to pack some into your speech.  In my case, I tried to make my mention of myself a minimum in my speech because I was not there because of something I did, I was there for the bride and groom.

Humor
Everyone loves a laugh, and you will seem less dry and more approachable if you can fit one in.

Quotes
These are best done when you have some time to find a good one.  If one is included, it is typically at the start and sets the tone and subject for the speech.  I chose to end with one that fit nicely with my toast.  Also, make sure that you know who actually said the quote, as there are some famous ones that are often mis-attributed.

When in doubt, keep it short
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