Ashdesignley

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What to write? Greeting card prompts…

Greeting Cards

Writing the perfect card

What do you write inside of a blank card? Here are some tips and ideas to get started!

First, what would you say to them in person? Start on scratch paper to get some ideas out and put it together. Read it out loud to check if it sounds natural.

Pick a theme, like missing you or thinking of you, if it’s not a special occasion.

Finish these sentences: You encourage me to… Remember that time… My favorite thing about you… I wish you the best on your journey to… I appreciate… Thank you for… You are… I admire you for…

Once you have a theme in mind, consider the tone. Do you want to keep it lighthearted or go for something more heartfelt? As long as it feels genuine to your relationship and feels positive when read aloud.

Begin by addressing their name at the top:

  • Hey ____, Hi _____, Hello _____
  • Dear ____, Darling _____, My dearest ______, My lovely _____
  • Thinking of you ____, Missing you _____, Thank you _____
  • Happy Birthday _____, Congratulations _____, Seasons Greetings _____

For something more formal or thoughtful, focus on expressing your appreciation or admiration:

  • You encourage me always to keep going, even when things get tough. I admire your strength and resilience.
  • I appreciate all you do and admire your grace.

Another idea is to offer well-wishes or hope for the future, particularly if the person is going through a transition, like starting a new job or moving away:

  • I wish you the best on your new journey – may it bring more joy than you imagine.
  • Miss you already but I know it’s for the best.

Whatever you write, make it personal. The effort you put into choosing your words will show, even if it’s something as simple as:

  • Thank you for being there for me.
  • I think the world of you.

If you’re writing to someone close, share a personal memory or inside joke. This adds a special touch that shows how much thought you put into the card. For example:

  • Remember turning around to take photos of cows? This card reminded me of you.
  • Another year further from that Florida trip we survived.

Keep it short if you’re not sure what to say. A few thoughtful words often make a bigger impact than a long message. And remember, you can add a P.S. at the end for funny remarks or an invite to an event.

Don’t forget your sign-off:

  • Love, _____
  • Sincerely, ______
  • Best, ______
  • Cheers, _______

Now let’s see what that looks like put together!

Happy Birthday Rosie!

This butterfly reminds me of your fire and grace. May you carry that confidence and achieve all you set out for in the next year. Wishing you all the best.

Love, Ash 

P.S. I’m still laughing about the sink fiasco, you saved me.

Find blank greeting cards for any occasion:

About the artist: Ashley has always illustrated cards for friends and family. Many punny cards were sent, handmade for each person.

This is the first card set available for purchase – The Russian River Collection. You’ll spy things from all over the Russian River like the Highland Cows and the kayakers from the bridge above. Brilliant flowers such as dahlias and sunflowers are captured in watercolor. The simple style communicates all the feels.