How to Be a Thoughtful Gifter in Less than 60 Seconds

From missed birthdays to last-minute thank-yous, we’ve all been caught out by the calendar. But now, Aussies have a smarter, faster way to make their gifts feel personal, even when they’re short on time...

That’s the promise from Moonpig, the global online greeting card and gifting platform that officially launched in Australia this year. With locally printed cards, same-day eCard options, AI-powered personalisation, and fast delivery across the country, Moonpig is helping Australians level up their gifting, without the stress.

The data shows demand for quick, thoughtful gifting is growing. In the first half of 2025, Sydney topped the list for fast delivery card orders in Australia, with 14.8% of orders. Perth followed closely with 11.7% of orders, more than doubling its share of fast delivery compared to standard (11.7% vs 5.8%). Melbourne (10.7%), Brisbane (8.6%) and Adelaide (3.4%) round out the top five cities where Aussies are turning to speedy, customised gifting solutions.

Mary Liu, International Director at Moonpig, says: “Being thoughtful doesn’t always mean you need hours to prepare. Our data shows Australians across cities are increasingly relying on quick, personalised touches, like inside jokes, photos, or a heartfelt message, to make last-minute gifts feel genuinely meaningful. Speed and thoughtfulness aren’t mutually exclusive, and even small personalisations can have a big impact.”

Moonpig’s eCards, which are delivered instantly via email, are gaining traction among time-poor gifters. So far in 2025, New South Wales leads the way with 27.9% of eCard orders, followed by Victoria (17.1%), Queensland (15.5%), Western Australia (11.3%), and South Australia (3.7%).

The gifting experts at Moonpig have provided their top tips on how to be a thoughtful gifter in less than 60 seconds:

1. Add a nickname or a joke

Nothing says “I’m thinking of you” like a personal touch only you and the recipient share. Using a private nickname or referencing an inside joke in your message instantly makes the card feel intimate and special. 

Even if the gift was arranged last-minute, this small detail shows you truly know and care about the person. Studies show that personal relevance strengthens emotional connection, so taking a few seconds to add this can make your card memorable for years.

2. Upload a meaningful photo

A picture really is worth a thousand words. Including a photo, whether it’s a candid moment, a shared memory, or a funny selfie,  can elevate any card from generic to deeply personal. Photos capture emotions and experiences that words sometimes can’t. 

In the age of smartphones, uploading a meaningful image is quick and easy, transforming your greeting into a keepsake the recipient will cherish. This trick works especially well for milestone events or long-distance friendships.

3. Use AI to craft your message

Not everyone finds writing messages easy, especially when time is tight. That’s where technology can help. AI-powered message suggestions can inspire thoughtful, witty, or heartfelt wording based on the occasion and your relationship with the recipient. 

This isn’t about losing authenticity, it’s about overcoming writer’s block to express something genuine quickly. Research shows that well-crafted messages increase feelings of appreciation, making your gift stand out.

4. Try a handwriting tool 

Handwritten notes have always carried a warmth and sincerity that typed text can lack. If you’re short on time but want to preserve that personal touch, digitising your own handwriting is a great solution. 

Using a handwriting tool to replicate your signature style adds uniqueness and personality to your card. This subtle detail reminds the recipient that you took the time to add a human element, which can deepen the emotional impact of your message.

5. Schedule ahead or consider instant options 

Planning ahead is the easiest way to avoid last-minute gifting stress,  but when life gets busy, same-day solutions can save the day. Scheduling your card delivery ahead means you never miss an important date, while eCards provide a fast, eco-friendly option for instant heartfelt greetings. 

With digital options gaining popularity, especially among younger generations, these quick alternatives ensure you can always send your love, even on the busiest days.