In the age of social distancing, you might find yourself “attending” a wedding in a whole new way (who knew we’d embrace video streaming even for formal events!). While you may not be a guest at a wedding ceremony in quite the same way any time soon, there are still ways that you can reach out to the happy couple and share your congratulations. One of the most meaningful ways to show your support during wedding season in the age of social distancing is through a handwritten card. After all, messages of good will and kind gestures mean that much more during challenging times. Whether your sentiments are easiest for you to express using a quote, a Bible verse about love, or a simple sentiment for well wishes and hope at the start of this new beginning, let us help you find the perfect words to make sure your message is spot on. Just grab your nicest pen, and we'll tell you what to write in a wedding card right here.
Keep It Simple
For a straightforward, yet heartfelt, approach, just extend your best wishes for a lifetime of happiness. (If you are attending the nuptials, let the couple know you’re grateful to be celebrating with them.) A wedding card message that's short and sweet works just fine: "Congratulations on your wedding! I'm wishing you many years of happiness together, and I’m so grateful to be celebrating with you today.” Don't overthink it — wedding card messages don't need to be long at all. Also, the couple will get so many cards that any shorter sentiments will likely be appreciated!
Make It Personal
When writing a wedding card for a close friend or family member, choose words that come from the heart. Tell the person how much he or she means to you, or share a favorite personality trait that's sure to make him or her a good mate. Just don’t forget the spouse-to-be though. Remember: This card is for both of them, and you don’t want one person to feel left out.
Add Some Advice
Do you have a tip for a blissful life together? Did someone share a nugget of marriage wisdom with you when you got married that you'd want pass along to the newlyweds? Whatever wise words you have, share it in the card along with your sentiments.
Keep It Lighthearted
If you know the recipients have a good sense of humor, feel free to throw in a funny quip about married life. Just don’t go too snarky on the jokes in case they're misinterpreted. And avoid any potential sore spots: don’t mention any previous relationships, how long it took the couple to get engaged, or anything else that could rub them the wrong way. Also, try to keep it clean — you don't want the bride to be blushing for all the wrong reasons!
What to Write in a Wedding Card for Your Sister
Your sister is often one of your closest friends, so feel free to pour out your emotions here. Let your sibling know how much you love her and how happy you are for her and her new spouse. Share a sweet childhood memory, and make sure to welcome your new brother-in-law to the family.
What to Write in a Wedding Card for a Parent
The wedding of a parent might bring up some difficult emotions that can make card writing a bit awkward. No matter what the situation is though, you can't go wrong with a simple message wishing the couple a happy future together.
What to Write in a Wedding Card for Your Coworker
Unless you're also close friends, this is time to keep your wedding card message a bit more formal. Skip the quips here, and write a simple note wishing the couple a lifetime of happiness.
What to Write in a Wedding Card for a Friend
Like a sibling, a friend can handle more emotion and some good-natured joking, so write whatever you think would be best received. Don't feel obligated to fill up the whole card though. If you see each other all the time, you may not feel like writing a long message.
When in Doubt, Go the Quote Route
Still struggling with what to write in a wedding card? Include a favorite quote instead. It could be from a love poem, a Bible verse, a song lyric, a movie or someone famous, like these:
“It doesn’t matter if the guy is perfect or the girl is perfect, as long as they are perfect for each other.” —Good Will Hunting
“The greatest thing you’ll ever learn is just to love, and be loved in return.” —Moulin Rouge
“The best thing to hold onto in life is each other.” —Audrey Hepburn
What to Write on the Outside of a Wedding Card
You’ve written a lovely sentiment inside the card — now how do you address the envelope? For a formal approach, go with “Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Jones.” Just keep in mind that not all individuals will be changing their names. If you’re close to the couple or the event is more casual (or if you’re uncertain if someone's last name is changing), stick with first names.
I Can’t Attend the Wedding — Now What?
Drop the card in the mail with a congratulatory message. Don’t feel obligated to explain why you missed the nuptials — saying you’re sorry you couldn’t celebrate with the couple in person is fine.
Be the Best Guest With These Cute Wedding Cards
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