The Ultimate Guide to Wedding Announcement Wording

Sharing the joyous news of your marriage with friends and family is a moment that deserves thoughtful words. Whether you hosted an intimate ceremony, a lavish celebration, or a surprise elopement, the right wedding announcement wording reflects your unique love story, follows traditional etiquette if you wish, and spreads happiness to your loved ones near and far. This comprehensive guide provides inspiration, etiquette, and example templates to help you craft an announcement that perfectly suits your style and situation.

Why Send a Wedding Announcement?

In the modern age, wedding announcements remain a cherished way to inform friends, distant relatives, and acquaintances of your new status as a married couple. 

• They serve to celebrate your union with those who didn’t attend the wedding.
• They are a thoughtful gesture, letting loved ones know about your milestone.
• In cases of elopement, small or destination weddings, announcements ensure your wider circle feels included in your joy.

Wedding Announcement Wording Etiquette

While modern couples enjoy plenty of creative freedom, keeping a few key etiquette points in mind ensures your announcement is both warm and respectful:

• Send announcements promptly: Traditionally, wedding announcements are mailed shortly after the wedding day—ideally within a few weeks.
• Consider guest lists: Do not send announcements to guests who attended the wedding; these are intended for those not present.
• Include essential details: Your full names, the wedding date, and location (if desired) are the most important elements.
• Choose a tone and style that matches your event and relationship—formal, casual, whimsical, or anything in between.

How to Choose the Right Wording Style

Your wedding announcement can reflect your personalities and the spirit of your celebration. Here are some factors to help you select the right style:

• Formality: Consider if you want something traditional or modern and casual.
• Recipients: Think about who will receive the announcement—close family, distant relatives, or professional contacts.
• Personal Story: Incorporate meaningful details, such as location or a special anecdote, if you wish.

Wedding Announcement Templates for Every Style

To help you get started, here are diverse sample wordings catering to every situation and personality.

1. Formal Wedding Announcement Templates

• From the couple:

  “Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Carter
  are pleased to announce their marriage
  which took place on Saturday, the twelfth of April, two thousand twenty-five
  at Villa Balbiano, Lake Como, Italy.”

• From the parents:

  “Mr. and Mrs. William Jackson
  are proud to announce the marriage of their daughter
  Claire Marie Jackson
  to Daniel James Cooper
  on May 25, 2025, in Charleston, South Carolina.”

2. Simple and Elegant Announcements

• “We joyfully announce that we were married on April 19th, 2025 in a private ceremony in Tuscany. With love, Emma & Luca.”
• “Married! On March 30, 2025, in a quiet ceremony in Joshua Tree. No fuss. Just love.”

3. Casual and Fun Wording Examples

• “After nine years, two dogs, five apartments, and one pandemic, we finally made it official. Married. At last.”
• “We did the thing! Officially husband and wife 💍 May 18, 2025. Can’t wait to celebrate with you soon—stay tuned!”

4. Elopement & Private Ceremony Announcements

• “We eloped! On March 3rd, we exchanged vows in the Icelandic countryside with only the wind and mountains as our witnesses. Our hearts are full.”
• “We’ve eloped! On January 14, 2023, we pledged for life on the sandy shores of Anguilla. Thank you for your love and support. We hope to celebrate with you soon. Love, James & Ben.”

5. Surprise Wedding Announcements

• “Guess what? We’re hitched!
  We tied the knot in a surprise backyard ceremony on February 4, 2023, in Los Angeles, California.
  Looking forward to toasting with you soon! xo, The Newlyweds, Ava & Quincy.”

6. Destination Wedding Announcement Wording

• “We tied the knot in Greece! On May 3rd, we exchanged vows on the cliffs of Santorini, just the two of us (and the sunset). Can’t wait to celebrate with you when we’re back!”
• “Pack your bags! Claire and Daniel are getting married in paradise! Join us on October 12, 2025 at Maui Beach Resort as we say ‘I do’ surrounded by sun, sand, and those we love.”

7. Already Married, Party Later

• “We said ‘I do’ on April 14, 2025—just us and our witnesses. But the party’s not over! We’re planning a celebration later this year and hope to see you there. Stay tuned for details.”

8. LGBTQ+ Inclusive Wedding Announcement Wording

• “Introducing Mrs. & Mrs. Taylor
  Married on April 27, 2025 in a small garden ceremony surrounded by family. Love wins—always.”
• “Together as one, Jamie and Pat invite you to witness the start of their forever on August 21, 2025 at Lakeview Gardens. All are welcome to celebrate love in all its forms!”

9. Social Media Wedding Announcements

• “Just married. Absolutely married. We eloped, we kissed, we cried. 4.2.25. Forever begins. From best friends to spouses.”
• “Love is in the air! We’re thrilled to announce we tied the knot on June 1, 2025. Stay tuned for photos and more celebrations!”

10. Postcard-Style & Short Announcements

• “Love is in the air! August & Mia are tying the knot on September 20th. We’d love for you to celebrate with us at Willow Gardens.”
• “Married! On 3.30.25, in a quiet ceremony in Joshua Tree. No fuss. Just love.”

Compare Styles: Traditional, Modern, and Humorous Templates

Wedding Announcement Wording for Common Scenarios

For Traditional Parents’ Announcements

• “Mr. and Mrs. John Marshall announce the marriage of their daughter, Eliza Jane, to Henry Walter Bishop, on Saturday, the tenth of June, two thousand twenty-five, at St. Mark’s Chapel, San Francisco.”

For Blended Families or Remarriages

• “Together with their families, Lily Harper and Alex Morgan joyfully announce their marriage, celebrated privately on April 2, 2025.”

For Couples Announcing Themselves

• “At long last, we’re married! On July 18, 2025, we said ‘I do’ in an intimate ceremony. We can’t wait to celebrate with you soon!”

For Announcing After the Fact (Already Married)

• “Surprise! We tied the knot in a small ceremony on October 8, 2024. More celebrations to come!”

Tips for Personalizing Your Wedding Announcement

• Share a favorite quote or lyric: Personal messages can make your announcement stand out.
• Include a note about future celebrations if you’re hosting a party or reception later.
• Add location details or travel anecdotes for destination or elopements to make the message richer.
• Keep it brief for postcards and online posts.
• Reflect your cultural or family traditions in the language or style.

Who Should Receive a Wedding Announcement?

Wedding announcements are generally sent to:

• Extended family who were not able to attend
• Friends and colleagues not on the guest list
• Neighbors and acquaintances
• Business and professional contacts

Never send an announcement to anyone you invited to your actual wedding, as it may seem redundant.

Choosing the Perfect Wedding Announcement Card

Your wording is only part of the equation—the design and format carry your style even further. Consider these formats:

• Printed stationery: Classic, elegant, and a keepsake for recipients.
• Photo cards: Share a favorite shot from your big day.
• Digital announcements: Ideal for quick delivery and a wider reach.
• Postcard-style: Perfect for short, sweet messages with a modern flair.
• Social media templates: Stylish, shareable, and easy to personalize.

Additional Examples for Inspiration

• Rustic: “With hearts full of love and joy, Harper & Casey invite you to join them in their rustic wedding celebration on August 3, 2025 at Willow Barn. Let’s gather under the stars to celebrate this beautiful union!”
• Whimsical: “A fairy tale is coming true! Olivia and Max are excited to announce their wedding on December 12, 2025 at Crystal Gardens. Dress in your finest attire and join us for a magical day!”

Frequently Asked Questions About Wedding Announcements

When should we send wedding announcements?

Ideally, send your wedding announcements within a few weeks of your wedding date, so your loved ones hear the happy news promptly. For destination or elopements, sending as soon as possible after the ceremony is preferred.

How are wedding announcements different from invitations?

Invitations are sent before a wedding, inviting recipients to attend. Announcements are sent after the ceremony, simply sharing the news of your marriage.

Should we address both partners’ families in the announcement?

This depends on your family structure and preferences. Traditional announcements often include family names, while modern announcements may just mention the couple. Always choose the format that feels right for you.

Can we announce a wedding if we eloped?

Absolutely! Elopements are often announced сard, letter, or online post. Your wording can be as playful or formal as you wish.

Is it acceptable to use digital wedding announcements?

Yes, especially today when many people communicate online. Digital announcements (via email, social media, or websites) can be both personal and beautiful.

Final Thoughts on Crafting Your Perfect Announcement

Your wedding announcement is a chance to share joy and express your unique bond. Whether you keep it traditional or go for something entirely out-of-the-box, the key is to choose wording and design that feel authentic to you as a couple. With the right message, you’ll not only inform your loved ones—you’ll include them in the next chapter of your journey together.

Author

Sneha TeteBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

 

Sneha is a relationships and lifestyle writer with a strong foundation in applied linguistics and certified training in relationship coaching. She brings over five years of writing experience to thebridalbox, crafting thoughtful, research-driven content that empowers readers to build healthier relationships, boost emotional well-being, and embrace holistic living.

Read full bio of Sneha Tete