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In short: start with their name, say one thing you love about them, tell them how they make you feel, and sign off with something personal. Short and specific beats long and generic.
When Valentine’s Day rolls around, you want to do everything you can to let the people in your life know you love them. While people put a lot of focus on picking out the perfect gift, we’d like to argue that picking out a message to go along with that gift is just as important.
If you find yourself staring at a card wondering what to write, you’re certainly not alone. But don’t worry! We’re here to help you find the perfect Valentine’s Day message that fits your feelings and your relationship.
How to Write a Valentine’s Day Message (4 Steps)
Even if you don’t have a way with words, that’s okay. The important thing about a Valentine’s Day message is that it comes straight from your heart.
Sending a sincere message will make your recipient feel loved, but research shows that expressing love can also help reduce your stress levels. So why not open up your heart and lay it all out there?
To get started creating a Valentine’s Day message, take a look at this simple formula. It will help you write a unique and heartfelt message, no matter who you’re writing to.
Address your recipient.
Show appreciation.
Tell them how you feel.
End on a personal note.
Now that you have the basic structure, we’ll break down each section.
Address Your Recipient
While many people think Valentine’s Day is a day for partners to express their romance, we know it’s a day to show love to everyone in your life. Why put a limit on love?
Of course, the love you feel for your mother is different from that which you feel for your partner or best friend. Let this show in your opening address.
For example, you may want to address your mother as “my dearest mum” or “the woman that I can always count on.”
On the other hand, you can address your partner as “dearest,” “honey,” or any inside pet name you have.
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Show Appreciation
After you’ve started your note off with a personal address, it’s time to continue your unique message. This is where the fun begins!
Take a moment to think about what you love about the person you’re writing to. This is time to get specific! Don’t simply say they’re nice or thoughtful.
Instead, use specific examples that speak to the special bond you two share. Here are some samples that you can use as inspiration.
I’m always amazed at how you lighten the mood in the office, even during stressful days. You’ve helped me avoid multiple breakdowns this year with your ever-present smile and corny jokes.
I can’t tell you how much I appreciate you helping around the house and surprising me with dinner more nights than I can count. I’d sure be eating lots more takeout if it weren’t for you!
No matter what’s going on in your life (and it must be a lot with five kids), I know you’re never too busy to listen to my worries and problems. Even though we’re miles apart, I know I can count on your support and motivational texts.
Tell Them How You Feel
After you’ve buttered them up with compliments, it’s time to get even sweeter and tell them exactly how you feel.
In some cases, a simple “I love you” fits in perfectly after a heartfelt message. Or you might want to get a little more specific with options that we’ll cover later.
End on a Personal Note
Once you’ve explained your feelings, it’s time to sign off in a way that fits your relationship.
Some options include:
Love
Love always
To many more years of love
Sending a hug
XOXO
After you’ve chosen a closing salutation, it’s time to decide how you will sign off. While you can always use your real name, don’t be afraid to get creative.
Did your recipient give you a nickname or pet name? Now is the time to use it!
Valentine’s Day Messages for Everyone
Okay, you’ve got the format down. Now it’s time to dive into the details of how you can customise your message based on your recipient. But first, let’s cover how you choose the type of message you want to send.
One option is to think of the relationship you share. Are you longtime friends who have seen each other at your best and worst? Or are you new partners just getting to know each other? Use your relationship to inform the tone and words you use.
Another option is to consider the personality of your recipient and your relationship. Is it full of in-jokes and teasing? Or is it built on sincere compliments and inspiring quotes? It’s best to let the history of your relationship guide your message.
Now that we’ve explained how to choose the type of message you should send, take a look at these examples.
For Your Partner
Whether it’s your first Valentine’s Day together or your twentieth, these work for any partner.
My heart has found its missing piece. Yes, that’s you.
Even if I don’t tell you this every day, I love you.
There aren’t enough hugs and kisses in the world to show how much I love you, but that won’t stop me from trying.
I can’t imagine this life without you.
For a New Relationship
Early days? Keep it light, warm and honest. There’s no need for grand declarations yet.
So glad I met you. Happy Valentine’s Day!
I’ve had a smile on my face since our first date. Thanks for that.
Here’s to getting to know you even better.
I’m really glad you swiped right / said yes / sat next to me.
For Long-Term Love
After years together, the best messages remind them why you’d choose them all over again.
Still choosing you, every day.
After all these years, you’re still my favourite person to come home to.
Our love is like a good whisky: it only gets better with time.
I didn’t think we would last past the first date. Look at us now!
To many more years of adventures, cups of tea and holding hands.
For Your Husband or Boyfriend
Whether your guy hates sappy romance or can’t get enough of it, pick a message you know he’ll love.
To the guy who’s strong, smart, sweet and handsome. I don’t know how you have it all, but I’m sure glad you do. I love you.
Thanks for always supporting me in whatever I do.
I can’t wait to see us together in five years, and fifty.
Thank you for helping around the house and surprising me with dinner more nights than I can count.
For Your Wife or Girlfriend
If she’s a sucker for classic romance, don’t be afraid to get sappy. If she prefers a little humour, make her laugh. Either way, the most important thing is to let her know you love her.
I never thought I would like Valentine’s Day. Thanks for proving me wrong.
You’re the best other half anyone could ask for.
I didn’t know the perfect woman existed. Now I do. I love you.
Every day with you is my favourite day.
For Friends and Galentine’s
Whether you’re sending a message to your long-time BFF or your new mate, these Valentine’s Day messages will help express just how much you love having your friend in your life.
Galentine’s Day, usually on 13 February, is a day for celebrating your friends, so these work for that too.
Valentines come and go, but I know you’ll always be there for me.
It’s not every day that you find a person you can laugh, cry, dream and pout with. I’m glad that person is you.
You help fill my heart with joy and happiness. Thanks for always being a great friend.
My candy heart says “you go girl.” It must be talking about you!
Happy Galentine’s to the friend who knows all my secrets and loves me anyway.
Even though we’re miles apart, I know I can count on your support and motivational texts.
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Cute
For a cute message to your sibling, mum, or partner, try one of these options.
They say there are plenty of fish in the sea, but I know you’re the only one for me.
My tail only wags for you…and cookies.
Every time I think of you, I do a little happy dance. I’ve been dancing a lot lately.
You’re sweeter than a box of chocolates.
Funny
Trying to make your valentine smile? These Valentine’s Day messages should get a chuckle.
I love you more than pizza. And you know I really love pizza.
I’m glad I got rid of my monkey bars. Because now I can hang around with you.
You’re the only person I’d share my chips with.
Thanks for laughing at my jokes, even the bad ones. Especially the bad ones.
Cheeky
Will your valentine get a kick out of a sassy message? Then try one of these flirty lines.
You’re alright, I guess. JK, I love you.
After nine years, I’m still not sick of you. You should feel special.
You still give me butterflies. Annoyingly.
Roses are red, I’m not great at poems. Just know that I love you.
Short Lines for a Flower Card
A florist’s card only fits a line or two, so keep it short:
Every rose is a reason I love you.
Still choosing you, every day.
Be mine?
To my favourite person.
Love you to the moon and back.
From your secret admirer.
Need more ideas? Our flower quotes and captions and birthday wishes guide have plenty of short lines that work on a card.
What to Write With Valentine’s Flowers
A card with flowers should be short and personal: one or two lines, ideally something only you would say. Red roses already say “I love you”, so the card can be playful or specific, like a memory, an in-joke or a plan for the night. Curious about colour? See the meanings behind every colour of rose.
Want to keep them guessing? You can send flowers anonymously: leave the card unsigned or sign it “your secret admirer”.
Valentine’s Day is the busiest day of the year for florists, which is also why Valentine’s flowers cost more. So order early and before the daily cut-off. Browse our Valentine’s Day flowers and add a card or gift tag with your message.
Planning the whole day? Try our Valentine’s date ideas in Sydney, or brush up on some fascinating Valentine’s Day facts.
Final Thoughts
No matter who you’re writing a Valentine’s message for, the most important thing is to make it personal. By putting in just a bit of effort and speaking from your heart, you’ll be able to deliver a message that makes your recipient smile.