Sending Out Holiday Cards: Preparation and Etiquette

Making A List, Checking It Twice

First things first, you need to know how many cards you'll need to buy.

In order to do this you’ll need to take the time to sit down and make a

list of all of the people you’d like to send greetings to. 

To make it easy, break it down by:

• Family
• Friends
• Co-workers
• Clients
• Neighbors
• Other (church folk, your knitting group, even your favorite mailman).

Tip: Put one star next to the people that will receive a family photo

and two stars for every person receiving a holiday newsletter.

Picking Out The Right Cards

Despite your own religious faith or traditions, it’s important to remember not everyone has the same beliefs or practices.

• In most cases, it’s safest to pick out neutral cards with “Happy Holidays!” or “Season’s Greetings!” type messages.
• Pick out the cards that best reflect you. Don’t be afraid to mix it up.
• Remember to personalize cards for husbands/wives, parents, and those close to us.

Filling Out The Cards

• If you’re a very busy person, consider printable cards or even have cards printed with a short message and signature.
• Remember to always sign your first name below the printed message.
• For close friends and family, write a short private message and add a family photo with the traditional holiday newsletter.

Sending the Cards

As long as the recipient will receive the card before Christmas, it isn’t important when you send them out.

• In the US, the Christmas season begins right after Thanksgiving.
• Give yourself ample time, aim to begin filling out the cards right after Thanksgiving.
• Send a card to everyone that has/will send you one.
• Remember, E-mail greetings (e-cards) should never be substituted for a real card. 

Learn how to track the cards and prepare their journey by reading our article on Creating the Perfect Invitation, Part 2.

Card Etiquette

• When signing your cards on behalf of the entire family,
  always begin with the father's name, followed by the mother's and the
  children, or simply write: "John, Jane and Family."
• Always mail cards for business associates to their office.
• If you’ve met a business associate’s family, mail the holiday card to their home.  
• When
  sending a card to a married woman who uses her maiden name at work, and
  married name personally, address the card with her married name.
  However, if she only uses her maiden name, it is acceptable to address
  the card to both using both recipients’ full names.

Card Etiquette courtesy of ezine.

With these helpful hints, you'll be sure to write the all your holiday

cards with ease and confidence. Spread the holiday joy and write on.

How To Write Good Cards

• Shop early for the best selection.
• Enlist the family to
  help out and make a miniature assembly line. One to write cards, one to
  stuff the cards, one to label, etc.
• Take advantage of downtime to complete cards. Write a few during lunch or even while you’re watching TV.

Courtesy of This Is CT.