Holiday Cards for Clients: What to Write and When to Send Them

The end of the year is a natural time to say thank you. A thoughtful holiday note reminds clients, partners, and colleagues that you value the relationship, with no sales pitch attached. Here is how to do it well.

Who should get a card or message?

• Current clients and customers, especially long-term ones
• Prospects you have spoken with this year
• Referral partners, vendors, and freelancers you rely on
• Mentors, former colleagues, and people in your professional network
• Your own team

You do not need to reach everyone. Start with the 20 or 30 people who matter most to your work and add more if you have time.

When to send

• Mid-November to early December: before inboxes and mailboxes fill up.
• By about December 15: for mailed cards, so they arrive before the holidays.
• December 26 to early January: for New Year messages and follow-ups, when people are catching up.

Card or email?

Both work. A printed card feels personal and stands out because fewer people send them. An email is faster and works well for a larger list. Many people do both: a card for their top clients and an individual email for everyone else.

What to write

Short and specific beats long and generic. Mention one real thing: a project you finished, a result you reached, or something you enjoyed about working together.

For a client

Thank you for a great year, [Name]. Working with you on [project] was a highlight for me. Wishing you and your team a restful holiday season and a prosperous New Year.

For a prospect

It was a pleasure talking with you about [topic] this year. No need to reply. I just wanted to send my best wishes for a happy holiday season.

For a colleague or partner

Thank you for your support this year. I'm grateful to work with you and look forward to what we'll do together in the New Year.

Tips for a professional tone

• Use "Happy Holidays" or "Season's Greetings" when you are not sure what a person celebrates.
• Do not include a sales pitch or a discount in the same message.
• Sign your cards by hand when you can, and add a personal line.
• Send emails individually. Avoid putting everyone in the same To field.
• Double-check names and spelling.
• Check your own company's and your client's policies on gifts and communication, especially for government and regulated clients.

Do not forget the follow-up

A January note, such as "Happy New Year, I'd love to hear what's on your plate this year," turns a holiday greeting into a conversation. Keep track of who you contacted so no one is missed or contacted twice.

Ready-to-use cards and messages

If you would like a head start, our Business Holiday Card Pack has eight printable 5x7 designs with an editable inside message, and the Client & Network Holiday Message Kit has 25 ready-to-send emails and notes, short card lines, and a tracker. Get both together in the Holiday Bundle.