Holiday Card Etiquette: When to Send, Who to Include, and What to Say
Holiday cards are one of the best traditions of the season. They’re sweet, nostalgic, and full of personality. But if you’ve ever wondered who to include, what to say, or when to send your cards, you’re not alone! That’s why we’ve created this quick and cheerful guide to help you master the basics of Christmas card etiquette (without getting too stuffy about it).
Let’s jump in, and nail your Christmas card game this year!
Who Should Be in Your Christmas Card Photo?
Short answer: whoever makes your card feel like you!
If you’ve got one great family photo, go with it! Your immediate family (parents, kids, pets!) is the classic lineup, and always a hit. But if your card is more of a year-in-review or you’re using a collage-style design, feel free to include snaps from vacations, birthday parties, friend get-togethers, or even sports games.
Are you a proud grandparent? Including your grandkids on your Christmas card is the sweetest idea and creating a grandparent Christmas card is sure to warm hearts!
Some people even make a card with just their pets. And honestly? Iconic.
There’s no right or wrong, just go with photos that bring you joy
What to Say (And What Not to Say)
Your message doesn’t need to be fancy or formal. Just a warm greeting and a little love go a long way! Here are a few tips:
Good things to say in a holiday card:
- “Wishing you peace, love, and joy this holiday season!”
- “Merry Christmas from our family to yours.”
- “Hope your holidays sparkle as bright as you do!”
- “What a year it’s been! Here’s to more good things ahead.”
What not to say in your holiday card:
- Anything overly negative or heavy (save that for a heartfelt letter to a close friend, not your mail carrier).
- TMI-style updates (“Our dog had emergency surgery, but he’s okay now, except for the limp.”)
- Political rants. Holiday cards are for bringing people together!
Keep it light, heartfelt, and happy.
Who Should You Send Your Cards To?
Start with your core list: family and close friends. From there, think about:
- Neighbors
- Teachers or coaches
- Your hairdresser, babysitter and the others who keep your life together!
- Old friends you still love but don’t see much
- Coworkers or clients you’ve connected with
There’s no rule about how big your list has to be. If you’re sending 20 cards or 200, what matters is the thought behind each one.
Pro tip: Make a digital spreadsheet or keep a running note on your phone with names and addresses. You can even upload it and we’ll print your envelopes for you!
When to Order and Send Your Holiday Cards
Wondering when to actually do this? Great question.
When to Order:
Late October to early November is ideal. That gives you plenty of time to design your card, proof it, and avoid the December rush.
When to Send:
Aim to have your cards in the mail between December 1–15. That sweet spot ensures they arrive before the holidays (and don’t get lost in the last-minute mail avalanche).
If you’re running behind? No worries! New Year’s cards are a totally legit option.
Bonus Tips from Team Pear Tree:
- Use your return address. It’s helpful for anyone who wants to send a card back, and it’s one of the best ways to double-check your mailing list.
- Don’t stress about perfection. So your kid blinked in the photo? Or your card arrives a few days after Christmas? No one cares. Really.
- Have fun with it! Add a silly message, include a funny family update, or pick a unique card shape (hello, scalloped edges!).
Holiday cards aren’t about being perfect. They’re about sharing a moment of connection, giving your loved ones a glimpse into your life, and spreading some well-deserved cheer. So don’t overthink it! Just find a card you love, fill it with warmth, and let us help you bring it to life.
