Did you know that there was a Saint Valentine? He was a Catholic priest in the third century who married Roman soldiers in secret. The Medieval poet, Chaucer, was the first person to link St. Valentine to romantic love, and thus began the custom of honoring our loved ones with sentimental verses. Every year on February 14th, we continue this ritual of expressing love and affection to our romantic partners, family and friends. Typical traditions for Valentine’s Day include sending Valentine’s Day gift baskets, cards, and flowers. Valentine’s Day is popular for wedding proposals, as it is a perfect day to express romance and commitment. It isn’t just a day for couples, though. In many cultures and countries, Valentine’s Day is a time to show acts of appreciation between friends. The images of Cupid, hearts and flowers trimmed with lace are symbols associated with Valentine’s Day. While cards decorated with these icons often include pre-written romantic or sweet phrases, the truest way to express your affection is to speak from the heart. Read below for 45 message ideas on what to write in a Valentine’s Day card.

Valentine’s Day Card Etiquette

Valentine’s Day may make you think of classroom days or over-the-top sentiments, but sweet or funny messages are enjoyed by everyone too. They are a light-hearted way to show family and friends how much you care. Somehow, though, the words to adequately express our feelings can elude us once we sit down to write. Before uncapping your pen, consider the recipient’s personality and how well you know them. You wouldn’t write the same message for a coworker as you would a significant other. (That could be awkward.) When you think about the person you’re writing to, you’ll know whether or not you should write a humorous, sentimental or romantic message. No matter who you’re writing to, you always want to be heartfelt. We all can use a little inspiration, however, so the following wishes and messages can help get the ink flowing. Check out these ideas on what to write in a Valentine’s Day card! Valentine’s Day Messages for Her You might be worried your wife or sweetheart will have high expectations, but all you need to be is sincere and yourself. Speaking from the heart will let her know that she is loved and cherished. I always looked for someone I could live with, but I ended up with someone I couldn’t live without. Every love story is beautiful, but ours is my favorite. I’m so excited to be sharing our first Valentine’s Day together. I hope it’s the first of many to come! Have we really celebrated Valentine’s Day for ten years? I’d do it all over in a heartbeat. You mean everything to me. Happy Valentine’s Day to my one and only. I was never a fan of this holiday until meeting you, my sweet Valentine. Valentine’s Day Messages for Him He is your champion and biggest supporter, so take the opportunity on Valentine’s Day to let him know how lucky you are with a romantic message crafted just for him. Enveloped in your strong and welcoming arms is my favorite place to be. Happy Valentine’s Day to my handsome man! You are the love of my life — always have been, always will be. Happy Valentine’s Day to the man of my dreams. You have always been there for me when I needed you most. You’re a shoulder to cry on and a helping hand. Happy Valentine’s Day to my special man! Valentine gifts are thoughtful, but nothing compares to the love we share. You are such a romantic husband and I am so lucky to have your heart.