25 Meaningful Birthday Card Messages (and How to Make Yours Personal)

How many birthday cards have you bought in the past year? I have a relatively small circle of family and friends here in The Netherlands, and even then, I only really give cards when it's accompanied by a present in person.

Still, every time I write in a card, I want it to mean something. It's not just an accompanying piece of stationery attached to a present. I always write something long and meaningful to my kids and my husband. But for my in-laws and my friends, I'd definitely go for something shorter. I think my friends know how much they mean to me without me having to spell it out in a card. And yet, a curt "Happy birthday, have a wonderful day!" is too simple.

So here are 25 birthday card messages that can inspire you to write a small part of your thoughts to the recipient, or which you can simply copy and paste because they are just good enough to show how you feel.

On a related note, how much time do you spend browsing the shelves for a great card? Might I interest you in creating the perfect, unique card right on this website in just a few minutes? Go on, go for it! Click here →

Without further ado, check out these messages below to help you on your way to the perfect, heartfelt card.

💖 Heartfelt Messages

1. Wishing you a day filled with love, laughter, and everything that makes you happiest.
2. You deserve all the joy in the world today and always.
3. Another year older, another year wiser — and even more wonderful.
4. I’m so grateful to celebrate you and all that you are.
5. May this birthday mark the beginning of your best chapter yet.

🎂 Simple & Classic

1. Happy Birthday! Hope your day is as special as you are.
2. Wishing you sunshine, cake, and good company today.
3. Have the happiest of birthdays and a fantastic year ahead!
4. Cheers to you and another amazing year!
5. Sending birthday smiles your way — enjoy every moment.

😂 Funny Messages

1. Another trip around the sun — and you’re still looking great!
2. You’re not getting older, just more legendary.
3. Birthdays are nature’s way of telling us to eat more cake.
4. You’re officially at the age where candles cost more than the cake!
5. Relax — birthdays don’t count when you celebrate with dessert.

🌼 For Friends

1. Grateful for your friendship every day — but especially today!
2. You make life brighter just by being in it. Happy Birthday!
3. To my favourite partner-in-crime — hope your day is as fun as you are!
4. Celebrating you and all the good energy you bring into the world.
5. Here’s to more adventures, laughter, and memories together this year.

👨👩👧 For Family

1. Happy Birthday to the one who always makes our family feel loved.
2. Wishing you a peaceful day surrounded by your favourite people.
3. You’re the heart of this family — and today, we celebrate you!
4. To the best [mum/dad/sister/brother] anyone could ask for — you deserve the world.
5. Your love and warmth make every day better. Hope your birthday is just as wonderful.

 

Now you have the messages, what about the card? If you haven't checked out my personalised greeting cards yet, click here. Here's how it works:

Simply choose a gender, then customise the portrait according to your wishes! As you tap along, the live preview shows you exactly what you've chosen.

There are so many combinations to make that every card can be as unique as you like. Finally, type the recipient's name and a personal message below.

Why you should pick a personalised card over a store-bought card

Well, I'm not saying store-bought cards aren't great – they have very nice illustrations, and they're a known quantity. But if you're someone who enjoys giving something different, something that stands out, then a personalised card definitely checks that box!

Take a minute or two to try designing your own. You may find that it's a lot more fun than standing and browsing shelves and shelves of cards! Start here →