13 Pretty Birthday Cards to Send on Their Special Day

Any birthday is worth celebrating. Deciding on the party theme, decorations, and activities makes the days leading up to the party seem like part of the celebration itself. But today, because we're still living in the time of social distancing, handwritten letters and gift-giving by mail are all the more important. For someone's birthday, why not send a card? It's a gracious gesture to family and friends who you can't celebrate with. Plus, who doesn't love to receive a pretty envelope in their mailbox? When it comes to writing a birthday card, the number one thing to keep in mind is to keep it personalized and not general. As for timing, etiquette calls for sending the card within a few days of the recipient's birthday and, ideally, paired with a nicely wrapped gift package.

These one-of-a-kind cards will be sure to surprise and delight your loved one on their special day. Whether you hope to find just the right birthday card for her, him, the kids, and everyone in between, any of our picks are perfect to wish them a "Happy Birthday!" Many of these cards are illustrated with motifs like ice cream, party hats, floating balloons, and triple-tiered birthday cake. It's like a party just opening the envelope! Shopping for a card is also a thoughtful way to support independent artists. Think: Designers like E. Frances Paper, Meri Meri, and Anna Bond of Rifle Paper Co.

Ahead, shop our picks for the best modern birthday cards—any one of them will be happily received.