When it comes to signing birthday cards, there are people who have no problem picking up a pen and adding a warm, personal message. Then there are those of us who sometimes have trouble getting beyond “Happy Birthday.” Wherever you fall on that inspiration spectrum, we have ideas to help you write a more meaningful message in your card.

In this guide, Hallmark writers offer birthday-message tips and inspiring examples. Just click on the appropriate category below to go straight to the birthday wishes you’re interested in, or you can read the whole guide and mix and match to create a custom message for your birthday person. Either way, we hope this little guide helps with the next birthday card you sign…and many more!

Happy Birthday Wishes

When the card has already said it all or you just feel like keeping things short and sweet, a few short, sweet words might be the way to go. Here are some ideas for adding a little extra warmth and personality to your mighty little message.

Examples

• “Happy, happy birthday, [Margie]!”
• “I hope you get to do something fun to celebrate!”
• “You deserve everything happy. Wishing you that all year long!” 
• “[Aaron], hope you have a happy [27th]! Love ya!”
• “The happiest of birthdays to the [loveliest] of [daughters].”
• “Warmest wishes for a happy birthday,”
• “Hope today’s filled with all your favorite guilty pleasures!” 
• “Hope you make your [25th] a birthday to remember!”
• “Go forth from this birthday and prosper in your [ukulele playing]!”
• “Another year older, and you just keep getting stronger, wiser, funnier and more amazing!”
• “Happy Birthday to one of my favorite people in the history of ever.”
• “Thanks for being here, for being you.”
• “Warmest wishes and love on your birthday and always!”
• “Be safe, have fun, take pictures, and enjoy every minute of this exciting time in your life!”
• “So grateful that God put you on this earth and in my life.”
• “Wishing you a happy birthday and a year that’s blessed.”

Writing tip: 

One Hallmark writer said she chooses her cards very carefully for each birthday person so that she doesn’t have to add much in the way of a personal message. In other words, it’s fine to let the printed message and design do most of the talking for you. Even professional writers do it!

Milestone Birthdays

The milestone birthday person might not wake up feeling like this birthday is particularly special or different from any other. So, it’s your job to let him or her know what a big deal it is to have a nice, round-number birthday!

Examples

• “[50] never looked so great!”
• “Happy Birthday, [Jared]! Now that you’ve arrived here, [40] will never be the same again!”
• “Turning [60] is big! Especially when it’s someone like you, who has made the most of each year and made such a positive difference for the people in your life.”
• “[30] is the perfect age. You’re old enough to afford the good stuff and still young enough to enjoy it!”
• “Happy [90th] Birthday, [Nana Betty]! Today, we’re celebrating the amazing [woman] you are, honoring the life you’ve lived and, just like always, loving you so much!”

Writing tip: 

Ages 16, 18, 21, 30, 40, 50, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95 and 100 are traditionally considered milestones. Cards specific to these birthdays will feature the age number prominently in their design, but you can make any card a milestone card (or any birthday a milestone birthday) by writing that shiny new age number somewhere in your personal message.

Belated

Late really is better than never! If life, memory lapse or alien abduction has interfered with the timely delivery of your card, send it anyway. You can include a sincere or humorous apology…or just frame it as your way of extending the birthday fun!

Examples

• “So sorry these birthday wishes are late reaching you. I hope it was happy!”
• “Happy Birthday…a little late!”
• “You’re receiving this NOW and not on your ACTUAL birthday, because I am extremely thoughtful and wanted to be sure the celebration of YOU was not limited to just one day. That is so nice of me, right? Well, you are worth it.”  
• “At least my Happy Birthday text was on time. That counts for something, right? ☺ Happy Belated Birthday!”
• “I don’t know where my mind was, but I forgot your birthday…until now. At least this way I’ll stand out from the crowd when I tell you you’re amazing and awesome. Have a great year!”

Writing tip: 

Cards made specifically for belated birthdays are good for when you remember the birthday after the fact. However, if you already have the card but just didn’t get it delivered on time, stick with what you’ve got. You can mention its lateness in your personal message—or not. It’s really your call.

For a Friend

Sometimes you just want to tell someone, “Thanks for being a good friend.” A birthday card is a great way to do just that.

Examples

• “Happy Birthday to a friend I couldn’t live without!”
• “In case I don’t tell you often enough, I really appreciate your friendship. And I’m so grateful for all you bring to my life!” 
• “If life were a sitcom, you’d be the witty, glamorous friend and I’d be the dorky sidekick. And I don’t mind that at all. I hope you have a GREAT birthday.” 
• “This getting older stuff isn’t for sissies. Glad I have a friend like you to go first!”
• “It just occurred to me that we really are becoming OLD friends. So glad we are.”
• “Love you, my sweet friend. Happy Birthday.”

Writing tip: 

If you’ve chosen a blank or just-for-fun card simply because you know your friend would like it, you can easily make it a birthday card by mentioning birthday somewhere in your personal message. Friendship is flexible like that!

For a Child

If you don’t like to write a lot on a birthday card, then send more cards to kids, because even those who have learned to read are often too excited to sit through a very long message. Keep your wish short, sweet and fun, and your card will be a hit with the birthday kid.

Examples

• “[7] years awesome! That’s you!”
• “All hail the birthday princess! Have a royally sweet [5th], [Ella]!”
• “Yay! You’re [4] today! Love you, big [4]-year-old!”
• “Happy Birthday to our new favorite [6]-year-old!”
• “[Colette], you’re getting to be such a big [girl]! Happy [3rd] Birthday, Sweetheart. We love you!”
• “[Elliott]! How can you be [9] already? Why, just yesterday, you were [8]. Oh, well. Have a happy one, birthday boy!”
• “[Tyler], I’ve got a feeling you’re going to make a pretty amazing [11]-year-old. Happy Birthday!”
• “Hope this whole exciting year of being [13] kicks off with a very fun, very happy birthday!” 

Writing tip: 

Some adults might not want to be reminded of their new age, but kids will love seeing that you know exactly how old they are now! If it’s not already printed on the card, be sure to write the birthday kid’s age somewhere in your message.

For a Spouse or Significant Other

If you’re married to or dating the birthday boy or girl, this is a great opportunity to strengthen your relationship. Depending on your circumstances, it might also be a great chance for a little flirtatious fun.

Examples

• “I’m so grateful you came into the world because you make my world better every day. Happy Birthday, Baby.”
• “Thanks for you being you and being mine.”
• “It’s your day, and I can’t wait to celebrate it with you.”
• “I hope your birthday is the happiest.”
• “Happy Birthday, Beautiful.”
• “Wish you were here for me to spoil today.”

Writing tip: 

Using your private pet name for the recipient can instantly make a simple message more warm and personal. No matter what you say, use words that sound like you.

For a Family Member

Chances are, your family members will be getting a lot of birthday cards from you through the years, so you can mix it up and write a longer personal message some years and a shorter message others. Love, compliments and warm wishes all work nicely for family. So do “Proud of you” and “I’m glad we’re family” messages.

Examples

• “Happy Birthday, [Mom]. We love you so much!”
• “Every year, I’m even more grateful to have a [brother] like you.”
• “We still remember the first time we laid eyes on you—on this day [23] years ago. You were so beautiful right from the start, and with every year, you grow even more beautiful. Hope you know how much we love you and how grateful we are to call you our [daughter].”
• “So proud of the person you are! So happy we’re family.” 
• “To my hero…my dad!” 
• “I am just so in awe of you…and so proud to call you my [sister].”
• “Well, [Grandpa], another year has gone by, and I still haven’t come across anyone wiser, kinder, more generous or better at [checkers] than you. You’re the best!”

Writing tip: 

If your card doesn’t specifically mention your family relationship with the recipient, include it in your personal message. You can either address the recipient by the title you use for them (Nana, Pop-Pop, Aunt Suzie, etc.), or mention the relationship (sister, cousin, etc.) somewhere in your message.

Difficult Circumstances

Birthdays are happy occasions that sometimes fall during tough times due to illness, job loss, bereavement or other challenging circumstances. A birthday card is a great way to let the birthday person know you’re still thinking of (and celebrating) him or her even in the midst of a difficult year.

Examples

• “I know you’ve had some real challenges this year, and it has been great to see how well you have met them.”
• “What a year. You made it! Let’s celebrate THAT!”
• “Life owes you some really good times. Hope they start right now.”
• “You’ve had more than your share of challenges this year—hope this will feel like a brand-new year of better days.”
• “I hope this next year is gentle and sweet to you and gives you lots of reasons to smile and lots of time to rest.”

Writing tip: 

Humor can be a great day-brightener even in the midst of a hard time. If you know the birthday person appreciates a good laugh, feel free to choose a funny card and/or add a humorous personal message.

Professional Relationships

Let your relationship guide you when signing a birthday card for a co-worker. If it’s someone you’re close to, you can be as casual in your message as you would with nonwork friends. If it’s your supervisor or someone with whom you have a relationship that’s more strictly about work, then keep your message more formal.

Examples

• “Happy Birthday and all the best to you in the year to come!”
• “It’s a pleasure to work with you…and to wish you a happy birthday!”
• “[Karen], all work and no play makes us dull girls. So don’t work too hard on your birthday. Hope it’s happy!”
• “Unfortunately, I can’t take credit for baking you the cake in the break room. Fortunately, I can totally have a slice in your honor. Yum…and Happy Birthday!”
• “You make work a lot less like work. Thanks for all you do!” 

Writing tip: 

Do resist any urge to talk shop when signing a birthday card for a co-worker. Your card is a place for official birthday business only.

Signing a Group Card

Here are some ideas for when you’re the umpteenth person to sign the birthday card, and all the obvious messages (and most of the space) have already been taken.

Examples

Warm Closings

A warm closing before your signature is like the bow on top of the birthday gift. Choose one of ours, or come up with one of your own.

Keely Chace is a Hallmark writer and mother of two. When she isn't busy writing cards, she reads, runs, brushes up on long division and listens to lots of piano practice.

Additional contributions from Ellen Brenneman, Jim Cosgrove, Kevin Dilmore, Jeannie Hund, Diana Manning, Katherine Stano and Melissa Woo.

Hooray for all the moms in our lives! Hooray for the mothers, grandmothers, godmothers, stepmothers, mothers-in-law, aunts, wives, partners, sisters, friends, fellow moms, mentors and women who love with a mother’s heart.

This Mother’s Day guide offers signing tips and message starting points from Hallmark writers. You can read the whole guide or jump straight to the specific ideas that suit your style and your unique mom recipient. Whichever way you go, we hope our ideas help you honor and celebrate the amazing mothers in your life!

 

For Your Mother

In life, there are times when you need your very own mom, and no one else will do. Similarly, there are certain special Mother’s Day messages you can only write to her.

From just you

• “You’re my one and only mom, and I’ll always have a special place in my heart for you.”
• “I’m so proud to be your kid.”
• “Right from the start, you were the one who nurtured me, prayed over me, worried about me, guided me and supported me in every pursuit. Thank you for being there every day with just the love I needed.”
• “Now that I’m grown, I realize I don’t just feel gratitude for you—but admiration. I’d want to pattern my life after yours even if you weren’t my mother.”
• “Raising me took a lot of patience. Thanks for hanging in there with me.”
• “To Mom, with love, from your favorite child.☺”
• “Mom, I was lucky enough to inherit your eyes and your sense of humor. I keep hoping I'll get your lie-detector capabilities, too!”
• “With love from the luckiest [son] in the world.”
• “Sorry if I drove you crazy sometimes. I only did it because I love you!”
• “To my mom, my friend, my angel.”
• “Happy Mother’s Day, Mama. Every day, I thank heaven you’re mine.”

From you and your sibling(s), spouse, partner or family

• “For all you do and all you are, we love you…”
• “As a mom, as a mother-in-law, as a grandma—you’re the best, and we feel so blessed to have you!”
• “Thanks for putting up with us! We love you like crazy.”
• “Thanks for making home the happiest place to be.”
• “We’re thinking of you with lots of love today! Hope you can feel it.”
• “Mom, you’re the glue that holds us together.”

Writing tip: 

If your relationship with your mother is complicated, don’t feel obligated to make your message more complimentary or effusive than you feel. Instead, be warm and sincere in your card message. Focus on what’s positive and true between you. Tell her you’re thinking of her. Or simply wish her a beautiful day.

For Your Grandmother

Whether she goes by grandma, nana, granny or another name, your grandmother is definitely someone to honor and celebrate on Mother’s Day!

From just you

• “You’ll always have your own special place in my heart, Nana.”
• “Thanks for spoiling me rotten!”
• “Love is a family tradition for us…I’ve always known that, as long as I’ve been on this planet. You’re a big part of those loving memories and the reason I feel so lucky to be born into this family.”
• “God knew what he was doing when he made you a grandma—He knew you’d be the best one ever.”
• “I hope you know how much I admire the woman you are.”
• “You’ve taught me so much without saying a word.”
• “I could sure use a grandma hug right now.”
• “Thanks for all the cookies and love. And cookies. Did I mention cookies?”
• “Grandma, your love has shaped me in lasting ways.”
• “So blessed by you, Gamma. You went above and beyond to help raise me, and it’s given us a special connection that I cherish.”

From you and your sibling(s), spouse, partner or family

• “You are the heart and soul of our family. Love you, Grammy Pam!”
• “For all you’ve gone through, all you are and all the love you share, we love you, Grandmother.”
• “You are the cornerstone of our family.”
• “You’re the best listener, the best cook, the best friend, the best grandma I could ever ask for.”
• “On Mother’s Day, we hope you feel honored for all your years of caring for your children and grandchildren. And every day, we hope you feel how loved you are.”
• “You don’t just give love, you are love. And we love you so much, too.”

Writing tip: 

If the card you choose for your grandmother says “Grandma,” but you call her Nonna Becky or K-K, use your written message to personalize it, addressing her by the familiar title or name you always use for her.

For Someone Who is Like a Mother to You

If you’re very lucky, you have an aunt, godmother or other caring woman close to you who has been a unique mix of friend, family, mentor and/or second mother to you through the years. Here are some things you might say to her on Mother’s Day…

Examples

• “Aunt Ginny, there’s simply no one else like you. I feel so blessed that we’re family…and that we’re friends.”
• “You’ve been like a mom to me—someone I can tell anything and ask anything. Thank you for being such an important person in my life.”
• “With love to an amazing lady...from someone who hopes to be one someday.”
• “Just wanted to recognize you on Mother’s Day for being such a caring and positive influence in my life. I’m forever grateful, and I look up to you more than you know.”
• “Happy Mother’s Day to an amazing woman I’ll always admire, appreciate and love!”
• “We hope it doesn’t come as a surprise that we’re thinking of you today. After all, you’ve loved us just like a mom.”

Writing tip: 

Mother’s Day is truly for all women who love with a mother’s heart. Giving birth is not required. Don’t hesitate to send a card and write a warm message to any woman who has been a strong and caring influence in your life.

For Your Wife or Partner

What does a mom want to hear from her spouse on Mother’s Day? It’s no big mystery. She wants to hear that her partner sees all she does and appreciates her for it. A card is the perfect place to say it. And if there’s a “you’re a goddess/saint/miracle-worker” comment or a spa gift certificate to go along with it, then so much the better!

Examples

• “You’re more beautiful than ever to me.”
• “I love our family, and I love you.”
• “Creativity, laughter, devotion…there’s so much to admire in the way you do motherhood day in and day out.”
• “Happy Mother’s Day with all my thanks and love,”
• “Thank you for all the ways you go above and beyond every day for our family. The kids and I are so lucky to have you.”
• “I’m so grateful to be sharing life, love and parenthood with someone as creative and fun as you.”
• “From the moment we met, you’ve had my heart. And seeing you as a mom only makes me love you more.”
• “Because of you, our family and our sweet home are built around generous, selfless love. Thank you for making us all so blessed—especially me.”
• For the wife who is a stepmom to her spouse’s child: “Thank you for being such a wonderful mother to my daughter. It means so much to see the way you care for her…and the way she loves you, too.”

Writing tip: 

Romantic or suggestive messages don’t tend to go over as well on Mother’s Day. Save those for your anniversary, Valentine’s Day or a just-because love card.

For Your Sister or Friend

Messages for sisters and friends tend to be similar because they’re both peer relationships. You’re probably close in age and life stage. You might even share a special bond because you’re both experiencing parenthood at the same time.

Examples

• “Celebrating the amazing mom you are to your own kids and the wonderful aunt you are to mine!”
• “I always knew you’d be a great mom someday.”
• “So glad our kids are cousins!”
• “Wishing you a sweet, quiet, gross-out-free Mother’s Day!”
• “So glad we’re moms—it’s one more sweet thing to share.”
• “I can tell from how your kids act that they feel secure, well-grounded and totally loved. Of course they do. They have the best mom ever!”
• “You’re my good friend, and you’re a mom I admire so much.”
• “We started as mom-friends, but now we’re just plain friends. I’m so glad we are. Happy Mother’s Day!”
• “Mother’s Day, margarita, mojito and merlot all start with ‘m.’ Coincidence? Surely not.”
• “I don’t know how you do it. But I can easily see that you are doing a wonderful job of being a mom.”
• “You are a blessing to your family…and to me.”
• “I’m so grateful to have a friend and fellow mom like you in my life. Thank you for helping me deal with all the ups and downs of motherhood!”
• “I believe in my heart that someday we’ll once again pee alone.”

Writing tip: 

Whether she’s a rookie or an old pro, a mom can always use a little encouragement. Mother’s Day is the perfect occasion for a reminder that she is doing a great job with her kids.

For Your Daughter or Granddaughter

There’s something so heartwarming about seeing your daughter or granddaughter become a mother in her own right. On Mother’s Day, celebrate her for giving you those grandbabies (or great-grandbabies) you’ve waited so patiently for!

Daughter

• “I’m so proud of you I can’t even express it. I would have been happy watching you pursue any dream you chose, but it makes me so happy that one of your dreams was to be a mother. Your children are a beautiful reflection of your loving heart.”
• “Happy Mother’s Day to our beautiful daughter. Thanks for being such a devoted mother to a few of our favorite grandchildren!”
• “Now that you’re a mom, hope you know a little of the joy I knew when I had you.”
• “With love for being such a great daughter…and making me such a happy grandmother!”
• “Motherhood is such a perfect expression of the gentle, caring person you are. It really warms our hearts to see you with your little boy.”

Granddaughter

• “The world is changing so much…in so many exciting ways. But one thing that hasn’t changed is the love moms give. You’re carrying on the mom tradition beautifully, in your own loving way. I’m so proud of you.”
• “I am so lucky to have you for my granddaughter. And your daughter is even luckier to have you for her mother.”
• “Thinking of you and that sweet grandbaby of mine today!”
• “So proud of the wonderful job you’re doing as a mom.”
• “Seems like just yesterday you were a little girl yourself. Love seeing you as a mom!”
• “Happy Mother’s Day to a granddaughter who just keeps on bringing joy to her family.”

Writing tip: 

Pride is a strong theme for daughters and granddaughters who are mothers. Let her know that motherhood is one of the many reasons you’re proud of her.

For a Mother-to-Be or a New Mother

For a mom-to-be or first-time mom, her experience of Mother’s Day is unique. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime occasion for her, and that definitely calls for a special mention in your message.

Mother-to-Be

• “Happy Mother-to-Be Day, Chelsea! You’re going to make such a good mum!”
• “Happy Mother’s Day to our favorite mom-to-be with lots of love and anticipation!”
• “You’re joining the mum club! Hope this Mother’s Day will be the first of many special ones for you.”

New Mother

• “Everyone jokes about spoiling the baby. When can I come over and help spoil the NEW MOM? YOU DESERVE IT!”
• “You are off to such a sweet start as a mom. Happy 1st Mother’s Day!”
• “I remember the lunch when you first told me you were going to be a mom. I was so happy for you then, and I still am, because I see how much you love it and how amazing you are at it.”
• “Can just imagine how meaningful today is with a new little one in your life. Enjoy!”
• “You’ve got crayon-drawn Mother’s Day cards in your future, along with big hugs from your lucky little one!”
• “That sweet baby isn't the only one who should be pampered—today’s all for you!”

Writing tip: 

Excitement and encouragement are great qualities in a mom-to-be or 1st Mother’s Day message. Share in her anticipation, or tell her she’s going to be a great mom. Or both!

Warm Closings

A warm closing before your signature is like the bow on top! Choose one of ours, or come up with one of your own.

Keely Chace is a Hallmark writer and mother of two. When she isn't busy writing cards, she reads, runs, brushes up on long division and listens to lots of piano practice

Additional contributions by Linda Barnes, Ellen Brenneman, Jeannie Hund, Diana Manning, Dan Taylor and Molly Wigand.