Blog

Birthdays are special occasions, and what better way to celebrate them than with a thoughtful and personalized card with the perfect sentiment matched to the recipient? A handmade birthday card is not only a beautiful and unique gesture but also a heartfelt way to show someone that you care. However, finding the right words to add to your card can be challenging. We understand that crafting the perfect sentiment can be overwhelming, which is why we are here to help.

In this blog post, we have compiled a list of sentiment ideas that will make your handmade birthday card extra special. From funny to sarcastic, from traditional to formal, we have got you covered. Whether you are creating a card for your spouse, your best friend, your colleague, or your grandma, you will find the perfect message to add that personal touch to your card.

So, if you want to make your loved one’s birthday even more special, keep reading and get inspired with our sentiment ideas for birthday cards. Trust us; it’s worth the effort!

Why Make Handmade Birthday Cards?

Handmade birthday cards are often considered more meaningful than store-bought cards for a few reasons. Firstly, they show that you took the time to create something unique and special for the recipient. Secondly, you can customize the card with your own message or personal touch, making it more thoughtful and heartfelt. Thirdly, a handmade card can be kept as a keepsake for a long time, reminding the recipient of your care and thoughtfulness.

In the following lists, you’ll find a range of sentiments that can be used for any member of the family, friends, colleagues, or acquaintances. These ideas are broken down by theme to help you find the perfect sentiment for your card. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, let us know!

Whether you want to say happy birthday, congratulations, or express your gratitude, the sentiments below will help you make your handmade birthday card that little bit extra special.

Sentiments for Birthday Cards

Check our the following lists, you will see they are broken down by theme. If we’ve missed any, let us know!

Traditional Birthday Sentiments

1. Happy birthday! Wishing you a year filled with love, laughter, and all the things you enjoy.
2. Warmest wishes on your special day. May your birthday be filled with happiness, joy, and all your favorite things.
3. You’re another year older and wiser, but you’re still just as amazing as you always have been. Happy birthday!
4. On your birthday, I want you to know how much you mean to me. You’re a cherished friend/family member/colleague and I’m lucky to have you in my life.
5. Cheers to another year of adventures, memories, and growth. Happy birthday!
6. May your day be filled with love, laughter, and everything in between. Happy birthday!
7. Wishing you a birthday that’s as wonderful as you are. Happy birthday!
8. Here’s to a year filled with new opportunities, experiences, and adventures. Happy birthday!
9. Happy birthday to someone who’s always there to brighten my day. Thank you for being an amazing friend/family member/colleague.
10. May your birthday be filled with all the love, joy, and happiness you deserve. Happy birthday!

Funny Birthday Card Sentiments

1. Happy birthday to someone who’s old enough to know better, but still young enough to pretend they don’t!
2. You’re not getting older; you’re just increasing in value like a fine wine! Happy birthday!
3. Happy birthday! If you were a dinosaur, you’d be a “roarasaurus”!
4. Congratulations on another year of looking as young as you feel. Happy birthday!
5. Happy birthday to someone who’s always young at heart – or at least immature enough to find fart jokes hilarious!
6. Don’t worry about getting older; you’re still not old enough to know better. Happy birthday!
7. You’re not aging; you’re marinating! Happy birthday!
8. Happy birthday to someone who’s wiser, funnier, and better-looking than me. (Just kidding about the last one!)
9. You’re not getting older; you’re just adding more experience points. Happy birthday, fellow gamer!
10. Happy birthday! I’m not saying you’re old, but if you were a computer, you’d be considered a classic!

Rhyming Birthday Card Sentiments

Be prepared for a groan or two as we stretch the boundries of the word ‘rhyme’ 😉

1. Another year around the sun, another year of fun! Happy birthday!
2. On your special day, I just wanted to say: Happy birthday in every way!
3. Roses are red, violets are blue, on your birthday, I’m sending good wishes to you!
4. It’s your birthday, a time for cheer, may your day be filled with laughter, love, and beer!
5. Today’s your birthday, a time to shine, I hope you have a day that’s truly divine!
6. It’s your birthday, and that’s just great, let’s celebrate and stay up late!
7. A year has come and gone so fast, but today we’ll make it last and last! Happy birthday!
8. A special day for someone dear, let’s raise a glass and give a cheer!
9. Another year has come to pass, but you’re still as awesome as ever, and that’s no sass!
10. Happy birthday to a friend so true, I’m sending good vibes, and lots of love to you!

Pun Worthy Birthday Card Sentiments

You may get an idea for a card design from these sentiments!

1. Happy birthday to someone who’s simply a-maize-ing!
2. Another year older? Don’t worry, you’re still a-maize-ing!
3. Happy birthday! You’re one in a melon!
4. Birthdays are like cheese – they just get feta with age! Enjoy your special day!
5. It’s your birthday, so let’s taco ’bout how awesome you are!
6. I hope your birthday is as sweet as cake and as exciting as a piñata!
7. Happy birthday to a real gemstone of a person!
8. You’re getting better with age, like a fine wine. Cheers to another year!
9. Happy birthday! I hope your day is un-fur-gettable!
10. You’re a real catch, and your birthday is no exception. Have a fin-tastic day!

Sweet Sentiments for Birthday Cards

1. Wishing you a birthday filled with love, happiness, and all your heart desires. Happy birthday!
2. Today, we celebrate another year of your beautiful existence. May your birthday be as wonderful as you are!
3. Happy birthday to a person who brings so much joy and light into the world. Thank you for being you!
4. Today is all about you! May your day be filled with lots of love, laughter, and sweet memories.
5. I’m so grateful to have you in my life, and I’m honored to celebrate another year of your amazingness. Happy birthday!
6. Birthdays come and go, but the memories of a special day like today stay forever. Here’s to making memories that last a lifetime!
7. I hope your birthday is as magical and amazing as you are. You deserve all the love and happiness in the world.
8. Happy birthday to someone who’s always there to brighten my day. You’re a true gem, and I’m lucky to know you!
9. Another year older, but to me, you’ll always be the same sweet and wonderful person I met years ago. Happy birthday!
10. May your birthday be filled with lots of love, hugs, and sweet moments that you’ll cherish forever. Wishing you the best day ever!

‘I Only Got You This Card…’ Sentiments for Birthday Cards

1. “I only got you this card because it was cheaper than buying you an actual present. Happy birthday!”
2. “I only got you this card because I didn’t want to give you the satisfaction of knowing I spent money on you. Happy birthday!”
3. “I only got you this card because I wanted to remind you that you’re another year older and still haven’t accomplished your dreams. Happy birthday!”
4. “I only got you this card because I wanted to impress you with my amazing penmanship. Happy birthday!”
5. “I only got you this card because I couldn’t afford the cake, the balloons, or the fireworks. Happy birthday!”
6. “I only got you this card because I didn’t want to make it too obvious that I forgot your birthday. Happy belated birthday!”
7. “I only got you this card because I know how much you love to read. Happy birthday, bookworm!”
8. “I only got you this card because I wanted to make sure you got something in the mail that wasn’t a bill. Happy birthday!”
9. “I only got you this card because I figured it was the least I could do for someone who’s always there for me. Happy birthday, you’re the best!”
10. “I only got you this card because I couldn’t find a funny enough meme to send you. Happy birthday!”

Sarcastic Sentiments for Birthday Cards

1. Congratulations on making it another year without losing your mind… yet!
2. Happy birthday to someone who’s still younger than me, but looks ten years older!
3. Happy birthday to the one person who still owes me $20 from ten years ago. I hope this year you finally pay me back!
4. Another year of your amazing personality and delightful sense of humor. I guess it’s okay that it’s your birthday.
5. Another year of wisdom, another year of wrinkles. Happy birthday, old timer!
6. Happy birthday to someone who’s one year closer to being old and cranky, just like me!
7. Here’s to another year of bad jokes, questionable fashion choices, and annoying habits. Happy birthday!
8. Congrats on another year of pretending to have your life together. Happy birthday!
9. Happy birthday to someone who’s so old, your birth certificate is written in Roman numerals!
10. Another year of your presence on this earth. I guess that’s something to celebrate… Happy birthday, I guess!

Sentiments for Birthday Cards for School Kids

1. Happy birthday to my best friend in the whole world! You’re amazing, and I hope your birthday is too!
2. You’re the coolest friend ever, and I hope your birthday is just as cool as you are!
3. Hooray, it’s your birthday! Let’s party and have some fun!
4. I hope your birthday is as sweet and fun as you are! Happy birthday!
5. You’re my favorite person to hang out with, and I’m so glad we’re friends. Happy birthday!
6. Happy birthday to my partner in crime! Let’s make some more fun memories this year.
7. Another year older, but don’t worry, you’re still awesome! Happy birthday!
8. You make me laugh, and you make me smile. Happy birthday to the best friend ever!
9. Wishing you the best birthday ever! You’re such a great friend, and I’m lucky to know you.
10. Happy birthday to my favorite person to play with! Let’s make some more awesome memories together.

Sentiments for Birthday Cards for Friends

1. Happy birthday to my partner in crime! Let’s make some more fun memories this year.
2. Wishing you a birthday filled with love, laughter, and all the things you enjoy most in life.
3. You’re such a great friend, and I’m so lucky to have you in my life. Happy birthday!
4. Here’s to another year of friendship and all the adventures that come with it. Happy birthday!
5. Congratulations on another year of being amazing and inspiring! Happy birthday!
6. You’re the kind of friend who always knows how to make me laugh. Wishing you a birthday filled with lots of joy and happiness.
7. You’re not just my friend, you’re my chosen family. I hope your birthday is as wonderful as you are.
8. Happy birthday to someone who’s always there to lend an ear, share a laugh, and make life a little brighter. Thank you for being an amazing friend!
9. You’re not just getting older, you’re getting wiser, more beautiful, and more badass. Happy birthday, my fabulous friend!
10. Cheers to another year of good times, great memories, and lots of laughter. Happy birthday!

Sentiments for Birthday Cards for Grandparents

Here are ten sentiments you can write in a birthday card for your grandparents:

1. Happy birthday to the most loving, kind, and wonderful grandparents in the world. You mean the world to us!
2. You’re not just our grandparents, you’re our role models, mentors, and best friends. Wishing you a birthday filled with love and joy.
3. On your special day, we want to say thank you for all the love, wisdom, and guidance you’ve given us over the years. Happy birthday!
4. You’ve always been there for us with your unconditional love and unwavering support. We feel so lucky to have you in our lives. Happy birthday!
5. Wishing you a birthday that’s as amazing, wonderful, and special as you are. You deserve all the best things in life.
6. You’re not just our grandparents, you’re also our inspiration. Happy birthday to someone who inspires us to be better every day!
7. May your birthday be filled with all the love, joy, and happiness you’ve given us throughout the years. Happy birthday!
8. Happy birthday to the grandparents who spoil us, pamper us, and love us unconditionally. We’re so lucky to have you in our lives!
9. You’ve always been our rock, our safe haven, and our shoulder to lean on. Thank you for being such amazing grandparents. Happy birthday!
10. You’ve taught us so much about life, love, and family. Wishing you a birthday that’s as beautiful and special as you are. Happy birthday!

Sentiments for Birthday Cards for Neighbors

1. Happy birthday, neighbor! Thank you for always being there when we need you.
2. Wishing you a birthday filled with joy, laughter, and all the things you love most. Have a wonderful day!
3. You’re not just our neighbor, you’re also our friend. Happy birthday to someone who’s always there to brighten our day.
4. Another year older, but you still look as young and vibrant as ever. Happy birthday!
5. You’re a great neighbor, and we feel lucky to have you in our community. Happy birthday!
6. On your special day, we want to say thank you for being such a wonderful neighbor and friend. Happy birthday!
7. You make our neighborhood a better place with your kindness, generosity, and warm spirit. Happy birthday to an amazing person!
8. You’re more than just a neighbor to us; you’re like family. Wishing you a birthday filled with all the love and happiness you deserve.
9. Happy birthday to someone who makes our community a happier and more beautiful place to live.
10. You’re not just a neighbor, you’re a ray of sunshine on even the darkest days. Happy birthday, and thank you for brightening our lives!

Sentiments for Birthday Cards for Teachers

Here are ten sentiments you can write in a birthday card for your teacher:

1. Happy birthday to an amazing teacher who’s not just great at their job, but also an inspiration to us all.
2. You’re not just a teacher, you’re a mentor, a guide, and a friend. Wishing you a birthday filled with all the things you love most.
3. Thank you for all the hard work, dedication, and love you put into teaching us every day. Happy birthday, and many thanks for all you do!
4. You’ve taught us so much more than just the school curriculum. You’ve taught us about life, love, and the pursuit of happiness. Happy birthday to a wonderful teacher!
5. You’re more than just a teacher; you’re a role model, a hero, and a leader. Happy birthday to someone who inspires us to be our best every day!
6. Wishing you a birthday filled with all the things you love most, from good books to good friends, good food to good memories!
7. Happy birthday to the teacher who always goes above and beyond to make sure we succeed, learn, and grow. Thank you for all you do!
8. You’re not just a teacher, you’re a master of your craft. Thank you for sharing your knowledge, your passion, and your heart with us. Happy birthday!
9. On your special day, we want to say thank you for being such an amazing teacher, mentor, and friend. Happy birthday, and many thanks for all you do!
10. You’re not just a teacher, you’re a light in the darkness, a beacon of hope, and a champion of education. Happy birthday to someone who makes a difference in the world every day!

Sentiment Ideas for Colleagues, Bosses and Business Partners

Some of these are particularly good if you are after a raise 😉

1. Warmest birthday greetings to a valued colleague, who has always exemplified professionalism and dedication in everything they do. Enjoy your special day!
2. We extend our sincerest birthday wishes to a wonderful friend and a respected business partner. May your birthday be filled with all the joy, love, and success you deserve.
3. Happy birthday to someone who has made a significant impact in the industry and has always set an excellent example of leadership and excellence. Here’s to another year of success and growth!
4. On your special day, we celebrate your life, your accomplishments, and your unwavering commitment to your work and your community. Wishing you all the best on your birthday and always.
5. May your birthday be a reflection of the many achievements and contributions you’ve made to our organization and the community we serve. Thank you for your valuable contributions and happy birthday!
6. To a distinguished professional, a remarkable leader, and a dear friend, we wish you a happy birthday and continued success in all your future endeavors.
7. We join your family and friends in celebrating your special day and honoring your remarkable achievements, your enduring contributions, and your inspiring leadership. Happy birthday, and many thanks for all you do.
8. Wishing you a very happy birthday and thanking you for the many years of exemplary service, dedication, and commitment you’ve given to our organization and our mission. Here’s to another year of success and fulfillment.
9. Happy birthday to a dear colleague, who has always shown great professionalism, integrity, and respect in everything they do. We are fortunate to have you as part of our team, and we wish you all the best on your special day.
10. May your birthday be a reflection of your many accomplishments, your unyielding determination, and your inspiring leadership. Thank you for being a valued member of our organization, and happy birthday!

Belated Birthday Sentiments

1. I’m so sorry I missed your special day! Please accept my belated birthday wishes, and I hope you had a wonderful celebration.
2. Happy belated birthday! I’m sorry I’m late, but I hope your day was as amazing as you are.
3. I hope you had a fantastic birthday, even though I’m a little late in wishing you. Happy belated birthday!
4. Sorry I missed your birthday. I promise to make it up to you with a belated birthday surprise. Until then, happy belated birthday!
5. I can’t believe I missed your birthday! I hope you had an amazing day filled with all the things you love. Happy belated birthday!
6. Happy belated birthday to someone who deserves to be celebrated every day, not just on their special day. I’m sorry I’m a little late, but I hope your birthday was everything you hoped for.
7. I’m sorry I missed your birthday, but I want you to know that you’re still a cherished and valued friend. Happy belated birthday!
8. Even though I missed your birthday, I still think you’re awesome, and I hope you had a great celebration. Happy belated birthday!
9. Please forgive me for missing your special day. I hope my belated birthday wishes will make up for it. Happy belated birthday!
10. Better late than never, right? Happy belated birthday to someone who’s worth celebrating every day of the year!

How to Say ‘Happy Birthday’ in Different Languages

Here are translations of “happy birthday” in several of the world’s most widely spoken languages:

1. Chinese (Mandarin): 生日快乐 (shēngrì kuàilè)
2. Spanish: Feliz cumpleaños
3. Arabic: عيد ميلاد سعيد (ʿīdu milādin saʿīd)
4. Hindi: जन्मदिन की शुभकामनाएं (janmdin kī śubhkāmnāen)
5. Russian: С днем рождения (S dnem rozhdeniya)
6. Portuguese: Feliz aniversário
7. Japanese: お誕生日おめでとうございます (otanjoubi omedetou gozaimasu)
8. German: Alles Gute zum Geburtstag
9. French: Joyeux anniversaire
10. Italian: Buon compleanno

Note that some languages have multiple ways to say it depending on region and dialect.

Free Printable Sentiments

If you are looking for sentiments you can simply print and add to your own cards and projects, check out the pages below. Tip: To make printed sentiments look part of the design and not stuck on as an afterthought, try cutting the sentiment from paper using fancy pattern edge scissors and print onto a paper which has a color to match your project.

There are just a few sentiments and greetings ideas for birthday cardsto get you started! Do let us know if you have any suggestions or requests for sentiments for other occasions 🙂