Sending Christmas cards is a special part of the festive season. From the first year you write cards for your school friends, to the days you find yourself posting cards overseas in late November to ensure they reach family far away, Christmas cards are an often underrated part of the holidays. Bring back the magic of finding a personal message in the post this Christmas. Whether you decide to buy them, make them, post, email or hand deliver – everyone loves getting mail that isn’t a bill.
The custom of sending Christmas Cards was started in the UK in 1843. Saying ‘Merry Christmas’ with Hallmark is almost as old as this tradition itself, but these days you can make the message personal. Hallmark offer a range of greeting cards for Christmas, tailored to that special someone, that you can customize with names or photographs. A Christmas card that will be treasured for many years to come.
More of a ‘save the world, one Christmas Card at a time’ kinda person? Ecards are a great way to have a bit of fun, and save on paper and postage. Elf Yourself started a few years back and allows you to insert a photograph of your head, and those of a few friends, into a comical elf dance routine performed by elves. Jingle all the way!
The JibJab Ecards are similar, but give you more opportunity to choose your own amusing dance scene. This year you can twerk, race sleds, perform the reindeer Macarena or get into the holiday disco spirit. Heaps of fun for all ages, and sent to your entire address book at the click of a button.
Doing your bit for charity feels even more important during the festive season. The beautiful cards available at the Oxfam Shop will show your loved ones how much they mean to you, and help those in need over the holidays with proceeds supporting humanitarian efforts.
Companies and organisations can also work towards a future free of poverty by creating personalised corporate cards via Oxfam! The Oxfam Christmas Card Creator allows you to choose one of thirteen unique Christmas card designs, complete with your company logo. Order exactly as many as you require and wish clients and colleagues a very Merry Christmas.
One step further than simply sending a Christmas card is to purchase a CAREgift, and have them send you a gift card that you then give to someone special. You’ll be helping a community in need, and the card on the mantle will be a lovely reminder over the holiday season.
Feeling crafty? Head to your local craft shop and pick up some coloured paper, pens, glue and glitter. A great project to work on with the kids, you can create any kind of Christmas Card you want… go nuts! Grandparents especially will treasure these homemade creations. We love the great ideas you’ll find on Better Homes and Gardens.
Need some help knowing when to send things overseas, how much Christmas stamps costs or assistance with parcels? Visit Australia Post’s dedicated Christmas page for all the info you need.