After Dinner Speech Tips and Topics
Public Speaking Tips for Meeting, Retirement, and Other Dinners
Aug 3, 2009
An after dinner speech is one that is given after an official gathering of some sort over an evening meal. Typically, these speeches are expected to be light and somewhat humorous, but at the same time, they are expected to make a serious, inspirational, or emotionally moving point related to the event. After dinner speakers are generally expected to speak briefly, since after all, who wants to listen to a long speech after eating a big meal?
An important tip for after dinner speakers is this: know the event, and tailor the speech to fit the expectations and atmosphere of the setting. A speech after a business dinner is likely to be more serious than a wedding rehearsal dinner speech, which is likely to be more sentimental. It's also important to be aware of the audience. A room full of conservative, elderly dinner guests will respond to different humor and stories than will a room full of liberal, younger people.
Here are some common types of after dinner speeches, and some topics that speakers might consider. Keep in mind that the goal of all of these types of speeches is to convey a serious point in a lighthearted, humorous way.
Wedding Rehearsal Dinner Speeches
Wedding rehearsal speeches are typically given by the bride or groom, or perhaps by a member of the family or wedding party. The purpose of this speech is to thank the people who are participating in the wedding for their time and effort, and to show appreciation for the role these people play in the lives of the couple. Since wedding preparation can be stressful, a little (appropriate) humor will lighten the tone.
Speakers might consider including:
- Stories about the role each of the people at the table have played in their lives.
- Stories about any role the people present may have played in introducing the couple.
- Humorous (but light) stories about the stress of wedding planning.
- Specific acknowledgment of tasks performed by individuals for the couple.
- A mention of close relatives and friends who are deceased or who could not attend.
Retirement Dinner Speeches
These speeches honor an individual's career contributions, and are typically given by coworkers who have worked closely with the retiree. With years of work to draw from, the speaker is likely to have access to lots of great stories.
Speakers might consider including:
- Stories of contributions the retiree has made to the company, and how the retiree has changed the company.
- Humorous stories that illustrate the retiree's personality in the workplace.
- An acknowledgment of the role of the retiree's spouse and family.
Award Ceremony Dinner Speeches
These speeches are typically given after a celebratory dinner to honor an award recipient or recipients. Speakers should briefly but clearly describe the nature of the award, and perhaps the award criteria.
Speakers might consider including:
- Stories that illustrate the accomplishments of the recipients.
- Examples that demonstrate how the recipients exemplify the goals and values of the organization giving the award.
- Humorous (but light hearted) jokes that gently make light of the recipients' qualities
- An appreciation of the role of the recipients' spouses and families.
Fundraising Event Speeches
These speeches typically are given after a dinner in which participants have donated money to an organization and are being "rewarded" with dinner. Speeches should reflect the formality of these events, but do not need to be stuffy.
Speakers might consider including:
- Inspirational stories about the good work the organization is doing, and will continue doing thanks to donations.
- Special thanks to major donors, perhaps with stories that illustrate these individuals' contributions and dedication to the organization.
- Lighthearted jokes about leaders who are a part of this organization.
Business Meeting or Conference Dinner Speeches
These meetings are typically given during a work-related meeting where individuals are expected to accomplish tasks and network. These speeches need to be serious enough to convey the importance of getting the necessary work done, but light and humorous enough to relax stressed-out attendants and encourage the building of a collegial atmosphere.
Speakers might consider including:
- A brief run-down of the tasks ahead.
- Inspirational stories about the good that will be done if the work is done well.
- Jokes that gently make light of the kind of work being conducted.
- Inside jokes that will be humorous and relevant to individuals in a particular company or field.
- Special thanks to everyone for all their hard work.
- Lighthearted ribbing of the organization's leadership.
Serious Points with a Light-Hearted Tone
Whatever the situation, successful after dinner speakers find ways to convey important points using a gentle, humorous tone that one might appreciate after eating a large meal. Speakers should assess the situation and the audience, and adapt the basic goal of an after dinner speech accordingly.
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