Sending out holiday cards is a process. Gathering mailing addresses, finding the right design, photo, color scheme and getting postage is overwhelming just thinking about it. After the experience of stuffing and addressing 200 wedding invitations, I did not want to send out anything for a while. This year I used Shutterfly and the holiday card nightmare is finally over!
Now I’ve learned how to make the process of sending out cards enjoyable. Not waiting to the last minute is the best piece of advice I can give. October may seem ridiculous, but it really helps to have all your cards and stationery ordered. Starting this process one-two months before the holidays helps! The second trick is to choose a manageable amount of cards to send out. It is tough to narrow down a long list of friends, family and colleagues, but sending cards out to folks who will appreciate the thought will save a headache.
Design is always my top priority! It is so important to me to send out something that reflects our style and personalities. I love these, with “Joy” printed in huge letters and gold foil polka dots! Our wedding and apartment were great reflections and we want our holiday cards to feel the same. Great holiday cards with photos really allow that to happen. That way as soon as someone opens the card they know it’s us, besides the giant photo of course! And choosing a photo is really tough for me. I’m not one to take cliche holiday photos, though props to you if you do. I think a nice photo taken at any point in the year is great to showcase on a card. Everyone always wants a new photo of your family and a holiday card, so two birds with one stone right!
I have few tips for actually handling the process of sending out holiday cards once your order arrives.
- First block out a nice set of time to address, label and stamp your cards. Ordering pre-made address labels and stamps makes this step so much easier!
- Make yourself a warm drink and get cozy. Pumpkin spice latte, chai tea, apple cider whatever you love!
- Put on a holiday movie or music to get yourself in the spirit. I love watching Love, Actually and playing Mariah Carey’s holiday album on repeat.
- Enlist help! Get your husband, kids, roommate or anyone nearby to assist with the assembly line of addressing, stamping and sealing.
- Celebrate when you’re done. Eat some holiday cookies, drink a glass of egg nog or go out! Tackling holiday cards is big accomplishment :)
Are you planning to send out cards this holiday season? I really recommend using Shutterfly as a one stop stop. You can customize, get all your materials and ensure your order will arrive on time. I’m looking forward to sending out cards for the first time thanks to the convenience!
All photography by Planning Pretty. Photography shown on card by Sun & Sparrow
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