Unstumped! Your Complete Guide for What to Write on a Card

Welcome to your step-by-step guide to crafting the perfect card! The special meaning we attach to a hand-written card goes without question, whether your recipient is a retiring octogenarian or a graduating eighth grader. In the land of 24/7 screen time, clients and employees appreciate a handwritten card more than ever. But what should the card message be? When writer’s block gets the best of you, we’re here with answers and inspiration! Read on for tips on things to write in cards for all kinds of occasions. At the end of this blog, you’ll know what to write in a birthday card, retirement card, thank you card, and much more! Plus, we’ll point you in the direction of personalized cards you can keep on hand to make meaningful connections with customers and crew on all the special occasions.  

The Slow Life and Staying Power of the Personal Card

We all know there’s a time and place for three-letter texts, binge-streaming Yellowstone, and doom scrolling on a Sunday afternoon. But there’s also an abiding appeal and resurgence of slow-living activities. Highlights include homemade sourdough, sewing classes, pens, paper, and handwritten cards. The so-named “slow life” allows for creativity, practicality, and personal connection. So grab a card and let’s slow down! 

What Makes Custom Cards a Powerful Way to Connect?

Sending a personalized card is a thoughtful gesture that can strengthen relationships and leave a lasting impression among customers and crew. Whether it’s a holiday greeting, a birthday wish, or a thank you note, the right words can add credibility to a company and sincerity to a sentiment. The best things to write in cards leverage the moment to make a lasting impression! 

What to Write on a Holiday Card

The holidays are a time of reflection and connection, and a great time to celebrate valuable relationships with customers and employees. Whether your recipient is surrounded by family and friends or spending the season solo, a thoughtful note from you will not be forgotten. What to write on a card for the season of giving starts with gratitude, of course! 

  • Express gratitude: Thank your clients and employees for their continued support and business. Here are some examples:
    • For a client:
      • “Thank you for your continued trust and business.”
      • “We appreciate your loyalty and look forward to working with you again.”
      • “Your support means the world to us. Thank you!”
    • For an employee:
      • “Your hard work and dedication are invaluable to our team.”
      • “Thank you for being a part of our success.”
      • “We appreciate your commitment to excellence.”
  • Share a personal message: Reference a recent interaction or specific project, milestone, or busy season for a meaningful connection.
  • Offer holiday wishes: Wish them a happy holiday season and a prosperous new year:
    • “Warmest wishes for a joyous holiday season and a prosperous New Year.”
    • “Wishing you a happy holiday season filled with peace, joy, and prosperity.”
    • “May your holiday season be filled with warmth, love, and happiness.”
    • “Sending you heartfelt wishes for a wonderful holiday season and a bright New Year.”
    • “Happy holidays and best wishes for a successful and happy New Year.”
    • “Wishing you a festive holiday season and a prosperous New Year.”

What to Write in a Graduation Card

Maybe your part-time employee has masterfully juggled work and school for years and has finally earned her college degree. You could be a teacher wishing to send off your high school seniors with a note of congrats. Whatever your connection to the graduate, acknowledging the milestone is a must!  

  • Congratulate the graduate: Celebrate their achievement and hard work. Here are some examples:
    • “Congratulations on your graduation! You did it!”
    • “So proud of all you’ve accomplished. Congratulations!”
    • “Your hard work and dedication have paid off. Well done!”
    • “All those late nights and early mornings were worth it. Congrats!”
  • Share a personal message: Recall a favorite memory or offer words of encouragement.
  • Offer well wishes for the future: Express hopes for their future success.
    • “Wishing you all the best in your future endeavors.”
    • “Can’t wait to see what you do next. Good luck!”

What to Write in a Thank You Card

When you thank a client, crewmember, or guest at your special event, words to say thank you and appreciation go a long way toward forming and maintaining strong bonds. Follow these thank you note examples when writing your business thank you card to ensure the recipient feels your sincerity:  

  • Express gratitude: Share what you’re thankful for.
    • For a client:
      • “Your trust in us means the world.”
      • “We couldn’t have done it without your support.”
      • “Your feedback is invaluable to our growth.”
      • “Thank you for choosing us as your partner.”
      • “We’re grateful for your continued business.”
    • For an employee:
      • “Your hard work and dedication inspire us all.”
      • “Your positive attitude makes a difference.”
      • “Your contributions are essential to our success.”
      • “We appreciate your commitment to excellence.”
      • “Thank you for being a part of our team.”
    • For a co-worker:
      • “Thank you for your help with the [project or task]. Your [specific contribution, e.g., “expertise in data analysis” or “creative input”] was invaluable.”
      • “Thanks for being such a great coworker. Your positive attitude and willingness to help make the workday more enjoyable.”
      • “Thank you so much for covering my shift last week. I really appreciate you helping me out. I owe you one!”
    • For a special event guest:
      • “Thank you for helping [me/us] celebrate our special event.”
      • “Your presence added the ‘special’ to [my/our] special event.”
  • Be specific: Refer to the specific action or gift for which you’re thankful.

  • Offer a sincere compliment: Acknowledge the positive impact of the person’s actions.

What to Write in a Birthday Card

It’s always nice to recognize a valued customer on their special day, but maybe you’re not sure what to say that’s heart-felt and professional. Similarly, you might be wondering what to write on a coworker’s birthday card. Whether working remote, in the office, or at a store or restaurant, every crew member deserves a special mention as they begin their next trip around the sun. Be sure customers and crew know you care with a thoughtfully worded company birthday card. Make it matter by following these steps: 

  • Wish them a happy birthday: Start with simple birthday wishes. Some examples to get you started:
    • “Happy Birthday! We hope you have a wonderful day filled with joy and laughter.“
    • “Wishing you a birthday as awesome as you are! May your day be filled with cake, presents, and lots of laughs.“
    • For an employee:
      • “Thank you for all your hard work and dedication. We’re lucky to have you on our team. Happy Birthday!“
      • “May your birthday be the start of a year filled with new adventures and exciting opportunities. Happy Birthday!“
      • “Remember that time when [funny or memorable moment]? Happy Birthday! Let’s make more great memories together.“
      • “Happy Birthday! We appreciate your contributions to our team and wish you a fantastic day.“
    • For a customer:
      • “Hope your special day is filled with joy and laughter.”
      • “May your birthday be as special as you are.”
      • “Thank you for being a valued customer. Happy Birthday!”
      • “Another year older, another year wiser! Happy Birthday!”
      • “Don’t count the candles, just enjoy the glow. Happy Birthday!”
      • “Happy Birthday to a fellow [interest, e.g., “bookworm,” “coffee lover,” “sports fan”]!
  • Share a personal message: Reference a recent meeting or transaction for a customer, or an accomplishment or funny anecdote for a colleague.

  • Offer well wishes: Express hopes for a great year ahead.

What to Write in a Retirement Card

Retirement is an amazing, exciting, and sometimes scary and sad time for the retiree. Your marking of this major event with a personal card lets your employee know you understand the significance of the transition. Well-worded retirement wishes help your valued employee close one chapter and begin another. When you’ve worked together for years, through peaks and valleys, a retirement message to a coworker can be particularly meaningful. Follow these steps for a card (and fond memories) they’ll keep forever: 

  • Congratulate the retiree: Acknowledge their years of service and dedication. A few examples to get you started:
    • “Wishing you a happy and fulfilling retirement. Thank you for your years of dedication and hard work. You will be truly missed.”
    • “Congratulations on your retirement! May your days be filled with relaxation, laughter, and fewer alarm clocks.”
    • “I’ll always cherish the memories we’ve shared. Thank you for being such an amazing colleague and friend. Enjoy your well-deserved retirement.”
    • “As you embark on this new chapter, may it be filled with joy, peace, and endless possibilities. Happy Retirement!”
    • “Remember that time when [funny or heartwarming story]? That’s just one of the many reasons why you’ll be missed. Enjoy your retirement!”
    • “Congratulations on your retirement! Best wishes for a happy and healthy future.”
  • Share a personal message: Recall a favorite memory or offer words of wisdom.
  • Wish them well in retirement: Express hopes for a fulfilling and enjoyable retirement.

Keep Custom Cards on Hand

The key to making handwritten cards a part of your personal (and professional) brand: Have custom greeting cards on hand when a special occasion comes around. Pre-print them with your name or company logo, and choose from a selection of greeting options to match your style. Then, add a personal sentiment by hand. Here are a few we love: 

The Power of Personalized, Branded Cards 

By using pre-printed cards with your company logo and a personalized message, you can elevate your brand and strengthen client relationships. Branded cards not only convey your appreciation but also reinforce your brand identity. They serve as a tangible reminder of your commitment to exceptional service and customer satisfaction.  

And now you’re ready to personalize with panache! Remember, the key to writing effective cards is to be sincere and specific. By taking the time to craft a personalized message, you can make a lasting impact. 

P.S. For even more inspo and ideas, check out our blogs on related topics: 

Karleen Wise Andersen

From marketing tips to product recommendations, I’m here to help small businesses be their best.

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