Ladies and gentlemen...

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Wedding speeches                   
You’ve been putting this bit of the wedding planning off ever since the engagement was announced (or in the case of many fathers of the bride – since the moment your daughter was born...) You know you’ve got to make a speech but you’re worrying about where to start when it comes to writing it or the thought of standing up in front of all your friends and family fills you with dread...
 
Perhaps you've been asked to give a speech but don't know where to start as you don't follow the usual structure of wedding speech etiquette. Maybe you're the mother or brother of the bride or the 'best woman' or are filling another role that doesn't fit with traditional speech styles. Don't panic - you're not alone as more and more people are choosing to break with conventions and plan a wedding that is truly special to them and that includes memorable speeches from the people who matter most. 
 
Whatever your role or concerns, Ladies and gentlemen can help you prepare without panic and actually enjoy your part of the big day.
 
I can't give your speech for you, but I can write you one that everyone will remember – and one you’ll feel confident delivering.

• How do you know what to write?
There are a few different options for gathering enough information to write a good speech. Either you will be e-mailed or sent a list of key questions – about the people getting married, how you know them, interesting stories etc, or we can discuss it by phone or in person if you prefer. Then I do the writing, based on your answers, the personal information you give me and the required style of speech.

• Will I like it?
I aim to write the speech that you'd want to write for yourself. You can feel free to request a speech style which you’ll feel happy with – be it short and sweet, more serious or heavy on the jokes and humour. Each speech is written with the individual client in mind.

• How much does it cost?
£95 for a short speech (up to five minutes).
 
Speeches over five minutes cost £20 per minute. I normally recommend that wedding speeches should be no longer than five to seven minutes.
 
An additional charge of £25 applies where a speech is required with less than one week's notice.
 
If you have already written your own wedding speech but feel it may benefit from extra advice and editing, this service is also available. Please contact me to discuss your specific requirements.
 

When should I contact you?

Once you decide you would like my help then please contact me to make a booking and discuss your requirements. Some weddings are planned a year or two in advance but it's never to early to be organised, especially if it's something as important as your speech. 


• Can you help me with public speaking, nerves or stage-fright?
Want help with putting your speech across? I offer friendly one-to-one coaching to build your confidence - plus instant feedback on your speaking style, and tips on getting the best reaction from your audience. Please contact me to discuss your needs.
 
Business Services
I can offer specialised services to help your business communications. Including:

• Keynote speeches 'made-to-measure'
When you're speaking at an important conference: you need to make a good impression. I'll write you a memorable speech that you can deliver with confidence.

• Editing and 'polishing'
Written your own speech, but it needs editing and finishing off? I'll tighten your speech up and make sure you are using the right language and style to make your speech one people will remember.

• Presentation skills
You've written a good speech - but are you confident to deliver it? Individual coaching in presentation skills helps build your confidence; plus you'll get instant feedback and useful advice.

• Speechwriting skills
Do you or your employees need to develop speechwriting skills as part of your professional development? I can provide one-to-one or small group sessions, in-house or at a venue of your choice.

• How much does it cost?
Speechwriting and training consultancy rates from £250 per day plus any travel and disbursements.
For example, a 15-minute keynote speech might take around 2 days of consultancy time.

For further details, please email:
Lucy@ladiesandgentlemen.co.uk
 
Who am I?
 

• a freelance speechwriter for major Universities, Colleges and businesses

• a former senior press officer and head of communications with extensive presentation experience
 

• an experienced copy writer, editor and teacher.

and finally...
 
How long does it take?
Speeches can be produced in a couple of days in an emergency but the longer the preparation time, the better.

How do you deliver the finished speech to me?
• by post (recorded delivery)
• or via e-mail 
 
How do I pay?
A 50% deposit is required on booking, the balance payable on delivery. I can accept cash, cheque (UK banks only), Paypal or bank transfer.