How to Properly Pluralize Your Last Name for Holiday Cards

Holiday cards are a favorite tradition for many families. Sending a card that correctly represents your family name shows attention to detail and adds a personal touch. But when it comes to pluralizing last names on holiday cards, confusion often arises. Should you add an "s," "es," or an apostrophe? I am an avid reader and a self-described grammar nerd, so I put together this guide that will help you understand the rules and avoid common mistakes, so your holiday greetings look as polished and thoughtful as your photos.

Family in Christmas pajamas making cookies in the kitchen.

Basic Rules for Pluralizing Last Names

When you want to address a holiday card to your entire family, you typically use the plural form of your last name. Here are the basic rules:

• For most last names, simply add an "s" at the end.

Example: The Smith family becomes The Smiths or the The Johnson Family becomes The Johnsons

• For last names ending in s, x, z, ch, or sh, add "es" to make it plural.

Example: The Jones family becomes The Joneses or the Alvares Family becomes The Alvareses

• Do not use an apostrophe when pluralizing last names. Apostrophes show possession, not plurality.

Incorrect: The Smith's

Correct: The Smiths

These rules apply whether you are addressing the card on the front or writing the family name inside the card.

How to Handle Special Cases

Some last names require a bit more attention:

Last Names Ending in "y"

Unlike other nouns, when plurarizing a proper noun that ends with a "y" you simply add a "s" to the end.

Example: The Kennedy family becomes The Kennedys

Example: The Murphy family becomes The Murphys.

Example: The Daley family becomes The Daleys.

Last Names Ending  s, x, z, ch, or sh

This is where things get tricky for me, if your last name ends in a  s, x, z, ch, or sh such as The Hernandez Family, you should add an "es" Example: The Hernandez Family becomes The Hernandezes Example: The Church Family becomes The Churches Examples: The Lux Family becomes The Luxes

Hyphenated Last Names

For hyphenated last names, pluralize the second part of the hyphenated name

Example: The Smith-Jones family becomes The Smith-Joneses.

Last Names Ending in "s"

For last names that already end with "s," add "es" to pluralize.

Example: The Harris family becomes The Harrises.

Avoid adding an apostrophe to make it plural. Apostrophes are only for possession.

How to Write Holiday Card Greetings Using Pluralized Last Names

When addressing holiday cards, you want the greeting to feel warm and inclusive. Here are some examples using pluralized last names:

• The Smiths

"Warm wishes from the Smiths this holiday season."

• The Joneses

"Happy Holidays from the Joneses!"

• The Smith-Joneses

"Season’s Greetings from the Smith-Joneses."

If you want to be more formal, you can include first names:

"John and Jane Smith" or "John, Jane, and the Smiths."

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using apostrophes for plurals

Apostrophes show possession, not plurality. Writing "The Smith's" is incorrect when you mean more than one Smith.

• Incorrect plural endings

Adding just "s" to names ending in s, x, z, ch, or sh looks odd. Always add "es" in these cases.

• Ignoring hyphenated names

Treat hyphenated last names carefully by pluralizing both parts if needed.

• Forgetting to capitalize

Always capitalize last names and their plural forms on holiday cards.

Tips for Designing Holiday Cards with Pluralized Last Names

• Use clear, legible fonts for your family name to avoid confusion.

  
  

• Consider adding a festive touch with calligraphy or decorative lettering for the family name.

  
  

• If you have a long or hyphenated last name, keep the font size balanced so the name fits nicely on the card.

  
  

• Double-check spelling and pluralization before printing or sending.

  
  

Cousins enjoy Christmas Cookies

Final Thoughts on Pluralizing Last Names for Holiday Cards

Getting your last name right on holiday cards shows care and respect for tradition. Using the correct plural form avoids confusion and makes your greetings feel polished. This is especially true if you send out holiday cards on behalf of your company or personal brand.

Next time you prepare your holiday cards, take a moment to check your family name’s plural form. This small detail can make your cards stand out and bring a smile to the recipients.