Weddings, celebrations and spring shenanigans with Mullingar Toastmasters
Members of Toastmasters International have found themselves seeking confidence in public speaking for many different reasons – a milestone or lifetime event that might prompt them to join could be something like being involved in a wedding, being father of the bride, mother of the groom, the groom, maid of honour or best man. One long term member, Patsy Fagan, recently had the honour of giving a father of the bride speech at Tara’s wedding, and he decided to test it on his club mates before the big day, so, March 27, Patsy’s speech reminded them why father of the bride speeches are special; they capture a lifetime of love in a few heartfelt minutes.
John Coyne also reminisced on his own experiences, having delivered two such speeches. His suggestions are: welcome guests, especially those who have travelled a distance to attend; acknowledge the priest or celebrant; include some sentimental facts about your daughter, and examples of how much she means to you and your family; give a warm welcome to your daughter’s new spouse and show how happy you are that they are joining your family; include an acknowledgement to your own spouse.
Mary Frances Cox delivered a compelling speech making body movement her focal point, as she took centre stage and captivated everyone’s attention. Niamh Tubridy’s speech which was accompanied by a PowerPoint presentation illustrating ‘the fine line between love and hate’. Tony Viney’s Table Topics had everyone debating the secret to a happy marriage – no consensus was reached but there was plenty of good advice.
At the April 10 meeting, all ‘sprung’ into action with a lovely, light-hearted evening hosted by Mary Frances Cox, taking the lead as Toastmaster for the first time; she was brilliant. Pauline McCabe delivered an ice-breaker speech for a new educational pathway that she has commenced, about taking a ‘leap of faith’ and ‘feeling the fear, but doing it anyway’. Derek Walsh examined leadership skills and his own experience as a leader in his speech. Brian McLoughlin gave his competition winning speech ‘Sweet Alice’ an airing. The only thing that didn’t have some sort of palindrome or play on words was the title of the speech. Jeff Schwartz had the audience jubilant with his ‘would you rather’ style topics.
Do you have an upcoming speech or presentation that you have to give? Mullingar Toastmasters might help you beat the nerves and help you build confidence in public speaking. Mullingar Toastmasters meet on the second and fourth Thursdays of the month and guests are always welcome.
The next meeting is on April 24 at the Greville Arms Hotel, Mullingar (8-10pm). Contact the club on Facebook or mullingartoastmasters@gmail.com if you would like to find out more.