Christmas is around the corner, and with it comes one of the most cherished holiday traditions—sending Christmas cards.

But between selecting the right card, deciding who to send it to, and crafting personalized messages, it can be a daunting task. Don’t worry! This guide will help you plan everything from who should receive a Christmas card, when to buy and send them, and how to make each message memorable and heartfelt. Let’s dive into making your Christmas card experience not only joyful but also unforgettable for everyone on your list.

1. Who Should Get a Christmas Card?

When deciding who should receive a Christmas card, think beyond just family and close friends. Here’s a breakdown of people to consider:

• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family and Close Friends: The must-haves on any list. They’ll appreciate the thought and care that go into sending a card.
• 👵🏽 Extended Family: Even if you don’t see them often, a card is a warm reminder that you’re thinking of them during the holiday season.
• 🏢 Work Colleagues: For a personal touch in a professional setting, sending Christmas cards to coworkers can strengthen connections.
• 🏘️ Neighbors: If you’re friendly with your neighbors, a card is a great way to maintain a positive relationship.
• 📬 Service Providers: Don’t forget the people who make your life easier throughout the year, like your mail carrier, hairstylist, and here at Allynn's, we always remember our dog walker 🐕 and dog groomer ✂️.
• 👨🏽‍💼 Clients and Customers: If you’re a business owner, sending a Christmas card can be a meaningful way to express your appreciation and nurture and strengthen those critical relationships.
• 😊 Long-Lost Friends: Reconnect with friends you’ve drifted away from—a card is a thoughtful way to say, “I still think of you.”

2. When to Buy Christmas Cards

Christmas cards are usually available by October, and getting an early start allows you to select from a wider variety of styles and themes. Here’s the ideal timeline:

• 🎃 October: Start browsing options and pick out your favorite designs. Buying early means you won’t miss out on limited-edition designs.
• 🍂 Early November: Place your order. If you’re buying custom cards, allow enough time for processing, shipping, and any potential delays.
• 🦃 Mid-November: If you’re hand-packing and preparing personalized messages, mid-November gives you plenty of time to write without feeling rushed.

Early preparation not only ensures you get the cards you want but also saves you from the holiday rush and shipping delays.

3. When to Send Christmas ards

Timing is everything when it comes to sending Christmas cards. Here’s a general guide:

• 🗺️ Early December: Aim to send out your cards by the first week of December to ensure they arrive on time. This timing is ideal for cards being sent domestically.
• 🌍 Mid-November: If you’re mailing cards internationally, sending them by mid-November ensures they’ll arrive well before Christmas.
• 🎆 Late December: Consider sending a “Season’s Greetings” or “Happy New Year” card for recipients who may not celebrate Christmas.

Aiming for early December lets recipients enjoy your card throughout the month, adding warmth and cheer to their holiday season.

4. How to Craft Beautiful, Personalized Messages

One of the best ways to make your Christmas card unforgettable is by adding a personalized message. Here’s how to make each card special:

• ✨ Personalized Touch: Mention something unique about your relationship. For example, “Hope this holiday season is filled with joy and laughter—just like our game nights!”
• 📝 Include a Memory: Reflect on a shared moment from the past year. It could be as simple as a great conversation or a fun outing.
• 🙏🏼 Share a Thoughtful Wish: Offer a warm, genuine wish that resonates with the recipient. “May this Christmas bring you peace and all the good things you’ve worked so hard for.”
• 🤓 Stay Authentic: Be yourself! Don’t feel pressured to be overly formal if that’s not your style. A lighthearted or funny message can be just as meaningful.
• 💗 Closing with Care: Close with a warm ending like “With all our love,” “Wishing you joy,” or “Warmest holiday wishes,” followed by your name.

Personal messages add depth and make recipients feel valued. Plus, they’ll remember the effort you put into your card.

5. Who Should Sign the Card?

Wondering who should sign the card? It depends on your relationship with the recipient and the tone you want to set:

• 👩🏻‍🦱 Single Sender: If it’s just you, sign with your name, and consider adding a small note for a personal touch.
• 👩🏼‍👧🏽‍👦🏻 Family Cards: If the card is from a family, list each family member’s name or sign as a group: “With love from the [Last Name] family.”
• 🧑🏾‍❤️‍💋‍👩🏽 From a Couple: For cards from couples, you can sign both names or just the last name, like “The [Last Name]s.”
• 🐶 Including Pets: If you know the recipient loves animals, consider adding your pet’s name—it’s fun and often brings a smile! I always include my dog, my cat and even the fish 🐟!

Including everyone’s name (even furry family members) is a nice touch that makes the card feel complete and adds personality.

Sending Christmas cards doesn’t have to be stressful or overwhelming.

By following these simple tips, you’ll have a plan that makes the process enjoyable and meaningful. Whether you’re sending cards to family, friends, or clients, starting early and adding personal touches goes a long way in showing you care.

If you’re looking for the perfect card that reflects your personality and style, explore our Christmas card collection here at Allynn's. Each card is sure to bring joy to those on your list.