What to Write in a Birthday Card

Do you find it challenging to find the right words for the perfect message to write in a birthday card? You're in the right place!

Whether you're writing birthday wishes to a close friend, a family member, or even a distant relative, the words you choose are meaningful and will help the recipient feel special on their birthday.

In this guide, I'll help you craft a heartfelt birthday message that feels personal and thoughtful, with examples that you can use word-for-word, or use for inspiration in your own personal message.

Right now, I’ll focus on tips for writing the perfect message for distant relatives, as requested by one of my lovely newsletter subscribers - but stay tuned! Over time, I'll expand this guide to include messages for all types of relationships, from friends to colleagues, ensuring you always have the perfect words to share on birthdays!

Distant Relatives

Those who live far away

1. Wishing you a wonderful birthday filled with joy and happiness. Even though we don't get the chance to see each other often, you are always in my thoughts. Have a lovely day!
2. Happy Birthday! I hope this year brings you everything you wish for and more. Though we don’t see each other often, I hope you have a fantastic day surrounded by loved ones, and I'll be celebrating you from here!
3. Happy Birthday! Even though we don’t see each other often, I hope you know you’re always in my thoughts. Have a wonderful day filled with joy and celebration.
4. Wishing you a birthday that's as amazing as you are! I miss you, and I can't wait until we can celebrate together. Until then, hope you have a fantastic day and enjoy every moment!
5. Happy Birthday! Even though we're not together this year, you are always close in my heart. May your birthday be as incredible as you are, filled with all the love and happiness you deserve.
6. Happy Birthday! Even though we are miles apart, you are always in my thoughts. I hope your special day is filled with love, joy, and all the things that make you happy.
7. Wishing you a fantastic birthday from afar! May your day be as wonderful and special as you are, and I'm looking forward celebrating together again next year!
8. Happy Birthday! Though distance keeps us apart, it can never truly come between us. I hope your day is filled with smiles, laughter, and all your favourite things.
9. Happy Birthday! I wish I could be there to celebrate with you in person. Enjoy your special day, I’m sending you a big hug and lots of love.
10. I'm wishing you all the birthday joy from hundreds of miles away. Have a wonderful celebration! Miss you loads

The ones you don't chat with often

1. Happy Birthday! I'm thinking of you on your special day. Have a wonderful celebration and a fantastic year ahead.
2. Happy Birthday! I hope you have a fantastic day surrounded by those who bring you happiness. Wishing you all the best for the year ahead!
3. Wishing you a fantastic birthday! I hope this year brings you all the happiness and success you deserve. Have an amazing day!
4. On your birthday, I just wanted to take a moment to wish you all the best. Hope you have a day full of joy, and that you have a wonderful year ahead. Happy Birthday!
5. Wishing you a very Happy Birthday! May your day be filled with love, joy, and lots of cake.
6. Wishing you a fantastic birthday! May this special day bring you all the happiness and success you deserve.
7. Happy Birthday! I hope your day is filled with joy and laughter. Enjoy every moment and have an amazing year ahead!

The generational gap, second-cousins, & great-aunts

1. Happy Birthday! Sending you warm wishes for a day full of happiness and a year full of success and good health. Enjoy your day!
2. Happy Birthday! I hope your special day is as delightful and wonderful as you are. Wishing you all the best today and always.
3. Happy Birthday! Wishing you lots of joy and wonderful moments today. Enjoy your special day to the fullest.
4. Wishing you a very Happy Birthday! May your day be bright and your year be filled with good health, joy, and all the things that make you happy. Enjoy your special day!
5. Wishing you a very Happy Birthday! Hope your day is full of happiness and surrounded by loved ones. Enjoy your special day!
6. Happy Birthday! Sending you my best wishes for a fantastic day and a year full of good health and happiness. Enjoy!
7. Wishing you a very Happy Birthday! May your day be full of love, joy, and everything that brings a smile to your face. Have a fantastic celebration!
8. Happy Birthday! I hope your day is as special as you are. Enjoy every moment and have a great year ahead.

Pet Parents

Dog Mums and Dog Dads

1. Dear Mum, Happy Birthday! Thank you for always sharing your snacks, even though I'm not supposed to beg at the table!
2. To the most loving Dog Dad: your bond with Bella is adorable. Happy Birthday, and thank you for being such a wonderful pet parent.
3. Wishing a special birthday to our dog's favourite person. Your kindness and affection towards Bella is something that makes me so happy, and it makes our family complete.
4. Happy Birthday! Thank you for being an amazing pawrent.
5. To the most pawsome dog mum, hope you have a fantastic birthday! Thank you for all the treats and tummy rubs.
6. Happy Birthday dog dad! Thank you for being such an amazing pet person and my best pal.
7. Happy Birthday Dad! I'll make a muddy masterpiece just for you!
8. Happy Birthday Mum! Let's curl up on the sofa for a cuddle and some TV (and if he's well behaved, then Dad can join us too!)
9. Wishing a special birthday to a wonderful Dog Mum - your commitment to Bella's happiness and health means so much, thank you for being an exceptional pet parent.