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What to write in a Valentine’s Day card

Thoughts from American Greetings Writing Studio Creative Director Rochelle Lulow…

Real Love…Real Life

We’ve been creating Valentine’s Day cards for a long time–and along the way, we’ve seen the words we use to talk about love have changed, too. Today’s romantic relationships are about “real love” and “real life.” Being in love isn’t something that you are in, or fall into – it’s something that you do. It’s about everyday living, and the little things you do for (and with!) each other that mean the most. Like a goodbye kiss as you head out the door, and saying “I love you” when you say goodnight… it’s the little ways you share love every day!

Love is Ever Changing

Our romantic relationships start out new and evolve into stronger bonds as time goes by. That means we may say, and feel, different things as our relationship grows. From playfulness to passion, to commitment and endurance, and everything in between – from how it all started to what it has become – that’s the where the things you want to say in a card come from.

What to write in a Valentine’s Day card–

When it comes to what you want to say, these ideas might help…

Think back to when you first met, maybe a special time you’ve shared, or look at favorite photos, and think about how these things make you feel…try putting that feeling into words…that becomes the “story” you write.
Try playing songs that make you think of that person…it’s a great backdrop that can set the mood for writing.
Create a list of words that describe the person or special things about him, or her, that you love – those words are great ideas for what you might want to say.
Think of it as a conversation… like you would be talking to that person…the words will come easier that way, and will be said the way you would say it.
Just before you sign it, try writing your own ending, like “Forever in love with you,” “I love you, and I love us,” or “You’re my everything”…it brings a meaningful wrap up to your thoughts.
Write as much, or as little, as you’d like…it’s not about how long it is…it’s about how meaningful it is…a few simple sentences that describes that person, how grateful you are, and everything that you love about that person is what matters!

Love and life go hand in hand. You’re in it together–caring, sharing, hugging, holding, laughing, crying, trusting, supporting, and loving each other through it all… Because that’s what real love is!

Wishing you love, Rochelle

Still need some help? We’ve got you covered. From funny to sweet, romantic to risque, we have a great selection of Valentine’s Day cards you can print at home. Click here to view our collection!

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What to write in a birthday card

August 9 By American Greetings

Celebrating a birthday is special, and sending a greeting card is the perfect way to add your wishes to the day. Once you’ve picked out the card, it’s nice to include your own personal message, too. But do you ever have a hard time figuring out what to write in a birthday card? We spent some time with our birthday card experts and put together some tips to help you.

First, you don’t need it to be lengthy—just sincere! So get your favorite pen ready (pick a colored pen for a fun touch!) and get ready to write!

With your trusty pen at the ready, take some time to think about the recipient and your relationship with them. If it’s a casual friend, but you know what they have planned for their birthday, you can add a special wish such as “I hope your celebration gives you many happy memories to treasure always!” Also, including a compliment is always appreciated. For example, “May your birthday be as special as you are!” or, “Wishing you all the happiness someone as nice as you deserves!”

If you’re close, you may want to write something more heartfelt. Take some time to think about what they mean to you, what they’ve done for you or your favorite memory of times you’ve shared together. These specific thoughts, emotions and memories are what make each relationship unique. While they might feel a little awkward to say at first, as you get in the habit of writing out your thoughts it will become easier with each card you write. You might want to write a draft on a piece of paper to make sure that the words come out right before you pen your final message on the card.

For an added touch of thoughtfulness, quotes make great birthday card sayings as well. There are many great quotation sites, or you can select one from a favorite book. Here are some that we especially like:

Those who bring sunshine to the lives of others can not keep it from themselves. – Sir James Barrie
And in the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years. – Abraham Lincoln
A friend is, as it were, a second self. – Cicero
You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream. – C.S. Lewis
We turn not older with years, but newer every day. – Emily Dickinson
Go confidently in the direction of your dreams! – Henry David Thoreau
A true friend is someone who knows all about you and likes you just the same. – Elbert Hubbard
Friendship is the only cement that will ever hold the world together. – Woodrow Wilson

Keep in mind that a warm closing will bring an extra smile for the birthday person. Besides the tried-and-true Love, you could consider phrases such as Thinking of You, Love Always, Your Friend, or Best Wishes Always. (And, of course, don’t forget to sign your name!)

Need to print a card at home in a hurry? Check out our printable birthday cards! You can customize it with the perfect birthday message using these handy tips!

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What to Write in a Father’s Day Card

June 1 By American Greetings

My dad used to send me into a panic whenever given the ceremonial after-dinner card on birthdays or Father’s Day. What was I worried about?

He actually read the card aloud to the family.

“Holy cow — what does it say?” I’d be thinking through my sweat. For, being a young man of my time, I’d never read the message through, just a few words on the front and skimmed to the ending. Happily, though, because American Greetings cards are carefully crafted to say just the right thing, I needn’t have worried. Now I’m editing those card lines and, as a father myself, I take great pride in selecting just the right messages for our products.

My dad was probably a lot different from yours: like many of his generation, he wasn’t overly expressive of his softer side, preferring to let his actions speak for him. Younger dads are a lot closer to their kids and more open with their feelings, though not all are as comfortable that way as others. So if you want to know what to say in a Father’s Day card it’s gotta start with what kind of guy he is.

Is he the classic strong, silent type? If so, he’s going to know all about saying the most with the least amount of words and reading between the lines for the deeper message. If you’re going for the plain and direct sentiment, it might read something like:

Straight up and right to the point…
You’re a great dad, and you’re loved very much.

Or, if you’re more likely to share your message in a kidding way, it can be fun affectionately turning his words back on him:

Happy Father’s Day, Dad.
Okay! Good talk.

What if he’s an old softie? These guys can handle a little sentimentality. You might want to turn up the Love, Pride or Gratitude, just for him:

I’ll never be too old to need you, Dad.
Hope you know how much I’ll always love, care for, and appreciate you.

Maybe he’s not your biological father but he’s had a real influence on your life and deserves to know how you feel about him.

fa – ther (n.) Someone who cares and helps and guides you. (Shared DNA not required.)
Just thinking about how lucky I am to have you in my life.

Are there any special interests he’s known for? Sometimes it’s nice just knowing you “get” him:

Take it easy, sit and chill,
Get a game in, fire the grill,
Surf the channels, lift a brew,
And celebrate a great dad — you!

No matter what type of man he is, if there’s one thing all dads everywhere want to be recognized for, it’s the hard work they put into being a good father. You really can’t go wrong with a simple “I notice”:

For the wonderful things you do that I might not always notice, and the words of wisdom that might sometimes get ignored, thank you. Not a day goes by when I don’t feel very, very lucky to have a dad like you!

Whether you come up with something sweet, witty or wise, only you know what makes the dad in your life so special to you—and that’s what he really wants to hear. Be sure to check out our website for everything Father’s Day, including Father’s Day eCards, Print at Home cards, and more.

Steve Johnson

Did this article help inspire you with what to write in a Father’s Day card? Feel free to comment with your ideas or tweet us @amgreetings!

What to Write in a Mother’s Day Card

April 26 By American Greetings

What to Write in a Mother's Day Card

Let’s hear it for moms! Here’s to the women who tackle the #World’sToughestJob and deserve nothing short of oodles of praise and attention. Though we mean to constantly let them know how much we love and appreciate them, we often fall short on our follow-through, which is why we’re grateful we have a day set aside just for them where we can lavish heaps of love and praise on them for all they do.

With Mother’s Day just ahead on Sunday May 8^th, you’re probably thinking about sending cards to your mother, mother-in-law, and grandmother — and don’t forget your sisters, and yes, those pet moms, too! All these women in your life will LOVE to get a card from you affirming what great moms they are, but don’t be overwhelmed about what to write in your cards – this is where we’ve got you covered. Our American Greetings creative team has compiled their expert advice on what to write in a Mother’s Day card that will help you express your gratitude and praise perfectly.

For Your Mom

From you as a mom:

Once you become a mother yourself, you have a better understanding of what your mom did for you, and now you’re also celebrating her as a grandmother!

The highest compliment anyone can give me, Mom, is to say that I’m like you.
I see you in things I do, I hear you in things I say – and these are some of the things I‘m most proud of.
From “Mommy” to “Grandma,” you’ve always found a way to be amazing at who you are.
Now that I’m a mom, too, I realize how hard you worked and the patience it took. Thank you for being there in all the ways I needed you to be.

Simply stated from you:

The truth is that no matter how old we get, we’ll always need our moms. And there will always be things she deserves to hear.

Thank you for the laughs, the listening, and the love.
Mom, when you thought I wasn’t looking—I was. Thank you for the million ways you supported, encouraged, helped, and loved me.
I know I wasn’t always easy to handle (and still may not be), but I can’t tell you enough how much I appreciate how you’re always there for me, no matter what.
More than anything, I want you to feel loved and appreciated not just on Mother’s Day, but every day.

For Your Sister

You’ve watched and helped each other go through ages and stages. Let her know how much you admire the great mom she turned out to be.

You do the ‘mom’ thing so well. You deserve the best day ever.
Chance made us sisters; motherhood made us friends. It’s so fun being moms with you.
Your children are so lucky to have a mom like you.
I always knew you’d be a great mom because you’re such a great sister.

For Your Grandmother

Our grandmothers hold a very special place in our hearts and deserve to know how much they’re loved and appreciated.

Grandma, thank you for all the ways you made me feel special and loved.
You’re every wonderful thing a grandma could be.
Because of you, I got a really great mom. Thank you for everything, Nana.
Only the best moms get promoted to grandmother. I love you!

For Your Mother-in-Law

The mother of your spouse oftentimes may get overlooked, but let’s not forget who gave you your fab partner to begin with. Make her day by sending her some love, too.

You’ve always felt more like a mom than mother-in-law to me. Thank you for all the love.
A mother-in-law like you deserves an equally wonderful Mother’s Day.
Because of the wonderful mother you are, I have an amazing partner and parent to my own children. We all love you so much.
Thinking of you and wishing you a very happy Mother’s Day.

For A New Mom

Their world just got rocked and they’ve entered mommy-hood. There’s nothing more they could want than some much-needed love and encouragement from their support system.

You’re a beautiful person inside and out, so there’s no way you could be anything but a fantastic mom.
I’m so excited for you and your very first Mother’s Day!
It’s your first Mother’s Day! You’re the one who definitely deserves to be spoiled today.
Your baby won the mommy lottery. Hope your first Mother’s Day is as amazing as you are.

For Pet Moms

Pets are part of the family, and the love pet moms have for their animal babies is immeasurable. Send them a much-deserved shout-out for the love and loyalty they unselfishly give every day.

No one is more devoted to their pet than you, and you deserve to be celebrated on Mother’s Day and every day.
Your fur baby is so lucky to have you for a mom!
The way you care for your animals is a beautiful thing.
It’s not about biology. Love is love, and you’re a great mom to your pet.

Now that you’ve got some good idea starters for what to write in your Mother’s Day cards, finding the right card for all the special moms you love couldn’t be easier. Check out our thoughtful and fun ecards that take just a few clicks to send or schedule ahead, plus you can also choose from printable cards you can simply print at home from your computer.

No matter which type of cards you choose, the special ladies in your life are going to be so touched that you thought of them and sent some Mother’s Day love their way. Here’s to moms!

What’s your most favorite way someone celebrated you as a mom in the past? Or maybe you did something awesome for another mom you know? Share it with us in the comments!

What to write in a thank you note

December 30 By American Greetings

Are you wondering what to write in a thank you note? Maybe it’s for a holiday gift received, or maybe it’s time to pen your bridal or baby shower thank-yous. Maybe you’re looking to write that mother of all thank-you notes that someone might save in a memory box. Or maybe you’re just plain, old procrastinating. Well, the first thing you can thank is your lucky stars, cuz you’ve got your own personal gratitude guide right here.

In my own little part of the planet, people have been thanking me for my thank-yous for as long as I can remember. I’ve had my fair share of experience, too. In the last couple years, I got married, had a baby, and the accompanying showers — and let me tell you, there’s no faster way to learn how to write a memorable thank-you! Sure, it all started out with Mom forcing me to write a note after every birthday or holiday gift growing up, but by now it’s just part of who I am. There’s something I really love about knowing I’ve sent this little connection out into the world, a thoughtful envelope in a sea of bills and junk mail, to let someone know just how much they’re appreciated.

So, without further ado, I’m going to let you in on my little secret…

It’s all about the details.

Whether it’s filling in a blank note or adding a few lines to a greeting card, taking the time to write a personal message can really go a long way. My team works on American Greetings’ Thank-You cards, and we love to find fresh, creative ways to help you say thanks! We’ll give you a great sentiment to start, but taking the time to add a few personal words can really make all the difference.

Start with the “Dear.” Whom are you thanking? Pay attention to the card or gift tag you receive, and address your thank-you the same way. If a gift was from a family, include the children as well. At a shower, make sure someone takes notes so you can get this part right — that extra attention to detail really helps.
Make it specific. Start your thank-you with a description of the gesture or gift: “Thank you for…” or “I really appreciate…”
- Gift — Let them know how much you like the gift, or how you plan to use it, but be careful not to exaggerate. There’s really no need to say you’ll think of them every time you do dishes.
  - We love the new dish towels. I can’t believe you found something that so perfectly matches the colors in our kitchen!
- Money/Gift Card — Try not to directly mention money. Explain how you’ll use the gift, and consider thanking them for their kindness or generosity.
  - Thank you so much for your generous gift. We’ll be using it toward a beautiful wooden changing table for the nursery.
- Hosting — Compliment the host on a specific food, decoration, or a memorable moment.
  - Your home is so warm and inviting, and I especially loved your beautiful centerpiece. I can’t believe you made it yourself!
- Being There — There are many more reasons to write a thank-you. Here are some to get you started: for child or elder care, for helping out when you’re sick, for encouragement, advice, or friendship, for listening or support, for mentoring or helping you achieve a goal.
  - Thank you so much for talking me off the ledge last week. It means so much to know you’re really there for me.
- Be genuine. Use your own voice. Not mine, your Aunt Edna’s, or anyone else’s.
- Match the emotion. Think about the emotion behind the gesture or gift, and try to reflect it in your message. If someone gives you something small, a short, simple thank-you may be enough. But, if someone really went above and beyond for you, a phrase like I can’t even begin to tell you how much it means will really help to convey the gratitude you feel.
  - How do I even begin to thank you…
  - Your kindness and caring mean so much to me.
  - You always know the perfect thing to do to make me feel special.
- Wrap it up. It’s a nice touch to end your card with a message about the sender rather than a gift. Try thanking them for thinking of you, or mention looking forward to seeing them again soon.
  - Thank you again for thinking of me. It means so much to have you in my life.
- Be timely. Etiquette experts agree you have up to a year to write wedding thank-yous, but best practice is to try to get any thank-you sent within a month. A Christmas thank-you in June just doesn’t feel like you made it a priority. This is one of my own personal challenges, and my rule of thumb is that’s it’s always better to send the thank-you. Even a belated one.
  - A much-belated thank-you for your thoughtful birthday gift. I absolutely love…

I don’t know about you, but I just inspired myself to send off a couple tonight. In this fast-paced world we live in, a handwritten thank-you stands out. It’s the kind of mail people love to receive. It says that you took the time to reflect on someone’s thoughtfulness, the influence they’ve had, or what someone continues to do for you. The most important thing really isn’t finding the perfectly crafted phrase to write — it’s that what you do write comes from your heart.

Whom do you plan to thank today? Post it in here in the comments!
And if you want to take the next step in thanking someone, don’t forget check out American Greetings’#ThankList movement.

– Jessica

Jessica L. Dolce’s love of greeting cards started early — she created her own card line as a child, complete with a logo and rhyming verse! These days she’s a writer, editor, hiking enthusiast, home renovator, wife, and doting mama to the world’s most adorable toddler.

What to Write in a Halloween Card

October 20 By American Greetings

Do you shudder with fear when you try to think of what to write in a Halloween card? Does your blood run cold at the thought of what to say? Would you rather face a thirsty vampire than figure out what to scrawl in the card? Well relax boys and ghouls. I will be your ghost host for this quick lesson that, hopefully, will take the terror out of…”What to Write in a Halloween Greeting Card.”

Halloween isn’t just for costume-clad, candy craving kids anymore. Statistics and sales figures (Ugh—math!) show that “big people” like to get their spooky on, too.

Halloween has grown into one of the year’s biggest party occasions. More and more adults are dressing up and getting down to celebrate this frightful fall festivity with parties and haunted happenings. You might say Halloween has turned into a monster!

Or you might not. We don’t really know if you’re into puns.

So if you decide to take advantage of this spook-tacular opportunity to reach out to those people you consider card-worthy what do you write in it? This might help…

What to Write in a Halloween Card

As with any card, a good place to start is to think about what the person means to you and any unique connection you might share. It’s that personal touch that makes any card special.

You might want to make a reference to the holiday itself. Throw in a horror-themed pun before adding your signature:

From my crypt to yours
With my undying affection
Thinking of you—and the upcoming zombie apocalypse
Have a frightfully fun Halloween

Try some fun ways to let them know that you’re thinking about them:

Wishing you a Howling good Halloween
Beast Wishes
Fangs for being my friend
To my BFF (Best Fiend Forever)
Happy Halloween, Ghoul friend!

Sure, the fact that you actually went to the trouble to send them a card is already a pretty good indication that you’re thinking of them, so feel free to go a little deeper. Tell them that you wish you could be with them with a little personalized message:

From my crypt to yours
Tomb it may concern
Something possessed me to send you a card
Happy Halloween to my beastie

If the card is for a child you can emphasis that you hope they have a fun Halloween and maybe get lots of candy. Keep it light and cheerful– you don’t want to give the kid nightmares. Most kids love monsters and puns so some possible messages might include:

Have a spook-tacular Halloween
Keep it creepy
Happy Halloween to a cool ghoul
Have a good Halloween night. Don’t let the bad bats bite!
Happy hairy, howling Halloween!

Have fun with whatever message you decide to write. Halloween is primarily a fun holiday so have fun with it!

What do YOU like best about Halloween? Do you have a favorite Halloween memory that you would like to share? Your favorite costume? Have you had a real-life ghost story? Are you a vampire? We’d love to hear from you in our comments section.

Need some more macabre messages and creepy card products? Come visit us at AmericanGreetings.com.

-Bryan

Hi. I’m Bryan White. I am a 30 year veteran of American Greetings. In that time I have had a number of card creating jobs. I’ve planned card programs, written all kinds of cards and done finished art work on them as well. Of all the cards that I’ve created over the years, Halloween cards, especially the funny ones, are my favorite. Maybe because Halloween is my favorite holiday.* I’ve been a horror fan all my life and something about this autumn holiday appeals to me and makes me want to “share the scare” with people I care about.

*Rumors that I am a lycanthrope are totally unsubstantiated.