April 05, 2021
What to Write in a Wedding Card: 113 Ways to Congratulate Newly Weds
Are you not sure what to say in a wedding card? If your son or daughter or even your closest friend is finally tying the knot, putting together a heartfelt and warm message can be tricky as emotions tend to run high during these special occasions.
To find inspiration, we’ve put together a collection of sentimental and touching messages to include in your wedding card for different scenarios, plus some printable ones to make your job easier. Once you’ve put together the perfect card, be sure to pair your message with beautiful wedding flowers to congratulate the happy couple.
Wedding Card Etiquette: Do’s and Don’ts
Traditionally, wedding cards are gifted at the wedding reception as you wish the couple well. However, if you’re not able to make it to the ceremony, make sure to mail out your wedding card as close as possible to the date. As a general rule, wedding card wishes should be genuine, warm and personalized to the couple tying the knot. The format of a wedding card message could follow the order below:
1. Note of congratulations
2. Warm wishes for their marriage
3. Personal message, anecdote, joke or marriage advice (depending on your relationship to the couple)
4. Message of appreciation and thanks for letting you share their special day
5. Loving sign off
Additionally, here are a few general do’s and don’ts to keep in mind.
Do’s
These simple wedding etiquette card tips will ensure you put your best foot forward on the special day:
Plan ahead: If you’re not sure what to include in your wedding card, make sure to give yourself plenty of time before the event to find the right words to say. That way you’ll have the perfect message ready and card to pair with it.
Address it to both parties Since the wedding card will be read by both parties, make sure to address your message to them as a pair to ensure they both feel included.
Speak from the heart: Your friends or family members will keep this card as a memento from their wedding. Make sure to speak from the heart and have fun with it!
Send along with flowers: To add a special sweet touch to your card, send along another addition. For example, this is a great opportunity to include a thoughtful bouquet of seasonal wedding flowers.
Don’ts
Here are some wedding card faux pas to avoid when writing a note for the married couple-to-be:
Spell names wrong: Maybe you don’t know the bride or groom well, but make sure all names are spelled correctly in your card — this is the first thing the recipient will notice and could make for an awkward moment on their special day.
Write too much: When coming up with what to say in a wedding card, don’t write a novel. This is the best opportunity to keep things short and sweet. However, if you do have a lot to say, save it for a personal letter.
Avoid cheeky language: Save the inside jokes for another time. Wedding cards are often read by the family as well, so it’s best to keep it clean for the special day.
Formal Wedding Card Messages
If you don’t have a close tie to the bride or groom, it’s best to choose a more formal message for your wedding card. The below messages are timeless, sincere, and a classic reminder of the romance between the newly married couple.
1. “Wishing you happiness, love, and joy on your wedding day.”
2. “Today is the beginning of your next chapter. Here’s to you!”
3. “May the years ahead be filled with love and joy.”
4. “May your love grow stronger each and every passing year.”
5. “Thank you for letting us share in your special day. We wish you all the happiness in the world.”
6. “Here’s to a lifetime full of happiness and love.”
7. “Wishing you well as you embark on this next chapter of life. Cheers!”
8. “May today mark the first of the rest of your life, filled with love and fellowship.”
9. “Here’s to a long, happy life with the one you love. Wishing you the best.”
10. “May the love and happiness you feel today shine through the years.”
11. “When you two are knotted as one, both families and friends share in the oneness of their marital union; may this marriage be a bridge to usher happiness, peace and prosperity.”
12. “Thank you for letting me share in this joyful day. I wish you all the best as you embark on this wonderful union.”
13. “As you step into a new life as new couples, you become a treasure to our community and the world.”
Casual Wedding Messages
If the wedding is in a less traditional setting or you just don’t feel comfortable with formal wedding sayings, go for a casual message for your card. Short and sweet is always fine, as long as you’re saying something nice or including a wish for the couple’s future. These casual wedding messages are also great for couples who are eloping or are not sticking with the formal wedding traditions.
1. “So honored to spend this happy occasion with you and your family.”
2. “Wishing you the best today and beyond.”
3. “Start your next chapter in style—with this little something!” (Attached to a gift.)
4. “Well wishes!”
5. “Congratulations!”
6. “Here’s to a long and happy marriage!”
7. “Wishing you all of the love and happiness!”
8. “We’re so happy for you!”
9. “I’m seeing a fun-filled life in your future. Congratulations!”
10. “So happy to celebrate this day with you both!”
11. “Best wishes for a fun-filled future together.”
12. “Wishing you the fulfillment of every dream!”
Funny Wedding Quotes
Weddings don’t always have to be a serious affair. Including a funny message in your card to the newlyweds can be appropriate depending on your relationship with them — they’re especially great if they have a great sense of humor. These funny messages will be sure to stand out amongst other wedding cards and are perfect for a laid-back couple.
1. “As Bill and Ted said, ‘Be excellent to each other.’” — Bill S. Preston
2. “Getting married is like going to drama school. May there be more comedy than melodrama.”
3. “Marriage is so beautiful. You have finally found that one person you get to annoy all through your life.”
4. “Today I realized that life is not fair for single people like me. Until now I had to buy you a gift only once a year on your birthday. Now I have two birthdays plus a wedding anniversary to buy gifts for. Congratulations to my best friend on tying the knot.”
5. “I’ll tell you the secret of a happy marriage. It remains…a secret to all! Wishing you all the best of times ahead.”
6. “On your wedding day today, you have now become two from one. Does that mean I will get two birthday gifts from you both every year?”
7. “Thanks for inviting us to eat and drink while you get married. Congrats!”
8. “Our marriage advice: love, honor and…scrub the toilet.”
9. “Thanks for the free booze. Best wishes on a long, happy marriage.”
10. “Marriage marks the end of a love story and the start of a wrestling match. Wishing you the very best of everything anyway.”
Religious Wedding Wishes
Including religious messages in your card lets the newlyweds know that you’re asking for God’s blessings for their marriage and that you’re thinking of them. If you decide to include religious messages in your wedding card, be sure to be mindful and respect that the couples’ beliefs may differ from yours. Additionally, pair these sentiments with their favorite wedding flowers.
1. “May the One who brought you together bless your marriage, enrich your lives and deepen your love throughout the years.”
2. “‘God has poured out his love into our hearts.’ Romans 5:5”
3. “‘Love is patient. Love is kind…Love never fails.’ 1 Corinthians 13:4-13”
4. “Your marriage will be strong because the two of you are strong in your faith.”
5. “May God’s love be the glue that holds your marriage together.”
6. “We pray that God will bless your marriage and guide you in your new journey together.”
7. “May God bless you and your union.”
8. “May God grant you all of life’s blessings and love’s joys.”
9. “Love God first and it will be easier to love your spouse second.”
10. “We are looking forward to finding out what God has planned for you two.”
11. “May God bless your union.”
12. “May you always experience the power of prayer.”
13. “Sending you love and prayers for a happy, God-ruled life together.”
14. “May you always find peace and love in God’s word.”
15. “As you start your future together, may you find support in God’s holy words.”
Family Wedding Quotes
If you’re celebrating the wedding of a close family member, include a message that’s more personal in your wedding card. This is a great chance to welcome their new partner into your family. Personalize your touching card with these sentimental family wedding quotes and sayings — you can even include some I love you quotes!
1. “Welcome to the family, (Name)! We couldn’t be happier to have you join our crazy tribe.”
2. “Congratulations you two — we’re overjoyed to call you both family.”
3. “Congratulations on your marriage, and welcome to the family (Name)!”
4. “Congratulations on your wedding day! (Name), we couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome you to our family.”
5. “Huge congrats on your wedding day! (Name), we’re so happy you’ve found the one.”
6. “Congratulations, you two. We couldn’t be happier with our new addition to the family.”
7. “We’re/I’m so happy to welcome a new family member. Best wishes to you both!”
8. “We’re/I’m so happy (name) has found ‘the one.’ Welcome to the family!”
9. “We’re/I’m so happy to welcome a new family member. Best wishes to you both!”
10. “We’re/I’m so happy (name) has found ‘the one.’ Welcome to the family!”
Wedding Wishes for Friends
Your best friend is getting married! To celebrate this special day in your friends’ life, be sure to include a sweet sentiment in their card. Wish them well and send congratulations to them on their new journey with their beloved.
1. “We’re so thrilled to celebrate this wonderful day with you both.”
2. “Of all the big life events we’ve celebrated over the years, today tops the list.”
3. “The fortune-teller we saw in Vegas was right. You did meet the man/woman of your dreams. Best wishes to you both.”
4. “Here’s to love and friendship.”
5. “We all need somebody to love, care about and trust. I’m really happy that my best friend has found this special person. Congratulations on your wedding and may your life together be a continuous honeymoon.”
6. “We’ve been friends since childhood and who would have thought that we all would be married one day. But it happened and today is your marriage! Wish you two trust and understanding, patience and love.”
7. “I’m so happy to call you both my friends.”
8. “May you bring each other as much happiness as your friendship has brought to my life–and more!”
9. “We’ve had so many laughs together! May you always make each other laugh!”
10. “Here’s to love and friendship!”
11. “You’ve always been the luckiest guy on the planet! I’m so happy that you found someone you want to spend your life with. I will always be there for both of you in case you need anything. Congratulations on your wedding!”
12. “The way you look at each other gives me chills. I love everything about your relationship, and I’m so glad that you decided to make it official. I will always be there to help you if you need me. Congratulations on your wedding!”
Family Wedding Quotes
If you’re celebrating the wedding of a close family member, include a message that’s more personal in your wedding card. This is a great chance to welcome their new partner into your family. Personalize your touching card with these sentimental family wedding quotes and sayings — you can even include some I love you quotes!
1. “Welcome to the family, (Name)! We couldn’t be happier to have you join our crazy tribe.”
2. “Congratulations guys – we’re overjoyed to call you both family.”
3. “Congratulations on your marriage, and welcome to the family (Name)!”
4. “Congratulations on your wedding day! (Name), we couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome you to our family.”
5. “Huge congrats on your wedding day! (Name), we’re so happy you’ve found the one.”
6. “Congratulations, you two. We couldn’t be happier with our new addition to the family.”
7. “We’re/I’m so happy to welcome a new family member. Best wishes to you both!”
8. “We’re/I’m so happy (name) has found ‘the one.’ Welcome to the family!”
9. “We’re/I’m so happy to welcome a new family member. Best wishes to you both!”
10. “We’re/I’m so happy (name) has found ‘the one.’ Welcome to the family!”
Wedding Wishes for Son or Daughter
When your daughter or son gets married, it’s a big reason to celebrate. Thinking of what to say in a wedding card to them might be difficult because of the emotions that come with watching your child become part of another family. Whether your daughter, son, daughter-in-law or son-in-law are getting married, these sayings will be sure to inspire you.
Wedding Quotes For Daughters
1. “I have never seen you look as beautiful as you do in a wedding dress. There is something angelic about my sweet daughter all grown up. You’ve got touches of your mother in you, but you’ve always had my smile. Wishing you many wonderful future adventures and memories with your new partner. I love you.”
2. “The first date you went on, we worried about our little girl. You’ve matured into a fine young lady that can take care of herself. It’s no longer our job to worry now that you’ve taken a great husband. Be wonderful to one another, and don’t forget to do the little things.”
3. “The day you announce your engagement, I thought your dad was going to have a stroke. You have to forgive him for being so quick to assume the worst. Your new husband has found a place in our hearts like a son of our own. Love one another as best you can with every single day that the sun rises.”
4. “Daughter, we feel many emotions on this day. Most of all, I’m/we’re happy you’ve found someone wonderful to share your life with. Best wishes to you both.”
5. “Congratulations dear for finding your true love. may this love grow stronger and deeper through each passing day of your married life!”
6. “I wish you success in your new titles, bride, groom, husband, wife, and any more you will pick up over the years together.”
Quotes for Sons Wedding
1. “You are my lifeline and if she makes you happy, then I am happy. Many congratulations my son, may your love last forever.”
2. “Happy is the man who finds a true friend, and far happier is he who finds that true friend in his wife.”
3. “I have been looking forward to this day since the moment you came into this life. I hope this marriage will mean new things for you, my son, Congratulations!”
4. “May blessing upon blessing be on you as you tie the knot today, I am proud you made the right choice with the right woman. Congratulations my son!”
5. “Congratulations son and I wish you a happy and prosperous married life that lasts forever!”
6. “May you be kind, generous and understanding to your wife whatever the situation comes!”
Daughter-in-Law Quotes
1. “Best wishes to my son and daughter-in-law as you start your life together.”
2. “We are so happy to welcome a new daughter to the family.”
3. “A daughter-in-law is one who marries your son and becomes your friend.”
4. “As a parent, we are happy to see that our son is so happy with you. You two are a perfect couple. You have real love and chemistry. We are very lucky that our son has chosen a wife like you.”
5. “Happiness is having a daughter-in-law like you.”
6. “If I didn’t have you as a daughter-in-law, I’d choose you as my friend.”
7. “You are the daughter-in-law for which I have longed, and now to this family, you truly belong.”
Son-in-Law Quotes
1. “Today, we add one more member to our family, and we couldn’t be happier. Best wishes to you both.”
2. “Best wishes to my daughter and son-in-law as you start your life together.”
3. “We know we’re not losing a daughter. We’re gaining a son. Much happiness to you both.”
4. “I’m blessed three times over. You’re a wonderful father to my grandchild, an amazing husband to my daughter, and a dear son-in-law to me.”
5. “My beloved son-in-law, you are a special part of my life, without which I’m not fulfilled.”
6. “You are famous for your loving heart and soothing words. You are well known to every member of our family as a kind-hearted, beautiful lady. I can only say that my son-in-law is simply great.”
Wedding Quotes for Parents
If you have a parent that’s getting remarried, you may find it difficult to find just the right thing to say since you’re welcoming a new person into your family. When in doubt, keep it simple! Simply wish them both a happy future together with these wedding quotes for parents. Some of these can also serve as great wedding anniversary wishes.
1. “Mom/Dad, I’m so happy you found a partner to share your life with. Congratulations.”
2. “I’m/we’re thrilled you make each other so happy. Best wishes!”
3. “Welcome to the family. We love you both!”
4. “Mom/Dad, thank you for all the advice you’ve given me over the years. Now here’s mine: [Fill in your own advice].”
5. “I’m overjoyed to see you so happy. Lots of love.”
6. “Best wishes to my son/daughter and son-in-law/daughter-in-law as you start your life together.”
Wedding Messages for a Coworker
Celebrating the wedding of a coworker? Surprise them with a wedding card with a kind message. Unless your coworker is also your best friend, keep your words general and office-friendly. Check out these examples if you’re stuck on what to say in a wedding card to your coworker.
1. “Wishing you success—and most of all happiness—in your marriage.”
2. “You’ve got a new title: husband/wife! Wishing you and your spouse the best.”
3. “What a wonderful day to celebrate my coworker and his/her spouse. All the best to you both in your marriage.”
4. “Thank you for inviting me to share this day with you and your family. Best wishes.”
5. “I’m so glad to have gotten to know you at work, and I wish you and your new husband/wife a long and happy life together.”
6. “Best wishes to a very cool coworker and his/her new husband/wife.”
7. A wedding is the coming together of two people for the common reason that is love. Wishing you a happy married life dear colleague may love continue to shine.
8. I am blessed to be a witness at such a glorious ceremony on your behalf, colleague; I can tell you’ll make each other really happy. Congrats on your wedding.
9. Congratulations! You have made us all proud. My best wishes for the new life and your new home. May this day be the beginning of pure happiness and endless love. Happy wedding Mate.
10. I wish you happiness that will forever shine on you and your blessed life together colleague. May your happily ever after be filled with blessings and joy.
If you’re looking for what to say in a wedding card, these thoughtful wishes and quotes will help newlyweds feel celebrated and congratulated for tying the knot. Also, sending along a bouquet of flowers or wedding gift with your card will make them feel extra special on their big day.