How to Write Great Greeting Card Messages

I love writing heartfelt messages in holiday greeting cards. I understand this might be odd since I am the only one among my family and friends that feels this way. Most people I know dread putting more than their signatures in a card. Commonly, most don’t know what to say aside from the usual canned phrase or salutation. But for me, cards given out during special occasions are just another way to express my love and appreciation towards those I care about. Just a sentence or two is enough to make a card extra special, stand out amongst the rest, and be one that people keep and cherish for a very long time.

If you are similar to the people in my social circle who dislike emoting sentiments in written words, but would like to make your greetings express more of how you feel towards your loved ones, here are my tips for you when writing messages to them:

• Write how lucky you are to know them or have them in your life. You can write something like, “You make work more fun. I’m lucky to have such a great co-worker and project partner!”
• Bring up good times you spent together in the past. Example: “Our fishing trips were always the best and I looked forward to seeing you each time!”
• Include a phrase or sentiment that you share/shared with a loved one that not many might understand: Example, a cheer from a sports team: “Go Bengal Tigers, go team green and gold!”
• Thank them for something special they have done, or do for you. Example: “Thank you for telling me how much you love me whenever I need it most.” Or, “You’re always available when I need someone to listen, I’m grateful you’re my friend.”
• Write about a gift that you received from that person and tell them what it means to you. “I still have the sewing machine you passed on to me. I think of you each time I use it.” Or, “The painting you gave me last year is hanging in my office. It calms me down when I’m having a bad day. Thanks again, I love it!”
• Bring up a memory that you can both laugh about. “I still smile each time I recall when we used to never leave the house without wearing our neon pink lipstick and chunky plastic earrings. We thought we were so cool! ”
• Mention their spouses/partners/kids/pets by name. Example: “Pass on my greetings to Tina and a big hug for your girls, Marcie and Jess. Tell them their favourite uncle loves them.”
• If you are sending your card along with a gift, tell the person why you got the gift for them. Example: “I hope this little token will help brighten up your days and remind you of us while you are abroad.” Or, “I know you are saving up to remodel your kitchen. Hoping this cash will help make it come true sooner!”
• If you plan to send a joke card or one with a humorous message, follow it up by writing what you really wish to express. For example: “You deserve to be proud of all the candles on your cake, thanks for being around from the beginning for me to look up to and emulate.”

And, to make the card even more special, you can include a copy of a photo of you and that person or send one of you and your family. You can also type up a letter updating everyone on your greeting card list about what you’ve been up to and what’s going on in your life. People who care about you love to know what you’ve been doing. Enclose a copy of that letter with the card.

The messages need not be long, a personal note written with sincerity goes a long way. Believe me, your friends and family will appreciate it when you make this small effort!