Insight - Strategy - Communication
John Oxley
Social Speeches
The perfect words for any occasion
Big birthdays. Anniversaries. Retirements.
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Whatever your event, I will help you craft the perfect speech and help you deliver it. Whether public speaking comes naturally to you or the very thought of it daunts you, I will ensure that you have the right words and the right preparation.
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If you are celebrating a loved one or sending off a valued colleague, I will help you craft something meaningful and magical.
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Fees start from £250
"I was dreading speaking at my husband’s 50th birthday, but John completely transformed my approach. Not only did he help me craft a speech that was heartfelt and personal, but he also guided me on how to deliver it with confidence. I could never have pulled it off without him."
Charlotte, London
Whether it’s a milestone birthday, a retirement celebration, or a wedding anniversary, a great speech can be the beating heart of a gathering. But knowing what to say and how to say it isn’t always easy. That’s where I can help.
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I work closely with each client to craft bespoke speeches that feel authentic, engaging, and exactly right for the occasion. From your first memories to your in-jokes and most meaningful moments, I’ll take your stories and shape them into something that sounds like you, but at your very best. Every line is tailored, every pause intentional, every laugh (or tear) earned.
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For clients who feel daunted by public speaking, I offer delivery support as well, helping you find your rhythm and present with confidence, even if you’re normally the quiet one. I’ve worked with everyone from seasoned CEOs to first-time speakers, including many clients with dyslexia or neurodiverse communication styles, ensuring they feel comfortable and in control on the day.
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Whether you're raising a glass to a loved one or stepping up for your own special moment, I’ll help you say something that’s not just remembered, but truly felt.
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To learn more about how I can help, get in contact today.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1 / How much does a speechwriter cost?
Fees are determined by the length of the speech and the level of independent research required. Before beginning the process, I will provide you with a bespoke cost. Fees start at £250.
2 / How does the process work?
After your initial enquiry, I will discuss your speechwriting requirements with you. I will then provide a fully costed quotation. We will then have a longer call, for about an hour, to discuss content and tone. This helps me to understand your message, but also how you communicate and your voice. I then produce a first draft of the speech, and make any edits you need until you are happy with it. Finally, I provide a completed draft in whatever form makes things easiest for you - like notecards.
3 / How much notice do you need?
Normally, it takes around two weeks to produce a speech from first meeting to final draft. I also recommend you have the speech ready at least one week before you are due to give it, so that you have time to rehearse. Subject to availability, I do also offer an express speechwriting service for events less than 7 days away. This will incur an extra prioritisation fee.
4 / Can you coach me on how to speak?
Yes! With every speech writing commission, I provide some basic advice and tips on how to give the speech. I also offer specialist coaching on presentation as an additional service. This is charged by the hour, in addition to the speechwriting fee. Again, this will be agreed in advance.
5 / Do we need to meet in person?
All my speechwriting services are "remote first" and we will usually meet via videocall. If you prefer to meet in person, I will do my best to facilitate it. If you are outside of London Zones 1 & 2, this will incur extra charges for travel time and expenses. These can be discussed in full at the outset.
6 / Why hire a speechwriter?
By hiring me, you get more than just words. You get someone who understands your story and your voice. I can take what you want to say and craft it into a structure which is fluid and natural for you. You may think that an online template or AI software can do this for you, but these will only give you generic outputs. With an experienced speechwriter, you get something bespoke for you and your event.