Writing Christmas cards requires thoughtful consideration whether you’re sending them to friends, family, or business contacts.
Personal Christmas Card Guidelines
A personal Christmas card should reflect your genuine relationship with the recipient and include specific details about shared memories or experiences.
Essential Elements for Personal Cards:
- Handwritten message
- Personal greeting using first names
- Reference to recent interactions or shared moments
- Family updates (if appropriate)
- Warm closing sentiment
Professional Christmas Card Etiquette
Business Christmas cards should maintain professionalism while showing appreciation for the professional relationship.
Key Components for Professional Cards:
- Use proper titles (Mr., Ms., Dr.)
- Keep messages brief and professional
- Address to both individual and their team if applicable
- Include your business contact information
Timing Guidelines
| Recipient Location | Send By Date |
|---|---|
| Domestic | December 15th |
| International | December 1st |
Sample Greetings
Personal:
- “Wishing you joy and warmth this Christmas”
- “May your holiday season be filled with laughter”
- “Thinking of you and your family this Christmas”
Professional:
- “Season’s Greetings and Best Wishes for the New Year”
- “Thank you for your continued partnership”
- “Wishing you success and happiness in the coming year”
Cultural Considerations
Consider sending holiday cards rather than specifically Christmas cards when unsure of the recipient’s religious observations.
Quick Tips
- Always proofread before sending
- Keep a list of sent cards to avoid duplicates
- Save addresses for next year
- Sign cards by hand, even if printed
- Include return address on envelopes
Remember to check current postal rates and delivery schedules during the holiday season to ensure timely delivery.
Special Considerations
Environmental Impact
- Consider eco-friendly card options
- Use recycled paper products
- Send electronic cards when appropriate
- Save and reuse packaging materials
Digital Alternatives
While traditional cards remain popular, digital options offer convenient alternatives for modern communication.
Digital Card Benefits:
- Immediate delivery
- Cost-effective
- Environmentally friendly
- Easy to personalize
- Include multimedia elements
Storage and Organization
- Create a digital address database
- Track responses and updates
- File received cards for reference
- Update contact information annually
Conclusion
Successful Christmas card writing combines thoughtful personalization with proper timing and attention to detail. Whether choosing traditional or digital formats, maintaining genuine connections and respecting cultural differences ensures your holiday greetings are well-received and meaningful. Remember to plan ahead, stay organized, and consider environmental impact when selecting your cards.
Final Checklist:
- Update address list
- Choose appropriate cards for each recipient
- Schedule adequate time for writing
- Mail according to recommended deadlines
- Keep records for next year
FAQs
- What is the appropriate time to send Christmas cards?
For domestic mail, send cards 1-2 weeks before Christmas. For international destinations, mail them 3-4 weeks in advance to ensure timely delivery. - Should I handwrite or print my Christmas cards?
Handwritten cards are more personal and traditional, especially for close friends and family. Printed cards are acceptable for large-volume business mailings or when sending to numerous recipients. - What’s the proper greeting to use in professional Christmas cards?
Use “Season’s Greetings” or “Happy Holidays” for professional or business contacts to maintain inclusivity. “Merry Christmas” is more appropriate for those you know celebrate the holiday. - How do I sign a card from a family?
List names in order: parents first, then children (either by age or alphabetically). For example: “From John, Mary, Emma, and Jack Smith” or “The Smith Family.” - What personal message should I include in a Christmas card?
Include a brief personal note referencing shared memories, recent events, or specific wishes for the recipient. Keep it concise but genuine. - How do I address Christmas cards to multiple recipients?
For married couples, write “Mr. and Mrs. [Last Name]” or both full names. For families, write “The [Last Name] Family” or list individual names. - Is it appropriate to include a family newsletter in Christmas cards?
Yes, but keep it concise and positive. Focus on major life events and achievements from the past year without excessive detail. - What should I avoid writing in business Christmas cards?
Avoid overly personal messages, religious references (unless you know their beliefs), and sales pitches. Keep the tone professional and warm. - How should I handle religious differences when sending Christmas cards?
Choose neutral designs and greetings like “Season’s Greetings” or “Happy Holidays” when unsure of the recipient’s religious beliefs or celebrations. - Should I send cards to people who didn’t send me one last year?
Yes, if you wish to maintain the relationship. Card-sending shouldn’t be viewed as a reciprocal obligation, but rather as a genuine gesture of goodwill.
