What do you write in an engagement card?

An engagement card should express congratulations and well wishes to the couple. Sentiments like, "All the best with the wedding plans and have a lovely life together," and, "Congratulations to the beautiful couple. What wonderful news!" are appropriate.

Engagement cards should not include any assumptive language, such as messages concerning the wedding, a potential invitation or any children the couple may have. Cards should be mailed as soon as news of the engagement is announced to be received in a timely manner.

Unless there is an engagement party, providing the couple with an engagement gift is not necessary. Close friends and family members may wish to give the couple a gift, like a bottle of wine, a cookbook or any other item the couple can use together. Gifts that help the couple get to know one another, such as a class or spa day together, are appropriate modern selections. When providing a gift or cash to a couple, the traditional rule is to spend 20 percent of the total amount on an engagement gift, 20 percent on a bridal shower gift and 60 percent on the actual wedding present. Receipts should be kept in the event of the cancellation of an engagement.