What to Write in a Greeting Card: A Handy Guide for Every Occasion

July 11, 2025

Gift? Sorted. Card? Got it. Message? Erm… If this sounds like you, don’t worry – you’re far from alone. Some people have a natural flair for crafting heartfelt greeting card messages, while others freeze up after scribbling “Happy Birthday” or “Congratulations”.

You could simply rely on the pre-printed message in the card – but if you want to add a personal touch, this greeting card writing guide will help you pen the perfect note to complement your thoughtful gift.

A Simple Template You Can Use for Any Occasion

Here's a versatile format you can adapt for birthdays, weddings, anniversaries and beyond:

1. A comment on the occasion
2. A heartfelt or humorous sentence
3. Your wishes or hopes
4. A fitting greeting

Closing phrase,
Your Name

Let’s explore what each part means:

Occasion Statement: Mention the special event and the recipient. Add a dash of humour or sentiment.
Sentence of Endearment: This is where your personality shines through. Be romantic, funny, sincere or cheeky – just be authentic.
Wishes: Every celebration deserves a warm wish for the future. Keep it positive and encouraging.
Greeting: Tie your message together with an appropriate greeting for the event.
Closing Word: Sign off with something warm – the cherry on top of your card.

This structure works for just about any celebration. Let’s look at some popular occasions and message examples for each.

Wedding Card Messages

Greeting: Congratulations!

Occasion Statement:

So thrilled you two have finally tied the knot!
Delighted to see two wonderful people begin their life together.
Wish I could be there to tell you in person how overjoyed I am for you both.

Sentence of Endearment:

You’re a perfect match – it’s a joy to see.
Watching you start this new chapter is genuinely moving.
It’s an honour to witness such a beautiful moment.

Wishes:

Wishing you a lifetime of laughter and love.
May every day as a married couple bring you joy.
Best wishes for your journey together.

Closing: With all my love / Wishing you both every happiness

Anniversary Card Ideas

Occasion Statement:

You two are proof that true love lasts.
It's been a joy making beautiful memories with you.
I’m so glad we’re still going strong.

Sentence of Endearment:

You inspire those around you with your love.
You’ve shown what commitment really means – thank you.
A decade ago, you changed my life. I still count my blessings.

Wishes:

Here’s to many more happy years together.
I love you more as each year passes.

Greeting: Happy 10th Anniversary! (Or whatever milestone applies)

Closing: With all my love / Cheers to many more

Birthday Card Examples

Occasion Statement:

The big 5-0 – you wear it well!
So grateful we get to grow older together.
It’s been fantastic working with you – enjoy your special day.

Sentence of Endearment:

Thank you for your positivity – it brightens every room.
Your hug still feels like home, no matter how old we get.
I’m so grateful for your friendship over the years.

Wishes:

Hope your birthday is as brilliant as you are!
Wishing you a day full of cake, laughter, and love.

Greeting:

Happy Birthday to the world’s best mum.
Happy Birthday to my fabulous best friend!

Closing: Lots of love / Birthday hugs / With affection

Christmas Card Messages

Occasion Statement:

Delighted to be spending another Christmas with you.
Thinking of you this festive season.

Sentence of Endearment:

Truly grateful for your support this year.
Having you in my life is the best gift I could ask for.
Thanks for making workdays feel a little less like work!

Wishes:

Here’s to a peaceful Christmas and an exciting New Year.
Wishing you joy and magic throughout the festive season.
Hope the holidays bring you and your family nothing but cheer.

Greeting: Merry Christmas!

Closing: Warm wishes / With festive cheer / Love always

Final Thoughts

We hope this guide gives you inspiration for what to write in a greeting card, no matter the occasion. Whether you're celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, Christmas or a wedding, a few sincere words can make your card truly unforgettable.