The Blog

A holiday card is one of the season’s simplest yet most enduring courtesies. It extends warmth, expresses gratitude, and reminds others that they hold a place in your thoughts. Below is a refined guide, inspired by the classic principles of Emily Post, for sending your greetings with grace.

1. When to Order Your Cards

• Early November is ideal—especially for personalized designs. Ordering early means. More time to address and mail cards and better chances of beating shipping delays.
• Mid-November - still completely acceptable but you many run into Thanksgiving shipping delays.
• Early December - You may be living on the edge a bit - but if you're a quick addresser or choose rush shipping and/or return and recipient addressing, you can still have your cards mailed in time. See below for the ideal time to mail cards.

2. When to Send Your Cards

• Ideal Mail Window: Just before Thanksgiving through the second week of December.
• For business or professional contacts: Earlier is preferable, as it avoids the holiday rush.
• For international mail: Allow an additional two to three weeks.

Sending early is never impolite; it simply ensures your goodwill arrives without hurry.

3. What to Write Inside

• A seasonal greeting
• A line or two expressing good wishes
  

Remember:  simplicity, sincerity, and warmth are the benchmarks of good correspondence.

4. How to Sign Your Name

5. How to Address Your Envelopes

In traditional etiquette, the envelope is nearly as important as the card itself.

• Double-check spellings—accuracy is a courtesy.
• Ensure return addresses are clear and neatly placed.

6. Mailing Your Cards

Aim to drop cards in the mail no later than December 15th for domestic delivery.
Square envelopes or heavier cards may require additional postage—always check before mailing.

7. When You Receive a Card

If someone unexpected sends you a holiday card, reciprocate promptly. It is entirely proper to reply through New Year’s and even into early January.

8. Above All: Thoughtfulness

Emily Post’s guiding principle remains evergreen: kindness first.
A holiday card, however simple, becomes a gracious gesture when offered with sincerity.