What to Write on an Award Plaque

• Sep 17, 2025
• Trophy Deals

What to Write on an Award Plaque

Some moments are just too meaningful to let slip by without something solid to remember them by - something like a beautifully crafted award plaque.

Whether it’s a career milestone, an athletic triumph, or a simple yet heartfelt thank-you, the right message turns a slab of wood and metal into a memory that lasts. But figuring out what to write on an award plaque? That’s where it gets tricky.

Don’t worry, we’ve got you. Whether you're honoring a team MVP or recognizing years of service, the words you choose matter. 

Let’s break down 10 creative and thoughtful wording ideas that work across occasions and personalities, from formal to fun.

1. Classic and Timeless

Sometimes, less really is more. 

For formal events, corporate recognitions, or academic awards, a clean, polished message is the way to go. 

These usually include the recipient's name, the title of the award, the date, and a short message of recognition, making them a perfect choice for bulk plaque orders. 

Here's a go-to structure:

Presented to [Name]
In Recognition of Outstanding Achievement
[Event or Organization Name]
[Date]

It’s traditional, yes - but it never goes out of style.

2. Make It Personal

No two achievements are the same, so the plaque shouldn't be either. Try including a personal touch - a specific reference to what the person did, their nickname, or even an inside joke. 

Here's an example:

To Carla “The Fixer” Jones
Your Leadership Transformed Us
2025 – We’ll Never Forget It

That one small personal detail? It makes all the difference.

3. Go Full-On Funny

Humor belongs on plaques more often than people realize. For casual settings like office awards, team outings, or friend group events, feel free to lighten the tone.

 World-Class Procrastinator
Still Gets It Done-Eventually
Thanks for the Laughs, Greg!

Of course, humor only works if the recipient is in on the joke. Always read the room!

4. Highlight the Journey

Sometimes the award isn’t just about what someone did, it’s how they did it. Including a line that reflects their hard work or growth can make it more meaningful.

 For Your Relentless Dedication
From Day One to the Finish Line
We Saw Every Step You Took, and We Thank You

This works beautifully for promotions, retirements, or milestone work anniversaries.

5. Short & Poetic

You don’t have to go full Shakespeare, but there’s power in a well-placed line of verse or a poetic phrase. 

 A Heart That Leads,
A Mind That Inspires
Thank You, Maya, For Being Both

This style works especially well for teachers, mentors, or volunteers - people who give more than just time. 

Think of it as a mini-tribute. Whether engraved on wood, metal, or an elegant acrylic plaque, the poetic style makes the message stand out and feel timeless.

6. Quote It Right

If you're stuck, borrow some inspiration from the greats. A well-known quote can instantly elevate the message on a plaque, just make sure it fits the tone.

"Excellence is not a skill, it's an attitude." - Ralph Marston
Presented to Jacob R., 2025 Excellence in Service Award

Pairing a quote with the award details can strike the perfect balance between wisdom and personalization.

7. Celebrate the Moment

Is this a big win? A championship? A record-breaking sales year? 

Highlight the occasion itself, not just the person. 

 National Sales Leader 2025
You Made It Happen, Ava!
From All of Us at Team Red

This approach makes the moment itself part of the memory, not just a footnote.

8. Say Thank You (and Mean It)

Gratitude is one of the most powerful emotions to highlight during an award ceremony, and it doesn’t need to be fancy, just honest.

 Thank You, Coach Tim
For Believing in Us Before We Did
Spring League Champs 2025

For volunteer work, leadership, or mentorship, a heartfelt thank-you goes a long way.

9. Honor the Legacy

When someone retires or steps down from a big role, the message should reflect the depth of their impact, not just their title.

 In Honor of
Dr. Lillian Hsu
30 Years of Excellence, Innovation & Compassion
Your Legacy Lives On

This is one of those times where elegance and sincerity should lead the way.

10. Get Creative with the Layout

Now, here’s something people often overlook. Sometimes, what to write on an award plaque isn’t just about the words; it’s about how you arrange them. 

Using vertical text, mixing fonts, or creating a “title + story” layout can make your message more striking. 

For example:

 THE BACKBONE OF OUR TEAM
Underneath it all - deadlines, meetings, last-minute changes
You held it together. Always.
We noticed. We’re grateful.
        – March 2025 –

A layout like this draws attention and adds a poetic flow to the piece.

Final Touches Make the Message

You’ve picked the tone, now what? 

Here are a few tips to make sure the wording lands just right:

• Keep it legible: Plaques aren’t the place for long paragraphs.
  
  

• Proof it twice: Spelling a name wrong on a permanent award? Yikes.
  
  

• Date it: Future you (and the recipient) will appreciate the context years down the line.
  
  

• Don’t overthink it: If it comes from a genuine place, it’ll resonate.

Celebrate Every Win With Words That Stick

Choosing what to write on an award plaque might seem like a small detail, but it’s the part that people read over and over again. It’s the line that gets remembered, photographed, and shared.

Whether it’s funny, formal, heartfelt, or a mix of all three, a great message honors the person and the moment.

At Trophy Deals, we believe that recognition should feel as personal and impactful as the accomplishment itself. That’s why we offer customizable plaques, trophies, and awards that let your message shine, literally. 

Browse our full selection of awards to find customizable designs that perfectly match your message.