How to Write a Holiday Card: Steps, Tips, and Examples

How to write a holiday card is a question many people find themselves asking as the festive season approaches. Sending a holiday card is a heartfelt way to express your good wishes to family, friends, and colleagues. But knowing what to write can be challenging. Whether you’re aiming for a formal greeting or a personal message, crafting the right words is key to making the card meaningful. In this article, we’ll break down how to write a perfect holiday card, share tips to enhance your writing, and provide example messages you can use.

Why Holiday Cards Matter

Holiday cards are more than just a seasonal tradition; they serve as a way to maintain and strengthen relationships, offering a personal touch in an increasingly digital world. A thoughtfully written holiday card can express gratitude, affection, and best wishes, becoming a cherished memento for the recipient.

Read more: How to Write a Postcard

How to Write a Holiday Card: Step-by-Step Guide

Choose the Right Card

Start by selecting the right type of card. The design and format should match the tone you want to set—be it casual, professional, or deeply sentimental. Here are some options to consider:

• Photo Cards: Perfect for family updates or sharing pictures of kids and pets.
• Traditional Cards: These often feature festive designs, ideal for formal or heartfelt messages.
• Custom Cards: Personalized cards can reflect your unique style and personality.

Know Your Audience

Tailor your message to the recipient. A card sent to a close friend will likely have a different tone than one sent to a colleague or business associate. Keep in mind the holiday they celebrate, their values, and your relationship with them.

Start with a Warm Greeting

Opening your card with a thoughtful greeting sets the tone for your message. Some simple but effective greetings include:

• “Happy Holidays!”
• “Season’s Greetings!”
• “Wishing You a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!”

If you’re close with the recipient, you can add their name:

• “Dear [Name], Happy Holidays!”

Craft Your Message

The heart of your card lies in your message. Keep it simple and sincere, and be mindful of your recipient’s personality. Here are some pointers:

• For Friends and Family: Personal, heartfelt, and warm. Mention fond memories, shared experiences, or express your excitement for the new year.
• For Business: Professional and respectful. Thank them for their support or partnership throughout the year, and offer well wishes for the upcoming year.
• For Colleagues: Maintain professionalism but add a friendly touch. Show appreciation for their collaboration.

Tips for Writing Holiday Card Messages

• Be personal. Reference specific events or conversations if applicable.
• Use positive and uplifting language.
• Keep it concise; there’s no need for lengthy paragraphs.
• Consider including a holiday-related quote or saying.

Close with a Warm Sign-Off

Your closing should mirror the tone of your message. Some examples include:

• “Wishing you all the best!”
• “Warmest regards,”
• “With love and joy,”
• “Best wishes for the New Year!”

Include a Personal Signature

If the card is going to someone special, signing your name by hand adds a personal touch that printed text can’t match. For business cards, you might want to include your full name and title.

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Example Messages for Holiday Cards

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Professional Holiday Greeting

Friendly Holiday Message for a Colleague

Holiday Wishes for a Friend

Additional Tips for Writing Holiday Cards

Customize Your Message

If you’re sending a holiday card to multiple people, don’t use the same generic message for everyone. A little customization can go a long way in making your cards more meaningful. Even a small change like mentioning the recipient’s name or referencing a shared memory adds a personal touch.

Use Humor Sparingly

Humor can be a great addition to holiday cards, but be mindful of your audience. What might be funny to one person could be offensive or confusing to another, especially when sending cards in a professional setting.

Avoid Sensitive Topics

Keep your message light and joyful. Avoid topics that could be seen as divisive, such as politics or controversial issues.

Consider Handwritten Notes

A handwritten note adds a personal, thoughtful touch to your card. While typing your message might be more efficient, handwriting—even just a sentence or two—can make the recipient feel truly special.

Frequently Asked Questions