Christmas Letter Guide: Tips for Creating a Heartwarming Holiday Update

The holiday season is here! Thanksgiving is quickly approaching. Next, comes Christmas! Do you plan to send out Christmas cards? Consider enclosing a Christmas letter. An annual Christmas letter is a great way to update friends and family on your year. If you need some tips to start, here’s a basic structure you can follow.

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  1. Opening Greeting: Start with a warm holiday greeting. Example: “Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from the [Your Last Name] family!”
  2. Reflect on the Past Year: Highlight key moments and updates. Example: “It’s been an eventful year for us. In the spring, we took a road trip through the mountains. Later in the summer, we welcomed a new family member. Our dog, Max!”
  3. Family/Individual Updates: Share major milestones for each family member.”John started a new job in April and is loving the challenge. Sarah graduated from high school and is off to college!”
  4. Highlights of the Year: Talk about vacations, achievements, or memorable experiences. “This year we finally took our dream trip to Italy. The food, sights, and culture were unforgettable!”
  5. Challenges and Growth: If comfortable, mention any struggles and what you’ve learned. “Like many, we faced some challenges, but through it all, we have become even closer as a family.”
  6. Looking Forward: Share hopes and plans for the upcoming year. “We’re excited for what 2025 will bring, including a new addition to the family (due in March!)”
  7. Closing Wishes: End with warm wishes for the holidays and the new year. “Wishing you a joyful holiday season filled with love, laughter, and peace. Here’s to a happy and healthy 2025!”

Personalize your letter with humor, anecdotes, or photos for added warmth! Use decorative Christmas paper to print out your letter. Slide your letter into a Christmas card and send it out to family and friends. Merry Christmas!

Christmas Card Day

Did you know that today, on December 9, 2023, we celebrate Christmas Card Day? It’s the perfect occasion to spread some festive cheer by sending out beautiful Christmas cards to your loved ones. This beloved holiday tradition has a rich history and is a wonderful way to express your warm wishes and heartfelt joy during this special season. So, get into the festive spirit and start spreading smiles with delightful Christmas cards!

The tradition of sending Christmas cards dates to the 19th century. The first commercial Christmas card is often attributed to Sir Henry Cole, a British civil servant, who in 1843 commissioned an artist named John Horsley to create a card with a festive design and a message that could be sent to friends and acquaintances.

Early Christmas cards were quite expensive and mainly exchanged among the wealthy. However, with advancements in printing technology and reduced costs, the practice of sending Christmas cards became more widespread. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, postcards featuring holiday-themed illustrations and greetings gained popularity.

Over time, Christmas cards evolved to feature a wide range of designs, from religious themes to secular images like Santa Claus. The custom of exchanging Christmas cards has continued to be a popular way to send holiday greetings and well wishes to loved ones, friends, and associates during the holiday season.

Do you send Christmas cards? Merry Christmas!