What to write in an anniversary card

An anniversary card is easier than a wedding card, because by now there is evidence. Name something that has actually happened — a year they got through, a habit of theirs you still like, a thing they built together. Generic congratulation is what makes an anniversary card feel like a work email.

Warm

Friendly, unfussy, safe with almost anybody.

• Happy anniversary. Still the best decision either of you made.
• Another year of the two of you, which is a good year for everyone around you.
• Happy anniversary — here’s to the ordinary days as much as the big ones.
• You two make it look like a choice worth making. Happy anniversary.
• Happy anniversary. Whatever you’re doing, keep doing it.

Funny

A joke with affection behind it. Read the room first.

• Happy anniversary. Legally and emotionally, you’re stuck now.
• Congratulations on another year of agreeing about the thermostat.
• Happy anniversary. Still no notes.
• Another year, and neither of you has sold the other’s records. Impressive.
• Happy anniversary. You’ve outlasted most of my appliances.

Heartfelt

For the people you would actually say this to out loud.

• Happy anniversary. What you two have is the thing the rest of us are aiming at.
• A year is a lot of small kindnesses. Happy anniversary to you both.
• Still us. Happy anniversary — I’d choose it all again.
• Thank you for the year, and for the one before it. Happy anniversary.
• Happy anniversary. Loving you has been the easiest thing I’ve done.

Simple

When short is the right answer, and it often is.

• Happy anniversary!
• Happy anniversary to you both.
• Congratulations on another year together.
• Happy anniversary — enjoy the day.
• Many happy returns of the day.

What to avoid

• Don’t say “I can’t believe it’s been X years”. It is their achievement, not a surprise.
• Don’t mention a rough patch you know about. A card is not the place to show you noticed.
• Don’t make a joke about marriage being a sentence if you are not very close.
• Don’t write to one half of a couple when the card is addressed to both.