How to Write the Perfect Wedding Card Message for a Friend

what to write in a wedding card for a friend

Writing a wedding message shouldn’t feel like a high-pressure exam—think of it more as a warm hug in words. Whether you’re the couple’s childhood mate, a newer friend, or somewhere in between, your goal is to express love, joy, and support in a way that feels genuinely you.

Here’s your ultimate guide to wedding messages: heartfelt, funny, formal, casual—whatever suits your style and your bond with the happy couple.

Wedding Message Styles

ToneBest ForExample
FormalWorkmates, extended family“Wishing you a life filled with love and happiness.”
CasualFriends, cousins, mates“So happy for you both—can’t wait to party together!”
PersonalClose friends, siblings“From awkward dates to wedding bells—what a journey!”
FunnyFriends with shared banter“Congrats on finding someone who tolerates your snoring!”
ReligiousCouples of faith“May God bless your union and guide your journey.”

💡 How to Craft a Message That Feels Personal and Warm

What makes a wedding message truly meaningful?

It’s not just the words—it’s the heart behind them.

Here’s how to make it personal without overthinking it:

🧠 Think About Your Relationship

  • Close friend? Mention inside jokes or milestones.
  • Newer mate? Keep it warm and sincere.
  • Not close with one half? Focus on the joy of their union, not just your bond.

✍️ Include a Shared Memory

  • “Remember that festival where you two met? Who knew it’d lead here!”
  • “I knew they were ‘The One’ when you couldn’t stop smiling for weeks.”

😄 Add a Sprinkle of Humour (if it suits them)

  • “Here’s to love, laughter and never arguing over the thermostat!”
  • “Marriage: where ‘I do’ means ‘I guess we’re sharing chips forever.’”

🎯 Top Tip: Know the couple’s sense of humour. Light and cheeky? Go for it. More reserved? Play it safe.

Want to Add a Spiritual Touch?

Q: Should I include religious sentiments?

A: Only if it reflects the couple’s beliefs.

🕊️ Thoughtful Religious Messages

  • “May your love be rooted in faith and grow stronger with each blessing.”
  • “Let the Lord be the cornerstone of your beautiful life together.”

📌 Pro Tip: If unsure, keep it general: “Wishing you every blessing in your life together.”

Should I Keep It Simple or Go All Out?

Q: Short and sweet or long and heartfelt?

It depends on you and your relationship with the couple.

✅ When to Keep It Simple

  • You’re not close with both partners
  • You’re more formal or unsure what to write

Example:

“Wishing you a lifetime of happiness and love. Congratulations!”

💖 When to Get Personal and Elaborate

  • You’re very close with one or both
  • You want to share a memory or touch of humour

Example:

“Watching your relationship grow has been one of life’s greatest joys. I couldn’t be happier for you both—here’s to forever filled with travel, laughter and takeaways in PJs.”

📝 Practical Tips for Writing a Wedding Message

StepWhat to Do
Pick the Right CardMatch the design and tone to your style and the couple’s vibe
Write from the HeartForget clichés—just speak honestly and warmly
Keep It TimelySend it within 30 days before or 60 days after the wedding
Add a SignatureSign off with love, your name, or even a fun inside joke

❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Too generic: “Congrats” alone won’t cut it!
  • Mismatch of tone: Don’t joke if the couple’s ultra-traditional.
  • Too formal for a best mate: “Warmest regards” won’t feel right for someone you’ve shared a flat with.
  • Forgetting to sign it: Always end with your name and a personal sign-off!

💬 Message Examples You Can Use (Or Tweak!)

❤️ Heartfelt

“To two of my favourite people—your love is an inspiration. May your future be as bright and beautiful as your wedding day.”

🎉 Casual + Fun

“You did it! So thrilled for you both—can’t wait to make memories together as the coolest married couple in town.”

😂 Funny

“Marriage: when dating goes pro. You’ve officially upgraded—congrats!”

🙏 Spiritual

“May God bless your journey together with patience, laughter, and unwavering love.”

FAQs

What if I have writer’s block?

Step away for a bit—take a walk, think of a memory, or chat with a mutual friend. The best messages come naturally when you stop forcing them.

I don’t know one of the spouses well—what should I write?

Keep it sincere and simple. Focus on celebrating their love rather than your personal connection.

Handwritten or typed?

Always go handwritten if you can. It feels more personal—like you truly made an effort.

Final Thought

Your wedding card isn’t just a message—it’s a memory. Whether funny, tear-jerking or sweet, it should reflect you and the happiness you feel for the couple. Don’t worry about being a poet—just speak from the heart.

Because in the end, your words will be one of the most treasured gifts of all. 💌