Depending on the type of child you were, and the school you attended, Valentine’s Day had the power to instil a distinct sense of fear during primary school years.
You see, if you attended a mixed school which celebrated Cupid’s annual extravaganza, you’d likely have to participate in inter-class Valentine’s Day grams. Come February 14, teachers would hand out anonymous, stock cards with cheesy messages and even more ridiculous designs to the lucky in love (of course, likely writing some for those who hadn’t received any from their school crushes).
Whether you’re celebrating platonic or romantic love this V-Day, don’t let memories of ghastly cards and scorned playground romances affect the way you go about declaring your feelings. Gone are the days when cards were just stock phrases of lovey-dovey sentiment. Today, they range from hilariously irreverent to poetically profound, offering a perfect fit for every type of romance.
This year’s selection brings together an eclectic mix: high-end designers, indie illustrators, and online creators all stepping up their game. Whether you prefer something hand-lettered, minimalist, or filled with pop culture references, there’s no shortage of options to make your partner smile—or even laugh out loud. From cheeky designs for the newly dating couple to heartfelt tributes for long-term love, the perfect Valentine’s card is out there – provided you know where to look.
So, before you opt for the generic supermarket selection, take a moment to consider what you want your card to say. After all, it’s not just about the words, it’s about capturing the essence of your unique bond in one perfect little piece of paper.
Shop our edit of the best Valentine’s Day cards for heartfelt messages below.
Dumbledore You Valentine's Day Card
Starting off strong with a punny option for lovers of all things Harry Potter, it’s time to let your significant other know just how much you Dumbledore them.
Buy now £2.95, Oliver Bonas
PrintforLoveUK King of my Heart Card
Perfect for the chic minimalists who still adore celebrating V-Day, while this gorgeous handmade card may not come with the pictured playing card, it is complete with a luxury 135g envelope and package in a clear biodegradable bag. It’s also available in a Queen option.
Buy now £3.50, Etsy
Smythson Matches Small Valentine's Day Card
Is it even Valentine’s Day if there isn’t a pun involved? Opt for luxury this year with the help of Smythson of Bond Street with this lovely single white folded card featuring a heart matchbox motif engraved in gold and burgundy and printed in papaya. It also comes with a matching envelope with a blind embossed heart.
Buy now £10.00, Smythson
Papier Love Pups Greeting Card
Featuring two snuggling Dachshunds – whether you’re the proud parents of your very own pup or simply relate to the image – both you and your partner are bound to enjoy staring at this lovely little card on the mantlepiece throughout February.
Buy now £3.95, Papier
Waterstones Our Love Is The Stuff Of Legend Card
Fantasy lovers and bookworms rejoice, for we’ve happened across the perfect Valentine’s Day card to celebrate your legendary romance. With a die-cut, embossed golden finish, this novelistic card is sure to dazzle.
Buy now £2.99, Waterstones
Scribbler Travis to my Taylor Card
Need we expand? Scribbler has done it again with the perfect V-Day card for die-hard Swifties (and, of course, Chiefs fans).
Buy now £3.49, Scribbler
Amelia Ellwood Return Love Ticket To The Moon
Completed in Etsy connoisseur and illustrator Amelia Ellwood’s signature style, we love the kitschy but far from cheesy message of this loved-up card.
Buy now £3.50, Etsy
LittleTruthsStudio Where This Is Going Relationship Card
Whether you and your partner are avid nature lovers, or you’re looking for the ideal non-cheesy card for a brand-new relationship – we adore the hand-painted watercolour design which adorns this card by LittleTruthsStudio.
Buy now £5.13, Etsy
Jade Fisher Life Is Better When We're Together Card
Crafted from 100 per cent recycled paper, we love the simple, complimentary colours and soft illustrations which make up this eye-catching design by Jade Fisher.
Buy now £3.25, Holly Co
Katie Tinkler Camembert To Brie Without You Greeting Card
Ok, ok – this may be a cheesy card, but not in the traditional sense. Effortlessly punny and beautifully designed, turophiles will be flocking to purchase this Valentine’s Day card.
Buy now £3.50, Waterstones
