Holiday Card Wording Ideas That Suit Everyone on Your List

Holiday cards are a small way to say you are thinking of someone. The hardest part is often the wording, especially when your list includes people who celebrate in different ways. Here are plain, warm ideas that work for nearly everyone.

Greetings that suit many celebrations

• Happy holidays
• Season’s greetings
• Warm winter wishes
• Wishing you joy this season
• Peace and joy to you and yours
• Happy New Year

Short messages for family

• “We are thinking of you this season and sending our love.”
• “Wishing you a cozy holiday with the people you love.”
• “Can’t wait to see you soon.”

Messages for friends

• “Thank you for being a friend this year. Wishing you a bright season.”
• “Hoping your holidays are full of good food and laughter.”

Messages for neighbors and coworkers

• “Thank you for a great year. Wishing you a restful break.”
• “Warm wishes to you and your family this holiday season.”

For people far away

If you are sending a card across the country or overseas, give it extra time to arrive. A card with a short letter folded inside can bring a lot of joy to someone who lives far away and cannot join you in person. Mention a memory from the year, or a plan to talk by phone or video during the holidays.

Add one personal line

A printed greeting is a nice start. A single handwritten line makes it feel personal: a memory, a thank you, or a note about something you are looking forward to. It does not need to be long.

A simple way to organize your list

Write names down the left side of a sheet of paper, with columns for the address, whether you have written the card, and whether it has been mailed. Tick off each step as you go. Add new names during the year when you move, change jobs or get a new neighbor, and next year’s list will almost be done before you start.

Cards the whole family can sign

If you send a card from the whole household, let each person sign their own name, even the youngest. Children can add a small drawing. It makes the card feel warm, and it gives everyone a part in the tradition.

Practical tips

• Make your list early, and check addresses before you print.
• Sign cards in batches of ten to keep it from feeling like a chore.
• Mail cards in early to mid December if you want them to arrive before the holidays.
• Keep a few spare cards for people you forgot.

Printable cards ready to go

Our Holiday Card Pack has 12 foldable designs with printed messages inside and space to add your own. Try two designs first with the free holiday card sample.

You can also browse every free sample on the Free Printables page, or see all digital downloads.