"What Should You Absolutely Avoid Saying in a Friend's Speech or When Asked for a Spontaneous Remark? The Forbidden Topics You Should Know!"

2019.07.15 published

Weddings often include a lot of microphone time!

At weddings, guests frequently have opportunities to give speeches.

For example, you may be asked to give a speech as a friend,

or you might be chosen as an escort during the intermission, or become the winner of a quiz about the couple,

and suddenly be asked to say a few words of congratulations on the spot.

There are instances where the microphone passes around among all attendees.

@nagisa_marry

Be careful not to slip up!

If you suddenly have to give a speech, you might nervously try your best to convey your congratulatory message, but

you need to be careful about what you say in that moment.

Even if you mean well, depending on the content,

you might inadvertently hurt someone’s feelings, create an awkward atmosphere, or be perceived as rude.

Therefore, it's customary for adults to be responsible for their words and to avoid discussing taboo subjects!

Here are some absolute NO-NO topics to avoid speaking about＊

NO-NO Topic ① Money or Alcohol

Stories about past failures involving money or alcohol are always considered NO-GO material at weddings.

For example, tales of debts or drunken mishaps.

Even if these are hilarious anecdotes among friends,

they might raise concerns among the other party's parents or relatives, making them think, "Is there such a past?"

In the first place, stories about money or alcohol tend to be unpleasant for those who are not directly involved,

and it feels awkward, as if you're trying to flaunt your fun and mischievous side.

Instead of trying to get laughs at others' expense,

aim to share stories that uplift the couple＊

NO-NO Topic ② Relationships with the Opposite Sex

Just like money and alcohol, discussing the bride and groom's relationships with the opposite sex is a huge NO-NO.

This is common sense or just basic human decency—after all, who would want stories of past romances brought up at their wedding in front of their bosses and relatives?!

It's enough to make you contemplate cutting ties with someone who shows such a lack of consideration.

No matter the couple’s past, it’s irrelevant!

Since they are getting married, let's completely erase the past and celebrate the present and future together＊

NO-NO Topic ③ Children

"I hope you have a healthy baby soon!"

"Once you have a baby, I’m sure the parents will feel secure."

"Children are said to be the glue that holds a marriage together (meaning couples don't separate even if their relationship falters because they have kids)."

Discussions about children can be risky!

They may be struggling with infertility, or they might not even want children at all.

If the couple is openly expressing their desire for a baby, that’s a different story, but

since this can be a sensitive topic, it’s best to avoid it altogether.

Additionally, even if you know that the bride is pregnant beforehand,

there might still be people who don’t know, and they may plan a surprise announcement, so please be cautious＊

NO-NO Topic ④ Traditional Values

Nowadays, we live in an era where diverse lifestyles are recognized, irrespective of gender, age, or titles＊

"Make sure to be a good wife and keep the home."

"Support your husband who works outside with delicious meals and household chores."

Speaking as if homemaking or wives doing housework is a given may lead others to question your understanding.

Remember that many lifestyles exist in various forms; aim to share wonderful messages that reflect this＊

May you give a wonderful speech＊

When doing a friend's speech at a wedding or when asked to say a few words of congratulations,

I've shared four NO-NO topics to avoid discussing.

Nowadays, there are many topics deemed "inappropriate," and the list can be extensive, but

the key is to focus on the couple in a way that is meaningful to you rather than relying on societal norms or stereotypes.

The most boring thing you can do is to play it too safe and give a generic message

Mix in the wonderful qualities you know about the couple and strive to give a fantastic speech♩

➡ Review the Basics＊Key Points and Examples When Asked to Give a Friend's Speech

➡ Check the list of articles about speeches here＊