You bought the gift, you picked up a card you liked, and now you’re standing at the kitchen counter with a pen staring at all that blank space. How do you even put that into words? “Congrats” seems too casual and anything else seems too much.
We’ve compiled 25 messages you can use word for word or personalize them to fit your voice and your relationship to the couple. Regardless of whether the couple is your best friend, your boss, etc., there’s something here you can copy down and walk away feeling good about.
The basics of writing great wedding card messages
A great card really isn’t complicated. You congratulate them so they know what you’re celebrating, you wish them something great for the years ahead, and if you can, you add in a line that really means something to them: a memory, an inside joke, something that has stuck with you over the years. It’s that last line that will separate a card they toss from one that will sit in a keepsake box (and their hearts) for years.
Then sign off however you see fit. “Love,” “cheers,” “so happy for you,” and you’re done. You don’t have to be the best writer ever. You just have to mean it!
If you’re simply unable to think of something to write, pick a favorite memory and build the other components of the message around it. Writing the memory first is typically easier than trying to begin with the phrase “Dear…”
For the couple (that you do not know very well)
Here, you want to go with simple, warm and a touch of tradition.
For your best friend
Here you can open up a bit. A friend-card should read similar to how you normally communicate with your best friend, maybe a little emotionally charged and a little full of inside jokes, totally yours.
For a family member
When communicating with a family member (brother, sister, niece, nephew, cousin), tap into the memories you share and welcome the person they’re marrying. You’re celebrating a wedding but also welcoming someone new into your family.
From the Parents
A parent’s card carries more weight than most, so let yourself get a little emotional. This may be one of the cards they keep for years, even forever, so don’t hold back.
For a Coworker or Acquaintance
In order to maintain professionalism while making sure it comes across as friendly and polite, stay a little reserved. While wanting the greeting to be sincere you don’t want it to be too informal.
Humorous wedding card messages
If both partners have a good sense of humor, a light-hearted message will probably be remembered above all other messages. Be sure that any humorous comments are made towards marriage generally and not specifically toward each partner.
Religious or Spiritual Messages
When religion or spirituality plays an important role in the lives of the couple, including a message that acknowledges that fact will be meaningful to them. Try to mirror their beliefs as opposed to your own if you believe differently.
Short & Sweet (when all else fails)
Just because lengthier greetings appear more impressive doesn’t necessarily mean that shorter ones aren’t effective. In cases where the card already includes pre-printed sentiments or you’re not comfortable with expressing yourself through writing, a brief greeting will suffice.
When signing cards from couples and families with multiple people listed, list everyone’s names. If you’re not sure whose name should come first, alphabetical order is a safe, drama-free call.
Don’t say anything like…
There are several items which are better left unspoken within your wedding card message. Avoid mentioning the gift itself or the price associated with the gift, even as a joke. Also avoid giving advice regarding marriage (“the first year is going to be tough!”). And steer clear of referencing exes, or how long it took for them to arrive at this point (“at last!!”).
Also Read:
Wedding Etiquette and Advice
Who Pays for What in a Wedding
Who’s Invited to What Wedding Event?
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