What to Write in an Engagement Card: 70 Original Ideas

When a loved one gets engaged, you may find yourself wondering what to write in an engagement card to convey your excitement and joy!

Engagements mark a beautiful milestone, and whether you're offering warm congratulations or heartfelt advice, the right message can make the occasion even more memorable. To help you find the perfect words, we’ve pulled together 70 original ideas to spark some inspiration, along with expert tips from Anna Williamson, founder of The Relationship Place  and presenter of Celebs Go Dating. 

So, whether you're a bestie, a proud parent, or someone in between, we’ve got the perfect mix of heartfelt, funny, and memorable messages to help you nail that engagement card and make the happy couple smile!

Heartfelt and Memorable Engagement Card Messages: 70 Ways to Say Congrats

In a recent Hitched poll, nearly half of couples (47%, to be exact) said that what’s written in an engagement card is super important to them—no pressure, right? When asked what type of messages they prefer, 57% said they want something personal and heartfelt, 30% were happy with a simple "congrats," and 13% were all about the funny messages.

With such a range of preferences, deciding what to write in engagement cards can feel tricky. You want to get your engagement card wishes just right, but as these stats show, different couples appreciate different styles of messages.

Worry not, though! By the time you’re done reading this article, you'll be brimming with inspirational ideas. We’ll cover exactly what to write, how to write it, and even share some tips on what to avoid, so you can confidently craft the perfect engagement card message.

• How to Write an Engagement Card
• What to Write in an Engagement Card
• Things to Avoid in your Engagement Card Message
• What to Write in an Engagement Card From Parents
• What to Write in an Engagement Card From Siblings
• What to Write in an Engagement Card for a Friend or Best Friend
• Simple Things to Write in an Engagement Card
• Funny Things to Write in an Engagement Card
• Quotes to Write in an Engagement Card
• How Do You Congratulate Someone on Their Engagement?

How to Write an Engagement Card

Writing the right words for an engagement card is a fun and meaningful task! After all, it’s a chance to give the happy couple a keepsake they'll treasure as they embark on this exciting journey together. Your message is the perfect way to show your excitement and joy for their future, and with a little creativity, you can make it shine. Here’s how to craft engagement messages for cards that are both heartfelt and memorable:

Kick Off with a Cheerful Greeting

Start your engagement message with a greeting that feels warm and inviting. If “Dear” feels a bit too stiff, go for something casual that matches your vibe. Don’t forget to include both of their names—after all, it’s their big moment! A simple “Hey [Names]!” or “To the Amazing [Names]!” can set the tone for your message.

Add a Dash of Personality

In the body of your message, let your personality shine! Reflect on your relationship with the couple and share a joyful memory or two. Have you celebrated milestones together? Maybe you have a funny story or a sweet moment that captures your friendship. This personal touch not only makes your message special but also shows just how genuinely happy you are for them.

Wrap It Up with Style

Finish your engagement wish with a closing that fits your relationship. “Yours sincerely” might feel a bit too stuffy, while “From” may lack pizzazz. Try a classic like “With Love” for a heartfelt touch, or if you’re lifelong pals or family, go for “Lots of Love” or even “Hugs and Kisses!”

What to Write in an Engagement Card 

When it comes to engagement messages for cards, it’s all about celebrating the couple's joy and looking ahead to their future together. Alongside your heartfelt congratulations, consider adding a personal touch that reflects their unique relationship. Perhaps mention how well they complement each other or share a memorable moment that highlights their bond. For instance, you might say, “Seeing how you both light up each other’s lives is truly inspiring! Cheers to a lifetime of happiness and adventures together!” This combination of warm wishes and personal anecdotes can make your message unforgettable.

Anna Williamson, relationship expert and founder of The Relationship Place believes the most important thing you absolutely must include in an engagement card insert is a congratulatory message for the happy couple. Here's her best example: "Congratulations to you both on your happy news, here’s to the next exciting chapter in your lives!"

Things to Avoid in Your Engagement Card Message

When it comes to what not to write in an engagement card, Anna lets us in on one of the biggest faux pas you can make congratulating the happy couple. It's important not to be presumptuous or put pressure about the wedding onto the couple when they have just got engaged, and Anna.

"I would encourage anyone to avoid writing things like 'I can’t wait to be a part of your big day!' inside an engagement card," she explains. "This is presumptuous and you might not actually be invited to some/any of it!"

When crafting your engagement card message, it’s also important to keep the focus on the couple rather than yourself. Avoid comments like “I can’t wait for the hen/stag do,” as these can shift attention away from their special moment and come across as presumptuous.

And like Anna mentioned steer clear of putting any pressure on the happy couple. This is a time filled with excitement and emotions, so keep your tone light and casual. Speak from the heart, and resist the urge to build up too much anticipation. It’s best to avoid discussions about wedding costs or bombarding them with honeymoon ideas, as these topics might add unnecessary stress during such a joyful time.

What to Write in an Engagement Card From Parents

When crafting an engagement card for your child and their partner, it’s important to go beyond a simple “Congratulations” message. Here are some ideas, along with a valuable tip on what to write in an engagement card from parents!

• "Your father and I have always tried to set an example for you of what a marriage should look like. May you always have each other’s back and each other’s heart as you navigate a new life together."
• "We’re the luckiest parents in the world to have watched you grow into the beautiful person you are today. The moment you first introduced us to [insert name] we could tell you were head over heels and now we’re so fortunate to welcome them into our family too."
• "We've been waiting for this day since you were in nappies! No turning back now..."
• "I always knew this joyous moment would come, and I’m honoured to call you my son/daughter as you take this exciting new step to starting your own family."
• "Once of the proudest moments of a father's/mother's life is when they get to watch their little girl/boy walk down the aisle. The second proudest is when they ace their father/mother of the bride speech."
• "May the love you share only grow stronger as you grow older."
• "Enjoy every moment of planning your wedding. This is just chapter one of the most exciting book."
• "We couldn’t be happier to welcome a new son/daughter into our family. I hope you warned them what to expect!"
• "It makes us so happy to see how happy [insert name] makes you. It’s all you could ask for your child and we hope you stay this madly in love forever."
• "To our wonderful son/daughter and his/her new fiancé: may this relationship blossom into endless beautiful memories."
• "Congratulations on your engagement! We are so proud of the wonderful relationship you’ve both built together. It brings us so much joy to see you so happy and in love. Welcome to the family, [Partner's Name]! We can’t wait to celebrate this exciting new chapter in your lives."

Writing Tip for Engagement Wishes to Your Child: As a child, no matter how old you get, hearing that your parents are proud of what you have achieved is one of the nicest things you can hear. Any kind words about being proud of the relationship your child and their partner have worked hard at will definitely go down well.

Don't forget to ensure your engagement card to your son or daughter is inclusive of their partner as well - a note welcoming them into the family is always a nice touch. 

What to Write in an Engagement Card From Siblings

Writing an engagement card to your brother or sister is always going to be a huge moment, whether they are older or younger than you. If you’re wondering what to write for engagement messages, here’s a fun approach!

• "I’ve spent my whole life looking up to you but you’ve never made a decision as wise as asking [insert name] to marry you. Well done."
• "This engagement stuff has worked out so well. You get a fiancé and I get a new brother/sister. Wicked!"
• "I just can't believe my brother/sister is getting married. I couldn't be happier!"
• "I always knew we were a little weird and I’m so glad you found another weirdo to join our family who’ll love you forever."
• "I remember the day you were born – all red and wrinkly and screaming your lungs out. It’s hard to believe you’re old enough now to get engaged! Couldn’t be prouder of my little sister/brother, congratulations."
• "Words can’t even describe how happy I am my sister has found true love. I remember when we used to talk about who was our perfect crush. Well, he isn’t Ryan Gosling, but [insert name] is a pretty good substitute. Welcome to the family."
• "You might be losing your last name, but I’m gaining a brother/sister so that’s a deal I’m pretty happy with. Love you both and can’t wait to celebrate with you."
• "I didn’t tease you for nothing as a kid. It was preparing you for how mercilessly I’m going to mock you when you've had one too many at the hen/stag. Bring it on, sister/bro."
• "You deserve the world and I’m so happy you’ve found someone that makes you beam with happiness. To many more adventures."
• Congratulations on your engagement! I can’t believe my little [or big] sibling is all grown up! You’ve truly found someone who can handle your quirks! [Partner's Name], welcome to the family! We’re a bit crazy, but we love hard. I’m so excited for your future together and can’t wait to celebrate!
• "It’s obvious the answer was a big 'yes!' Congratulations on your engagement, sis/bro!"
• "I always knew this day would come, and I couldn’t be more thrilled for you. My intuition is on point, right? Congratulations—I’m so excited for you both!"

Writing Tip for Engagement Wishes to Your Sibling: When writing an engagement card to your sibling, a reference to a funny memory is always nice.

Sibling relationships tend to be more playful than others in the family so you can definitely crack a joke or two. It's also important to reference your new sibling-in-law and give them some light-hearted 'words of approval' - or warning! 

What to Write in an Engagement Card For a Friend or Best Friend

The moment your best friend gets engaged is one you’ll cherish forever. Whether they’re your ride-or-die bestie or a close colleague, knowing what to write in an engagement card for a friend can make all the difference.

These heartfelt engagement wishes for friends will help you express your joy and support during this exciting time!

• "May you bring each other as much happiness as your friendship has brought to my life – congratulations!"
• "We’ve been through school and uni and that phase where we both dyed our hair together, so its strange to see you start a whole new chapter of your life with someone else. But I can’t wait to watch the journey you’re about to take – I love you both."
• "You two are a perfect couple and two of my best friends – I can’t wait to celebrate with you!"
• "You gained a ring and I gained permanent third-wheel status  – and honestly, I couldn’t be happier."
• "You two are perfect for each other. I know your marriage as going to be as strong and last as long as our friendship."
• "Of all the moments we’ve celebrated in our life together, this is the best so far. Congratulations."
• "I’m so lucky to call both of you my friends and I can’t wait to be able to call you husband and wife/husband and husband/wife and wife too."
• "Congratulations! It feels like only yesterday we were moving into halls at uni and now I’m about to help you get married!"
• "I couldn’t be more excited to be part of your wedding journey. I’m here for everything you need, whether that’s addressing 100 envelopes or bringing round wine at 11pm when you’re stressing out. Actually, there’s never been a time when I wouldn’t have brought round wine at 11pm… but now we’ll have a proper excuse."
• "You’re a match made in heaven and I’m over the moon that I get to watch you make that official."
• "You’ve been my best mate since school. I got to be front-row for all the detentions, shocking football tackles, girls'/boys’ holidays, first love and first heartbreak – plus that time you accidentally shaved off your eyebrow – and now I get to be front-row as you say ‘I do’. I couldn’t be prouder of that nerdy, spotty teenager right now."
• "I finally booked us into that spin class we’re always talking about. We’re going to need the cardio for all the wedding shopping we’re about to do!"
• "I remember when we planned our weddings when we were seven with a toilet paper veil and Haribo rings. This is a glow-up and half! Congrats, queen. I can’t wait to try on tiaras with you."
• "Congratulations to my ride-or-die! I'm beyond thrilled to see you embarking on this new chapter with your perfect match. May your love story be filled with endless laughter, adventure, and unwavering support. Can't wait to celebrate your big day!"
• "To my best friend, a soulmate. I'm so incredibly happy for you and [Partner's Name] on this special day. Your love shines brighter than any star, and I can't wait to celebrate with you both. Cheers to a lifetime of happiness!"
• "Well, well, well... looks like someone finally found their lobster! I’m so happy for you and [Partner’s Name]. Get ready for a lifetime of love, laughter, and probably a few arguments over who gets to control the remote. Cheers to the happy couple!"

Writing Tip for Engagement Wishes to Your Best Friend: If you're a close or best friend, it's likely that you were around when your pal and their partner first met. A reference to the early days is a nice way to bring some nostalgia into your engagement card message.

Note that if you are going to make any jokes or write any stories from the past in your engagement wishes for friend, make sure they are in jest and will be received well by your best friend and their spouse-to-be.

Simple Things to Write in an Engagement Card

Whether you're pondering what to write in an engagement card for your best friend or crafting a heartfelt message as a parent, sometimes less is more. Short engagement wishes can be just as meaningful and impactful as longer messages. Simple, sincere sentiments can capture your excitement and love for the couple without overwhelming them.

• "Congratulations on the engagement. I'm so happy for you both."
• "You're getting married! Congratulations, wishing you all the best together."
• "May this engagement be the beginning of everlasting happiness and commitment to one another."
• "It’s a truly wonderful thing that you have found each other. All the best with your wedding plans."
• "So happy to hear your news – you really are a perfect couple. Sending you all my love as you start planning the wedding and your future together."
• "Congratulations on your engagement. Very excited to watch the new adventure you’re about to share."
• "Well done on getting engaged – it’s about time! Wishing you a long and happy life together."
• "May your engagement just be the beginning of the happiest times together. Can’t wait to celebrate with you."
• "Cheers to the newlyweds-to-be. Now to get planning."
• "Warmest congratulations on your engagement. Here’s to endless love, happiness and adventure."
• "Love and happiness to you on this special day."
• "Go make a beautiful life together! Happy engagement to you both."
• “Your love story is truly inspiring. Wishing you a lifetime of happiness together."
• "May your love story be filled with endless laughter, adventure, and unwavering support."

Writing Tip for Writing Simple Engagement Wishes: When writing a simple engagement card message, it's important to remember the basics.

Ensure that you address the couple, congratulate them on their engagement and include some sort of simple well-wishes for their future together. If you can tick all three of those boxes, you're guaranteed an excellent, simple engagement card wish.

Funny Things to Write in an Engagement Card

There’s plenty of seriousness surrounding engagements and weddings, so why not add a touch of humour to your message? If you’re known as the joker of the group or simply enjoy making others laugh, you might be wondering what to write in an engagement card that’s funny.

We’ve gathered some fantastic ideas for what to include in your engagement card that will have the couple chuckling and appreciating your playful spirit. Whether it’s a witty remark or a clever pun, a lighthearted message can be the perfect way to celebrate this joyous occasion!

• "I’m so happy that the two of you are engaged! Now for the fun part — the open bar! I mean, wedding. I definitely meant wedding."
• "Congratulations on finding that one person you get to officially annoy for the rest of your life."
• "Congratulations on that gorgeous ring... I mean, fiancé."
• "You're engaged! I'll drink to that...but let's be honest, I'd drink to anything!"
• "Best of luck – you can never laugh at your partner’s choices again; you’re now one of them."
• "He/she said yes! Now keep quiet and try not to mess this up, okay?"
• "Warmest congratulations to you both. Enjoy this time wedding planning before all the bills arrive."
• "Congratulations, you're now officially off the market. Tinder is now a much better place."
• "I couldn’t be happier that you’ve managed to avoid becoming a crazy cat person."
• "I’m 90% happy for you and 10% jealous. But 100% up for an open bar!"
• "I guess you two are pretty serious then. Cool."
• "Engaged is a synonym for busy. Now you officially have an excuse to get out of every party you don’t want to go do, you jammy things."
• "Remember when we used to say we'd be single forever? Well, looks like someone beat us to the punch! Just kidding. I'm really happy for you. Let's celebrate!"

Writing Tip for Writing a Funny Engagement Card Message: To ensure your funny engagement message packs a punch, don't go on for too long. If your funny engagement wishes are too long, you may lose your audience. Keep it short, sweet and of course, hilarious! 

If you are making any jokes about the couple's relationship or telling a funny story about one of the nearlyweds, ensure you know it'll land well. You don't want to offend after all. Keeping your jokes light-hearted and using the right tone will guarantee you a perfectly funny engagement card note. 

Quotes to Write in an Engagement Card

If in doubt, a quote about love and relationships will always go down well in an engagement card.

You can go for something funny – “Like good wine, marriage gets better with age – once you learn to keep a cork in it” – or something romantic – “There is only one happiness in this life, to love and be loved.”

Here are some more that we love:

• "Love is not a big thing, it's a million little things." - Leo Buscaglia
• "Love is the master key that opens all locks." - Helen Keller
• "Love is patient, love is kind, love is not jealous or boastful or arrogant or rude." - 1 Corinthians 13:4-5
• "Love is the greatest adventure." - Helen Keller

We’ve got so many brilliant articles bursting with quotes for you to browse. Here are our favourites:

• 125 Beautiful Quotes About Relationships
• 46 Inspiring Quotes About Marriage
• 35 of the Most Romantic Quotes From Literature
• 37 ‘I Love You’ Quotes

How Do You Congratulate Someone on Their Engagement?

You should congratulate someone their engagement as soon as you hear the news by sending an engagement card, but don’t feel you need to send an engagement gift too.

While you might like to give an engagement present to the couple if they’re having an engagement party, it isn’t a necessity. Instead, send a card for the engagement and buy them a wedding gift in line with your budget.

These are the three things we recommend you include when you congratulate someone on their engagement: 

• Congratulations to the couple, which can be as simple as “Congratulations to a beautiful couple” or “Congratulations on this exciting new journey together!”
• An engagement message to the couple that’s relevant to your relationship with them. You can use one of the above examples from this article. 
• A wish for their future which should be short and sweet, such as, “Wishing you a lifetime of love and happiness” or “Wishing you all the best with your wedding plans.”

Should You Include Money in an Engagement Card?

Whether to include money in your card along with your engagement wishes depends on the couple's preferences. Some couples may create a wedding list with specific gift ideas, while others might request funds to help with particular goals, such as their honeymoon or a family holiday. There are also couples who prefer no gifts at all or may suggest making a donation to charity in their name. The best approach is to ask them in person what they’d like. If you're sending the card by post, gift vouchers can be a thoughtful alternative to cash.

Now you know what to write for an engagement card, it's time to actually buy one. Considering it's such a special occasion, we've put together a list of our favourite engagement cards and trust us when we say, there's some really special designs in there. 

*Instagram poll on the Hitched UK account of 211 users conducted on 3rd September 2023.