I've seen it way too often. There are a few pre-arranged speeches and then the microphone is then opened up to the "floor" so that anyone can add their comments. Most people are not good public speakers. Add to this a few drinks and a lot of emotion and what you get is a bunch of drunk people all trying to say "you guys {sob} make a wonderful couple {sob}" and messing it up - it's really embarrassing for them and you.

That's it ... fluff it out with some other nice stuff to make your speech longer than 20 seconds ... oh, and don't try to be funny by paying out on your new bride (it doesn't work) ... just make sure you say those two things.

If someone close to you wants to make a speech (and you want them to as well) then they and yourselves should know in advance - at least a week in advance. This gives you a chance to know who's speaking and keep the number of speakers to a reasonable level (an hour and a half of speeches is ridiculous BUT COMMON!). It also gives them time to prepare a speech beforehand, few people can ad-lib well enough to get away with not being prepared.

Simple. "I love you." & "You look absolutely gorgeous/beautiful/stunning/sexy/you-get-the-idea".

Talking about how much you love your wife IS NO GOOD without saying the three words "I Love You". Writing a poem that compares her beauty to a sunrise IS NO GOOD unless you also say "You look stunning in that dress" or "You look stunning today!". Please guys, trust me on this one.

Try to get each speaker to agree to limiting their speech to under (say) 5 minutes. 15 to 30 minutes for all the speeches combined is good for everyone - bridal party, guests, videographer etc.

It is not traditional, but I believe bride's speeches are usually the best received. Also, they have the advantage of being able to get away with a short speech. AND, they never forget to say "I love you" and "Gee, doesn't he scrub up OK?" to their groom.