Christmas cards for your father-in-law

Fathers-in-law are often the quiet ones. He may say very little at the table, fix a tap while you are looking the other way, and show he likes you by asking about your car. A card to him can be just as understated and still mean a great deal.

Think of the small things. The lift he gave you, the barbecue he commandeered, the time he said "good job" and you carried it around for a week. Say one of those. Add a line of dry humour if that is how you two talk. Choose a card, write your own words inside, and send it as a link by email or text, or schedule it for Christmas morning so it is waiting when he sits down with his tea.

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10 things to write inside

Swap in their name. Change anything that doesn’t sound like you.

  1. sweet Thank you for always having time for me, [first name]. You made me feel like part of the family from the first visit. Happy Christmas.
  2. funny [first name], I have decided to ask for your advice on the barbecue this year. I will then do exactly what you say. Merry Christmas.
  3. quiet Merry Christmas, [first name]. I am glad you are in my life.
  4. sweet You welcomed me without making a fuss about it, [first name], and that meant more than you know. Thank you. Happy Christmas.
  5. funny Dear [first name], I am trying very hard to be the good son-in-law this year. Please note the card is early. That is the whole plan so far.
  6. quiet Wishing you a good, restful Christmas, [first name]. You have earned it.
  7. sweet Whenever something breaks, I think of you, [first name], and then I think how lucky I am to have someone like you around. Merry Christmas.
  8. funny [first name], I promise not to mention the fence at Christmas lunch. I will mention it in the new year, with a spirit level.
  9. quiet Thank you for looking after the people I love, [first name]. Happy Christmas.
  10. sweet Christmas at your place is one of my favourite days, [first name]. I hope this one is easy and full of good food.

Questions people ask

What do you write in a Christmas card for your father-in-law?

Keep it plain and sincere. Thank him for something he did, say you are looking forward to seeing him, and wish him a good break. Fathers-in-law often prefer a short, warm note over anything fancy, and a bit of dry humour can sit well alongside it.

How do I thank a father-in-law who doesn't say much?

Be specific and brief. Mention one thing he did, like the help with the move or the fact he always saves you a seat. People who say little often keep the cards that say a lot in two lines, so you do not need to be dramatic.

Can I send a funny card to my father-in-law?

Yes, if you already tease each other a little. Aim the joke at yourself, or at a harmless shared thing like the barbecue or the parking. If you are not sure of his sense of humour yet, choose a warm card with a light touch instead.

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