Hand-written cards – anachronism or accolade? Nowadays, there are many "e-ways" to say thank you, wish someone good luck for the coming year, or maintain a relationship by showing business partners and friends your respect and appreciation. Some consider hand-writing a card or letter to be old-fashioned, and more than one amongst our readers may think writing a card sends a signal of being strange, out-dated, or wasting time instead of being efficient and fast by using the modern means of technology. Sending cards during the festive season is certainly a matter of personal preference and style, and is dependent upon one's cultural background. Good etiquette practices do say though, that by giving thought to the selection of a nice card, writing it with your own hand, and sending it by post mail, you can make a clear statement of tribute that will be recognized by your grateful recipient. To find out more about proper card communication during special festive occasions such as Christmas or Chinese New Year, read on… History A form of Christmas card first began in England when young boys practiced their writing skills by creating Christmas greetings for their parents, but it is Sir Henry Cole who is credited with creating the first 'real' Christmas card. The first director of London's Victoria and Albert Museum, Sir Henry found himself too busy in the Christmas season of 1843 to compose individual Christmas greetings for his friends. He thereby commissioned artist John Calcott Horsley to illustrate a card featuring three panels, with the center panel depicting a family enjoying Christmas festivities and an inscribed message "A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to You". Time If you do choose to send a card, usually the best time is one to two weeks ahead of the actual festival. Receiving a card the very day before the holiday is not good etiquette, as it may come across as if the recipient was thought of at the last minute. In addition, the recipient may have no time to reciprocate and may be disappointed instead of pleased. There is also the practical advantage of writing your cards before you are too busy with the festival itself. Writing multiple cards can take longer than expected, and writing good wishes under pressure reduces your own sense of satisfaction. Card style Consider what type of card you send - there are varied religious backgrounds and beliefs the world over. A non-denominational card that says "Season's Greetings" or "Happy Holidays" is usually more universal than one with "Merry Christmas" or "Happy Hanukkah" on the front. For business partners, stay away from "cute" images of puppies or Hello Kitty – stick with the traditional images of the festival. Hand-write Always hand-write the recipient's address. A computer printed font on a stick-on label is standard for a business envelope, but for the festive season, we believe it is imperative to use your pen to actually write the full address. Also, include your return address on the envelope, so the recipient can check they have your current address, and if the recipient wants to send a card to you, they have your address immediately on hand. And remember - seal the envelope. Personalize When sending holiday cards to clients (as well as to family and friends), always take the time to write a brief, personal message in your own handwriting and sign your name. By personalizing a card, the receiver knows that you made a special effort to acknowledge them. Postage Make sure you pay enough postage, since larger or heavier cards may cost more than the standard rates. If you are not sure, take the cards to the post office to have them weighed and checked. Double-check As with any form of written communication, check before sending. Make sure you have the card properly addressed, each card has been signed, a personal note has been written inside and the postage is correct. Once you've completed the final check and everything is fine, you're ready to send the cards off. e-Cards Sometimes an email address is the only contact method we have for people. If this is the case, e-cards are perfectly acceptable ways to make contact. If you can, add a personalized message as well. It is also advised not use an e-card in reply to a paper card. It could appear that you have put less thought and effort into it, and ‘matching’ others is a good recipe for connecting with them. Breaking the rules Surely not… we have only just explained these! Why do we send cards at all? Apart from spiritual purposes, it shows extra respect/formality with important relationships, to use the festival as a way to remember special people we do not see very often (as if to say “we don’t see you, but we haven’t forgotten you”). An alternative to writing is to make a phone call. It is not as formal and can take more time, but it is personal, and allows for two-way communication. The cards are a tradition, but what is comfortable for you, and what is right for the relationship, come first. Wishing you all a happy festive season, and a successful year ahead! Go to overview ->