What to Write in a Wedding Guest Book (for guests who don't know what to say!)

Writing in a wedding guest book or a unique alternative, such as a Mr & Missive, is an opportunity to leave the happy couple a heartfelt message they will treasure for years to come. However, many guests find themselves wondering what to write beyond a simple "Congratulations!"

So, if you're struggling for inspiration, here’s a quick guide to crafting a thoughtful and meaningful message that the newlyweds will cherish forever.

1. Start with a Warm Greeting Using Their New Family Name

A great way to begin your message is by acknowledging the couple’s new journey together. If they are taking a shared surname, address them by it to celebrate their union.

For example:

                    To the new Mr. & Mrs. Thompson!

                    Dear Mr. & Mrs. Taylor, what a joy it is to celebrate your special day!

                    To the beautiful newlyweds, Kate & Jade - Mrs & Mrs Elliot-Brown!

This small touch makes your message feel personal and emphasizes the excitement of their new life together.

2. Congratulate Them on Their Marriage & Compliment the Wedding

Express your happiness for the couple and, if possible, mention something special about the wedding day. Whether it’s the stunning ceremony, the heartfelt vows or the beautiful venue, acknowledging the beauty of the day will make your message even more meaningful.

For example:

                  Congratulations on your marriage! The day has been nothing short of magical                     — every detail is perfect, just like the two of you!

                 What a wonderful celebration! Everything from the vows to the first dance was                     absolutely beautiful.

                 Wishing you a lifetime of happiness! Your wedding has been a true reflection of                     the love you you share.

3. Express Your Joy at Sharing Their Special Day

Let the couple know how much it has meant to you to celebrate with them. A wedding is one of the most significant days of their lives, and knowing their loved ones were truly present and enjoying the moment will mean the world to them.

For example:

                     It has been such an honour to celebrate your love today. Seeing you both so                           happy is truly heart warming!

                     From the moment we arrived, we could feel the love and joy in the air. What a                       privilege it is to share this beautiful day with you!

                    I am so delighted to have been part of your wedding day—it’s certainly been a                     day to remember!

4. Add a Short Poem or Quote

If you’d like to make your message extra special, consider including a short poem, quote, or piece of wisdom about love and marriage.

For example:

                    “A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the                            same person.” – Mignon McLaughlin

                   “Love is not about how many days, months, or years you have been together.                          Love is about how much you love each other every single day.”

                  “May your love be modern enough to survive the times and old-fashioned                               enough to last forever.” – Unknown

5. Share a Memory or a Short, Funny Story

One of the best ways to make your message truly personal is by sharing a happy memory, a funny moment, or an anecdote about the couple. It could be a time when you witnessed their love for each other, a memorable trip or event, or a funny moment that made everyone laugh.

For example:

                    I remember the first time Dan told me about Kate — there was no doubt in                         my mind that this day was meant to be!

                  Who would have thought that your first awkward date after school would turn                      into this beautiful love story? We're so delighted for you guys!

                  I’ll never forget the time you two tried to cook dinner together and ended up                         setting fire to the pan — clearly, teamwork has come a long way!

6. Sign Off with Love (and Don’t Forget Your Name!)

End your message with warm wishes for their future together, and make sure to sign your name so the couple knows who wrote the lovely missive.

For example:

                    Wishing you a lifetime of laughter, love, and happiness. All my love, Emily xx

                    With so much love and excitement for your future together, Mark & Laura x

                   Here’s to a beautiful marriage and a lifetime of happiness! Love, Aunt Susan xxx

A Message That Really Does Last a Lifetime

The words you write in a wedding guest book alternative like a Mr & Missive will be cherished long after the wedding day has passed. Unlike a traditional guest book that may be tucked away on a shelf, Mr & Missive preserves your handwritten message in a timeless, displayable keepsake, making it a truly meaningful part of the couple’s home. Your words will bring smiles and warm memories for years to come, capturing the love, joy and all the feelings from their wedding day in a way that lasts forever.

If you would love to have missives like these written for you on your wedding day or you know someone who would, take a look at our collections of Mr & Missive wedding guest book alternatives Here or get in contact Here to find out how we can make you a Mr & Missive that you will treasure forever!