Bring the Joy Back to Christmas Cards

One of my favorite things about the holiday season has always been receiving Christmas cards. There's something so special about hearing from friends and family, especially those I haven’t heard from in a while. It’s a tradition that connects us, even across miles and busy lives. I love displaying the cards throughout the season and putting them on a ring to save. But in recent years, I’ve struggled to get my own cards out the door. For something I love so much, you’d think I’d prioritize it, right? Yet, life gets hectic, and before I know it, I’m scrambling—or worse, skipping it altogether.

And then, there’s the pressure. Every year it seems like Christmas cards have become a bit of a competition. The beautiful family portraits that were planned months in advance, the professionally designed cards, the perfect messages—it can feel like yet another “who can outdo who” moment. But sending cards doesn’t have to be about that. In fact, it shouldn't be. Christmas cards are about spreading joy and love, not stress or perfection.

So, let’s put the true meaning back into sending Christmas (or holiday) cards. If you're reading this and you haven't taken family pictures or even thought about cards this year- here are some tips to help you simplify the process, save money, and make this beautiful tradition more joyful and less of a chore! It's not too late for this year! I promise!

1. Affordable Photo Cards

Did you know drugstores have seriously stepped up their game when it comes to photo cards? They offer a variety of options that are both affordable and adorable. Whether you want a religious Christmas card or a simple New Year’s greeting, you’ll find what you’re looking for. And if you don’t make the Christmas deadline (it's o.k., it happens!), send out a New Year’s card instead! No one’s going to mind—it's the thought that counts.

2. Manage Your Address Book Easily

Remember the days of paper address books? You may not... but I do! Every time someone moved, you had to scratch out the old address and squeeze in the new one, usually on a sticky note. Well, say goodbye to that! Postable is an amazing free service that allows you to collect and organize addresses digitally. You can send a link to everyone in your virtual address book, and it will ask them to update their information. Postable even lets you print out an address list or, if you’re tech-savvy, print addresses directly onto labels or envelopes. Talk about a time-saver!

3. Don't Stress Over the Perfect Family Portrait

If you didn’t schedule a professional family portrait session this year, don’t worry! Use photos from your favorite memories throughout the year. Did your son play soccer? Did your daughter take dance? Use those fun, candid shots to capture the spirit of your family. And remember, you don’t have to send a photo card at all. Buy an affordable pack of Christmas cards from the store and use a small piece of double-sided tape to attach a family picture inside. The best part? The recipient can take the picture out and display it year-round!

4. Don't Stress Over the Perfect Family Portrait

Still don't think you can do it? If you're running short on time or your budget just doesn't allow for it this year- there are a TON of programs you can use to digitally decorate a picture to post on social media or to email out to friends/family! You don't even have to decorate it! Post a family picture with a heartfelt holiday message! Super simple!

Spread Joy

Remember, the point of Christmas/Holiday cards is to spread joy, not to put something else on your to do list that stresses you out. If you're not in a place to take this on this year- then don't! You don't have to and you shouldn't do it just because others are. If you're worried that you will be taken off of people's lists because they didn't receive one from you- then have a text ready to send! "Hey Susie! I just got your Christmas card! I absolutely love the picture of you and your family! I wanted you to know that I just didn't get my cards out this year, but I certainly appreciate being on your card list each year! Merry Christmas!" and leave it at that! People will understand!

If you DO feel like this is something you can tackle this year- I hope you'll use these tips and find Christmas cards to be a joyful, stress-free experience again! After all, it’s all about connection, not perfection.

Enjoy spreading a little holiday cheer this season!