Sending Christmas cards is one of those traditions that feels timeless. Whether it’s a beautifully designed card that arrives in the mail or a heartfelt digital greeting, the act of reaching out during the holidays has always carried a sense of warmth and connection. But where did this custom begin, and how has it changed over time? Let’s reflect on the tradition of sending Christmas cards and its place in our lives today.
How It All Started
The Christmas card as we know it began in the 1840s in Victorian England. Sir Henry Cole, a man who worked tirelessly to make art and design more accessible, found himself overwhelmed by the task of writing personal holiday letters. He turned to his friend, artist John Callcott Horsley, and together they created the first printed Christmas card. It was a simple yet meaningful design: a family gathered around a table, with scenes of giving and charity on either side.
This new idea caught on quickly, especially with the introduction of affordable postage. People could suddenly share their holiday wishes with loved ones far away in a way that was both personal and efficient. By the late 19th century, Christmas cards had made their way to the United States, where they became just as beloved.
Art and Imagination in Holiday Cards
Early Christmas cards didn’t always stick to the holiday imagery we’re used to today. Victorian designs often included flowers, fairies, and other whimsical scenes. Over time, the focus shifted to snow-covered landscapes, cheerful Santas, and warm family gatherings.
One person who played a big role in this evolution was Louis Prang, a German immigrant to the United States. In the 1870s, he started producing beautifully printed cards with intricate designs. Known as the “father of the American Christmas card,” Prang helped elevate the art of these greetings, making them something to cherish.
Even today, the creativity behind the traditions of sending Christmas cards is inspiring. From hand-drawn illustrations to personalized photo collages, every card tells a story. And now, with the rise of digital collectible art, there’s an exciting new way for people to share unique, meaningful designs online.
More Than a Greeting
At its heart, a Christmas card is about connection. It’s a small but thoughtful gesture that says, “I’m thinking of you.” Before emails and social media, cards were one of the few ways to reach out across long distances. They were a tangible reminder of love and friendship, something you could hold onto and display.
Even today, when so much of our communication is digital, receiving a physical card feels special. The handwritten note, the carefully chosen design—it’s a tradition that many people still hold dear.
A Tradition That Adapts
Of course, like any tradition, Christmas cards have changed with the times. E-cards and digital greetings are now popular, offering a quicker and more eco-friendly option. Some people even combine old and new, sending a physical card with a QR code linking to a personalized video message.
While these innovations are exciting, they don’t take away from the essence of what a Christmas card represents. Whether it’s a traditional card or a modern digital creation, the goal is the same: to connect, share joy, and spread a little holiday cheer.
Why Christmas Cards Matter
There’s something comforting about traditions like sending holiday cards. They ground us, reminding us of the people we care about and the simple joys of the season. Even as the world changes, these small gestures carry the same weight they always have.
So, whether you’re designing a card from scratch, picking one from a store shelf, or creating a piece of digital collectible art, remember what it’s all about. It’s not just about the card itself but the thought behind it—the effort to reach out, share a message of kindness, and brighten someone’s day.
This year, as you continue the tradition of sending Christmas cards, take a moment to reflect on the journey you’re part of. Each card, whether mailed or sent online, is a thread in the tapestry of connection that makes this season so meaningful. And in a time when connection feels more important than ever, that’s something truly worth celebrating.
