Crafting A Wedding Congratulations Card: A Step-By-Step Guide

A wedding card is a cherished way to convey heartfelt congratulations and well wishes to the happy couple. Whether you're a friend, family member, or colleague of the newlyweds, it's important to craft a special message that suits your relationship with them. The card's design and message should align with the couple's style and theme, whether they're traditional or modern, minimalist or extravagant. You can use a combination of classic congratulatory phrases, personalised messages, and even humour to convey your happiness for the couple. The most important thing is that your note comes from the heart.

Choosing a card design that matches the couple's style and wedding theme

Know Their Style

The first step is to consider the couple's style and personality. Are they traditional or modern? Do they prefer a minimalist or extravagant approach? Understanding their aesthetic will help you choose a card that aligns with their taste.

Reflect Their Wedding Theme

If the couple has a specific wedding theme, try to incorporate that into your card design. For example, if they are having a rustic-themed wedding with natural elements and mason jar decorations, a card with rustic or natural imagery would be a perfect fit.

Use Their Color Palette

If the couple has chosen a specific color palette for their wedding, try to incorporate those colors into your card. This could be in the form of illustrations, backgrounds, or even the font color. This will create a cohesive look that complements their wedding style.

Add Personalized Touches

Adding personalized touches to the card will make it even more special. Include their names, wedding date, and even a custom message or quote that reflects their relationship. You can also add photos of the couple to make it extra meaningful.

Keep It Sophisticated

While you want the card to match their style, it's important to maintain a level of sophistication and elegance. Avoid anything too flashy or over-the-top unless it truly aligns with their taste. A classic, timeless design is often a safe choice.

Offer Sincere Wishes

Finally, the words inside the card are just as important as the design. Take the time to craft a sincere message that expresses your happiness for the couple. Whether it's a formal, casual, religious, or funny wish, make sure it comes from the heart.

Adding a personal message that reflects your relationship with the couple

For Close Friends or Family:

• "Of all the big life events we've celebrated over the years, today tops the list. Congrats!"
• "May you bring each other as much happiness and friendship as you've brought me. Congrats!"
• "Thanks for inviting me to eat cake and drink champagne. You should get married all the time!"
• "We've had so many laughs together! May you always make each other laugh!"
• "Here's to love and friendship!"
• "Congratulations to a wonderful friend and his/her new husband/wife."
• "I can't think of anyone in the world more deserving of happiness than you, my friend. I can't wait to see what life has in store for the happy couple. Congrats!"
• "Your love inspires me—here's to my favourite couple."
• "You've come so far, and your future together is so bright. Happy wedding day."
• "I can't wait to see how the rest of your love story unfolds."
• "May every day together see your love grow deeper."
• "Today is just the beginning; it gets even better."
• "Thanks for giving me an example of what true love is."
• "You shine so bright together."
• "Beyoncé and Jay-Z have nothing on you two."
• "Your love is truly one for the ages."
• "The joy you give each other is so clear to see. We love you!"

For a Coworker:

• "Congratulations on your special day! Best wishes to you and your family."
• "My work [husband/wife/spouse] now has the real deal! Congrats!"
• "Sending luck and love your way on your special day."
• "Congratulations, and enjoy your well-deserved honeymoon!"
• "Well wishes to you and your partner."
• "Congratulations on your wedding! I can't wait to hear all the details when you're back in the office."
• "Wishing you both years of happiness."
• "Who needs Jim and Pam when you two exist? Congratulations!"
• "Congratulations on this special milestone."
• "It's a privilege to witness your love and special day."
• "A lifetime of love begins today. Enjoy every minute!"
• "I'm so honoured to share this special day with you."
• "I wish you both a long and happy marriage!"
• "Well wishes to you and your partner!"
• "If you're as good a partner as you are a coworker, I know your spouse is one lucky person! Congratulations!"

For a Son or Daughter:

• "I couldn't be prouder of the beautiful/handsome young man/woman you've become. Congratulations on stepping into this new chapter."
• "As your mom, witnessing your union makes my heart sing. I am overjoyed to watch your love grow."
• "I've watched you blossom into a wonderful young woman/man. Always know that I'm here for you no matter what. Congratulations!"
• "Although you will always be my baby, you're now entering a new role in your life. Wishing you nothing but best wishes and everlasting love."
• "It makes me so happy to see you marrying the love of your life. I always knew you'd find someone who cherishes you as much as I do. Cheers to a lifetime of happiness."
• "May you bring each other as much happiness as you've brought into my life. Best wishes for a long and healthy marriage."
• "I always knew you were special, and it warms my heart to see someone else love and appreciate you as much as I do. Congratulations on your special day!"
• "From the moment you were born, I knew that you would grow up to become an exceptional individual. Now that you're getting married, never lose sight of your values and principles."
• "I'm so happy to be part of your special day, daughter. As always, I'm wishing you the best in everything that you do."
• "To my beautiful/handsome daughter/son, it's such a lovely feeling to witness your union. May your marriage be filled with joy and happiness on this special occasion."
• "It's been an honour to raise you. You've grown into a warm, compassionate and loving human being and I couldn't be prouder. May your union be blessed for an eternity."
• "You're truly blessed to have found your soulmate. Always stay true to yourself and don't let outsiders interfere with your unique love."
• "It's been a pleasure to see you in love. Getting a front-row seat in your life has been one of my greatest blessings. Wishing you infinite love today and always."
• "I've never known a love that shines as bright as yours. Continue to spread your unconditional love, and your union will forever flourish."

Remember, the most important thing is to write from the heart and tailor your message to reflect your unique relationship with the couple.

Including a religious message or bible verse

When writing a religious message or including a Bible verse in a wedding congratulations card, it's important to consider the couple's religious beliefs and practices. If you're unsure about their religious views, it's best to keep your message more general or avoid religious elements altogether. Here are some tips and examples to help you craft a meaningful and appropriate message:

Bible Verses and Religious Quotes:

Begin by referencing Bible verses about marriage, such as:

• "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonour others, 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." – 1 Corinthians 13:4-8
• "May joy and peace surround you both, contentment latch your door and happiness be with you now, and God bless you evermore." – Irish Blessing
• "Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins." – 1 Peter 4:8
• "May your mornings bring joy and your evenings bring peace, and may your troubles grow few as your blessings increase." – Irish Prayer

Tone and Content:

Depending on the couple's level of religious observance, you can tailor your message to be more formal and traditional or casual and relaxed. Here are some examples:

• Formal and Traditional:
• "May God bless you and your union. May He grant you all of life's blessings and love's joys."
• "Your marriage will be strong because the two of you are strong in your faith. May God's love be the glue that holds your marriage together."
• "May God bless you on your wedding day and for many years to come. May each day of your marriage be a celebration of your love for each other and your love for God."
• Casual and Relaxed:
• "May God's love be the centre of your marriage and guide you through any challenges."
• "Congratulations! I see God's love reflected in the love you share for each other. Wishing you a lifetime of love and happiness."
• "Wishing you a blessed marriage filled with love, joy, and contentment. May God's peace and joy surround you both."

Personalisation:

Add a personal touch by referencing your relationship with the couple and expressing your happiness for them. For example:

• "I am so happy for you both! May God's love and blessings be upon you as you embark on this new journey together."
• "To my dearest friends, may your marriage be a beautiful reflection of God's love. Congratulations and best wishes!"
• "It brings me so much joy to see the love you share. May God's grace and love be with you today and always."

Remember, the most important thing is to write from the heart and choose words that feel sincere and meaningful to you.

Sending the card before the wedding, or expressing gratitude for being invited

Sending a card before the wedding is a great way to express your gratitude for being invited and to wish the couple well on their special day. Here are some tips and ideas for sending a card before the wedding:

Timing

It is considered good etiquette to send your wedding card before the wedding day. This can be done as soon as you receive the invitation or even a few weeks after the wedding. There is no real time limit on expressing your happiness for the couple and wishing them well.

Delivery

If you are sending the card by mail, ensure you give it enough time to arrive before the wedding day. If you are attending the wedding, you can also bring the card with you and hand it to the couple directly or place it in a designated card box. If there is no card box, you can give it to the wedding planner, venue manager, or one of the fathers of the couple to ensure it is safely delivered to the bridal suite or another designated place.

Message

The message in your card should be heartfelt and tailored to the couple and your relationship with them. It can be formal, casual, funny, or religious, depending on the couple's preferences and your relationship with them. Here are some ideas for what to write:

• "Congratulations on your special day! We love you. Best wishes on this wonderful journey."
• "Wishing you a lifetime of love and happiness. May your love grow stronger with each passing year."
• "Thank you for letting us share in your special day. We wish you all the best as you embark on this wonderful union."
• "Congratulations! We are so happy for you both and feel honoured to be a part of your celebration."
• "May your marriage be filled with trust, respect, and above all, abundant joy. Congratulations!"

Remember to address the card to both members of the couple and, if unsure about last names, opt for a neutral option such as "To the newlyweds" or "To the Mr. and Mrs.".

Gift

If you are sending a gift along with the card, it is a good idea to mention it in your message, such as "We hope you enjoy the gift we sent to your home." This way, you are tactfully acknowledging that a gift accompanied your card. It is also recommended to send a check instead of cash so that it can be tracked if it gets misplaced.

Adding photos, videos, or a gift card to the card

Adding photos, videos, or a gift card to a wedding congratulations card is a thoughtful way to show your best wishes to the happy couple. Here are some ideas and instructions to help you with the process:

Adding Photos:

• Choose a high-quality photo: Select a clear, well-lit, and properly exposed photo that prominently features the couple. It could be a formal posed portrait, a casual candid shot, or even a vintage-style photo with a sepia tone.
• Cut-out shapes: Get creative by cutting the photo into a unique shape, such as a heart, and attaching it to the card.
• Overlay: Create a layered effect by placing a transparent overlay with the photo on top of the card's text or background.
• Polaroid style: Add a fun twist by giving your photo a white border and a caption, making it look like a polaroid picture.
• Collage: Arrange multiple photos in a collage or grid layout to showcase different moments of the couple's relationship.
• Envelope liner: Surprise the recipients even before they open the card by using the photo as an envelope liner.

Adding Videos:

• Invitation videos: Create a video invitation using online tools like SeeMyMarriage, which offers various video styles, concepts, and templates. You can include photos, music, and text to make it more personalized.
• Slideshow: Compile a collection of photos and videos of the couple and create a slideshow set to music.
• Animation: Bring your card to life with animation tools that turn static images into short videos.

Adding Gift Cards:

• Registry gift cards: You can add gift cards to the couple's wedding registry, allowing guests to contribute to their favourite brands or experiences, such as Airbnb, Delta Air Lines, or HomeGoods.
• Customized gift cards: Choose a store and amount, and then include a note explaining how the gift card can be used to support the couple's interests or needs, such as a Blue Apron gift card for cooking enthusiasts.
• Combination with other gifts: Combine gift cards with traditional wedding gifts or cash funds to give guests a range of options to choose from.

Remember to be creative, and always ensure that your addition complements the overall style and tone of the wedding card.

Frequently asked questions