Handwritten Christmas Cards: Whom to Send One To & What to Say
I don’t know who needs to hear this, but…you do not need to send a family photo Christmas card.
It seems like this trend has really taken off in the past 10-15 years, and while I have nothing against sending them (our family sends them most years too!), it definitely runs the risk of adding to the holiday stress, creating an added expense, and tends to be a little self-focused, leaving many with lingering feelings of comparison (or is it just me?).
On the flip side, sitting down to write a handful of handwritten Christmas cards is relaxing and contemplative; giving you time to turn the attention away from yourself and onto others as you reflect on those you’re thankful for, those that may be hurting this time of year, or those you long to see. This heart posture aligns ourselves more deeply with the purpose of the Christmas season, and allows you to spread the good news of our Savior’s birth in a much more personal and meaningful way.
If you long to share the hope of Christ with those you love in a more personal way, here are a few tips and writing prompts to help you share some genuine Christmas greetings through this holiday season.
Whom to send a Christmas card to
Do you need to send a handwritten Christmas card to all the people you would normally send your family photo card to? I say no! I suggest grabbing a box of 6 Christmas cards from the shop and focusing on a handful of people you may know like this:
Someone that is grieving this Christmas season or someone you know that Christmas is especially hard for. (I designed this card with this situation in mind).
Shut-ins: those struggling with health or other circumstances that keep them from gathering with their church body or family (ask your Pastor if there are any members that could be cheered by a thoughtful Christmas card).
Someone you have been especially grateful for but haven't formally thanked them yet this year.
Someone you might normally see over Christmas but won't this year due to travel, moving, illness, or a difficult life season.
Someone you haven't seen or heard from in a while but would like to reach out to and reconnect with—a holiday is always a great excuse to do so!
Teachers, service workers, or those that work long hours during the holidays.
What to write in a Christmas Card
Here are a few templates, tips, and prompts to consider using as you write some Christmas cards. Many of these are borrowed from Christmas cards I’ve sent this year! Tailor these to fit your own voice, or just use them to get the inspiration flowing as you sit down to write.
a couple quick Christmas Card writing tips:
Have there been any (good) major life changes for your card recipient in the last year? (Examples: new baby, new house, just married.) If so, consider starting your card with “God’s blessings to you this first Christmas as [homeowners, a family of 3, a married couple]!” and sharing some blessings or prayers for them with that new season in mind.
I love using the sentiment on the front of the card (i.e. Immanuel, Goodness & Light, Comfort & Joy) to inspire what I write on the inside as a jumping off point.
Christmas card for those that are grieving:
This type of card is often the hardest to write, so I pray this helps give you the words to say! When writing to someone grieving or hurting over the holidays, I think it’s important to highlight the hope that Jesus brings in the midst of darkness, but important to not try to “cheer them up.” They need to know that they’re seen in their grief, be reminded that you care, and that our Savior came into the world because He cares too. Keep that as your focus. Below is just one example:
“[Recipient Name],
Sending hugs, love, and lots of prayer to you & your family this first Christmas without _________. I hope you know it’s okay to not feel very “joyful” this Christmas season, but to fully lean into the longing for things to be different and for Jesus to come make things new—that is the very reason He came into the world and is coming back again. May you find some hope in Him as you walk through this Christmas Season.
Much love in Christ,
[your name (and phone number to offer ongoing support]”
Christmas card for shut-ins:
“[Recipient name],
Sending you the hope and light of Christ this Christmas from your [church name] family. We long to worship alongside you again one day, and continue to pray for you that [specific prayer] and [specific prayer]. Thanking God that he sent Immanuel: God With Us, to be near to us at all times and bring joy to weary hearts.
Merry Christmas,
[Your name and phone number to connect more]”
”Thankful for You” Christmas Card:
“Merry Christmas, [Recipient Name]!
Words can’t describe how grateful we are for your presence & support in our lives through the years. You are truly a gift to us by [specific thing you’re thankful for] and [specific thing you’re thankful for]. The Lord has truly blessed us through you! Praying you have a wonderful Christmas celebrating our gracious Savior’s birth.
Much love,
[your name]”
”thinking of you” Christmas Card:
“Sending you the goodness + light that only our Savior can bring this Christmas! I miss you lots and think of you often! Praying for your family in [something specific you know they may be struggling with, or offer continued prayers for blessings on something current in their life]. Would love to catch up soon after the holidays!
Much love,
[your name (and phone number if you want to connect more!]”
”Sorry we missed you” Christmas card:
“[Recipient Name],
I’m so sad we missed seeing you this Christmas, but I wanted to be sure you knew I was thinking of you and how thankful I am for you! I’m blessed to always have such a _______ and _______ [friend/family member] in my life.
Praying you have a blessed Christmas season with your family and a happy new year! I hope to see you soon after the holidays.
Much love,
[your name (and phone number if you want to connect more)]”
Christmas card for friends/family you haven’t seen in a while:
“Sending comfort + joy to you this Christmas season! Praying you all are doing well and finding joy in this season celebrating Immanuel; God With Us! [Share some personal or family updates they may not know such as how your kids are doing, what grade they’re in, how your work/job is going, notable vacations, how you spend most of your time].
Looking forward to seeing you soon and hearing more about how you all are doing!
God’s continued blessings to you in the New Year!
With love,
[your name]”
Christmas card for holiday laborers:
“Merry Christmas!
We’re so blessed by your labor during a time of year that most get to rest. Praying you may find rest in our Savior, and comfort that your hard work does not go unseen by Him.
God’s blessings to you in the New Year!
[Your Name]”
(Consider slipping in a gift card of some kind!)
What Christmas Cards to Send
Each one of our Christmas card designs are available as a single card or as a box of 6 to help you save money as you stock up on your Christmas cards. You can also shop three different assorted box sets of 6 Christmas cards to easily mix up your Christmas card selection while saving money!
A few noteworthy Christmas cards:
This new Colorful Christmas Card Assorted Box Set featuring two new Christmas cards!
This card is perfect to send to those that are grieving over the holidays. If you want to add a gift, this Tea Towel also features lyrics from the same hymn.
This card has been a crowd favorite for years, the little Christmas village is just so sweet!
