Well-wishing from the bottom of your heart would be a great advice for newlyweds. Wedding wishes may seem simple. But when you sit down to congratulate your friends and family you may find yourself starting at a blank page. If you’re going to to an upcoming wedding or know a couple who has recently got married, congratulations are in order!
Some people find it difficult to put together the right words. Is it too long? Too short? Too cheesy? To help you write the perfect wedding wish, we’ve put together a series of tips and examples to guide you through what to write in a wedding card.
If you click through, you’ll find samples of wishes for each member of the family and a few quotes to inspire you along the way.
Traditional Formal Wedding Wishes
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When it comes to traditional wedding wishes, as the saying goes; “If it’s ain’t broke, don’t fix it”. Traditional wedding wishes can simply mention God or can be an entire bible verse.
If you are not extremely close with the couple a simple sentence like “May God bless the two of you on your journey!” would be most appropriate.
Also, if you are very close with the couple, and understand that they have a close relationship with God a verse from Corinthians such as this would be very suitable.
13:4-8
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.”
There are plenty of short messages and bible verses to choose from. Traditional doesn’t uniquely apply to Catholic couples. In fact, the majority of religions have a firm belief that marriage is ordained by God. This institution is a critical step on the path to Heaven, however it may be defined. Offering your congratulations as well as wishes that God will bless the union delivers a powerful message which we encourage.
This message has many iterations from around the world, translated into English;
“May you forever be of one mind.”
– China
“May the bond of your love be strengthened at all times”
– India
“May this marriage be full of laughter, our every day a day in paradise. May this marriage be a sign of compassion, a seal of happiness here and hereafter.”
– Persia
“Good offspring!”
– Greece
“Shall this day be the beginning of a great story between you two.”
– France
Regardless of the area or age of origin, you can see that most wedding wishes have core themes in common. The main theme is wishing that the couple remains happy, and as one unit as long as they live. It celebrates the journey of two becoming and starting a family together.
Keep these core principles in mind as you write your wedding wishes and you can’t go wrong.
Traditional cards are handcrafted and hand written. But, times are changing and we have a lot more options on our hands these days. Printed cards have become just a meaningful as long as you send your genuine thoughts. For those farther away or especially talented, digital creations are just fine. If you do go the digital route, it’s critical that you choose just the right words along with significant photos. Otherwise, the soon-to-be bride and groom may get the impression that you picked a random template that you spent only a few seconds clicking on. If you’re going to go through the trouble of sending your congratulations you should mean it and there should be some effort behind it.
“Once in a while, we witness a great love story. Yours is one of the greatest and most inspiring I have ever been witness to. Congratulations and best wishes for a happy life together.”
“Marriage is not just an auspicious bond. It is a journey that lasts until the end of eternity. Here’s to wishing that the both of you have a memorable and joyful ride.”
“May the bond you share as husband and wife grow stronger each day the two of you spend together. Congratulations!”
A proper traditional wedding card involves hand crafted paper, and usually a religious structure. If traditional is your goal, follow this path. However, when the situation calls for it don’t feel like you’re letting anyone down by doing things a little differently.
Traditionally, you’ll want to get started on your wedding cards the moment you receive your invitations in the mail. As long as you follow our traditional word recommendations and anything your religion dictates, the bride and groom will definitely appreciate the sentiment regardless if it arrives by courier, hand delivered, or by Email.
Wedding Wishes For A Friend
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Wedding card messages for your friends entirely depends on your relationship. Some friendships are forged at school, at work, and through mutual friends or social groups. Some friendships are fresh while others have lasted a lifetime. Some are serious, while others are light and casual.
Therefore, the nature of your relationship dictates what type of wedding wish you should send. For the casual acquaintance, a short and sweet message will do just fine:
“I’m so proud that the two of you have found each other. I’m sure together you will overcome all the storms in your life, thus making your marriage even stronger. Have a happy married life.”
Or for a coworker that you consider a friend;
“You’ve got a new title: husband/wife! Wishing you and your spouse the best.”
For closer friends who you’ve shared some ups and downs with, a personal touch is called for:
“On your wedding day, may God give you love in your hearts and happiness in your home. Congratulations and best wishes!”
“This day will be forever remembered in your life and I cannot be happier to witness this wondrous occasion with you two! Enjoy the moments of your wedding as much as you can. Enjoy the joy of being united with each other at the presence of the near and dear ones. Congratulations and my best wishes for your wedding!”
This last one is more of a guideline than a suggestion. Make it your own by referencing an inside joke, an adventure you shared, and how you feel a part of this union because you played a role in your friend’s life.
Don’t be afraid to get creative with your message of congratulations. Instead of sending a handwritten card, write your wishes on the inside cover of a book you know that he, she, or they will love. A book that will help them through their wedded journey is a fantastic idea for the couple. If you are closer with the bride address the note to her inside a classic novel or book about spirituality that you know will mean something to her.
If books aren’t your thing you can also consider engraving a small gift. “Congratulations” looks lovely on a set of champagne flutes or ornament. If you’re close enough, you can etch your message on a picture from of some memories that you’ve shared.
If you want to say a little more than just “congratulations” you’ll need to keep it short and sweet. These tried and tested examples are just what you need:
“Wishing you a long and happy marriage.”
“Congratulations on finding your true love.”
“Best wishes for a fun-filled future together.”
Whichever method you choose from this checklist, your friend will appreciate the good wishes and will reinforce their decision to get married. When you get married, yes, you’re deciding to live the rest of your life with the person of your dreams. But, you’re also ‘marrying’ your loved one’s friends and family.
Getting your support means more than you think.
Wedding Wishes For A Family Member
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Immediate family members should put a little extra effort into their wedding congratulations. Your son, daughter, sister, or brother is about to start on a once-in-a-lifetime journey. You’ve no doubt played a significant role in their life and have had a hand in molding who they’ve become today.
A congratulations message should reflect the relationship you have. For example, if you’re the type of father who taught your son exactly what it means to be a man and husband, your message should show this. The same goes for a father demonstrating what type of man is ‘good enough’ for his little girl, or a mother teaching her son how to treat a lady.
The theme here is teaching. We all learn things from our families throughout our lives, and marriage is a tremendous life event where all those lessons pay off. Here are a few examples of the types of wedding wishes you should be sending to your closest family.
From a mother to her daughter:
“A man may be the head of the family, but the woman is the neck and turn the head any way she wants”
– My Big Fat Greek Wedding
“I’m so happy to be a witness to your wedding. Seeing the two of you together is a gift for me. The biggest gift I can give you in return is this wish: May your lives be long and your love be everlasting.”
From a mother to her son:
“If at first time you don’t succeed – try doing it the way your wife told you!”
“A mother dreams that her son will find someone who lightens his heart and allows his spirit to soar. A mother dreams that her son will find someone who will walk beside him for a lifetime, sharing all of the joy and dividing the weight of any adversity. A mother dreams that her son will find someone who understands his jokes, comforts his fears, and loves him as he is forever. As you marry your beautiful soul mate my dreams are coming true and both of you are wished a long, happy and wonderfully blessed life together!”
From a father to his daughter:
Ask yourself; “If my husband had only two days to live, how would I be treating him?”. Treat him like that every day for the rest of your life, and you will have best marriage ever.
From a father to his son:
“Never confuse your career with your life. What we do is not who we are.”
“You don’t need to be on the same wavelength to succeed in marriage. You just need to be able to ride each other’s waves.”
– Toni Sciarra Poynter
To a brother:
“Marriage is more than just the wedding. It is a union enduring, and of more than you and your love, but of your families—and you have made our family stronger.”
“I just know life has even more wonderful things in store than the happiness you share today. May every day be beautiful and happy for you as a couple.”
To a sister:
“Show love even when you’re angry. This doesn’t mean to ignore the argument and pretend everything is okay. It means that it is possible to hold your ground and still be considerate.”
“I predict cute babies.”
A special message to your new in-law is also highly recommended. Your family is getting bigger and it would mean the world to them to learn just how welcome they are. A lot of newlyweds are nervous about being accepted into their new families. Let them know how perfect they are for your family member and that you are receiving them with open arms.
“I smile because you’re my sister-in-law, I laugh because you married my brother”.
There’s a common sentiment that “no one is good enough for my little girl” that makes a lot of couples nervous. Your blessings and heartfelt wishes ease the stress and let the new couple know that their family is getting bigger.
Funny Wedding Wishes
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Humor is a great way to send your wedding wishes. It’s highly appropriate for certain friends, coworkers, and family members to wrap their well-wishes in the form a joke or a little bit of sarcasm.
There are tons of movie quotes that will help express how you feel. Or, you can create something of your very own. Here are a few samples that we’re all familiar with, and a few that may surprise you and leave a smile on your face.
“Marriage is about finding that one special person you want to annoy for the rest of your life”
“Being married is like having a best friend who doesn’t remember anything you say”
It’s charming to poke fun at the soon-to-be bride and groom, but be careful not to overdo it! There’s a world of difference between “Bride: “I do!” Groom: “I do what she says” and “He’s no Greg”. Remember, tensions run high while planning a wedding and stepping out of line could inadvertently transform a bit of nerves into full blown cold feet.
Before sending off your funny well-wishes, read the message out loud. In other words, make sure that within the joke, it’s crystal clear that your message is positive and full of love.
“All weddings are happy. It’s living together afterwards that’s difficult! But seriously we wish you all the best on your happy day.”
“They say that marriage is a great institution. And much like many types of institutions, you need to be crazy to get into it. We hope your days are blessed with happiness.”
“Some future advice for the Groom: the most effective way to remember your wedding anniversary is to forget it… once! We love you guys. Never change!”
If you are going with the funny route and not 100% sure that it’s non-offensive, share it before you send it. A few minutes reading your note to a friend or family member could end up saving you a world of embarrassment. Definitely steer clear of mentioning any exes, insinuating that you can’t believe they actually found someone, or the dreaded D-word: Divorce. This should go without saying but, unfortunately, we have to say it.
If you do feel it appropriate to poke fun, stick with the groom. It’s become a cliché to point out that she’s the better half or that’s he’s giving up his freedom. As long as you walk the fine line between funny and insult you can feel comfortable doing this.
“Do you know what late nights, parties and weekends hanging out with friends have in common? They’re all things the groom won’t be doing any more!”
“Marriage marks the end of a love story and the start of a wrestling match. Wishing you the very best!”
“Our marriage advice: Love, honor and… never forget to leave the toilet seat down!”
“Hot Damn you guys are adorable!”
Even if he does have the best sense of humor about himself, don’t go for deep cuts. A light scratch is the name of the game. And ALWAYS bookend these jabs with something complimentary.
In addition, a lot of brides and groom will be adding these to their wedding album. You’ll want to give them something to smile at when they’re feeling sentimental. Don’t make them cringe.
Wedding Wishes To Your Spouse
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We expect friends and family to send their best wedding wishes but sometimes a very important person is missing; your spouse. He popped the question, and you said Yes. You’re making the celebration and ceremony arrangements, and he’s pouring his heart into his real wedding vows wedding vows. Through all of the hustle and excitement, it’s a truly unexpected thrill to receive a sweet message in the mail. A few simple words expressing how you feel may catch him or her off guard, and give you the chance to say a few things that don’t quite fit into your vows or toasts.
You may want to point out the first time you realized that you would be married some day, or include a reference to “your” song or a memory of your first date.
A romantic quote from a great movie isn’t inappropriate. If that’s the way you want to go, make sure that it’s a movie you’ve both seen (preferably together) and that mean something to you both.
“When you realize that you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible.”
– When Harry Met Sally
“Do you know why the wedding ring is placed on the fourth finger? Because it’s the only one that has a vein connected directly to your heart. I can’t wait to be your husband.”
Or
“”Your absence has not taught me to be alone, it merely has shown that when together we cast a single shadow on the wall.”
– Doug Fetherling
Also, planning a wedding is extremely stressful. An unexpected interruption will be a welcome break to the daily tasks and remind him her why they are marrying you in the first place.
Speaking of timing, the average wedding takes 12 months or more to plan. Anytime throughout this process is a good time to send your spouse a romantic note. But, the very best time is the day of the wedding.
“You have been the greatest girlfriend and I know you will make the perfect wife!”
For parents of the bride and groom, this is your perfect chance to share in the romance. As mothers and fathers, your example is what lead this newlywed couple down the aisle. You’ve shown them how to love, how to deal with fights, and what “happily ever after” truly means.
Thus, sending a message of love to your husband or wife expressing “we did it!” would be a lovely surprise.
“To my dear wife. We’ve raised our baby girl into a beautiful woman. She has found a prince charming of her own, and today she starts a new life and grows our family. Thank you for all the years we’ve spent together giving her the perfect example of what love and marriage is.”
Both the bride and groom can use this idea for their new in-laws. Thanking them for raising the perfect lady or gentlemen, and letting them know how excited you are to join their family is a much-appreciated sentiment.
Short And Simple Wedding Wishes For Cards
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Sometimes less is more. Elaborate quotes that express your feelings and anecdotes about your relationship with the couple have their place, but sometimes a short message is best.
“The longest sentence you can form with two words is: I DO”
Hence, short messages are best for guests outside of the immediate family and wedding party. Because, it would be a bit awkward to bare your heart and soul to someone you just don’t have that connection with.
“May your lives be a great adventure. May your battles be fought together, side by side, and let there be joy and abundance.”
“To the sweetest couple ever … grow up all you want but never let the beautiful teenage love in your hearts fizzle out. Congratulations.”
Another necessary application of the short and simple wedding wish is for guests that, for one reason or another, just can’t make it to the ceremony. This note will give you the chance to express your regret for not being able to attend while simultaneously extended your best wishes.
“Best wishes for the future. We wish we could have been there to celebrate with you.”
“Your wedding is important. Don’t let our absence tell you otherwise. We would have loved to have been a part of your special day.”
This also applies to belated messages. There’s really no wrong time to send your congratulations, and sending off your wishes after the couple gets back from their honeymoon may just make you stand out!
“We are sorry we could not make your wedding, but we hear it was a beautiful affair as were the both of you. We look forward to seeing the pictures and seeing you both at the next family gathering. We wish you a lifetime of happiness.”
“We are glad we have the rest of your lives to congratulate you on your nuptials.”
So, perhaps the best reason to stick to the short and sweet rule is how stick to everybody’s memory. The bride and groom will have so much on their plate that it’s impossible to recall each and every word. They’ll certainly keep the sentiments in their hearts, but to remember what was said brevity is best.
Case in point; “Death is a natural part of life. Rejoice for those around you who transform into the Force. Mourn them do not. Miss them do not. Attachment leads to jealousy. The shadow of greed, that is.” – aside from the sentence structure and reference to the Force, no one would recognize who said this.
On the other hand, everyone instantly recognizes; “do or do not, there is no try”.
Keep all of this in mind as you write your best wishes.
Are you addressing it to the bride? To the groom? Both?
What’s your relationship like with the couple?
Is the couple religious? Are you?
How did you meet?
Are you known as the funny one?
In conclusion, answering these key questions in advance will help you determine which style to choose and which words to use. So, if you are very close with the couple, speak from the heart. So, if you are a more casual friend, say what you mean and mean what you say.
As a matter of fact, the best advice anyone can give to a future groom just happens to rhyme, so we know it’s true: “Happy Wife, Happy Life”.
