Introducing...

Published on Sunday 19 June 2005 00:39

What do the groom, best man and father-of-the-bride have in common?

All must deliver a speech, a prospect that most find pretty nerve-racking.

Maryanne Johnston helps them prepare for their big moment by offering one-on-one sessions, advising on content, structure and delivery. "My aim is for them to actually enjoy the day, rather than spend it filled with dread," she says.

With the help of a video camera, she suggests when to make eye-contact and insert pauses, and how best to work from notes. "People tend to be very formal when giving a speech, but it's better to come across as yourself, and make it as close to natural conversation as possible."

Emphasising that she doesn't write the speeches, she'll help strike an appropriate tone. "The best man's speech, especially, can be a minefield. Sometimes a joke he thinks is hilarious is better taken out."

This is just part of what Johnston does. After three years in London with a communications consultancy, she moved to Edinburgh last year to start her own firm. Now she has clients as diverse as the Royal Bank of Scotland and Graham Tiso.

But weddings are no less challenging. "It's a different audience, but it's crucial that you get it right. After all, the speeches are what everyone talks about afterwards."

MJ Consulting (0131 466 6051, www.mjohnstonconsulting.co.uk).

• With thanks to Alma Ogilvie