Who says Christmas greetings have to be dull? It’s time for a change!

As snowflakes dance outside (or not, depending on your location), many of us are thinking about how to write heartfelt greetings in English.

Fear not, dear reader; Santa’s little helper is here! I’ve got three golden tips for you to write inspiring Christmas messages:

1. Be personal. Forget generic words; incorporate something personal about the recipient.
2. Use quotes. Spread Christmas cheer with wise words from great minds or famous Christmas stories. For example, Charles Dickens said, “I will honour Christmas in my heart and try to keep it all the year.”
3. Connect past and future. Reflect on the past year and send hope and good wishes for the year ahead. “As we reflect on this year’s successes and challenges, let’s hope the next year brings us fresh achievements, happiness and exciting opportunities.”

We send Christmas greetings not only out of habit, but to show we care about the people in our lives.

Let’s touch hearts and bring smiles to faces with our words this year! 

Can this message can inspire you to compose your own?*

Dear [Client’s Name],

As the holiday season approaches, I want to thank you for your unwavering support and trust throughout the year. Your confidence in my abilities has played a significant role in my achievements.

I appreciate the opportunity to work with you and contribute to your business goals. Your dedication and entrepreneurial spirit inspire me to do my best in every project we take on.

I wish you a Christmas filled with joy, victories and special moments with your loved ones.

May this festive period bring you renewed energy and fresh ideas for the upcoming year.

Thank you once again for your continued support.

Here’s to an extraordinary New Year.

With kind regards,

[Your Name]

*Written with a little help from my friends: ChatGPT, Bard, DeepL Write and Perplexity.

Looking for the perfect birthday wish for your friend, family member or colleague?

Look no further. Here are 10 short and sweet birthday wishes that are sure to make them smile.

• We wish you all the happiness in the world on your birthday. You deserve it.
• We’re not getting older, just wiser and more experienced.
• Stay curious—and experience a year full of adventures and wonders.
• Those who can blow out the candles easily still have plenty of time to grow old.
• Growing old while staying young—that’s the true art!
• Don’t count the past years; count the highlights of your life.
• Happy birthday to the person who makes the world a brighter place.
• Wishing you a birthday that’s as special as you are.
• You’re one of a kind, and I’m so grateful to have you in my life. Happy birthday!
• May your birthday be filled with all the things that make you smile.

Why not be creative, run wild—and have fun?

I asked ChatGPT:

“Happy Birthday! On your special day, may the stars align to grant you unlimited wishes! May your cake be as sweet as your dreams. And may each candle bring a spark of joy to your heart. Here’s to laughter, love and a year filled with fantastic adventures! Cheers to you and the wonderful journey ahead!”

Do you have a favourite birthday wish you’d like to share with me?

Even when we are away from our keyboards, out-of-office replies help maintain professional relationships. First impressions stick!

The secret? A thoughtful out-of-office reply can generate positive feelings in those reaching out.

How?

1. Start with a warm greeting. “Thanks for getting in touch” sets a friendly tone.
2. Clearly state your absence and response time.
3. Offer an alternative contact—it shows consideration and professionalism.

Your message could look something like this:

Subject: Out of office

Hello [Sender’s name],

Thank you for contacting me! I’m currently out of the office attending a conference in London. But I’ll be back in the office on [date of return] and will respond to your message then.

If you need help before I come back, please contact my colleague, [colleague’s name]. You can email them at [colleague’s email] or call them at [colleague’s phone].

In the meantime, I hope you have a great week! 

Best wishes,
[Your name]

Or even this:

Dear [Sender’s name],

I appreciate your message! Right now, I’m attending a conference in London, and will be unavailable until I return on [date of return]. I’ll make sure to get in touch with you as soon as I’m back.

If you have anything urgent, please reach out to my colleague, [colleague’s name], at [colleague’s email/phone]. They’ll be happy to help you.

I’m looking forward to catching up with you soon.

Best wishes,

[Your name]

Now it’s your turn

What does your perfect out-of-office reply look like?

I notice that you use plain, simple language, short words and brief sentences. That is the way to write English—it is the modern way and the best way. Stick to it; don’t let fluff and flowers and verbosity creep in.”