Every celebrant should read this post from Ted Gioia on his 10 rules for public speaking, and my challenge to you is to integrate at least one, if not all of them, into your next ceremony.
Bangers like this on how everyone listening wants you to win:
I’ve never met anyone who went to an event hoping to be bored and disappointed. The audience really, really wants you to succeed, and if you give them even the slightest chance at having a good time, they will cheer you on.
And this on being a rock star:
So just as you are about to begin your talk, tell yourself: I’m a Rock Star and I Totally Rock! And it’s not a lie—for the next few minutes, that will exactly be what you will experience.
From someone who learnt to public speak at school assemblies- Hallelujah for Ted Gioia! Thank you for bringing this to my attention. 10 tips that everyone needs to absorb in.
Loved this! Lots of great advice and handy tips to practice as a public speaker. I particularly liked ‘Remember That the Audience Always Wants You to Succeed’ and the meaning behind it ‘Just understanding this takes away much of the fear of public speaking.’ Thanks for bringing it to my attention!