What to Write in a Card: Birthday

Because every birthday deserves a little extra love.

Birthdays are moments of joy, reflection, and maybe a slice (or three) of cake. But sometimes writing the perfect birthday card message feels trickier than it should, especially when you want to get it just right for friends, family, or colleagues.

Whether you're celebrating a lifelong bestie, a cousin you only see at Christmas, or a teammate who always brightens up the Zoom calls, here are some warm, heartfelt and fun ideas to help you write a birthday card that truly connects.

Classic and sincere

Simple and heartfelt, perfect for anyone.

• Wishing you a birthday filled with love, laughter and all your favourite things.
• Happy Birthday! Hope this year brings you endless joy and wonderful memories.
• Here's to another year of amazing adventures and beautiful moments.
• Wishing you a day that's as special as you are.
• Happy Birthday! May your year ahead be filled with happiness and success.

Warm and personal

Great for close friends and family when you want to say something more meaningful.

• Another year, another reason to celebrate the wonderful person you are. So lucky to have you in my life!
• Happy Birthday! Your kindness and warmth light up every room, hope today shines as bright for you.
• Cheers to you and all the ways you make life better for those around you.
• To someone who's truly one of a kind, may your birthday be filled with love and laughter.
• So grateful for you today and every day. Happy Birthday!

Light and playful

For when you want to bring a smile and a little bit of fun.

• Happy Birthday! Don't count the candles, just enjoy the cake.
• Another year older, wiser and even more awesome!
• You're not getting older, you're levelling up!
• Birthdays are nature's way of telling us to eat more cake.
• Congratulations on surviving another trip around the sun, let's celebrate!

For colleagues and teams

Keep it friendly and professional, but still warm.

• Happy Birthday! Wishing you a fantastic day and successful year ahead.
• Cheers to another year of great work and even greater teamwork.
• Wishing you a wonderful birthday filled with all the things you enjoy, you deserve it!
• Happy Birthday! Thanks for being such an important part of the team.
• Here's to a year of new opportunities and achievements. Enjoy your day!

Keep it simple, keep it you

The best birthday card messages come from the heart, whether it's a few words or a longer note. Don't overthink it, just celebrate the person.