Wedding Card Messages: What to Write 2025 Guide

Wedding card messages combine congratulations, personal connection, and heartfelt wishes in 2-5 sentences. The most memorable cards start with a warm greeting, include a specific detail about the couple, and close with genuine hopes for their marriage (The Knot, 2024)¹.

Writing the perfect wedding card message requires balancing authenticity with appropriateness. Unlike wedding invitation wording, which follows formal conventions, card messages allow for personal expression. Whether you're congratulating close friends, distant relatives, or work colleagues, your words should reflect both your relationship and the significance of the occasion. This comprehensive guide provides tested formulas, regional variations, and ready-to-use examples for every wedding card situation.

The Complete Wedding Card Formula

A well-structured wedding card contains four essential elements: an opening greeting, personal connection, future wishes, and warm closing. This proven formula works for any relationship level and takes 3-5 minutes to write (WeddingWire, 2024)².

The Four-Part Structure

1. Opening (5-8 words): Begin with congratulations or a celebratory greeting
2. Personal Touch (15-30 words): Reference a memory, quality you admire, or your connection to the couple
3. Wishes (10-20 words): Express hope for their future together with specific blessings
4. Closing (3-5 words): Sign off warmly with your name or names

This structure creates cards that feel both personal and complete. The personal touch section is what transforms generic greetings into meaningful messages that couples will remember and potentially save.

Ready-to-Use Templates

Template 1 (Warm and Personal) "Congratulations on your wedding! [Personal memory or observation about their relationship]. May your marriage be filled with [specific wish]. With love, [Your name]"

Template 2 (Traditional and Elegant) "Warmest congratulations on your marriage. [Quality you admire about the couple]. Wishing you both [future hope]. Sincerely, [Your name]"

Template 3 (Casual and Friendly) "So excited for you two! [Specific thing you love about them together]. Here's to [future wish]. Love, [Your name]"

Template 4 (Brief but Heartfelt) "Best wishes on your wedding day! [One sentence personal touch]. Much love, [Your name]"

These templates accommodate different writing styles while maintaining the essential elements that make wedding cards meaningful. Adapt the tone and length based on your relationship with the couple.

Wedding Card Messages by Relationship

Your relationship with the couple determines both message length and tone—close friends warrant 4-6 sentences while acquaintances need only 2-3. According to wedding etiquette experts, matching message intimacy to relationship closeness prevents awkwardness and feels more authentic (Emily Post Institute, 2024)³.

For Close Friends

Close friends can include inside references, humor, and longer messages (60-100 words). Your card should reflect your genuine friendship history.

Example 1: "I can't believe the day is finally here! I've watched you two grow together over the past five years, and your love has been an inspiration. From those early days when you couldn't stop talking about each other to now, building a life together, it's been beautiful to witness. Here's to decades of adventure, laughter, and the kind of partnership that makes everyone else jealous. Love you both so much!"

Example 2: "Congratulations to my favorite couple! You two have shown me what real love looks like—supporting each other's dreams, laughing through challenges, and creating a home filled with joy. May your marriage be everything you've hoped for and more. Can't wait to celebrate with you!"

Example 3: "Finally making it official! Your relationship has always been goals, and I'm honored to celebrate this day with you. Wishing you a lifetime of Netflix binges, Sunday brunches, and adventures around the world. So happy for you both!"

For more friendship-focused messages, see our complete guide to wedding card messages for friends.

For Acquaintances

Acquaintances require brief, warm messages (20-40 words) that avoid overly personal details. Keep the tone friendly but professional, focusing on universal marriage wishes rather than specific relationship observations.

Example 1: "Congratulations on your wedding! Wishing you both a wonderful celebration and a lifetime of happiness together. Best wishes for your new journey."

Example 2: "So happy to hear about your marriage! May your life together be filled with love, laughter, and endless joy. Congratulations!"

Example 3: "Best wishes on your wedding day! Here's to a beautiful future filled with love and adventure. Congratulations to you both."

Example 4: "Warmest congratulations on your marriage. Wishing you many years of happiness together. All the best!"

These shorter messages work well when you're invited to larger weddings where you may not know the couple intimately, or when you're sending a card as a courtesy through work or community connections.

For Family Members

Family messages often include references to family bonds, memories, and the joy of family growth. Length varies from 40-80 words depending on closeness.

Example 1 (Sibling): "To my amazing sister and her perfect match—today we celebrate not just your marriage, but the incredible person you've become. Watching you find someone who loves you as much as we do has been a gift. Welcome to the family officially! May your marriage be filled with all the love and laughter you both deserve."

Example 2 (Niece/Nephew): "Congratulations on your wedding! It's been a joy watching you grow up, and now seeing you start this new chapter fills our hearts. Your partner is lucky to have you, and we're thrilled to welcome them to our family. Wishing you both endless love and happiness."

Example 3 (Cousin): "So happy to celebrate this special day with you! May your marriage be blessed with love, understanding, and the kind of happiness that grows stronger every year. Congratulations to you both!"

Example 4 (Parent Message): "On your wedding day, we're filled with joy and pride. You've found someone who brings out the best in you, and together you're creating something beautiful. May your marriage be blessed with health, happiness, and a love that deepens with each passing year."

Explore our dedicated guide for wedding card messages for family members with specific examples for parents, siblings, grandparents, and extended family.

For Colleagues

Workplace wedding cards require professional warmth—2-3 sentences that celebrate without being overly familiar. Avoid humor that might not translate well or personal details you wouldn't share in the office (Business Etiquette International, 2024)⁴.

Example 1: "Congratulations on your wedding! Wishing you both a wonderful celebration and many years of happiness together. Best wishes from the team."

Example 2: "Best wishes on your marriage! May this new chapter bring you joy, adventure, and all the happiness you deserve. Congratulations!"

Example 3: "So happy for you on your wedding day! Wishing you and your spouse a lifetime of love and wonderful memories together. Warm regards."

Example 4: "Warmest congratulations on your marriage. May your life together be filled with health, happiness, and prosperity. All the best!"

For colleague cards, group signatures are common. The message can be slightly shorter when signed by multiple people, as the collective gesture carries weight.

Regional Wedding Card Traditions

Wedding card customs vary significantly between the US, UK, and Australia, with differences in tone, terminology, and timing. Understanding these regional preferences helps you write culturally appropriate messages, especially for destination weddings or international guests (International Wedding Association, 2023)⁵.

US Wedding Card Customs

American wedding cards tend toward enthusiastic, warm language with exclamation points and emotional expressions. Common phrases include "So happy for you both!", "Wishing you a lifetime of love and laughter", and "Congratulations on your special day!"

Americans often reference specific aspects of the wedding or couple's story, and it's acceptable to be quite personal even for acquaintances. Group cards from offices or organizations are common, with each person adding a brief personal line.

UK Wedding Card Traditions

British wedding cards traditionally maintain slightly more reserve, with elegant phrasing and balanced enthusiasm. Classic expressions include "Wishing you every happiness in your life together," "With warmest congratulations," and "May your marriage be blessed with joy."

UK cards often use "best wishes" interchangeably with "congratulations," reflecting traditional etiquette where only the groom received congratulations. Modern UK cards have relaxed this distinction, but the more formal tone often remains.

Australian Wedding Card Style

Australian wedding cards embrace casual warmth with phrases like "Stoked for you two!", "Here's to your future together, mate!", and "Wishing you all the best!" The tone is friendly and unpretentious, even for more formal weddings.

Australians are comfortable with humor and casual language in most wedding contexts, making cards feel more conversational than ceremonial. Brief messages are perfectly acceptable and don't signal lack of care.

Wedding Card Message Styles

Choosing between traditional, humorous, religious, or literary styles depends on both your personality and the couple's preferences. The most authentic cards match your natural voice to an appropriate style for the relationship (The Knot, 2024)⁶.

Traditional and Formal Messages

Traditional messages work for any wedding style and age group. They emphasize timeless marriage values and use classic phrasing.

Example 1: "Warmest congratulations on your marriage. May your union be blessed with love, understanding, and lifelong companionship. Wishing you every happiness in your journey together."

Example 2: "On this joyous occasion, we send our heartfelt congratulations. May your marriage be filled with love, respect, and cherished moments. Best wishes for a wonderful future together."

Example 3: "Congratulations on your wedding day. May the love and commitment you celebrate today grow stronger with each passing year. Wishing you both a lifetime of happiness."

Example 4: "With warmest wishes on your marriage. May your life together be blessed with joy, health, and enduring love. Congratulations to you both."

Example 5: "Best wishes on this happy occasion. May your marriage bring you both profound joy and may your love for each other continue to deepen through all of life's seasons."

Traditional messages are never wrong—they're the safest choice when you're unsure about the couple's preferences or when attending very formal weddings.

Funny and Humorous Messages

Humorous cards work best for close friends or couples who appreciate levity—but avoid jokes about marriage being hard or implying the couple is making a mistake. Good wedding humor celebrates the couple while making them smile (WeddingWire Etiquette Guide, 2024)⁷.

Example 1: "Congratulations on finding someone who will put up with your nonsense for the rest of your life! Just kidding—you two are perfect together. Wishing you endless laughter and love!"

Example 2: "Marriage is all about finding that special someone you want to annoy for the rest of your life. Looks like you both succeeded! So happy for you both."

Example 3: "They say marriage is a workshop—where the husband works and the wife shops! But seriously, you two are going to rock this. Congratulations!"

Example 4: "Now you can annoy one person for the rest of your life instead of multiple people for short periods. Congratulations on your efficiency!"

Example 5: "Remember: the secret to a happy marriage is... I actually have no idea. But I'm sure you'll figure it out! So excited for you both!"

For more lighthearted inspiration, check our complete guide to funny wedding card messages with dozens of humor styles from witty to silly.

Religious Wedding Wishes

Religious messages include blessings, scripture references, or faith-based hopes for the marriage. Only use religious language if you know the couple's faith background.

Example 1 (Christian): "May God bless your marriage with love, joy, and faithfulness. As it says in 1 Corinthians 13, 'Love is patient, love is kind.' Wishing you a Christ-centered marriage filled with grace. Congratulations!"

Example 2 (Christian): "Congratulations on your wedding! May the Lord bless your union and guide you both in love and faith. Wishing you a marriage built on the foundation of God's love."

Example 3 (Jewish): "Mazel tov on your wedding! May your home be filled with love, laughter, and blessings. Wishing you both a lifetime of joy together."

Example 4 (Islamic): "Mubarak on your nikah! May Allah bless your marriage with love, understanding, and barakah. Wishing you both endless happiness together."

Example 5 (Interfaith/General): "May your marriage be blessed with love, faith, and divine guidance. Wishing you both a lifetime of spiritual connection and joy together."

Our dedicated guide to religious wedding wishes includes specific messages for Christian, Jewish, Islamic, Hindu, and interfaith ceremonies.

Quotes and Poetry

Famous quotes elevate card messages when you add personal context—quote alone feels impersonal, but quote plus your own wishes creates impact. The most effective cards use short quotes (10-20 words) followed by your personal message (Hallmark, 2024)⁸.

Example 1: "'Love is friendship set on fire.'—Jeremy Taylor. Your friendship has always inspired me, and seeing it transform into this beautiful marriage is incredible. Congratulations!"

Example 2: "'The best thing to hold onto in life is each other.'—Audrey Hepburn. You two have certainly mastered this. Wishing you a lifetime of holding on tight through every adventure."

Example 3: "'Grow old with me, the best is yet to be.'—Robert Browning. May your love grow deeper and richer with each passing year. So happy for you both!"

Example 4: "'Where there is love, there is life.'—Gandhi. Your love brings so much life and joy to everyone around you. Congratulations on your marriage!"

Example 5: "As Rumi said, 'Lovers don't finally meet somewhere. They're in each other all along.' You two prove this truth. Wishing you endless happiness!"

Browse our collection of wedding card quotes for literary, romantic, and inspirational quote options with usage guidance.

Wedding Card Etiquette

Always include a card with every wedding gift, send it before or at the wedding, and keep messages appropriate for public reading. These fundamental rules prevent awkward situations and ensure your sentiment is properly received (Emily Post Institute, 2024)⁹.

When to Send Wedding Cards

Timing varies based on whether you're attending the wedding:

• Attending the wedding: Bring the card in its envelope to the reception card box or gift table
• Not attending but sending a gift: Mail the card with or before the gift, arriving 2-8 weeks before the wedding
• Late gift: Send the card within three months of the wedding, apologizing briefly for the delay
• No gift given: Cards alone can be sent before, during, or up to one month after the wedding

In the UK, it's common to post cards before the wedding even when attending. In the US and Australia, bringing cards to the reception is standard practice.

Handwritten vs Typed Messages

Handwritten messages feel more personal and thoughtful than printed ones, increasing perceived sincerity by 47% (Greeting Card Association, 2023)¹⁰. Always handwrite unless you have accessibility needs or handwriting that's truly illegible.

For legibility:

• Use dark blue or black ink (never pencil)
• Write slowly and carefully
• Use your neatest handwriting, even if it's not perfect
• If you make a mistake, start with a new card rather than crossing out

Typed messages are acceptable only when:

• You have a physical condition preventing handwriting
• Your handwriting is genuinely unreadable
• You're creating a group card digitally for remote team members

Even with typed messages, sign your name by hand at the end when possible.

Signing Conventions

How you sign your card signals your relationship level and household status:

• Single person: "Love, Sarah" or "Best wishes, John"
• Couple (both know the wedding couple well): "Love, Sarah and James" or "With love, The Johnsons"
• Couple (only one knows them well): "Love, Sarah (and James)" to show James is included but secondary
• Family with young children: "Love, The Miller Family" or "Sarah, James, and kids"
• Family with adult children: List everyone's names or "The Miller Family"
• Workplace group card: Either everyone signs individually, or one person writes the message and ends with "From all of us at [Company]"

Sign with the names the couple knows you by. If they call you "Liz," don't sign "Elizabeth" just because it's a wedding.

What NOT to Write: Dos and Don'ts

Additional don'ts:

• Don't mention you're "surprised" they got married
• Don't suggest the marriage might not last
• Don't complain about your own relationship
• Don't make the message about yourself
• Don't include political or controversial content
• Don't pressure them about having children

The safest approach: if you're wondering whether something is appropriate, it probably isn't. Choose more neutral wording instead.

Writing Tips for Every Situation

Context matters—cards accompanying wedding gifts differ from standalone cards, and RSVP cards require different approaches than traditional greeting cards. Adjusting your message to the specific situation ensures appropriateness and clarity (WeddingWire, 2024)¹¹.

Card with Gift vs Standalone Card

When your card accompanies a gift, you may briefly acknowledge it; standalone cards focus entirely on marriage wishes.

With gift (physical item): "Congratulations on your wedding! We hope you enjoy the [serving platter/coffee maker/etc.] and that it brings joy to your new home. Wishing you both a lifetime of love and happiness. Love, Sarah and Tom"

With gift (monetary): "Best wishes on your marriage! We've included a small gift to help you start your journey together. May your life be filled with love, laughter, and adventure. Congratulations! The Johnsons"

Standalone card: "Congratulations on your wedding day! Though we can't be there to celebrate, we're thinking of you both and wishing you endless happiness together. Love, Maria"

You're never obligated to mention the gift amount or explain your gift choice. A simple acknowledgment is sufficient, with the focus remaining on marriage wishes.

Short vs Long Messages

Message length should match your relationship: acquaintances need 15-30 words, close relationships warrant 50-100 words.

Very brief (acquaintances, colleagues): "Congratulations on your wedding! Wishing you both every happiness. Best regards, Michael" (16 words)

Medium length (friends, extended family): "So happy to celebrate your wedding with you! You two are wonderful together, and I can't wait to see all the adventures your marriage brings. Wishing you a lifetime of love, laughter, and joy. Congratulations! Love, Jennifer" (43 words)

Longer message (very close friends, immediate family): "I've been looking forward to this day ever since you told me you'd found 'the one.' Watching your relationship grow has been such a gift, and seeing you make this commitment fills my heart with joy. You've both taught me so much about what real partnership looks like—supporting each other's dreams, communicating with love and respect, and finding joy in everyday moments. May your marriage be blessed with all of this and more. I love you both and can't wait to see what beautiful things your future holds. Congratulations on your wedding day! With all my love, Amanda" (108 words)

Longer isn't always better. Quality and sincerity matter more than quantity. Write what feels natural for your relationship.

RSVP Card Messages

RSVP cards (response cards) require different wording than traditional wedding greeting cards—focus on attendance confirmation rather than marriage wishes.

Most couples include printed RSVP cards with checkboxes, requiring only:

• Your name(s)
• Number attending
• Meal choice (if requested)
• Brief personal note (optional)

Optional personal notes for RSVP cards:

• "Can't wait to celebrate with you!"
• "So excited for your special day!"
• "Looking forward to the celebration!"
• "Thrilled to be there with you both!"

If the RSVP is a separate mailed card rather than part of the invitation suite, you might include slightly more:

"We're thrilled to attend your wedding! Can't wait to celebrate this special day with you both. See you in June! Love, The Martins"

For declines: "We're so sorry we can't make it—we'll be out of the country. But we're thinking of you and wishing you a beautiful celebration. Congratulations! Love, Sarah"

Save your full wedding wishes for the greeting card that accompanies your gift rather than writing them on the RSVP card.

Enclosing Money or Checks

When giving money, place it securely inside the card and consider mentioning it briefly to ensure the couple knows to look for it. Cash and checks are common wedding gifts, given by 72% of US guests in 2024 (The Knot Real Weddings Study, 2024)¹².

Phrasing options:

Subtle approach: "Congratulations on your wedding! We've enclosed a small gift to help you start your journey together. Wishing you both endless happiness. Love, Tom and Maria"

Direct approach: "Best wishes on your marriage! We hope this gift helps you build your dream home together. May your life be filled with love and joy. Congratulations! The Hendersons"

Practical approach: "Wishing you both a lifetime of happiness! We've included a contribution toward [honeymoon/home purchase/your future together—if you know their plans]. Congratulations on your wedding!"

Security tips:

• Use the card envelope's security features or seal it completely
• Never write the amount in the card message
• For checks, write "To [Bride's name] and [Groom's name]" or "To [First name] and [First name]" rather than maiden names that may change
• Consider using the couple's wedding registry cash fund instead of physical money for security

In some cultures, monetary gifts are so standard that mentioning them is unnecessary. Know your couple's cultural background when deciding whether to reference the gift explicitly.

How Much to Spend on Wedding Cards

Wedding card prices range from $3 to $25 depending on quality, design, and whether you purchase individually or in sets. Budget-conscious shoppers can find meaningful cards for under $5, while premium and handmade options reach $15-25 per card (Greeting Card Association, 2024)¹³.

Budget vs Premium Options

Budget cards ($3-6 / £2-4 / $4-8):

• Simple designs from drugstore or supermarket brands
• Quality paper but less elaborate finishes
• Standard sizes and formats
• Perfect for colleagues, distant relatives, large weddings

Mid-range cards ($7-10 / £4-6 / $8-12):

• Hallmark, Papyrus, or equivalent premium brands
• Better quality cardstock and printing
• Some embellishments (foil, embossing, ribbons)
• Appropriate for most weddings you attend

Premium cards ($12-18 / £8-12 / $15-22):

• Designer brands and boutique stationery
• Luxury finishes (letterpress, gold foil, handmade paper)
• Unique designs and artistic elements
• Best for immediate family, very close friends

Handmade/artisan cards ($15-25+ / £10-18+ / $18-30+):

• One-of-a-kind pieces from artists
• Custom calligraphy or personalization available
• Highest quality materials
• Reserved for once-in-a-lifetime relationships

Where to Purchase

In-person retail:

• Drugstores/supermarkets: Budget options, wide selection
• Card specialty stores: Mid to premium range
• Stationery boutiques: Premium and unique designs
• Craft fairs/markets: Handmade, artisan cards

Online sources:

• Etsy: Handmade, customizable, unique designs
• Amazon: Wide price range, quick delivery
• Minted/Papier: Premium designs, personalization
• Not On The High Street (UK): Independent designers
• Hardtofind (AU): Australian artisan cards

Cost-saving tips:

• Buy card sets if attending multiple weddings
• Purchase off-season or during sales
• Choose simpler designs with quality cardstock
• DIY cards if you're crafty (but only if you're genuinely skilled)

Remember: The card's cost matters far less than your message. A $4 card with heartfelt, personal words outweighs a $20 card with generic sentiments. Allocate your budget primarily to your wedding gift, not the card.

Regional Phrase Differences

Language nuances reveal cultural attitudes toward weddings:

American English:

• "Wedding reception" not "wedding breakfast"
• "Getting married" or "tying the knot"
• "Bride and groom" (though "couple" increasingly common)
• "Bachelor/bachelorette party" not "stag/hen do"

British English:

• "Wedding breakfast" (formal reception meal)
• "Getting hitched" or "getting wed"
• "Hen do" and "stag do" for pre-wedding parties
• "Brilliant" or "lovely" as positive descriptors

Australian English:

• "Bucks party/hens night" for pre-wedding events
• "Arvo" (afternoon) reception
• "Reckon" for think/believe
• Casual diminutives ("congrats" perfectly acceptable)

When writing for international couples or destination weddings, default to neutral English that translates across regions, avoiding idioms or regional slang that might confuse.

Adapting Messages for Different Wedding Types

Destination weddings, elopements, second marriages, and vow renewals each merit slightly different messaging approaches.

Destination weddings: "Congratulations on your beautiful beach wedding! We're so honored you included us in this incredible celebration. May your marriage be filled with as much adventure as your destination ceremony. Love you both!"

Elopements (after announcement): "How exciting to hear you've eloped! We're thrilled for you both and can't wait to celebrate when you return. Wishing you every happiness in your marriage. Congratulations!"

Second marriages: Focus on the current relationship without referencing previous marriages. Avoid phrases like "second time's a charm" or "finally found the right one."

"Congratulations on your wedding! Wishing you both a beautiful future filled with love, joy, and wonderful memories together. So happy for you!"

Vow renewals: "Congratulations on renewing your vows! Your lasting love is an inspiration to everyone who knows you. Here's to many more years of happiness together."

For guidance on celebrating long-term marriages, see our guide to anniversary messages.

Common Wedding Card Mistakes to Avoid

The three most common errors: writing too much (overwhelming the couple), being too generic (forgetting personalization), and waiting too long to send (losing relevance).

Mistake 1: Oversharing Avoid writing your entire friendship history or getting too emotional. Keep messages focused and concise. The couple will receive dozens or hundreds of cards—make yours memorable without being exhausting.

Mistake 2: Complete generic text Cards that say only "Congratulations! Best wishes!" feel impersonal. Add one specific detail about the couple or your relationship to make it meaningful.

Mistake 3: Delayed sending Cards lose impact when they arrive months after the wedding. Send within the proper timeframe (before/during wedding if attending; within 1-2 months if not).

Mistake 4: Using only quotes A card with only a famous quote and your signature feels lazy. Use quotes to enhance your personal message, not replace it.

Mistake 5: Inappropriate humor Jokes about ball-and-chain, marriage being a mistake, divorce statistics, or the couple's past relationships are never funny. If you're questioning whether a joke is appropriate, it isn't.

Mistake 6: Religious assumptions Don't include religious content unless you're certain of the couple's faith background. Generic blessings are safer than specific religious references.

Mistake 7: Messy presentation Crossed-out mistakes, ink smudges, or barely legible handwriting diminish your message's impact. If you make a significant error, start with a fresh card.

Mistake 8: Forgetting to sign Always sign your name(s). The couple may not recognize handwriting or remember who gave specific gifts without a signature.

Digital vs Physical Wedding Cards

While 89% of wedding card givers still choose physical cards, digital options are growing for destination weddings, pandemic restrictions, and last-minute situations (Greeting Card Association, 2024)¹⁴.

Physical cards:

• Traditional and expected for weddings
• Feel more personal and thoughtful
• Can be kept as keepsakes
• Accompany physical gifts naturally
• Required for formal weddings

Digital cards:

• Faster delivery for last-minute situations
• Environmentally friendly option
• Lower cost (often free to $5)
• Easy to send internationally
• Include multimedia (photos, video messages)

When digital cards are acceptable:

• You're sending a last-minute message and the wedding is imminent
• The couple specifically requests digital-only communication
• You're attending virtually due to distance or restrictions
• The couple had a digital/livestreamed wedding
• You're following up after sending a physical gift

When physical cards are better:

• You're attending the wedding in person
• The wedding is formal or traditional
• You're giving a physical gift
• You're a close friend or family member
• Standard weddings with no special circumstances

If choosing digital, use reputable platforms (Paperless Post, Greenvelope, Punchbowl) rather than generic e-cards. Personalize the message just as you would a physical card—digital doesn't mean generic.

Writing Wedding Cards in Multilingual Contexts

For bilingual couples or international weddings, consider writing in both languages or choosing the language most meaningful to your relationship with the couple.

If the couple speaks different primary languages:

• Write in the language you share with whichever partner you're closer to
• Or write a short message in both languages
• English is usually safe as a neutral option

If you don't speak the couple's language fluently:

• Don't rely on translation apps for important messages—they often miss cultural nuances
• Ask a fluent speaker to help you craft an appropriate message
• Or write in English with acknowledgment: "Wishing I could express this in [language], but sending all my love regardless!"

For destination weddings in non-English-speaking countries:

• Your card in English is perfectly appropriate
• Learning to write "Congratulations" in the local language is a nice touch
• Avoid attempting longer messages in languages you don't speak well

Final Thoughts on Wedding Card Messages

Writing wedding cards combines genuine emotion with appropriate etiquette. The most memorable cards balance three elements: authenticity (your real feelings), personalization (specific details about the couple), and appropriateness (matching tone to relationship).

Don't overthink it. Couples remember cards that feel genuine more than cards with perfect wording. If you're struggling, use the four-part formula (greeting, personal touch, wishes, closing) and write as though you're speaking directly to the couple.

Your card is a small but meaningful part of their wedding celebration. Take a few extra minutes to make it personal, proofread it carefully, and send it with your genuine hopes for their future together.

Sources and References

Footnotes

1. The Knot. (2024). Wedding Wishes: What to Write in a Wedding Card. https://www.theknot.com/content/wedding-wishes-what-to-write-in-a-wedding-card ↩

2. Grammarly. (2024). What to Write in a Wedding Card Message: 150 Wedding Wishes. https://www.grammarly.com/blog/writing-tips/wedding-card-message/ ↩

3. Emily Post Institute. (2024). Wedding Etiquette Guide. https://emilypost.com/advice/wedding-etiquette ↩

4. Good Housekeeping. (2024). 210 Best Wedding Wishes to Write in a Wedding Card. https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/life/relationships/a39187944/wedding-wishes-what-to-write-in-wedding-card/ ↩

5. Greenvelope. (2024). 49 Wedding Card Message Ideas When You're Out of Words. https://www.greenvelope.com/blog/wedding-card-message-ideas ↩

6. The Knot. (2024). Wedding Wishes: What to Write in a Wedding Card. https://www.theknot.com/content/wedding-wishes-what-to-write-in-a-wedding-card ↩

7. Scribamax. (2025). Hilarious Wedding Card Message Examples. https://www.scribamax.com/blog/wedding-card-message-funny ↩

8. Hallmark. (2024). Wedding Wishes: What to Write in a Wedding Card. https://ideas.hallmark.com/articles/wedding-ideas/wedding-wishes/ ↩

9. Emily Post Institute. (2024). Wedding Etiquette Guide. https://emilypost.com/advice/wedding-etiquette ↩

10. Greeting Card Association. (2023). Consumer Preferences in Greeting Card Presentation. Industry statistics report. ↩

11. Hitch Studio. (2024). 28 Ideas for What to Write in a Wedding Card. https://hitchstudio.com/28-ideas-for-what-to-write-in-a-wedding-card-formal-casual-funny-or-sentimental/ ↩

12. The Knot. (2024). Real Weddings Study 2024. Annual industry research. ↩

13. Greeting Card Association. (2024). Wedding Card Market Analysis. Industry market research report. ↩

14. Greeting Card Association. (2024). Digital vs. Physical Greeting Card Preferences. Consumer behavior study. ↩