Thoughtful Words For Your Bridesmaids' Cards

Asking your closest friends to be your bridesmaids is a perfect opportunity to show them how important they are to you. While this can be done through an intimate conversation, a bridesmaid proposal box, or a brunch bash, a heartfelt card is a great way to pop the question. Not sure what to write? Here are some ideas to get you started.

Greeting and tone

The greeting you choose for your bridesmaid proposal card will set the tone for the rest of your note. You can opt for a formal and sophisticated tone or go for something more playful and casual. If you're addressing your childhood bestie, you might want to use their embarrassing decades-old nickname, while a future sister-in-law might appreciate a more serious greeting.

You can also use the greeting to hint at what's to come. Chances are your bridesmaids already suspect they'll be included in your big day, but you can still kick things off with a playful nod to the card's purpose. For example, you could write something like "Now it's my turn to pop the question..." or "I know of a great party with an open bar..."

If you're not sure where to start, here are some greeting and tone examples to consider:

• "I can't believe I'm finally writing you this card!"
• "You're not just a friend, you're also a sister to me."
• "I joke about it often, but one of the best things about my relationship with Dan is having you in my life."
• "There's just no way I can walk down that aisle (or find a fashionable wedding dress!) without you."
• "I love you, little lady!"
• "To my (other) soulmate,"

A trip down memory lane

"I can't believe I'm writing you this card! If there's one person who has been as excited for [partner's name] to pop the question as I have, it's you. I can't thank you enough for all the support you've given us both throughout our relationship. From debriefing after our first date [add a funny anecdote here] to being one of the first people we shared the news with, you're the third wheel for our relationship—and we wouldn't trade you for the world. There's just no way I can walk down that aisle (or find a fashionable wedding dress!) without you. Will you be my bridesmaid? Please say yes because we have so much fun stuff to start planning. Cabo bachelorette, here we come!"

"It took me a while to realize just how lucky I am to have you as a sister. While blood makes us family, I am so grateful that time and experience made us best friends. Every important moment in my life, you've been there cheering me on and supporting me endlessly. While I know I haven't always been the easiest little sister to deal with (I'm still sorry for ruining your favourite sneakers in 7th grade!), I hope I've given you at least a fraction of the love and happiness you've brought me. Marrying [partner's name] isn't just something that will bring joy to my life—it's something I'm hopeful will bring joy to yours, too. You always said you wanted a brother! I'd love nothing more than to have you by my side as we become husband and wife. Will you be my bridesmaid? I couldn't do it without you!"

"You're probably not surprised to be getting this card (I did have you clear your calendar a year in advance, after all!), but I wanted to make things official. Having you as my cousin and one of my closest friends has been the greatest gift. Growing up together has been such an adventure, and I know the next stage of our lives will bring just as many fun memories and laughs as our first 28 years together. When it comes to finally making it official with [partner's name], I couldn't picture standing up at that altar without you by my side. I'm going to need you to help me tamp down those nerves and keep the champagne flowing—two things you've always been ace at. Will you be my bridesmaid?"

"I joke about it often, but having you in my life is one of the best things about my relationship with [partner's name]. From the moment he introduced us, I felt a special connection to you, and I'm so glad our friendship has grown over the years. You've been an incredible support system to us both, and I know we wouldn't be half the couple we are without your love and guidance. I hope that as we officially become family, we can add one more amazing memory to that growing list. Will you be my bridesmaid? Our wedding party would be incomplete without you standing up there at the altar, and I can't wait to celebrate not only becoming [partner's name]'s wife but becoming your sister too."

Pop the question

Popping the question to your bridesmaids is an important part of the wedding planning process. It's a chance to show your closest friends how much they mean to you and get them excited for the big day. Here are some ideas for what to write in your "pop the question" bridesmaid cards:

A Creative Take on "Popping the Question"

• "It's my time to pop the question."
• "It's my turn to pop the question. Will you be my bridesmaid?"
• "Now act surprised like you had no idea this was coming. Will you be my bridesmaid?"

A Sentimental Approach

• "I can't say 'I do' without you. Will you be my bridesmaid?"
• "My 'I do' would not be the same without you. Will you be my bridesmaid?"
• "I am so grateful for your friendship. Will you help me create a day full of love and joy by being my bridesmaid?"
• "You've been by my side for years, will you stand by my side again? Will you be my bridesmaid?"
• "I don't know what I'd do without you, will you do me the honour of being my bridesmaid?"

A Fun and Lighthearted Angle

• "Help me keep my sht together. Will you be my bridesmaid?"
• "I'll only be a happy bride if my best friend is by my side. Will you be my bridesmaid?"
• "Plan with me, stand with me, cry with me, laugh with me. Will you be my bridesmaid?"
• "Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue—and you. Will you be my bridesmaid?"
• "It wouldn't be a bridal party without you. Will you be my bridesmaid?"
• "Half of the groomsmen are single. Be my bridesmaid?"
• "There are friends, there is family, and then there are friends that become family. Will you be my bridesmaid?"

Remember, you can tailor your message to your personality and the dynamic you share with your bridesmaids-to-be. Whether you opt for a heartfelt note, a funny quip, or a creative twist, your bridesmaids are sure to appreciate the thought and effort you put into "popping the question"!

A look into the excitement

Agreeing to be a bridesmaid is the start of a fun and exciting journey for both the bride and her bridesmaids. The bride's request is often accompanied by a gift box or small gift, such as a mini bottle of champagne or a sweet treat, and marks the beginning of a series of events leading up to the wedding, including the wedding shower, bachelorette party, and any other pre-wedding celebrations.

The bridesmaids' participation in these events is an essential part of the excitement, as they get to share in the joy and anticipation of the upcoming nuptials. It is a chance for the bride and her bridesmaids to create lasting memories and strengthen their bond. The bridesmaids also play a crucial role in providing support and assistance to the bride, ensuring that her journey to the altar is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

The lead-up to the wedding is a time of celebration and joy, with the bridesmaids often taking on planning duties for the various events. From choosing dresses to organising the bachelorette party, the bridesmaids are key to ensuring the festivities are memorable and unique. Their presence and active involvement add to the excitement and anticipation of the wedding day itself.

Being a bridesmaid is an honour and a responsibility, and the bride's request marks the beginning of a special journey for all involved. It is a time to celebrate friendship, create lasting memories, and share in the happiness and love that surrounds the upcoming nuptials. The bridesmaids' participation and support are invaluable, and their presence adds a touch of magic to the entire experience.

Gratitude and appreciation

Show Your Appreciation

It is crucial to express your gratitude for your bridesmaids' presence on your wedding day and their contributions to your life and the wedding celebrations. Recognize the financial expenses they incurred, the emotional support they provided, and the time they dedicated to your wedding and related events. For those who went above and beyond, it is thoughtful to specifically acknowledge their extra efforts.

Include Photos

Including printed photos in your thank-you cards is a wonderful way to make them more special and personalized. Consider including group photos, pictures of just the two of you, or candid shots from the reception. These visual mementos will be cherished keepsakes for your bridesmaids.

Personalize Each Card

Avoid a generic, one-size-fits-all message. Instead, write a unique and personalized note to each bridesmaid. Share a special memory or a funny moment from the planning process that you shared. Mention how they have been there for you through thick and thin, and how their presence made your wedding day even more meaningful.

Write With Them in Mind

Write your thank-you notes in a way that reflects your normal way of speaking to each bridesmaid. There is no need to adopt a formal writing style. Be light-hearted, and even funny, if that comes naturally to you. If humour doesn't suit your relationship, that's okay too. Write to them as you would normally converse, letting your authentic voice shine through.

Mention Upcoming Milestones

Your note doesn't have to be solely focused on the past. It is perfectly fine to mention an upcoming event or milestone that you are excited to share with your bridesmaid. For example, if they are expecting a baby, buying a new home, or getting a promotion, acknowledge these exciting life developments and express your eagerness to support them through these new chapters.

Frequently asked questions