Help with a speech

[JorisBonson]

I am giving a short speech / toast at my very best friends 40th birthday next weekend.

I have a few people to thank which should be easy, but I'm having trouble trying to formulate a speech in my head. I've looked at some templates online but they are going down the "thank you for doing things for me" path, which I'm not keen on - it's not about me!

Need to keep it short and (hopefully) funny with a toast to the birthday girl at the end. I'm not always the most eloquent so struggling.

Any pearls of wisdom?

One way to structure a speech like this is to think of a quality or value your friend possesses. Then think of a couple of funny stories to illustrate it, then conclude.

Eg “Everyone who knows Clare knows how kind she is- always happy to help out someone in need. Unfortunately this has got her into a few scrapes over the years…[funny stories]…Clare, we love you for your kindness, and for [other stuff] and we’re all so happy to be celebrating here with you tonight. [Toast]”