Coworker Christmas cards do more than spread a little seasonal cheer—they help strengthen workplace connections, show appreciation, and remind your team that you see them as more than just coworkers. A thoughtful card can turn a routine holiday gesture into something more meaningful.
Below, we’ll share creative ideas, message inspiration, and simple etiquette tips to help you craft cards that feel both professional and personal. You’ll also find easy ways to add creative touches that reflect your company culture (and your personality).
Why send Christmas cards to coworkers?
In busy workplaces, it’s easy to skip small gestures, but Christmas cards can have a surprisingly big impact. A handwritten note or personalized card reminds teammates that you value their efforts and enjoy working with them. It’s proof that even in a fast-paced, digital world, holiday cards still matter for building connection and community.
Beyond goodwill, coworker Christmas cards also strengthen professional relationships and spark new ones. They encourage collaboration and a positive culture where people feel recognized and valued. For managers, they’re a heartfelt (and low-effort) way to boost morale and show gratitude for a job well done.
For remote or hybrid teams, sending something personalized helps bridge digital distance and reminds everyone they’re part of the same team. Whether you’re choosing from the best gifts for coworkers to pair with your cards or sending them solo, the thoughtfulness behind each gesture doesn't go unnoticed.
Types of coworker Christmas cards
When it comes to coworker Christmas cards, the right design sets the tone. Think about your team’s vibe—it may be professional and polished, playful and witty, or creative and heartfelt. We share some ideas for each below.
Professional and polished
For managers, clients, or cross-department contacts, keep your coworker Christmas cards sleek and sophisticated. Opt for clean layouts, minimal color palettes, and subtle holiday details that feel timeless, not flashy.
Think elegant typography, crisp borders, and maybe a touch of sparkle. A polished design shows that you value professionalism while still sharing a bit of seasonal warmth.
Playful and witty
If fun and laughter is part of your company culture, lean into humor for your coworker Christmas cards. Use funny illustrations, clever office puns, or quirky graphics that capture your team’s personality. It’s the perfect style for close coworkers or small teams with a playful energy.
Don’t be afraid to have fun with your holiday card wording. A witty message can make your card the one everyone remembers (and actually keeps on their desk).
Creative and heartfelt
For the coworkers you chat with daily, go for cards that feel heartfelt and genuine. Choose festive designs with cozy motifs (like string lights, winter greenery, or soft textures) and pair them with handwritten-style fonts for a personal touch.
Including a team photo or photo of you and your coworker from the year adds a warm, personal touch, turning your cards into a keepsake your peers will appreciate. Try finding Christmas card photo ideas, like office candids or coordinated festive shots, that highlight your team’s spirit.
What to write in a coworker's Christmas card
When writing holiday card messages for employees or coworkers, striking the right tone is all about balance.
To nail what to write in Christmas cards for coworkers, think warm and genuine without crossing professional boundaries. It's like a friendly handshake in written form (polished, yet personable).
Writing a card for your boss? Keep it courteous and appreciative. If you’re unsure about what to say, reference professional accomplishments or simply wish them well for the year ahead. Here are a few examples to inspire your messages:
- “Wishing you joy and success in the year ahead.”
- “Thanks for making the office brighter—happy holidays!”
- “May your coffee be strong and your holiday PTO be long.”
- “So grateful to have shared another great year with you.”
- “Here’s to teamwork, laughter, and all the memories we made this year!”
Christmas card writing etiquette
When it comes to Christmas cards for coworkers, a little thought goes a long way. Not everyone celebrates Christmas, so inclusive wording like “happy holidays” instead of strictly “Merry Christmas” can help your message feel welcoming to everyone on your team. This simple tweak makes everyone feel acknowledged and respected.
Hierarchy matters, too. Professional notes with courteous and appreciative messages are best for managers, mentors, or clients. For peers and teammates, casual and friendly tones work well. Tailoring your approach shows thoughtfulness and awareness of workplace dynamics.
If you're deciding between group cards and individual cards, it depends on your workplace. A group card works well for large teams or departments, spreading goodwill without overwhelming effort. Individual cards are perfect for closer teammates or anyone you want to personally recognize. These small gestures often leave the biggest impression.
Do’s and don’ts for workplace holiday cards
Giving coworker Christmas cards is all about thoughtfulness and respect. Always double-check names and titles to avoid embarrassing mistakes, and be mindful of cultural or religious differences when choosing your wording. A short, handwritten note is a nice touch that shows you care, even if your card is simple.
If you’re feeling creative, consider DIY holiday cards. They’re a great way to add personality while keeping things professional. Just remember to keep your message appropriate for the workplace and tailored to your relationship with the recipient.
Use these quick do’s and don’ts to guide your card-giving:
Do:
- Spell coworkers’ names correctly
- Keep wording inclusive
- Match the tone to your relationship (peer vs. boss)
- Add a brief, personal note for warmth
- Send cards in a timely manner
Don't:
- Add off-color humor or personal topics
- Wait until the last minute to order or send
- Forget to consider remote or hybrid coworkers
- Use overly casual language with “higher-ups”
These simple practices can help you give cards that are thoughtful, inclusive, and appreciated by everyone on your team.
Create coworker Christmas cards with Mixbook
Sending coworker Christmas cards is a meaningful way to show appreciation and spread cheer across your workplace. From choosing the right tone to adding creative, personal touches, thoughtful cards can make everyone on your team feel valued and seen.
With Mixbook’s customizable holiday photo cards, you can design one-of-a-kind greetings your coworkers will actually look forward to opening.
