The classic: names and a date
Two names, or two initials, and the date remain the most enduring wording. They date the box as a keepsake and leave room for the artwork. Decide early whether you want first names, initials or a monogram, and whether the date is written out in full or set in numerals.
A short line of your own
Short phrases work best when they sound like you. A few directions couples often take:
A playful match line, such as “A perfect match” or “Struck by love”. A place, such as the venue name or the town. A shared phrase, a line from your invitation or a word in the language of your families. A simple thank you, for guests to find when they pick one up.
Keep it to a handful of words. Longer lines shrink the lettering, and a matchbox is read at arm’s length, often in candlelight.
Decide what leads
Choose one thing to lead: the names, the drawing or the phrase. When everything is the same size, nothing is read first. The studio composes the wording and artwork together, so tell us which element matters most to you.
What to check on the proof
Read the proof aloud, slowly. Check the spelling of every name, accents, the date and the order of the names. Look at it at roughly finished size on your phone, not zoomed in. Nothing is printed until you approve, and revisions are included, so ask for any change before you say yes.