"How to Write a Bride's Letter: Expressing Deep Gratitude to Parents Who Raised You"
2019.07.09 published
The Climax of a Wedding: "The Bride's Letter"
When talking about the emotional climax of a wedding, "the bride's letter" comes to mind. The letter addressed to the parents who raised her is filled with gratitude, often bringing tears to the eyes of the guests.
While the bride's letter is a touching moment, many brides may be wondering, "What should I write?" To assist those brides, we have compiled tips and sample letters for writing a wonderful letter to their parents.
Emotional Climax: Bride's Letter ① Opening
The opening of the bride’s letter typically includes an acknowledgment to the guests or a call to the parents. Since the wedding is meant to express gratitude from the couple to their guests for their support, it may feel impolite to read a letter addressed specifically to the parents without some form of acknowledgment.
If you wish to include a note of acknowledgment to the guests, a standard phrase could be, "Thank you for taking the time out of your busy day to attend our wedding reception. I would like to take this opportunity to read a letter of gratitude to my parents who raised me."
Whether or not you include this acknowledgment is up to you. Including it may create a more polite impression, especially if there are many company-related guests.
If you choose not to include an acknowledgment to the guests, a common opening could be, "Dad, Mom, thank you for the overflowing love and care you gave me for these past years. I believe that I am able to stand here today because you have always been by my side."
Begin with "Dad, Mom" (or "Papa, Mama") and express your gratitude for your upbringing. Starting with, "I believe that I am able to stand here today..." is a classic phrase.
Emotional Climax: Bride's Letter ② Family Stories
After the opening, you will expand into stories from your life.
Incorporating specific episodes with your parents and siblings who raised you is a great idea.
Here are some examples of stories involving your parents and siblings:
"Dad, you always came home late from work and had hardly any days off when I was little. I felt a little lonely, but I knew you would always come to check on me even if I was asleep, which made me feel better. I respect you for working so hard for our family. Now that I have left the nest, I hope you will enjoy your time with Mom."
"Mom, I always troubled you, didn't I? Thank you for not giving up and making so many different dishes despite my picky eating. Because you made so many varied meals, I no longer have anything I dislike. I went through a long rebellious phase in high school and was carefree in college, and I caused you troubles even after getting a job. But because you have always supported me, I am now able to marry someone special today. Thank you so much."
"Big Brother, we fought a lot when we were little. But when I was being bullied in elementary school, you came to help me, and from that moment on, you were my hero. Now, I really enjoy going out for drinks with you. Even after I marry, you will always be my hero."
Stories addressed to your parents and siblings will make your letter more beautiful if you include specific details, such as "when I was in elementary school...". Even if there is so much you want to say, it's good to stick to one or two episodes. If it gets too long, guests may become bored.
Emotional Climax: Bride's Letter ③ Message to His Parents
After sharing your stories with your parents and siblings, express your gratitude and a message to his parents. A common phrase might be, "To Mr. and Mrs. [His Last Name], thank you for accepting me, an inexperienced person, as part of your family. From now on, we will work together to build a bright family, so I look forward to your ongoing support."
It’s lovely to include a message not only to your own parents but also to his parents. They may be pleasantly surprised and touched by your words.
Emotional Climax: Bride's Letter ④ Conclusion
There are various ways to conclude the bride's letter. Here are three classic patterns for concluding:
Conclusion Pattern 1: From [Your Name]
After sharing stories about your parents and siblings, you might say, "Dad, Mom, thank you for everything up until now. I will always be your daughter, even after getting married. Please continue to look after me. From [Your Name]."
Reading the text as it’s written and concluding with your name allows for a smooth and emotional finish to the bride's letter.
Conclusion Pattern 2: Words of Thanks to Those Listening
This method concludes with words of appreciation for the parents and guests who listened to the letter. You might say, "Thank you for listening to my awkward letter until the end."
This method is straightforward and particularly courteous as a closing.
Conclusion Pattern 3: Words of Thanks to the Guests
This method closes with gratitude for the guests who attended the wedding. For instance, you might say, "We are filled with happiness to have our important day witnessed by such cherished individuals. Thank you very much for being here today."
The bride's letter is the final opportunity for the bride to express her gratitude to the guests. Take this chance to convey your appreciation!
Write Your Bride's Letter for an Emotional Wedding
The bride's letter is a truly beautiful moment filled with gratitude towards her parents. Guests will surely feel touched and think, "I'm glad I came to this wedding."
Master the art of writing the bride's letter and be sure to convey your deepest gratitude!
➡ Click here for a list of articles on the bride's letter
➡ You can purchase memorable "bride's letters" that express gratitude here