9 People You Should Send Christmas Cards To
Ah, Christmastime. The season of joy, hope… and list-making. Between mid-November and late December, lists tend to multiply like glitter at a kindergarten craft party. Gift lists. Grocery lists. RSVP lists. Yikes.
But let’s take a deep breath and focus on the most joyful list of all: your Christmas card list!
Whether you’re a seasoned sender or mailing cards for the first time, figuring out who to send Christmas cards to can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry! We’re here to help you build your holiday card mailing list one merry name at a time.
Let’s get into it!
1. Family Members
Our best Christmas card etiquette: Family first! A Christmas card is the perfect way to send warm fuzzies and photo updates to your loved ones, especially the ones who aren’t on Instagram.
But what about that one cousin you haven’t talked to in five years?
If you’re unsure, ask yourself: Would this card make them smile? If the answer is yes, go ahead and add them to your list.
2. Friends Near and Far
We don’t choose our family, but we do choose our friends, so make sure the VIPs in your social circle get a spot on your Christmas card list. You might want to organize them like this:
- Childhood friends
- College roommates
- Besties you talk to daily
- Work friends (past and present)
- Book club, sports leagues, church groups
- Families of your kids’ friends
Your list might be long, and that’s okay! That just means you’re loved.
3. Favorite Coworkers
Office holiday parties are optional. Sending cards to your favorite coworkers? Highly encouraged.
If you work on a small team, send one to everyone. If you work with hundreds of people, just send cards to those you’re close with (or your “lunch crew”).
And if you’re a manager, make sure you send cards to your direct reports. Bonus points if you personalize them a little - holiday morale matters!
4. Your Kids' People
From preschool pals to college roommates, your kids’ friends and their families are great additions to your holiday card mailing list. Even if you don’t know them well, it’s a lovely gesture that spreads cheer and builds connection.
5. Teachers & Daycare Providers
Don’t forget the people who take care of your kiddos day in and day out.
Send a card to:
- Teachers
- Aides and classroom assistants
- School counselors
- Principals and administrators
- Gym, music, and art teachers
- Daycare staff and babysitters
Pair it with a heartfelt note or small gift for major gold star energy.
And if your pet has a sitter or groomer? They count, too!
6. Service Providers
Think about everyone who makes your year run smoothly. These are people who totally deserve a holiday high five (in the form of a card).
Add to your list:
- Your doctor or pediatrician
- Dentists and orthodontists
- Your hair stylist or nail tech
- Chiropractor or massage therapist
- Your mechanic
- Your dog groomer
These folks work hard all year - let them know you appreciate them!
7. Your Neighbors
If you have awesome neighbors, they’re a no-brainer. But even if you only wave hello once in a while, a holiday card is a kind, friendly gesture.
Who knows, you might spark a new friendship (or at least earn a few extra snow-blowing points).
8. Community Heros & Helpers
Including community service providers on your list is such a meaningful way to spread joy.
Consider sending a card to:
- Your mail carrier or UPS driver
- Local firefighters
- Police officers
- Garbage and recycling workers
- City office staff
Just address it to their department or station, and know that you’re making someone’s day.
9. Military Members
Even if you don’t personally know someone in the military, you can send cards to troops overseas through organizations like Operation Christmas Cards for Our Troops (via United Soldiers and Sailors of America).
A kind message from a stranger can bring big comfort during the holidays.
Bonus: Let Us Help You Mail Them
Too busy to hand-address and stamp 87 envelopes? Let us do the hard part! Pear Tree offers holiday card mailing services. We’ll professionally print, address, stamp, and send your cards for you. That means you can enjoy more cocoa and less carpal tunnel.
Start by browsing our collection of Christmas cards and select “Mail For Me” during checkout!
Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas Card Mailing Lists
How do you decide who gets a Christmas card?
Start with the people you communicate with regularly, including family members, close friends, neighbors, coworkers, teachers, and longtime acquaintances. Christmas cards are a thoughtful way to maintain relationships, so consider anyone you'd like to stay connected with throughout the year.
Should you send Christmas cards to coworkers?
Sending Christmas cards to coworkers is optional and depends on your workplace relationships. Many people send cards to close colleagues, mentors, managers, or clients. If you're unsure, a simple holiday card is a professional and thoughtful gesture that can help strengthen personal and business connections.
Do you have to send a Christmas card every year?
No. While many families send annual holiday cards, there is no rule requiring you to do so every year. Life events, budget considerations, or changing circumstances may affect your decision. Most recipients understand if you occasionally skip a year.
Is it rude to stop sending Christmas cards to someone?
Not necessarily. Mailing lists naturally change over time as relationships evolve. If you've lost touch with someone or are reducing your card list, most people will not view it as rude. Focus on sending cards to the people who matter most to you today.
Should you send Christmas cards to people who don't send one to you?
Holiday cards should be given because you want to share holiday greetings, not because you expect a card in return. If you enjoy staying connected with someone, continue sending a card regardless of whether they consistently send one back.
How can you reduce your Christmas card list without offending people?
Consider prioritizing immediate family, close friends, and meaningful relationships. You can also alternate lists every other year or send digital greetings to more casual contacts. Most recipients understand that holiday card lists change over time.
When should Christmas cards be mailed?
For the best chance of arriving before Christmas, mail holiday cards in late November or early December. If you're sending cards internationally, it's a good idea to mail them even earlier to account for longer delivery times.
