How to throw a “Surprise Cardy”: Five easy steps for an unforgettable birthday celebration

Here’s a fun fact: the first record of a surprise party dates back to 1840 as found in the writings of Irish novelist Charles Lever. Since then, surprise parties have thrilled millions of people for graduations, anniversaries, birthdays and more. In fact, most Americans (63%) love the idea of being thrown a surprise birthday party, but half usually just settle for a laid-back gathering instead.
Don’t get us wrong—a chill party is still a great way to celebrate. But if you’re in the market for a fun way to give your loved one a birthday surprise they’ll never forget, allow us to introduce a new twist on the surprise party—a Surprise Cardy!
Inspired? Create and share by tagging @HallmarkStores.
Blogger and social media influencer Leanna Laming (@lifebyleanna) recently put together a cute way to recognize one of her close friend’s special birthdays—a Surprise Cardy!
Learn all about what it is and how to pull one of these fun surprises off yourself with the ideas and tips below.
What exactly is a Surprise Cardy?
A Surprise Cardy doesn’t require a house full of guests. Instead, it invites the celebrant’s loved ones—near and far—to surprise them with a bouquet of birthday cards filled with uplifting words and heartfelt messages.
Why host a Surprise Cardy?
Hosting a Surprise Cardy is an easy way for friends and family to “surprise” a loved one on their birthday, no matter where they live. It only takes a little bit of work to get one started, but the impact will last a lifetime.
How to throw a Surprise Cardy
Thinking of throwing a Surprise Cardy for someone in your life? Here are five steps to get started. And remember, there’s no one right way to do this. Add unique, personalized twists to make it extra special!
Step 1: Pick your celebrant.
Who will the Surprise Cardy celebrate and when is their birthday?
Step 2: Prepare the invite list.
Create a list of the celebrant’s family members and friends who you want to participate.
Tip: Invite as many people as you can. The more cards, the merrier!

Step 3: Send the invitations.
Now let’s get everyone on the same page. No need to get fancy here. A group text, email or social media message to participants will do. Let them know what you’re planning, why you’re doing it and these important details:
- Who you’re celebrating. Provide name, birthday, age, etc.
- How they can get in on the fun. Ask participants to pick up a Hallmark birthday greeting card for the celebrant and write a heartfelt message within.
- Where to send cards. As host, have participants mail birthday cards directly to you so you can compile the celebrant’s “surprise” bouquet of cards.
- When to mail cards. The earlier the better so all can be included in the bouquet!
Step 4: Gather the birthday cards.
Once the invitations are out, sit back, relax and wait for the cards to show up. When all arrive, arrange them in a cute box or basket for delivery.
Tip: Send participants a few reminders along the way to make sure everyone stays on schedule!

Step 5: Let’s Cardy!
Visit your celebrant on their big day and wow them with their very own bouquet of beautiful greeting cards from their friends and loved ones!
Tip: Snap a photo or record a video of the big moment! Share it with those who contributed cards along with a message of gratitude for making your loved one’s birthday extra special. If you choose to share on social, include #SurpriseCardy.
With a Surprise Cardy, you’re not only giving a loved one a birthday to remember, you’re leaving them with tangible expressions of love that they can revisit anytime they need a reminder of how much they mean to so many people.
Now, it’s your turn to make someone’s birthday unforgettable! Find birthday cards here or at a Hallmark retailer near you. And remember, we’d love to see your own Surprise Cardy photos and videos on hashtag #SurpriseCardy. We can’t wait to see the smiles (and happy tears)!
Want more fun card ideas? Check these out!
Shop Leanna's Favorite Cards!
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