Speech

My name is Michael Bayouth and I am the father of the groom. I would like to start off by saying on behalf of the brides parents Maureen & Jim and Taylor’s mother, Karen and myself, I’d like to give a warm welcome to all the relatives and friends who have joined us here on the East coast to celebrate Beth & Taylor’s wedding. I know that many of you have traveled long distances to be here. Thank you all for coming to help celebrate their special day and thanks to Karen for organizing this rehearsal dinner or booze-cruise as I’d like to call it. As I look around this boat I realize how many friends Beth & Taylor have and I hope that you all have a great evening. 

Today, I must admit that I am the proudest Dad in the world.  Taylor, good job! 

I think that you will all agree that Beth is stunning.  Karen, and I and his stepmother, Jan are all very proud of how he has grown up and we are delighted that he has found someone who he obviously loves and cares for very much for.  I wrote a letter to Taylor on the day he was born.  I had thought that I’d probably read it on a day like this but he lost it.  And no, I didn’t make a copy of it.  But he grew up always going for what he wanted in life.  Whether it be a certain salary he thought he deserved a job or in this case - Beth.  For example, once we were vacationing at the beach and a large, beautiful yacht was anchored just off shore.  It appeared that no one was on it so I told him that the maritime laws state that any vessel unmanned can be claimed as salvage.  The next thing I knew Taylor was swimming out to the yacht with his buddy and boarded it.  No fear just intention.  Needless to say this didn’t go over well with the owners who were sunbathing next to us on the beach.  I had some tall explaining to do.

The point I’m trying to make here is that Taylor always has gone for what he wants.  He’s not shy.  So, Beth, considered yourself boarded. 

I am probably not the best person to give advice on marriage but I do know that in a marriage there comes a time when you stop painting the town and start painting walls and ceilings.

You must choose the right partner for the right reason and I think that they both have done this.  Marriage is the meeting of two minds, of two hearts and of two souls. It is clear that Beth & Taylor are a perfect example of this. Anyway Beth & Taylor do not need my advice.  (Raise glass)  A toast.

May they be blessed with happiness that grows and with love that lasts and have a peaceful life together. I wish them enjoyment for today, the fulfillment of all their hopes and dreams for tomorrow and love and happiness always.