Eddie-Rice-Author

Perfect question:

A few things:

1. It's a toast, not a roast--too many people forget that
2. The two goals of a toast should be to honor the person and honor the event
3. A simple structure, based around one great story, works really well

Ex:

I. Introduce yourself and tell people how you're related to the person you're toasting

II. Tell one great story that truly honors the person

III. Address the other member of the couple and say a few great things about them

IV. Give some advice to the couple

V. End with "raise your glass...insert a quote...cheers!"

Eulogies are tough. I haven't had the opportunity to write many.

A few guidelines:

1. Find a way to honor the person's life--match your tone with that of the service. Some memorials are somber occasions while others are true celebrations of life.
2. Look to tell stories of a person's life where they can be instructive to others. What life lessons can be passed on to others in attendance?
3. Humor has its place, if you've got a good wit about you and the person you're honoring did some truly funny things, it's OK to lighten the mood with some light hearted stories. This shouldn't be the start of your standup career but a funny story rather than a joke should work depending on the occasion.

Probably one my favorite Office scenes. I can't even rate how amazing this speech was. More of a perfect 5/7.

I would keep it as short as possible. One thing you could do is read a poem instead. Find something appropriate for the occasion, ensure you have the proper permission, and read a poem or prepared text. That should get you out of saying something inappropriate without making a scene.

Here was my journey if it's helpful:

1. I started on elance/guru/Odesk before UpWork came into being. I answered every post imaginable that I thought I could write. This first set of clients became my core group, after each interaction I asked for referrals.
2. I learned SEO and figured out how to rank for longtail keywords or ones not in high demand, like "hire a speechwriter." Yes, this took time and content.
3. I tried cold-pitching various emails of PR firms and others who I thought would need my services--this didn't work too well.
4. While I did do some blogging, I grew my email list instead. I spend more time emailing my list than writing blog posts. I usually get a client or two from each email that I send on a list of about 300-400. You can build an email list by offering a free giveaway to anyone who signs up.
5. While I don't do blogging much on my site, I still did guest posts for other blogs. These were a better use of my time.
6. I'm now going on podcasts to promote my book and services. Podmatch.com is a great place to start.
7. Check out The Freelance Content Marketing Writer by Jennifer Goforth Gregory. It may help you.