Father’s Day Messages: What to Write in a Father’s Day Card

Father’s Day is the perfect opportunity to tell a special chap how much he’s appreciated. New daddies, experienced dads, grandads, fathers-in-law, stepdads, like-a-dads, serious dads, silly dads…There must be a million different fatherly types out there, and without any doubt, there are at least that many reasons to celebrate them on Father’s Day.

You probably know at least one or two dads whose efforts you’d like to recognise with a Father’s Day card and some heartfelt words on that third Sunday in June. And, if you’re looking for some helpful suggestions on what to write inside those cards, then you’ve definitely come to the right place.

Our helpful guide offers suggestions, starting points and signing tips from Hallmark writers. And, whether you read the whole guide or jump straight to the specific ideas you need, we hope you have fun thinking about, celebrating and writing to the great dads in your life!

For Your Dad (or Daddy)

Why is your dad so great? What makes him the best? Well, he’s YOUR dad, for starters, and that in itself is pretty special. That’s why there are certain Father’s Day cards and certain Father’s Day messages that will really only work for him.

From you only

“Love you, Dad. You’re the best!”
“I’m so proud that you’re my daddy.”
“Dad, you’re in all my favourite memories.”
“When I have a question about something or when I need some support and good advice, you’re always the first person I think of Dad. Thanks for always being there for me.”
“Happy Father’s Day to the OG man in my life.”
“Happy Father’s Day to the man who wore a tiara to all my tea parties and still treats me like a princess.”
“You taught me so many of the important things I know—including some words that you probably shouldn’t have!”
“Thank you for always being there with all the love and patience I’ve needed.”
“I’m so lucky to have you for my dad, you’re one-in-a-million!”
“A daddy like you is such a special gift”
“Thanks for making growing up so much fun.”
Dad, for the constant support, love and protection you’ve brought to my life… Thank you.”
Dad, you’re the greatest – great parent, great friend, great example, and generally an all-round great bloke!
“Thanks for always having my back, Dad. It makes all the difference when things are tough. And it means the absolute world.”
“You and Mum are still two of my favourite people to spend time with. I love that”
“I like that we can talk about anything, Dad, and it doesn’t even matter if we disagree, the love never changes.”
“Dad, thanks for all the love and the fun, the lessons and the support, the pride and the strength. Thanks for all the things that make you the dad, and man, that you are.”

From two or more people - siblings, couples, families

“Dad, you’re the one we all look up to, the one we always count on, the one we’re so grateful for, today and every day.”
“We love you, Daddy. You’re the best!”
“Hope you know how much we admire the good man and great father you are.
“As a dad, as a father-in-law, as a grandad—you’re the best, and we’re so lucky to have you!”
“You’re such an important part of our family life – everything we could wish for in a dad and grandad in fact.”
“Don’t know how you do all the things you do, Dad, but we are so grateful to you for all of it.”
“Thank you for the example you set and for the way you take care of our family. We love you, Dad!”
“We could never hide how much we love you, Dad. And we wouldn’t dream of trying to!”
“Daddy, nobody else can BBQ like you, or hug like you. You’re good for both our stomachs and our hearts.”

Writing tip: If your relationship with your dad is a bit more complicated, don’t think that you have to be more complimentary or enthusiastic than you really feel. Just be warm and sincere in your message. Focus on the positive things that you share; tell him you’re thinking of him or simply wish him an enjoyable day.

For Your Grandad

Whether he goes by Grandad, Grandpa, Gramps, Granddad, Pops, or any another special name, your grandfather is definitely someone who deserves a little extra appreciation and celebration on Father’s Day!

From just you

“No matter how much time goes by, I treasure my memories of times spent with you, and I look forward to all the times together that still lie ahead.”
“For teaching me to fish, to make campfires and to always be kind, thanks, Grandpa!”
“I hope you know how much I admire and appreciate you, Grandad..”
“You’ve taught me so much without saying a word—just by the way you treat people.”
“Gramps, your influence has shaped me in more ways than I can say. Thank you.”
“I’ve always felt so lucky to have a grandpa like you.”
“Have you noticed that almost everything we do together leads to ice cream? Not that I’m complaining. Have a sweet Father’s Day, Grandad. Love you!”
“Hope you know that you hold a very special place in my heart, Pops.”
“Happy Father’s Day to the best grandad in the whole world!”
“Grandad, you tell the best stories and the funniest jokes… and I’ll always be your biggest fan.”
“Grandpa, you are loved and appreciated more than I can say, and I’m so grateful for all the things you’ve taught me.”
“I hope I can create as many wonderful memories for my grandchildren as you have for me.”
“Grandad, you’re the coolest. It’s obvious we’re related!.”

From two or more people - siblings, couples, families

“You’re such a good grandad and great-grandad—always ready to hold the newest baby or tell a joke or a story. No wonder we love you so much.”
“You’re at the heart of all our favourite family memories.”
“For all you do, all you are and all the love you share, we love you, Grandpa.”
“You’re such an important part of this family, Grandad.”
“There’s no one quite like you, Grandad. You’re simply the best!”
“On Father’s Day, we hope you feel all the love and appreciation that this family holds for you.
“Grandpa, you are the original and the best. We love you!”

Helpful tip: If the card you choose for your grandfather says “Grandpa,” but you call him Pops or Grumps or something else, use your handwritten message to personalise it, addressing him by the familiar title or name you always use for him.

Funny Messages for Dad

Humour is the way to many a father’s heart. So, if your card is for a dad who enjoys a laugh, feel free to have some fun with a more light-hearted Father’s Day message.

Examples:

“Happy Father’s Day. Hope your day is chilled to perfection!”
“Happy ‘Golf to Your Heart’s Content’ Day!”
“Sending you heartfelt appreciation on Father’s Day. It’s the least I can do considering all the grey hairs I’ve caused you.”
“Thanks for teaching me all the important things I needed know…plus all that other stuff that I probably should have paid more attention to.”
“I hope all your wildest Father’s Day wishes come true—maybe even the one about getting some peace and quiet!”
“Today is all about you, Dad! Enjoy, because tomorrow it’s back to the rest of us.”
“I hope you get to waste some time in your favourite ways on Father’s Day. You deserve it!”
“Sending lots of love to the dad who did his best to keep me out of trouble…from the kid who had quite a talent for finding it!”
“Happy Father’s Day with love from your favourite kid. (Don’t worry—I won’t tell if you don’t.)”
“Thanks for all you’ve done for me, Dad. Obviously, I could never repay you, but I could probably chip in for pizza in your honour on Father’s Day!”

Helpful Tip: Make sure you keep your humour good-natured, rather than mean-spirited. In general, the closer you are to the dad receiving your card, the funnier you can probably be with your written message.

For When You Cannot Be Together

Some years, it’s just not possible to be there in person to celebrate with them on Father’s Day. But you can use your written message to show your love and appreciation, whether they’re on the other side of the world, across the country or just across town.

Examples:

“Sending love and thanks across the miles to the best dad ever.”
“Thinking of all the Father’s Days we’ve shared and wishing I could be there celebrating this one with you too.”
“I will miss being with you on Father’s Day, but I’ll be thinking about you and hoping you have a great day.”
“Happy Father’s Day! Wish I could be there sharing a glass of something chilled with you.”
“Happy Father’s Day from afar to an amazing dad. Miss you.”
“Cracking open a cool one in your honour on Father’s Day. Cheers!”
“We may not be spending Father’s Day together this year but, no matter how many miles are between us, hope you know you’re always close in heart.”
“Near or far, I’m always so grateful for the great dad you are.”
“I wish I could be there in person to remind you in person how much I love you, Dad.”
“Have a great Father’s Day. Looking forward to spending some time together soon”
“Dad, no matter where I’m living, wherever you are is always my home.”

Helpful Tip: If being apart on Father’s Day is a bit of an issue, you don’t have to bring it up at all. Just focus on putting as much love and appreciation as you can into your message. And whatever your situation, a follow-up phone call, or video call is always a nice idea too.

For Someone Who’s Like a Father to You

You may well be lucky enough to have an uncle, godfather or other caring man close to you who has been a unique mix of friend, family, mentor and/or father figure to you over the years. Here are a few things you might like to say to him on Father’s Day…

Examples:

“Thinking of you on Father’s Day, Uncle Matt, and feeling so grateful that we’re family.”
“Happy Father’s Day to my wonderful godfather. My parents couldn’t have picked a better (or funnier!) man for the job!”
“You’ve always gone above and beyond to support me and celebrate important times in my life. That’s why I’m thinking of you with so much gratitude on Father’s Day.”
“With love and thanks for an amazing man I’ll always look up to,”
“You’re the kind of man everyone needs in their lives.”
“Just wanted to celebrate you on Father’s Day for being such a caring and positive influence in my life. I’m more grateful than you could ever know.”
“I hope it’s no surprise that I’m thinking of you today. After all, you’ve always been just like a dad to me.”
“Don’t know where I’d be without your wisdom and guidance.”
“Having you in my life has made all the difference in the world to me.”

Helpful tip: Father’s Day really is for all men who fill those fatherly roles in our lives. Whether they’re an uncle, a family friend, a godparent, a step-father or anything else, don’t hesitate to send a card and write a warm message to any man who has been a strong and caring fatherly influence in your life.

For Your Husband or Partner

Respect, gratitude and appreciation are key messages to get across in any card for the man you love on Father’s Day. Whether the two of you are still in the midst of nappies and night-feeds or teenage tantrums, or if you’re in a position to look back and laugh together, he’ll love a message that lets him know you’ve noticed and appreciated all the great things he’s done as a dad.

Examples:

“I love our family, and I love you.”
“Happy Father’s Day to the man of my heart, the father of our children, the love of my life.”
“Thank you for all the ways you go above and beyond every day for our family. The kids and I are so lucky to have you.”
“I’m so grateful to be sharing life, love and parenthood with a wonderful man like you.”
“So glad you’re with me on this rollercoaster ride of parenting.”
“I can’t imagine anyone who’s a better father or more loving husband than you.”
“Feeling lucky, feeling cared for, feeling loved… all thanks to you.”
“Our kids are good judges and they think you’re amazing! I think you’re pretty cool too.”
“Seeing what a great dad you are really does make me love you even more.”
“Happy Father’s Day to the man I love. I hope you never doubt how much I appreciate you and all you do.”
“I never thought I’d fancy someone with baby food in their hair… but here we are. Love you!”
“So glad that our kids have your eyes, your energy and your generous heart. You’re an amazing dad and I’m so lucky to be sharing this journey with you.”
“Couldn’t love you more if I tried. You’re amazing.”

Helpful tip: Let him know he’s still the only one for you, and remind him that he’s a great dad too, with a romantic message or loving compliment – they’re always appreciated, especially on Father’s Day.

For Your Son or Grandson

There’s something so wonderful about seeing your son or grandson become a father in his own right. On Father’s Day, celebrate him for becoming the man you always knew he could be, and for giving you those beautiful grandchildren, of course!

Son

“So proud of the son, the man and the father you are.”
“Happy Father’s Day to our wonderful son. And congratulations on being such a fantastic father to our beautiful little granddaughter!”
“Now that you’re a dad, you can understand better all the love and pride we’ve always felt for you.”
“With love for being such a wonderful son…and for being such a great dad to our gorgeous grandchildren!”
“You’re such a natural as a dad. It’s so lovely to see you with your little one.”
“You’re smashing this dad thing…and we’re so proud of you, Son!”
“You’re an all-around amazing father and man. And a son who means more than words can say. Happy Father’s Day”

Grandson

“Our family has a tradition of great dads, and Grandson, you’re carrying it on wonderfully!”
“We’re so lucky to have you for our grandson. And your kids are even luckier to have you for their dad.”
“Thinking of you and that sweet great-grandchild of mine today!”
“So proud of the wonderful job you’re doing as a dad.”
“Seems like only yesterday you were a little boy yourself. It’s wonderful seeing you as a strong and capable dad now!”
“Happy Father’s Day to a grandson who just keeps on bringing happiness to our family.”

Helpful tip: Pride is a popular sentiment in cards for sons and grandsons who are fathers. Let him know that one of the many reasons you’re proud of him is because of the wonderful father that he is.

For a Father-to-Be

If Father’s Day falls when someone in your life is about to become a dad for the first time, then absolutely, send him some words of encouragement and support to cheer him on and let him know you think he’s going to be a great dad.

“You’ve got sticky little kisses and crayon-drawn Father’s Day cards in your future. Bet you can’t wait!”
“Your little one is already so lucky to have you. You’re going to be a great dad.”
“Happy Dad-to-Be Day, Joe! You’re going to be such an awesome dad!”
“To our favourite father-to-be on Father’s Day, with lots of pride and anticipation!”
“What an exciting day for a father-to-be! Not long to wait now…”
“Your baby will be here before you know it! Hope this Father’s Day will be the first of many happy ones for you.”
“Sending love and best wishes to the dad-to-be on Father’s Day!
“Happy Father-to-Be Day! Sharing in your excitement as you wait for your little one’s arrival!”
“Happy Father’s Day – I can’t wait to see you with our baby, you’re going to be such a brilliant daddy.”
“Looking forward to watching you become the father you’ve waited so long to be.”

Writing tip: If you have a dad in your life who’s about to become a grandad for the first time, Father’s Day is also the perfect chance to congratulate and wish him happiness, too.

For a First Time Dad

For a brand-new dad, the experience of his first Father’s Day is completely special and unique. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime moment, an occasion like no other, and that definitely calls for a special mention in any card.

“You’re off to a flying start as a dad. Happy 1st Father’s Day!”
“Your baby boy/girl is so lucky to have you for her dad.”
“Happy 1st Father’s Day wishing you many more special times ahead for you and your new little family.”
“Hoping this will be the first of many memorable Father’s Days for you!”
“You may be just a newbie, but you’re already dadding like a pro!”
“You’ll never forget your first Father’s Day. (Unless you sleep through it, which might be nice, too.) Hope it’s perfect, however you spend it!”
“You’re a natural at this ‘daddy’ thing.”
“You’re doing a great job, new daddy. Just look at that gorgeous, happy baby.”
“I can just imagine how special today must be for you with a new little one in your life. Enjoy every moment!”

Writing tip: A new dad may not be feeling 100% confident about his fathering skills yet. If you can, work in a compliment or word of encouragement to let him know he’s well on his way to being an amazing dad.

For a Complicated Relationship

It’s not at all unusual to be sending a Father’s Day card to a dad with whom you have a less-than-perfect relationship. When that’s the case, it can be tricky both choosing a card with the right message and figuring out what to say when you sign it. Luckily, there are things you can write that will feel meaningful to the man receiving your card while still remaining authentic to you and your feelings.

“Just wanted you to know I’m thinking of you on Father’s Day.”
“Wishing you all the best on Father’s Day, Dad, and hoping you’ll have a happy one.”
“We may not always see eye to eye, Dad, but we’re family and we care about each other. That means a lot and so do you.”
“Even when things are complicated between us, I’ll always care about you and be grateful for the dad that you are.”
“I know it wasn’t always easy for you to be the dad you wanted to be. But you did the best you could and, for that, I’m grateful.”
“I like that our relationship keeps changing. That we’re finding new ways to connect and understand each other, and I hope we keep finding more ways to become closer.”

Helpful Tip: When all else fails, just saying you’re thinking of him or sharing a simple wish for a good day are fairly safe bets, even in a pretty strained relationship. And those few words from you could help open the door to a better, closer relationship in the future.

Sweet Sign-Offs

A warm sign-off just before your signature is the icing on the cake! Take a look at our ideas for inspiration, or simply say what feels most natural to you.

Warmest wishes
Love
With love
Lots of love
Love and hugs
With love and thanks
With endless appreciation,
All my/our love,
With love and appreciation,
Wishing you happiness today and always,
With loving wishes,
With thanks,
With love, today and always,
Couldn’t love you more,
Love you loads,
With warm wishes,
Hugs, kisses and loads of love,

So, whatever you want to say this Father’s Day, and whoever you’re celebrating, we hope we’ve given you a few ideas on how to go about it. And, if you haven’t yet got your Father’s Day card sorted, of course we can help with that too! From fantastic personalised cards created by you to gorgeous finished cards that are all set and ready to send, whatever you’re looking for were here to help you make his day!