Aim for a funny opening and move towards an emotional closure.

Do you remember that speech you gave at the office? Of course you do. And it was terrible. You had no control over your sweaty hands, which shook your notes like autumn leaves. Your mouth felt like one of those remote deserts where rain is a once in a millennium occurrence. And apart from the dozing dozen sitting in the front row, you’re sure that the other delegates were either fumbling with their mobile phone or not understanding anything you were saying.

But once the presentation was over, that was it: everyone went back to their office and forgot all about you. Which was just great.

Giving a best man’s speech can be similarly daunting. The only difference is that, by virtue of being the groom’s best friend, no one will forget about you. And if you fumble your lines, the couple – and all their guests – will remember you till death do them part. They will probably even blame you for any marriage mishaps.

Your best preparation for the big day is to sit down for a long afternoon in the company of films with best man speeches. You will learn two very important things about giving a best man’s speech. The first is to always keep your emotions in control: laughing or crying too much will spoil the fun. Rather, you should aim for a funny opening and move towards an emotional closure.

And secondly, keep the jokes decent and not too personal. The whole point of a speech is that most of the audience will get it – if only you and the groom can understand the jokey references, you might as well whisper in his ear.