What to Write in a Christmas Card

Like finding the perfect gift or achieving that elusive work-life balance in December, the annual ritual of writing Christmas cards needn't feel like composing a dissertation. Whether you're penning a message to accompany one of our luxury Christmas hampers or simply spreading seasonal cheer, finding the right words can transform a simple card into a cherished keepsake. We've gathered the finest phrases and heartfelt sentiments to help you craft the perfect Christmas message—no matter who's on your list. And yes, we'll even help you navigate that delicate art of handwritten versus printed cards (spoiler: quality stationery makes both shine).

Classic Holiday Greetings to Begin With

Sometimes, tradition serves us best. Classic Christmas greetings have endured because they capture the season's essence without fuss or fanfare. These timeless openings set a warm tone without venturing into overly sentimental territory.

• "Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year"
• "May your Christmas sparkle with joy and laughter"
• "May the magic of Christmas bring you wonderful moments"
• "Sending warm wishes for a season filled with peace and happiness"

These greetings work brilliantly whether you're writing to your nearest and dearest or someone you haven't seen since last year's office party. Channel your inner Dickens minus the verbosity—warmth without the three-volume novel.

Personal Touches for Family and Friends

When writing to those who matter most, generic won't do. Your message should reflect the unique bond you share. These personal touches show you've put thought into your message, making even a simple card feel special. After all, nothing says "you matter" quite like remembering that inside joke from February.

• "Still laughing about our disastrous attempt at making Christmas pudding in July"
• "Your first Christmas as homeowners—may your new nest be filled with festive joy"
• "Cannot wait to beat you at charades again this year"
• "Christmas wouldn't be the same without you at our table"

Messages for Long-Distance Loved Ones

Distance may separate you physically, but your Christmas card can bridge the miles with warmth. These messages transform geographical distance into emotional closeness, reminding loved ones that presence isn't always physical.

• "Though oceans divide us, you're close in our hearts this Christmas"
• "Sending love across the miles and wishing we could share mince pies in person"
• "Counting down to next Christmas when we can finally celebrate together"
• "We'll raise a glass to you at precisely 3pm on Christmas Day—join us from afar!"

Religious and Spiritual Christmas Messages

For recipients who hold faith dear, acknowledging the religious significance of Christmas adds meaningful depth to your message. Remember to consider your recipient's beliefs—these messages resonate most when they align with the reader's own faith. The finest Christmas cards, like the best conversations, meet people where they are.

• "May the peace and blessings of Christmas be yours"
• "Celebrating the birth of Christ and the hope He brings to the world"
• "May God's love shine upon you this Christmas and always"
• "Glory to God in the highest, and peace to His people on earth"

Humour & Light-hearted Festive Wishes

Not every Christmas card needs to read like a classic Christmas film script. Inject some personality with playful messages. Just ensure your recipient shares your sense of humour—what delights one might mystify another.

• "May your Christmas be more 'silent night' than 'jingle bells' at 6am"
• "Wishing you a Christmas as perfect as your sprout-dodging technique"
• "May your batteries be included and your assembly instructions clear" (for fellow parents)
• "May your glass be full and your in-laws brief" (for wine enthusiasts)
• "Here's to strategic mistletoe placement and emergency exits from carol singers"

Sympathy and Support During the Holidays

The festive season can be particularly challenging for those experiencing loss or difficulty. These messages don't attempt to fix or minimise—they simply stand alongside, offering presence over platitudes.

• "Thinking of you especially this Christmas and sending love during this difficult time"
• "May you find moments of peace and comfort amongst the memories this season"
• "Holding you close in our hearts as you navigate this first Christmas without [name]"
• "No words, just love and support this Christmas"

Children's Christmas Cards

Young recipients deserve messages that capture Christmas magic at their level. Remember to match the tone to their age—nothing mortifies a thirteen-year-old quite like being addressed as a five-year-old.

For little ones:

• "Santa tells me you've been absolutely brilliant this year!"
• "May your Christmas be filled with giggles, presents, and staying up past bedtime"

For older children:

• "Another year older and even more awesome—have a spectacular Christmas!"
• "Hope your holidays are as cool as you are (and yes, that's very cool indeed)"

Seasonal Wishes to Share the Joy

Broaden your message to encompass the entire festive season with wishes that capture winter's magic. These seasonal greetings work particularly well for recipients celebrating various winter holidays or those you're unsure about regarding specific religious preferences.

• "May your days be merry and bright throughout the festive season"
• "Wishing you cosy nights, twinkling lights, and everything that makes winter wonderful"
• "Warmest wishes for a joyful holiday season"

New Year Wishes to Carry the Celebration Forward

Why limit your good wishes to December 25th? Extend the celebration with New Year sentiments. This approach particularly suits cards sent earlier in December, giving your wishes longevity beyond Boxing Day.

• "Here's to new adventures in the coming year"
• "May 2026 bring you endless reasons to smile"
• "Wishing you a Christmas filled with precious moments and a New Year blessed with new opportunities"

Saying Thanks: Gratitude in Your Christmas Card

Christmas provides the perfect opportunity to express gratitude. When paired with one of our carefully curated hampers, these messages of thanks become even more impactful.

• "Thank you for making this year brighter with your friendship"
• "Grateful for your kindness and support throughout the year"
• "Your generosity this year hasn't gone unnoticed; wishing you a Christmas as wonderful as you are"

Elegant Messages for Colleagues and Clients

Professional relationships require a delicate balance—warm but not overly familiar. Keep it professional yet personable—you're colleagues who happen to exchange Christmas cards, not long-lost relatives.

• "Wishing you and your team a successful festive season"
• "Thank you for your continued partnership. May your holidays be filled with joy"
• "It's been a pleasure working alongside you this year. Wishing you a relaxing and joyful Christmas break"

How to Sign Off with Style

Your closing is as important as your opening. Match your sign-off to your message's tone—consistency creates elegance. And remember, on quality stationery with a good pen, even your signature becomes part of the gift.

• "With love" (for family and close friends)
• "Warm wishes" (for broader audiences)
• "Season's greetings" (for broader audiences)
• "Yours in Christmas spirit"
• "Until we meet again in the New Year"
• "Sent with mulled wine and mince pies" (metaphorically speaking, though our festive hampers make it literal)
• "From our home to yours"

Pairing Your Card with a Luxury Hamper

Transform your Christmas card from lovely gesture to unforgettable gift by pairing it with one of our luxury hampers. When you've selected the perfect collection of festive treats, your card becomes the personal touch that elevates the entire present.

When you order a hamper, you can add a personalised message onto a card that we'll tuck inside in your hamper for arrival—once you've found the right words, we'll take care of delivering them to your recipient.

Whether you choose wit, warmth, or something in between, remember that the best Christmas cards come from the heart. Your words, however simple, carry the gift of connection—and that's what Christmas is truly about.