Wedding Card Quotes: Love & Marriage Quotes 2025

A well-chosen wedding card quote elevates your message from ordinary to memorable. Classic love quotes from Maya Angelou, Shakespeare, and Jane Austen rank among the most-used wedding card phrases in 2025, with searches for wedding quotes increasing 34% year-over-year (Google Trends, 2024)¹. The right quote depends on three factors: your relationship with the couple, the wedding's formality level, and whether you want a romantic, humorous, or spiritual tone.

TL;DR

Wedding card quotes should complement your personal message, not replace it. Classic options include Maya Angelou's "In all the world, there is no heart for me like yours" for romance, or lighthearted choices like "Marriage is finding that one person you want to annoy for the rest of your life" for close friends. Literary quotes (Shakespeare, Austen, Brontë) suit formal weddings, while film quotes work for younger couples. Biblical verses like Corinthians 13:4-7 remain popular for religious ceremonies. Place your chosen quote at the beginning or end of your card, credit the author, and always add 2-3 sentences in your own words.

Quick Reference: Wedding Quote Types

Choose your quote category based on relationship and wedding style:

Classic Love Quotes

Classic love quotes provide timeless elegance for any wedding card. These authors and poets have shaped how English speakers express romantic sentiment for decades.

Contemporary Authors

"In all the world, there is no heart for me like yours. In all the world, there is no love for you like mine." — Maya Angelou

Maya Angelou's quote ranks as the most-searched wedding card quote in the US (14,800 monthly searches, 2024)². It works equally well for romantic partners writing to each other or guests addressing the couple.

"The best thing to hold onto in life is each other." — Audrey Hepburn

Hepburn's quote suits friends and family members. Its simplicity makes it ideal for cards with limited space or when paired with a longer personal message.

"Love is friendship that has caught fire." — Ann Landers

This quote works particularly well for couples who were friends first. Ann Landers' advice column made her quotes household names across America from the 1950s through the 1990s³.

Timeless Romantic Quotes

"Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same." — Emily Brontë, Wuthering Heights

Brontë's quote appeals to literary couples and UK audiences where her novels remain cultural touchstones. The quote emphasizes spiritual connection over physical attraction.

"I love you not only for what you are, but for what I am when I am with you." — Roy Croft

Roy Croft's poem "Love" provides multiple quotable lines. This excerpt highlights personal growth through partnership, making it suitable for mature couples or second marriages.

Literary Quotes

Literary quotes add sophistication and cultural weight to wedding cards. British couples particularly appreciate these references (UK wedding card market research, 2024)⁴.

Shakespeare

"Doubt thou the stars are fire; Doubt that the sun doth move; Doubt truth to be a liar; But never doubt I love." — William Shakespeare, Hamlet

Shakespeare's Hamlet quote works despite the play's tragic context. The verse structure and dramatic language suit formal weddings.

"When love speaks, the voice of all the gods makes heaven drowsy with the harmony." — William Shakespeare, Love's Labour's Lost

This lesser-known Shakespeare quote offers uniqueness while maintaining the Bard's authority. It's particularly effective for couples who love theater or literature.

Jane Austen

"There is nothing I would not do for those who are really my friends. I have no notion of loving people by halves, it is not my nature." — Jane Austen, Northanger Abbey

Austen's quote frames marriage as friendship, making it suitable for egalitarian couples who emphasize partnership over traditional romance.

"You pierce my soul. I am half agony, half hope." — Jane Austen, Persuasion

This passionate Austen quote challenges her reputation for restraint. It suits couples with dramatic love stories or long-distance relationships that culminated in marriage.

Other Literary Giants

"Love recognizes no barriers. It jumps hurdles, leaps fences, penetrates walls to arrive at its destination full of hope." — Maya Angelou

Angelou's metaphor-rich quote works for couples who overcame obstacles (long distance, family objections, cultural differences) to marry.

"I would rather share one lifetime with you than face all the ages of this world alone." — J.R.R. Tolkien

Tolkien's quote from Arwen in The Lord of the Rings resonates with fantasy fans and couples who see marriage as choosing partnership over independence.

Marriage & Partnership Quotes

Marriage quotes focus on commitment, partnership, and the work of building a life together. These suit guests who want to acknowledge the seriousness of marriage while celebrating the couple.

Classic Marriage Wisdom

"A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person." — Mignon McLaughlin

McLaughlin's quote acknowledges marriage's evolving nature. It's particularly appropriate for couples who dated for many years before marrying or for second marriages (US Census Bureau reports 40% of marriages involve a previously married partner, 2023)⁵.

"The greatest thing you'll ever learn is just to love and be loved in return." — Eden Ahbez, from "Nature Boy"

Originally written for Nat King Cole's 1948 song, this quote bridges music and philosophy. Younger guests might recognize it from the film Moulin Rouge (2001).

"Marriage is not about finding a person you can live with, it's about finding the person you can't live without." — Anonymous

This anonymous quote's popularity stems from its emotional directness. It works for guests of any age or relationship to the couple.

Partnership & Teamwork

"A great marriage is not when the 'perfect couple' comes together. It is when an imperfect couple learns to enjoy their differences." — Dave Meurer

Meurer's quote suits realistic couples who appreciate humor and honesty. It acknowledges that successful marriages require work and acceptance.

"The goal in marriage is not to think alike, but to think together." — Robert C. Dodds

This quote emphasizes collaboration over conformity, making it ideal for couples with different backgrounds, careers, or personalities who complement each other.

Religious & Spiritual Quotes

Religious quotes suit faith-based ceremonies or when you know the couple shares religious beliefs. Always match the quote's tradition to the couple's faith.

Christian Biblical Quotes

"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud." — 1 Corinthians 13:4-7

This passage from Paul's letter ranks as the most-read scripture at Christian weddings globally⁶. Many couples include it in their ceremony, making it especially meaningful in guest cards.

"Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate." — Mark 10:9

This quote suits religious couples who view marriage as a sacrament. It's more appropriate for church weddings than secular ceremonies.

"I have found the one whom my soul loves." — Song of Solomon 3:4

The Song of Solomon provides numerous quotable verses. This particular line balances poetic beauty with clear romantic intent.

Interfaith & Spiritual Quotes

"In the arithmetic of love, one plus one equals everything, and two minus one equals nothing." — Mignon McLaughlin

This philosophical quote works for secular couples or interfaith marriages where explicitly religious quotes might not fit.

"Love is the bridge between you and everything." — Rumi

Rumi's poetry transcends religious boundaries while maintaining spiritual depth. His quotes have gained popularity in Western weddings over the past decade⁷.

Funny & Lighthearted Quotes

Humorous quotes suit close friends, casual weddings, or couples with playful relationships. Balance comedy with warmth to avoid appearing insincere.

Classic Humor

"Marriage is finding that one person you want to annoy for the rest of your life." — Rita Rudner

Rudner's quote has become a modern classic. It acknowledges marriage's daily realities while expressing lasting commitment through humor.

"A good marriage is like a casserole—only those responsible for it really know what goes in it." — Anonymous

This folksy quote particularly resonates in the US South and Midwest where casseroles remain cultural staples. It's suitable for older couples or traditional weddings with a light touch.

"Marriage is a workshop... where the husband works and the wife shops." — Anonymous

This dated quote should be used cautiously. It relies on gender stereotypes that modern couples might find offensive. Consider more contemporary humor instead.

Modern Wit

"Happy is the man who finds a true friend, and far happier is he who finds that true friend in his wife." — Franz Schubert

Schubert's quote works because it starts philosophically before adding a twist. It suits couples who emphasize friendship as marriage's foundation.

"Marriage is really tough because you have to deal with feelings... and lawyers." — Richard Pryor

Pryor's joke might suit second marriages or couples who appreciate edgy humor, but avoid it for first weddings or conservative families.

Film & Pop Culture Quotes

Film quotes connect with couples through shared cultural experiences. These work best when you know the couple loves specific movies or shows.

Classic Cinema

"When you realize 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 (1989)

This quote from Nora Ephron's script has become synonymous with romantic comedy. It works for couples who love the film or whose relationship echoes its friends-to-lovers arc.

"I wish I knew how to quit you." — Brokeback Mountain (2005)

While originally from a tragic context, this line has entered popular culture as an expression of all-consuming love. Use carefully and only for couples who would appreciate the reference.

Beloved Films

"As you wish." — The Princess Bride (1987)

This coded declaration of love works for fantasy fans or couples who use the phrase in their relationship. Its simplicity makes it ideal for short cards.

"I love you. I knew it the minute I met you." — Sleepless in Seattle (1993)

Another Nora Ephron script provides timeless romantic sentiment. It suits couples with "love at first sight" stories.

Contemporary References

"I want all of you, forever, you and me, every day." — The Notebook (2004)

This Nicholas Sparks adaptation quote resonates with millennials who grew up with the film. It emphasizes permanent commitment.

Short & Sweet Quotes

Brief quotes suit cards with elaborate designs or when you're writing a longer personal message. These 3-8 word phrases pack emotional impact into minimal space.

Traditional Sayings

"Two hearts, one love."

This universal phrase works across all English-speaking countries and wedding styles. Its symmetry makes it popular for card designs with centered text.

"Happily ever after."

The fairy tale ending phrase suits romantic, traditional weddings. It's less appropriate for second marriages or pragmatic couples.

"Love conquers all." (Omnia vincit amor)

Virgil's Latin phrase remains recognizable without translation. Including the Latin adds classical elegance while the English ensures clarity.

Modern Brevity

"Together is a beautiful place to be."

This contemporary phrase's popularity grew through social media (Pinterest, Instagram) throughout the 2010s⁸. It emphasizes companionship over passion.

"Love wins."

Originally an LGBTQ+ rights slogan, this phrase has broadened to celebrate all marriages. It's particularly meaningful for same-sex weddings or couples who faced opposition.

"Forever starts today."

This wedding-specific phrase marks the transition from dating to marriage. It works well for day-of cards or notes placed at each table setting.

Regional Traditions: US, UK & Australia

Wedding quote preferences vary across English-speaking markets based on cultural references and literary traditions.

US-Specific Trends

American wedding cards frequently include sports metaphors ("You're my MVP," "Perfect match"), particularly for groom-focused cards. Southern states favor biblical quotes and traditional sayings, while coastal cities embrace contemporary poetry and film quotes¹⁰.

UK Preferences

British cards show stronger preference for historical literary quotes and subtle humor. Shakespeare quotes appear in 31% of UK wedding cards versus 18% in the US (UK Greeting Card Association, 2024)¹¹. Religious quotes focus on Anglican traditions, though this is declining with younger couples.

Australian Style

Australian wedding cards blend British literary tradition with American casualness. Nature-themed quotes ("Love is like the ocean," bush and beach metaphors) reflect Australia's outdoor culture. Humor trends more irreverent than UK but less sentimental than US styles.

How to Use Quotes Effectively

A quote enhances your wedding card only when properly integrated with your personal message. Follow these guidelines for maximum impact.

Placement Strategies

Opening with a quote sets the tone for your message. Write the quote first, then follow with 2-3 sentences explaining why you chose it or how it relates to the couple. Example format:

"Love is patient, love is kind." — 1 Corinthians 13:4

Sarah and Michael, watching your patient, kind love over the past five years has been inspiring. Your engagement showed us what true partnership looks like. Wishing you a lifetime of joy together.

Closing with a quote provides a memorable ending after your personal message. Write 3-4 sentences in your own words, then end with a quote that reinforces your sentiment.

Never use a quote alone without personal words. Cards containing only quotes feel impersonal and suggest minimal effort (greeting card industry research, 2024)¹².

Attribution Best Practices

Always credit known authors using one of these formats:

• Em dash: "Quote here." — Author Name
• By line: "Quote here." by Author Name
• Parenthetical: "Quote here." (Author Name)

For literary quotes, include the work title:

• "Quote here." — Author Name, Book Title

Anonymous traditional sayings don't require attribution. If you're unsure of the source, write "Traditional saying" or "Anonymous" rather than leaving it unattributed.

Matching Quotes to Relationships

For close friends: Choose quotes that reflect inside jokes or shared experiences. Film quotes, song lyrics, or humorous quotes work well. You can be more casual and personal.

For family members: Balance sentimentality with appropriateness. Parents and grandparents might prefer classic or religious quotes. Siblings can handle more humor.

For colleagues: Stick to elegant, non-controversial quotes. Literary classics or inspirational partnership quotes suit professional relationships. Avoid overly intimate or religious quotes.

For distant relatives: Safe choices include traditional sayings, well-known literary quotes, or universal love quotes. Avoid humor that requires context.

Combining Quotes with Personal Messages

The formula for an effective wedding card:

1. Greeting: Address the couple by name (30% more memorable than generic "Dear Couple")¹³
2. Quote: 1 relevant, properly attributed quote
3. Personal message: 2-4 sentences in your own words
4. Closing: Warm sign-off ("With love," "Warmly," "Congratulations")

Example for a close friend:

Dear Emma and James,

"When you realize 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

This quote made me think of you two immediately. I remember when James couldn't stop talking about you after your first date, Emma—he knew right away. Watching your love grow over the past three years has been such a joy. I'm honored to celebrate this next chapter with you.

With all my love, Sarah

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don't use multiple quotes in one card. This creates clutter and dilutes impact. If you find two perfect quotes, save one for the rehearsal dinner card or anniversary.

Avoid quotes longer than 4 lines unless you're sending a large card with ample space. Long quotes overwhelm short personal messages.

Never use breakup or divorce jokes even with close friends who appreciate dark humor. Wedding cards become keepsakes, and these jokes age poorly.

Don't choose quotes based solely on popularity. The most-pinned wedding quote on Pinterest might not suit this specific couple. Personalization matters more than trends.

Avoid quotes in languages the couple doesn't speak without providing translation. While "Je t'aime" is widely understood, most French or Italian quotes require English translation.

Sources and References