As wedding season approaches, many people find themselves in need of the perfect greeting card to congratulate the happy couple. Selecting and sending the right wedding card can be a thoughtful way to celebrate the newlyweds and show your support for their marriage. However, it's not always easy to choose the right card.
Here are some tips to help you pick out and send the best wedding greeting cards:
Choose a Card That Reflects Your Relationship
The card you select should be reflective of your relationship with the couple. Are they close friends? Distant relatives? Consider the level of formality and sentiment that would be most appropriate. A casual, funny card might work well for a close friend, while a more traditional, elegant card would be better suited for a formal family member.
Focus on the Couple, Not Just the Wedding
While it's tempting to find a card that focuses solely on the wedding itself, try to find one that celebrates the couple and their marriage. Look for cards that express well-wishes for their future together, not just for their big day. This makes the card more personal and meaningful.
Opt for Quality Over Quantity
It's often better to send one thoughtful, high-quality card rather than several generic, mass-produced ones. Take the time to find a card that is well-made, with nice paper, printing, and design. This shows the recipient that you put care and consideration into your selection.
Include a Handwritten Message
In addition to the pre-printed sentiment in the card, be sure to include a short, personal handwritten message. Share your favorite memory of the couple, express your happiness for them, or offer advice for a long and happy marriage. This makes the card feel much more heartfelt.
Send the Card in a Timely Manner
Don't wait until the last minute to send your wedding wishes card. The best practice is to mail it so that it arrives about 1-2 weeks before the wedding date. This ensures the couple receives it in time to appreciate it before their big day.
Card Design and Sentiment
When it comes to the actual card design and wording, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Look for cards with classic, timeless designs rather than overly trendy or generic styles. Simple, elegant designs tend to be most appropriate.
- Pay attention to the sentiments expressed in the card. Look for messages that focus on the couple's love and commitment, not just the wedding event.
- Avoid overly sappy or clichéd wording. Choose a card with a heartfelt but not overly emotional tone.
- If the couple has a particular style, theme or color scheme for their wedding, try to match that in the card you select.
Personalization Options
Many card companies offer options to personalize the card with the couple's names, wedding date, or a short personal message. Take advantage of these to make the card even more special:
- Imprint the couple's names on the front or inside the card.
- Include the wedding date somewhere on the card.
- Write a brief, handwritten note inside expressing your well-wishes.
- This extra level of personalization shows the couple you put thought and effort into the card.
Practical Considerations
There are also a few practical things to keep in mind when sending wedding cards:
- Mail the card early enough to arrive 1-2 weeks before the wedding date. This ensures it gets there in time.
- Use a sturdy envelope to protect the card during shipping.
- Consider sending the card directly to the couple's home address rather than the wedding venue, in case the card arrives early.
- If you'll be attending the wedding, you can always bring the card with you to give to the couple in person.
By putting thought and care into selecting and sending the perfect wedding card, you can make the newlyweds feel truly celebrated and appreciated on their special day.
Card Format Options
When it comes to the physical format of the wedding cards, there are a few main options to consider:
Folded Cards
- The traditional format for greeting cards
- Allows for more space to write a personal message inside
- Usually come in a standard 5x7 size
Flat Cards
- Sleeker, more minimalist design
- Often feature just a front-facing message
- Tend to be a bit smaller, around 4x6 inch size
Pop-Up Cards
- Add an extra element of fun and creativity
- Feature intricate 3D designs that "pop up" when opened
- Can be a unique way to make the card stand out
Photo Cards
- Allow you to include a photo of the couple or wedding party
- Great for capturing a special moment from the wedding
- Adds a personal, sentimental touch
Depending on your relationship with the couple and the overall vibe you want to convey, any of these formats can work well.
Addressing and Sending the Card
When it comes to the logistics of actually sending the card, there are a few best practices:
- Use the couple's formal, full names on the envelope (e.g. Mr. and Mrs. John and Jane Doe)
- If the couple lives together, send the card to their shared address
- If they have separate residences, you can send it to the bride's address
- Consider sending the card by a trackable shipping method, just to be safe
- If attending the wedding, you can also bring the card and give it to the couple in person
Following these guidelines will ensure your wedding card arrives safely and in a timely manner.
