Prompts to start with
- "This year I watched you…"
- "The moment I'll remember most from this year is…"
- "Something you don't hear enough is…"
- "This year, I hope you…"
For a partner
"Happy birthday to the person who remembers my chai order better than I do. This year you got braver about saying what you want, and I loved watching it. I hope this year gives you that trip, that promotion and a lot more lazy Sundays with me."
For a best friend
"Happy birthday to my emergency contact, my 2 am therapist and the only person who laughs at my jokes the first time. I don't say it enough, but I'm lucky. Now please return my hoodie."
Where to put it
On paper, in their bag. In a card with their cake. Or at the end of a birthday website, after the candles, so it's the last thing they read.
A dearyou templateCake & CandlesA birthday party in a link: your letter arrives in a card after they blow out the candles.Play the demo free What the research says
Letter writers underestimated how happy and surprised their recipients would be, and overestimated how awkward it would feel for them.
In practice: if you're hesitating because it feels cheesy, send it anyway. It's very likely to land better than you think.
Questions people ask
What should I write in a birthday letter to my girlfriend?+
One specific memory from the year, something you admire about her right now, and what you hope her next year brings. Keep it in your own voice.
How long should a birthday letter be?+
A few short paragraphs is plenty. One memory, one thing you admire, and one hope for their next year.
Make it yours
A dearyou templateThe DailyPlay the demo free, then fill it with your own photos, words and song.Play the demo free 
A dearyou templateOur AlbumPlay the demo free, then fill it with your own photos, words and song.Play the demo free Sources
- [1]Kumar, A. & Epley, N. (2018). Undervaluing gratitude: Expressers misunderstand the consequences of showing appreciation. Psychological Science, 29(9). Read
