What to write in a wedding card: Thoughtful wishes for every couple

When it comes to celebrating a couple’s big day, a heartfelt message in a wedding card can mean the world. But finding the right words is not always easy. 

Whether you’re penning a note for a close friend, a family member, or a colleague, we’ve got you covered with meaningful, fun, and heartfelt wedding wishes that will stand out.

Classic wedding wishes

Sometimes, simple and timeless is best. If you’re wondering what to write in a wedding card without overthinking it, here are some classic messages:

• “Wishing you a lifetime of love, laughter, and happiness together. Congratulations on your wedding!”
• “May today be the beginning of a long, happy life together. Best wishes to you both.”
• “Congratulations on your wedding day! Wishing you all the best as you begin this beautiful journey together.”

When to use: Perfect for formal weddings or when you don’t know the couple very well but still want to express genuine joy and warmth.

Top tip: Add a personal note at the end, like, “Looking forward to celebrating with you soon!”

Funny and lighthearted wedding messages

Want to add a little humour? A witty message can bring a smile (as long as it’s appropriate for your relationship with the couple):

• “Marriage: when dating goes pro. Congrats to the champions!”
• “You’ve found someone who’s just as weird as you – that’s true love. Congratulations!”
• “May your love be modern enough to survive the times and old-fashioned enough to last forever.”

When to use: Ideal for close friends or family members who appreciate a good laugh.

Top tip: Keep the humour light-hearted and avoid jokes that could be misinterpreted.

Wedding wishes for family members

When it’s a family affair, a heartfelt message hits the right note:

• “It brings me so much joy to see you both so happy. Wishing you love, laughter, and a lifetime of happiness.”
• “To my dear [brother/sister/cousin], seeing you marry the love of your life fills my heart with joy. Congratulations and best wishes always.”

When to use: Perfect for immediate or extended family members.

Top tip: Include a warm memory from family gatherings or childhood experiences for extra sentiment.

Wedding wishes for colleagues

If you’re writing a wedding card for a colleague, keep it warm but professional:

• “Wishing you both joy and happiness on your wedding day and always. Congratulations!”
• “Congratulations on your wedding! May this new chapter bring you endless happiness and success.”
• “Best wishes to you both for a lifetime of love and laughter.”

When to use: Suitable for work-related settings or if you don’t know the colleague very personally.

Top tip: Avoid overly personal jokes or references to maintain professionalism.

Best wedding wishes for a friend

If the couple are close friends, your message can be more personal:

• “To my wonderful friends, I couldn’t be happier for you both. Here’s to a lifetime of memories, love, and laughter.”
• “Wishing you endless joy and adventure together. You two were made for each other.”
• “So thrilled to celebrate this special day with you both — cheers to love, friendship, and all the good times ahead.”

When to use: Anytime you’re writing to a friend who has been a meaningful part of your life.

Top tip: Think back to a moment you’ve shared together. Adding something personal like, “Remember when you first introduced me to [partner’s name] at that awkward dinner party? I knew it was meant to be!” makes your message truly unique.

Short and sweet wedding card messages

Sometimes, less is more:

• “Congratulations on tying the knot! Wishing you both so much happiness.”
• “Cheers to love, laughter, and happily ever after!”
• “So happy for you both! Here’s to your future together.”

When to use: When space is limited or for casual acquaintances.

Top tip: Pair with a thoughtful gift or add a simple drawing — like a heart, flowers or a little doodle — to personalise the card.

Religious and spiritual wedding wishes

For couples who appreciate faith-based sentiments:

• “May your marriage be blessed with love, joy, and companionship. Congratulations on your union.”
• “Wishing you God’s blessings as you begin this beautiful journey together.”
• “May your love continue to grow stronger with every passing day.”

When to use: Ideal for couples who are religious or spiritual.

Top tip: Respect the couple’s faith background; tailor your message to their beliefs if you know them well.

Wedding quotes to add extra sparkle

If you’re stuck for words, a meaningful quote can make a big impact:

• “A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person.” – Mignon McLaughlin
• “The best thing to hold onto in life is each other.” – Audrey Hepburn
• “Love recognises no barriers.” – Maya Angelou

When to use: Perfect for any couple, just add a short personal note alongside the quote.

Top tip: Use elegant handwriting or printed calligraphy to make the quote stand out.

Making every word count

The best wedding card messages come from the heart. Don’t be afraid to personalise your message with a shared memory, an inside joke, or a heartfelt wish for their future together. 

Whether you’re keeping it simple or going all-out with sentimentality, your thoughtful words will mean more than you know.

Quick tips to remember:

• Always sign your name at the end of the message.
• Include the date of the wedding for a keepsake touch.
• If giving a gift, mention it subtly in the message (e.g., “Hope you enjoy the photo frame!”).

Still unsure what to write? Keep it genuine, keep it kind, and let your relationship with the couple guide the message.

Now, grab that pen — it’s time to spread some love!

FAQs about wedding card messages

1. What to write in a wedding card?

A wedding card message should reflect your relationship with the couple. Classic wedding wishes like “Wishing you a lifetime of love and happiness” are always a safe choice. Add a personal touch, like a shared memory or inside joke, for a more heartfelt note.

2. What are the best wedding wishes for a friend?

Personalise your wedding wishes for a friend with meaningful messages:

• “So happy for you both — cheers to a lifetime of laughter, love, and friendship!”
• “Wishing you endless joy, adventure, and unforgettable memories together.”

3. What’s an appropriate wedding card message for a colleague?

Professional yet warm wedding wishes for a colleague include:

• “Congratulations on your wedding! Wishing you both success and happiness in this exciting new chapter.”
• “Best wedding wishes for a lifetime filled with love, laughter, and adventure.”

4. Can I write a funny wedding card message?

Yes, if humour suits your relationship with the couple. Keep your wedding congratulations message light:

• “Marriage: when dating goes pro! Congrats on your marriage!”
• “You’ve found someone just as weird as you. That’s true love — congratulations!”

5. What are the best short wedding wishes?

Short and sweet wedding card message ideas include:

• “Congratulations on tying the knot! Wishing you so much happiness.”
• “Cheers to love, laughter, and a happily ever after.”
• “Best wishes for a lifetime of joy and love.”