In the book of one’s life, marriage is a monumental chapter full of love, joy, and community. When someone close to you gets married, it can bring about a massive wave of emotions. This is often a time of reflection and reminiscing.
Consider writing a letter to your cousin on their wedding day, where you can express these emotions, share any pertinent marriage advice, and reminisce on your shared memories. The letter itself can be a wonderful and unique keepsake for the couple after their wedding.
Below are five examples of letters for your cousin who is about to get married, along with two templates you can use as you write an original letter.
Letter to Cousin on Wedding Day: Touching Examples
1. Dear Sarah,
I hope this letter finds you happy, healthy, and thriving. The day we’ve been dreaming of since little girls is finally here—your dream wedding! I can’t contain my excited giggles as I write; I’m just so proud of you and how far you’ve come.
No joke, your relationship with Stefan has been truly inspirational. The love, understanding, and mutual respect you have cultivated are a testament to the strength of your bond and commitment. It’s heartwarming to watch your connection grow and prosper; you guys make me believe in soulmates!
Today, as you say “I do” in front of your friends and families, I wish you two a life filled with joy, laughter, respect, patience, and unending love. May your marriage be resilient, and may married life be better than what our nine-year-old selves can imagine.
I’m sorry that I can’t be there with you physically. You know I would give anything to attend, but life got in the way. I am with you in spirit, though; trust that I will be drinking Champagne in your honor tonight. Let’s catch up as soon as possible, okay?
Until then, I send you my tightest hugs, most heartfelt congratulations, and warmest love. As you build a new life together, I wish you nothing but the best because you two deserve nothing less.
With all my love,
Jenny
2. To My Favorite Cousin in the World,
First of all, don’t tell your little sister I called you my favorite cousin—we won’t hear the end of it.
Now that’s out of the way, congratulations! You must be feeling an overwhelming mix of feelings today, huh? Focus on how glorious today is: the sun is shining (even though it’s an indoor wedding), the birds are chirping (again, even though it’s an indoor wedding), and you’re getting married!
All the failed attempts at using dating apps and going on awkward first dates have led you here. Your journey to the altar is like a fairytale but with fewer dragons, less magic, and more modern music.
I’m so, so happy for you, and that’s not just because there will be strawberry cake (though that is a large part of it). I’m overjoyed to see you flourishing, blooming, and in love with the man of your dreams.
You are like two crazy peas in a pod. I’m thrilled to witness the union of amazingly weird and wonderful souls. You complement one another… and it makes me a bit nervous just how perfect you are for each other.
As you stretch your aging joints in preparation for this huge leap into a new chapter of your life, always remember that marriage is like a rollercoaster. There will be lots of ups and downs, maybe even some loop-the-loops. You might get nauseous and cry along the way. Hold onto each other and enjoy the ride!
Though today marks the end of your solo adventures, life is better when played as a two-player game. When the going gets tough, just draw from your inner strength and do not be afraid to ask for help. We’re all here for you.
I’m beyond excited to celebrate this day with you two. When you see me downing flute after flute of Champagne, please just look away! Here’s to your journey to forever, lovebirds.
Fondly yours,
Katie
3. Dear Billy,
The day is finally here: the day you say goodbye to your title of ‘coolest unmarried cousin’ and join the ranks of our married relatives. Who could’ve seen that coming? Other than Aunt Matilda who claims to be psychic, of course.
You and Sabrina are a match made in heaven. You two balance each other out—she’s calm whereas you are chaotic, she has an angelic voice whereas you are tone deaf, and she has funny jokes whereas you… have an infectious laugh.
As you say “I do,” may the rest of your life be filled with boisterous laughter, ridiculous inside jokes, and endless adventures. Always remember where you put the remote, always mind the toilet seat, and always say sorry, even if you aren’t 100% sure of what you did wrong.
I wish you, Mr. and Mrs. Braxton-Smith, a lifetime of love, laughter, and joy. May the laugh tracks in the sitcom that is your life always be laughing with you, not at you.
With warm hugs and hearty congratulations,
Drew
4. Dear Elsie,
As the dawn broke today, a wave of nostalgia washed over me all of a sudden. I couldn’t help but reminisce on our childhood, the way we would play with dolls and kitchen sets. Today, you stand on the precipice of a major milestone: you’re getting married to your soulmate.
What better time than now to look back at our journey to get to where we are today? That little girl, with strawberry blonde hair and a heart too kind for this world, who once held my hand while we crossed roads will now be holding hands with the love of her life. I feel proud, satisfied, and honestly a bit bittersweet.
Your love story with Harris is one for the books. Seeing you two teaches me what it’s like to love so purely and selflessly; your relationship reflects the essence of patience, commitment, and understanding, which are things we have always been taught to value.
As you exchange vows later today, may the lessons from the past blend beautifully with the opportunities from the future, creating a heartwarming harmony that will reverberate through the rest of your life. May your love continue to grow, glow, and go beyond your wildest dreams.
I can’t wait to celebrate this wonderful occasion with you! Always remember that I’m here to support you in whatever way I can. Cousins for life!
With all my love,
Diana
5. Hey Alice,
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! When I received your invitation for a winter wedding, that was the first thought that came to mind. You and Hunter tying the knot feels like the perfect season finale to my favorite sitcom or limited series.
Your relationship has always been about fun, adventure, and laughter. There’s never a dull moment in your company. Gosh, I remember physically fighting for my life when we hiked in Colorado, but despite how challenging it was, that trip continues to be one of the most memorable times in my life.
It’s clear how you constantly push each other to be the best version of yourself. You guys make love look like a weekend party that never ends! As a frequent partygoer and host myself, I know how much work goes into planning—and cleaning up after—a party, so I admire your dedication and passion.
As you start the biggest adventure of your life yet, I pray that the laughter doubles and the love triples. Eat a lot of pasta and rice!
I’m looking forward to being with you and celebrating your love with all your friends and families. I can’t wait to see you two on the dance floor!
Cheers,
Nicholas
Templates for a Letter to Your Cousin on Their Wedding Day
6. Dear (cousin’s name)
Look at you, already standing at the precipice of one of the most important milestones of your life! It feels just like yesterday when [describe a memory you have with your cousin that will show your closeness]. Now here you are, about to take (cousin’s partner’s name)’s hand in marriage.
I remember the first time you told me you met (him/her/them). [Describe how the couple first met]. From then on, you always kept me updated—I know what happened at all your dates, arguments, and everything in between. Through all the stories, your eyes would light up, and you would literally have a different aura.
I see how happy (he/she/they) (make/makes) you, and I’m so so happy you found your soulmate.
Over the years, I’ve seen your relationship blossom into what it is today—[describe the couple’s relationship and your perception of it]. You are perfect for each other; there’s no doubt about it. You two are so good for and good to each other; you are each other’s biggest fan and number-one supporter.
I’m so excited to celebrate with you later and listen to the vows you have prepared for each other. [This is a great part of your letter to your cousin on their wedding day to dedicate to any piece of marriage advice or your well-wishes].
With all my love,
(Your name)
7. Dear (cousin’s name),
The day we’ve been dreaming about since we were little (boys/girls/kids) is finally here! Even though we’re cousins by blood, we’ve always been more like (best friends/brothers/sisters/siblings) by heart.
I’ll never forget the time [describe a childhood memory you have with your cousin. It can be funny, bittersweet, inspiring, and whatnot]. We’ve gotten into our fair share of trouble, but we’ve also made memories I will cherish for a lifetime. I’m so grateful for the bond we share; your presence in my life is always grounding.
What’s it like getting married to your soulmate? When you first told me you met (cousin’s partner’s name)—the fourth ‘special someone’ you told me about—I knew something was different this time around. You simply lit up, and you walked everywhere with a spring in your step.
Over time, your commitment has only grown deeper and stronger. I’ve seen how you consistently put [mention principles the couple has, such as patience, communication, and so on] in the center of your relationship, and these make your partnership so healthy and resilient.
As I write this letter to my cousin on (his/her/their) wedding day, I can’t help but feel emotional. I can’t wait to stand by your side today, listen to you exchange your vows, and be behind you as you enter this exciting chapter of your life.
Cheers to you and (cousin’s partner’s name)! [Add any well-wishes you have for the nearlyweds].
Love,
(Your name)
Final Thoughts
Writing a letter might not seem like a big deal, but the sentiments it contains—and the effort it took to write it by hand—will mean a lot to its recipient.
Dedicate a genuine and heartfelt letter to your cousin on their wedding day; they will deeply appreciate the thought that goes into it. It can also be a way for you two to strengthen your bond and for you to reassure them that they have your support.
