What to Write on a Birthday Card

Posted on November 04, 2024

You know that a birthday card can brighten someone’s day.

The only problem is when you have no idea what to write on a birthday card.

There’s nothing like a birthday card to show your recipient how much you care. And with everything being online and digital these days, your recipient will be so touched that you took the time to actually select and write a message on a birthday card.

But now you’re struggling with what to write. You want to send them a celebratory birthday greeting, but you also don’t want to sound formulaic or cliched. And if you’re writing a birthday card for someone at the office, you also want to make sure it’s personalized, while still being respectful.

So how do you know what to write on a birthday card?

Don’t stress. If you’re trying to write the perfect birthday message, we’ve got you covered. Whether your recipient is your best friend, family member, or coworker, we have tips and examples on what to write on a birthday card. You’ll be able to express your birthday wishes with ease.

Things to keep in mind when writing a birthday card

What’s their personality? Knowing your recipient’s personality type can help you figure out what to write on a birthday card. Is your best friend a kid at heart? Or someone who’s elegant and sophisticated? Do your coworkers have a laid back, collegial vibe? Or are they more formal and subdued? Does your mom love anything sentimental and romantic? Or does she prefer something witty and charming? Honing in on their personality will help you find the right words to say.

How close are you? When brainstorming what to write on a birthday card, you’ll want to consider your relationship to the other person, and any professional or personal boundaries. A birthday card for a lifelong friend or loved one, for example, will be a lot more familiar and intimate. A birthday card for a new boss or coworker, on the other hand, should err on the side of formal and professional.

Choose a birthday card that complements their style. Another reason to consider your recipient’s personality type and the closeness of your relationship is that it will help you choose the perfect birthday card for them. A friend who loves cracking jokes with you will love a fun and playful card. Whereas a boss with exquisite taste will appreciate a card with a stunning design. The right birthday card will make the message inside stand out even more.

Include a quote. You could also include an inspirational quote or a quote from their favorite writer or book to personalize your birthday message. An inspirational quote can make a birthday feel even more auspicious.

Birthday card for a friend

Your bestie has been with you through thick and thin. They know everything about you and you know everything about them. But now you’re stumped on what to write in a birthday card. Here are some examples to help you write a birthday message from the heart.

Thank you for being an amazing friend. You deserve the best birthday ever!

What can I say to the person who has always been by my side? You mean so much to me and I hope all your birthday wishes come true!

Wish I could be there to celebrate in person. Sending you so many good vibes on your birthday!

Birthday card for mom or dad

What do you write on a birthday card for the most important people in your life? If you’re finding it hard to write the perfect birthday message for your mom or dad, remember that whatever you write will mean so much to them. Below are some examples that would work for both mom or dad.

Mom, thank you for all that you do. (Give one or two examples that you are grateful for) Hope you spend your birthday doing all your favorite things.

Dad, words can’t express how much I love you. Wishing you a memorable birthday this year. You deserve it.

Birthday card for a coworker or boss

A birthday card for an office colleague is always a nice gesture, but it also presents some challenges. How do you write a birthday card for someone who’s not a friend or family member? After all, you don’t want to say something out of line. But at the same time, you don’t want to write something dry and overly formal. The trick is to strike the right balance between friendly and respectful. Here are some ideas for what to write on a birthday card for a coworker or boss.

For a coworker:

Thank you for always having my back. Wishing you a great birthday!

For a boss:

Thank you for being such a great and fearless leader. The whole team wishes you a happy birthday!

Milestone birthday card

What do you write on a birthday card for a milestone birthday? If your recipient is entering a new decade or celebrating their 16th or 21st birthday, your message should recognize the momentousness of the occasion.

You should also keep in mind that not everyone will be thrilled about their milestone birthday, especially if they’re entering a new decade. So avoid any jokes about aging and getting older. Instead, be sensitive to how they might be feeling and send them your heartfelt birthday wishes.