Planning a wedding is an exciting but often overwhelming process. With so many details to consider, it's important not to overlook the seemingly small things, like sending out thoughtful wedding greeting cards. Proper wedding greeting card etiquette can help ensure your loved ones feel appreciated and your celebrations go smoothly.
Understanding the Significance of Wedding Greeting Cards:
Greeting cards hold sentimental value in wedding traditions. They serve as tangible tokens of love, support, and blessings for the newlyweds as they embark on their journey together. Whether attending the wedding in person or sending wishes from afar, a well-crafted greeting card carries sentiments that endure beyond the wedding day, becoming cherished keepsakes for years to come.
When to Send Wedding Greeting Cards:
Timing is crucial when it comes to sending wedding greeting cards. Ideally, cards should be sent before or shortly after the wedding day. For guests attending the wedding, sending the card in advance allows the couple to enjoy your sentiments amidst the pre-wedding excitement. However, if you're unable to send it beforehand, a thoughtful card arriving in the days following the wedding is still warmly received. For those unable to attend the wedding, sending the card promptly ensures your presence is felt, even from afar.
Choosing the Right Card:
Selecting the perfect wedding greeting card involves considering the couple's personality, your relationship with them, and the tone you wish to convey. Opt for a card that reflects the couple's style, whether it's elegant and traditional or quirky and fun. Personalized cards with heartfelt messages or humorous anecdotes often resonate deeply with the recipients. Additionally, consider the quality of the card and its design, as a well-crafted card enhances the overall presentation of your message.
Crafting the Message:
The message you write inside the wedding greeting card is perhaps the most significant aspect of card etiquette. It's an opportunity to convey your heartfelt congratulations, share fond memories, offer blessings, or impart words of wisdom to the couple. Here are some tips for crafting the perfect message:
Start with a Warm Greeting: Begin your message with a heartfelt greeting addressing the couple by their names or a collective "Dear Newlyweds."
Express Your Congratulations: Express your sincere congratulations to the couple on their marriage. Let them know how happy you are for them and how you wish them a lifetime of love and happiness together.
Share Personal Touches: Include personal touches such as fond memories you've shared with the couple, inside jokes, or heartfelt sentiments that illustrate the depth of your relationship.
Offer Blessings or Well Wishes: Offer blessings, well wishes, or words of wisdom for their future together. Encourage them to cherish each other, communicate openly, and navigate life's journey hand in hand.
Close with Warm Regards: Conclude your message with warm regards, such as "With love," "Best wishes," or "Congratulations again."
When to Send Wedding Greeting Cards
The timing for sending wedding congratulations card depends on your relationship to the couple. Here are the general guidelines:
Save the Date Cards: These should be mailed 6-12 months before the wedding date, so guests can plan accordingly.
Bridal Shower Cards: Shower cards should be sent 2-3 weeks before the event.
Wedding Invitation: Formal wedding invitations should be mailed 6-8 weeks before the wedding date.
Thank You Notes: Couples should send thank you notes for wedding gifts within 3 months after the wedding.
Who to Send Cards To
The wedding couple's close family and wedding party members should receive the most personalized greeting cards. Other common recipients include:
The couple's parents
Grandparents
The wedding party (bridesmaids, groomsmen, ushers, etc.)
Close friends and family
Any guests who send a wedding gift, even if they can't attend
What to Write in Wedding Greeting Cards
The content of your wedding cards should reflect your relationship to the couple. Some ideas include:
Congratulatory messages ("Wishing you a lifetime of love and happiness!")
Sharing a favorite memory or story about the couple
Offering advice for a successful marriage
Expressing excitement for their future together
Keep the message thoughtful but concise, around 3-5 sentences. Avoid mentioning anything related to gifts or money.
Choosing the Right Card
When selecting a wedding greeting card, consider the couple's style and personalities. Classic, elegant designs work well for more formal weddings, while whimsical or humorous cards suit casual celebrations. Aim to choose a card that feels personal and meaningful.
Other tips for choosing the right wedding card:
Handwrite the card rather than using pre-printed messages
Include a photo of you with the couple, if appropriate
Avoid cards with religious or political messages unless you know the couple would appreciate it
Following proper wedding greeting card etiquette is a thoughtful way to celebrate the happy couple. By keeping these guidelines in mind, you can help make their special day even more memorable.
