Whether you’re a keep-it-low-key or a celebrate-all-month kind of person, we can all agree that birthdays are a big deal. They’re the perfect occasion to make someone feel special. And while gifts and parties are always welcome, nothing beats heartfelt birthday card messages to show them a little love.
But we also know finding the right words can be tricky. So, we’re sharing examples of what to write in a birthday card to help you craft the perfect birthday message, no matter who you’re writing to.
Family Birthday Messages
When writing birthday card messages for your mom, dad, brother, sister, or extended family, keep it fun and meaningful. If they’ve got a good sense of humor or you share inside jokes, why not use those to make them smile?
- Thanks for everything you’ve done for me. No one deserves to put their feet up and enjoy their birthday more than you! I hope it’s a good one.
- You don’t know how lucky I feel to have both a great [mum/dad/brother/sister] and a friend for life. You’re the best! Enjoy your birthday celebrations.
- I know you think I’m the best [child/siblings] any [parent/brother/sister] could ever ask for, and I just want to say – you’re not so bad either!
Friend Birthday Card Messages
We know it’s a little cheesy but friends really are your chosen family—and we don’t always tell them how much they mean to us. So, here’s your chance! Make your birthday message to a friend extra special by adapting the examples below:
- Happy birthday! I hope this year brings you as much happiness and joy as you bring to everyone around you. Enjoy your special day!
- Another year older, but you’re still the same amazing friend! Here’s to celebrating you and all the wonderful moments we’ve shared.
- Thanks for making life crazier, funnier, brighter, and happier. You really are the best. Sending lots of love on your birthday!
Partner Birthday Messages
Who says romance is only for Valentine’s Day? Make your spouse or partner feel loved and appreciated with one of the below birthday card messages:
- You make me so happy and every day with you is so much fun. Happy birthday, I love you more than anything!
- Thank you for being the perfect partner for me and the perfect parent to our kids. You’re our whole world!
- Although your birthday only comes once a year, my love for you will last forever. I can’t wait to celebrate your special day together.
Coworker Birthday Messages
Knowing what to say in a birthday card for a coworker can be tricky. And, to be honest, it comes down to the nature of your relationship. But friendly and professional is always a safe bet!
- Happy birthday to one of the reasons it’s so awesome to work here! Let’s grab lunch/drinks soon.
- Happy birthday! I hope you take the day to relax, you definitely deserve it.
- Wishing you a happy birthday! Another year wiser, another year of exciting collaboration.
Milestone Birthday Messages
So you know what we said about birthdays being big deals? Milestone birthdays are even bigger ones. Whether celebrating a 21st, 30th, or 50th, the birthday blessings you write will stay with the recipient forever. No pressure!
- You’re 21 now – welcome to the beginning of the rest of your life! I’ll always be here if you ever need me. I can’t wait to see what the years ahead hold for you.
- Thirty, flirty, and thriving! Here’s to 30 more years of fabulous you. Happy birthday!
- 50 cheers to 50 years. May the next 50 be even better than the first. Have a wonderful birthday.
Unique Birthday Card Messages
Who says birthday cards are only for people? We’re all about sharing the love—and that includes our furry friends too! Here are a few message ideas for unique birthdays.
- You are my one and only furry soulmate, and I love you more than any of my two-legged friends!
- Here’s to another year of wagging tails and joyful adventures. I love you buddy, happy birthday!
- Happy birthday! I hope your day is filled with treats and belly rubs.
Birthday Blessings for Long Distance
If there’s one thing romcoms have taught us it’s that communication is important in long-distance relationships. Whether you live far away from family, your partner, or friends, find the right words to tell them you miss them with these long-distance birthday card message ideas.
- You might be far away but you’re always on my mind. I hope you have a wonderful day!
- Happy Birthday! We may be miles apart, but we’re always connected. I’ll be raising a glass (or three!) in your honor.
- Remember all of the happy memories we have together while you celebrate today, and know that we will be making more soon.
Birthday Wishes for Love
We’ll just say it: we love a schmoopie birthday message! If there’s a special man or special woman in your life, tell your partner just how much you love them—and don’t be afraid to get cutesy!
- I hope your birthday is as incredible as you. You’re the best. …and I’m the luckiest!
- For your X birthday, here are X things I love about you [start listing them, e.g. your smile, your laugh, your thoughtfulness, etc].
- Just when I think I couldn’t love you more than I already do… I do. Always remember how happy our life together makes me. I just hope I bring even a fraction of the same happiness to your life!
Belated Happy Birthday Wishes
Better late than never, right? If someone’s big day slipped your mind, it’s not too late to send belated birthday wishes. Don’t fill the card with excuses, just focus on the recipient and show you’re thinking of them!
- I can’t believe I missed your birthday – especially as I was thinking of you just the other day! I hope you had a great time. Let’s meet up soon.
- It may seem like I missed your birthday, but that’s definitely not the case. Let’s blame the postman.
- Sorry this is a little late but I wanted to say happy birthday! I hope your day was as awesome as you are.
Short and Simple Birthday Card Messages
The best gifts come in small packages… and, it turns out, the best birthday blessings come in short sentences!
- Happy birthday! I hope you have a great day.
- Happy great-excuse-to-eat-cake day!
- Here’s to another year of fun and memories. I hope you enjoy yourself!
- I hope your day is full of presents, good food, great company, and your favorite cake!
Funny Birthday Card Messages
Birthdays and humor go hand-in-hand. These funny birthday card messages are a great way to celebrate another year around the sun!
- They say age is just a number... but in your case, it's a really big number. Happy birthday, old friend!
- Happy birthday! You deserve the very best on your special day—which is why you’ll be seeing me later!
- I swear you look better and better every year, and I’m not just saying that so you’ll say the same to me on my birthday. (Disclaimer: I am).
Now you know what to write in a birthday card, all you need is the perfect flower bouquet or thoughtful gift to complement your wonderful words. Shop all gifts now at Lovingly.
