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Birthday CardsOverview
Custom birthday cards are a special way to celebrate beloved friends and family. Handwritten messages are an opportunity to reconnect, give thanks and tell someone why he or she is important to you. Writing an individualized birthday card message is an easy task to complete, and the sentiments will be warmly received.
Step 1
Consider the connection. Evaluate your relationship with the birthday person. Is he or she a childhood friend? A close family member? A new coworker? Take a moment to analyze your history with this individual, ponder your experiences together and reflect on the specific birthday year.
Step 2
Determine the card-making process. Birthday cards can be customized in a variety of ways, including the use of computer software programs (such as MS Publisher or Apple's Pages) and free online eCard providers (such as Evite or Blue Mountain). Personalized cards---in form, content and images---are meaningful birthday presents. Choose a card style that reflects the recipient's personality, such as sailboat images for an avid boater or playful, colorful images for a young child.
Step 3
Make a birthday statement. Begin the message with a simple, bold "Happy Birthday!" Consider noting the birthday year or reflecting on the milestone. For example, a 16-year-old may appreciate a drawing of car keys; a 50-year-old may enjoy a reflective message about his or her wisdom and accomplishments. Be sensitive to age-specific jokes if the recipient is turning a "fragile" age. Add the date at the top of the card.
Step 4
Offer a shared memory. Personalize the birthday card with an inside joke that is meaningful to both you and the recipient. Consider adding special words that are lighthearted and genuine about the person's skills, qualities, hobbies or occupation. Reflect on what you and the birthday card recipient have in common, using this opportunity to reconnect and grow closer as individuals.
Step 5
Conclude with a hopeful message. Complete the birthday card note with positive wishes for the upcoming year, a promise of celebration or a note of thanks. Offer a meaningful quote, applicable Bible verse or favorite poem. Consider including a photograph of you and the birthday person.
Step 6
Rubber Stamp TapestryAdd personalized card decorations. Consider using stamps (such as Norajane's Rubber Stamp Tapestry) or stickers; sketch birthday balloons or doodle a candle border (see Resources). Supplemental color and detail reveal to the recipient that you devoted care and time to personalizing his or her birthday card message.
TIPS AND WARNINGS
- TIP : Write neatly with a high-quality ink pen; avoid quick scrawling that makes the message appear hurried.
The message tone should match the card template (e.g., jokes with a humorous card; reflective words with a religious note).
- WARNING : Use positive, hopeful words and be sensitive to age-specific comments.
Resources
