30 Years of SMS!




SMS, happy birthday!

On December 3, 1992, Neil Papworth, a 22-year-old engineer, sent “Merry Christmas” to a coworker’s phone using a personal computer. This was the first SMS text message ever sent. He had to call him because the coworker was unable to respond because that functionality wasn’t yet available. A year later, it was available on cell phones, but it had a 160-character limit, could only be sent to people in your own provider network, and required you to use the numeric keypad, which gave rise to an entirely new set of acronyms.

Regards, Neil. And we eagerly anticipate what the coming few years will bring.

In today’s fast-paced, digital world, staying connected with your customers is more important than ever. One of the simplest yet most effective ways to build lasting relationships is by sending personalized birthday messages. The phrase “SMS Happy Birthday!” may seem small, but it can have a huge impact on customer loyalty and engagement. Let’s dive into how using SMS for birthday greetings can boost your business and strengthen your connection with customers.

Why Send SMS Birthday Messages?

1. Personalization That Stands Out
In a world where consumers receive hundreds of emails, notifications, and ads every day, an SMS birthday message feels personal and thoughtful. It shows your customers that you remember them and value their loyalty. This simple gesture can help make your brand memorable and stand out from the competition.

2. Instant and Direct Communication
SMS is one of the most direct communication channels. With a nearly 98% open rate, text messages are more likely to be seen and read compared to emails or social media notifications. When you send a birthday SMS, your message reaches your customer directly, making it an effective way to grab their attention.

3. Building Stronger Customer Relationships
Celebrating milestones like birthdays helps humanize your brand. A simple “Happy Birthday!” message, especially when paired with a special offer or discount, can make customers feel appreciated and strengthen their connection with your business. This emotional bond can translate into long-term loyalty and increased sales.

How to Create an Effective SMS Happy Birthday Campaign

1. Personalize the Message
Use your customer’s first name to make the birthday greeting feel personal. A message like “Happy Birthday, Sarah! 🎉 We hope you have an amazing day!” feels more thoughtful than a generic message. Including a personal touch makes customers feel seen and valued.

2. Offer a Birthday Discount or Freebie
A birthday message is even more effective when it’s paired with a special offer. Provide a discount, free gift, or exclusive deal to make the birthday even more exciting for your customer. For example, “Happy Birthday, Jake! 🎂 Enjoy 20% off your next purchase with code BDAY20.”

3. Keep It Short and Sweet
SMS messages should be concise and to the point. Avoid lengthy messages and focus on delivering a clear, warm greeting. A short and sweet “Happy Birthday ! 🎉 Enjoy 10% off today as a birthday treat!” works perfectly.

4. Send at the Right Time
Timing is everything. Schedule your birthday SMS to be sent in the morning or at a time when your customer is likely to engage with it. You can use your SMS marketing platform to automate these messages, ensuring they are sent on the customer’s actual birthday without any extra effort.

5, Use Emojis to Add a Festive Touch
Emojis can add a fun and celebratory feel to your SMS birthday messages. A few well-placed emojis, like 🎉, 🎂, or 🎈, can make your greeting more vibrant and engaging. However, be sure not to overuse them—too many emojis can make the message seem unprofessional.