They make a living supplying jokes to Have I Got News for You and Mock the Week. Now, comedy writers are topping up their earnings by scripting gags for wedding speeches.
Heidi Ellert-McDermott, a former producer on BBC programs including The One Show, has built a business that matches writers with people desperate for inspiration before their big day. Launched seven years ago, Speechy has been endorsed by the actress Drew Barrymore and counts unnamed celebrities among his clients.
Ellert-McDermott’s pitch is simple: people spend thousands of pounds on venues, cakes and dresses, so why not splash out on the speech? She describes her roster of seven writers as a “secret weapon” for best men, brides, grooms and fathers of the bride. for