As the host of his daughter’s wedding reception, the father of the bride may open the wedding reception after the introductions by

• welcoming the groom’s family into his
• welcoming the guests
• commenting on how lovely the bride looks
• commenting how nice the ceremony was

The father of the bride’s words to his daughter shouldn’t come across as a speech. It should be from the heart, giving

• short anecdotes involving the bride and her father
• some humorous and serious marriage advice tips

Next, the bride’s father should transition into introducing the DJ or band, photographer, and giving any other comments on the reception.

The father of the bride’s 10 minutes in front of his guests should end with a toast to the bride and groom giving wishes for a lifetime of love and happiness.

If the father of the bride is not comfortable giving a speech in front of 100 plus friends and family at the wedding reception, suggest that he write or find a poem that expresses his heartfelt feelings. If he isn’t into searching for poems, ask the bestman or another person who knows both the father and bride well to help find several poems from which the bride’s father can choose.

The following poem is an example of a father of the bride to the bride poem which can be read by the father at the wedding reception. The wedding poem ends with a toast to the bride and groom.

My Loving daughter,
A miracle happened when you came into this world…
A new life was given to me by my baby girl.
As I held you in my protective arms…
You wooed me with your adoring charms.
Responsibility for your life gave me great pause…
It was at that moment I knew what true love was.
Over the years I watched you gracefully grow…
From baby dolls and on to each new beau,
All the while a father protecting you from fears…
And praising you with many adoring cheers.
But most of all, my daughter, we laughed and played…
and, sadly, I wish the years could have been delayed,
For today I had one last loving act to do…
Walking down the aisle beside the lovely you.
Giving my daughter away to her groom…
Surprisingly didn’t give me a sense of gloom,
For there is one thing I am sure of…
Your groom now knows real true love.
May the two of you enjoy that love together…
Just as I have with your mother.

~ Richard Johnson ~