Guide Note

Every year, billions of Christmas cards are sent to celebrate the Christmas season. Christmas cards can be store bought or homemade, electronic or paper, elaborate or simple, religious or secular.

Fast Facts

1. Generally exchanged throughout the Christmas season
2. Card themes generally range from iconic Christian images and themes, to secular and even humorous themes
3. "Christmas newsletter" sometimes included to update the recipient on the sender's life
4. Christmas cards are meant to be received by Christmas, but some stretch the time period for giving into the New Year
5. Originated in England in mid-1800s
6. Christmas postcards available
7. Photo cards popular
8. Traditional greeting: "Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year"

1. Make a list of recipients
2. Make sure you have necessary addresses
3. Shop for or make enough cards, plus a couple extra
4. Purchase holiday-themed stamps
5. Inscribe cards with a festive note or personal greeting
6. Don't forget to sign them!
7. Make sure you properly address and stamp the card, and include a return address
8. Mail about two weeks before Christmas to ensure timely delivery