While traditionally it is the groom who speaks on behalf of the couple, these days some couples decide to share the speech duties and, occasionally, the bride might be the one to speak on behalf of the couple.
As with the groom’s speech there are duty boxes to tick in the thank-you department…
Guests for coming…
The in-laws…
The parents…
The wedding party…
Any family member or friend who has contributed to the wedding…
It is not necessary to thank anyone contracted and paid to be part of the day, unless you really hit off with the celebrant. For most caterers, photographers, videographers and musicians it is just another gig… and thanking old Uncle Tom Cobbly and all can diminish the impact on the people you really want to thank…
As with the groom ending the speech saying nice things about his new wife, the bride’s speech can do the same with her new husband… if you decide to have a light-hearted dig at something like his lack of cooking skills or fashion sense, make sure it is balanced by the qualities you admire, respect and love about him.
You could reverse the traditional role of the groom’s toast to the bridesmaids by toasting the Best Man and groomsmen but it is probably tidier just to wish the guests and enjoyable evening.