We’ve all been there. You’re sat minding your own business when suddenly a leaving card for Hannah from Marketing (who you’ve barely ever spoken to) lands on your desk. ‘Good luck on your next adventure’ has already been written 4 times and you’ve got writer’s block. Well, we’ve got you covered. This guide is for those of you who aren’t naturally sentimental. If you don’t know what to say to your boyfriend's niece on her birthday or just need some general card writing ideas, keep reading!
As we’re an expert on cards here’s some of our expert advice on what to write in them…
General pointers
Try and make it as personal as you can. Even if you barely know them – there’s always a way to make them feel special. Things like ‘Here’s to more (insert their favourite treat) in your 31st year’ are always great. Try to avoid just writing Happy Birthday and signing your name. If you’re really struggling, get them a funny card or a card with a slogan and just explain why it reminded you of them. Wish them happiness. Sign off ‘with love’ or ‘from...’, don’t just write your name (unless you add a kiss or draw a little balloon).
What to write in a Birthday Card…
… for your Mum
Start with 3 things your mum is excellent at – tell her why you love her. Mention that you wish you got to spend more time with her. Say that she deserves to be spoilt and show that you appreciate her!
…to be funny
This one’s easy – just think of a time when you were with the recipient and something funny happened. You could draw a little picture to depict it. If you’re drawing a blank, just make a really mean joke about how old / grumpy / lazy they are (but only if you think they’ll appreciate the humour).
… for your girlfriend
Your girlfriend is exceptional at card writing. You seem to receive a card for every occasion, not just your birthday. So treat her to a lovely birthday message by wishing her happy birthday and adding in the following details...
1. Tell her you're proud of all she's achieved so far – give an example
2. Say that you're excited for the future and what (insert her new age) will bring
3. Give some context about what made you choose her gift – make it thoughtful
4. Sign off with 'Love you'
5. Date it (she'll love that)
…to your dad
Keep it short and sweet. Say something affectionate and follow with a joke. Mention that you’ll take him for a beer. Call him an adorable nickname (they’re all big softies on the inside, he’ll love this!).
How to write a card for your best friend
Be cute. Tell them how much you love them. Why you’re so grateful to have them, mention a time when they proved they are the best friend ever. It could be a time when they helped you home after a particularly rowdy night out or when they brought you takeout and you both spent the evening trawling through Netflix after that breakup. Friends are truly the best thing in life and even if you aren’t naturally soppy, this is the place to tell them how much they mean to you.
How to write a card for your boss
Call them the best boss (even if it’s a lie). Tell them to enjoy the celebrations. Wish them the best year of their life. Keep it generic, unless your best mates, which you’re probably not – because you’re reading this.
How to write a leaving card
Check that no one has used any of these phrases, write the one they haven’t.
Good luck in your next job
- You’ll be missed
- Sorry to see you go
- It was great working with you
- It won’t be the same without you
- What will we do without you?
- Don’t go!
- I hope the new place is really fun
- You won’t find friends like us
You’ll smash it. If you’re still stuck, we suggest you just send a text! If this has inspired you to put pen to paper, or reminded you to pick up a card for that upcoming birthday or leaving do, you can browse our range of cards here.
