Any good public speakers in the DiS ranks? I've been asked to be a friend's best man next year. Already getting slightly sweaty palmed about the prospect of standing in front of about 300 odd strangers (they've got big families) and delivering a speech.

In normal work situations I'm okay, it's just standing giving a formal speech that gives me the nerves. I've given readings at my sister's wedding and gran's funeral, both of which were fine (apparently), but I'd like to be a lot more relaxed about the whole thing rather than dreading the whole day as a consequence.

Considering going to one of these meeting groups: http://www.toastmasters.org/ - not just for the best man's speech, but to be able to speak publicly in a broader sense. Learn by doing and all that. Anyone been before? Any other tips beyond "get pissed beforehand"?