Hallmark Did Not Invent the Greeting Card

The very first Christmas Card by Sir Henry Cole

     During any holiday season you can not walk into a store and not see some form of a greeting card.  I have been caught saying, "Hallmark created the holiday to sell cards".

     Did you know the first Christmas card was designed in 1843 by Sir Henry Cole in the UK.  He partnered with John Horsley who did the art work.  They sold the cards for 1 shilling which equates to 8 cents today.

     In 1860 the printing process improved so cards could be printed in higher quantities.  By the 1900s giving Christmas cards had spread throughout Europe and became especially popular in Germany.  In 1915, John C. Hall and two of his brothers created Hallmark Cards, who are still one of the biggest card makers today!  So there is your history lesson for the day.

     I love receiving cards.  Especially now where we can use our photos on the cards to share with our family and friends how are children, grandchildren and families have grown or what vacation we were on.  It is so important to show our loved ones how we have grown, accomplishments, experiences and we can do it with cards and our photographs.

    Over the years there has been a decline in card giving in general.  Why not turn your card into a gift that can be kept out all year long.  So here is a thought.  Michael's has stunning frames that are inexpensive.  Instead of mailing the card, put the card in the frame and personally deliver it or mail it if you prefer.  Then mail your card next year and they now have a frame to update with the new card.  You can kick it up a notch and add a family photo on the back and the receiver can use that side in the frame.  It truly is a small gift that is full of thought and meaning.  A true gift that will keep on giving throughout the year.

    So I challenge you, take out your phone and pick 1, 2, 3 or more photos and lets have a conversation about what your card should look like.  All pricing includes shipping and white envelopes.  Below are some samples for inspiration and the link will bring you Etsy for more designs,

Blue Perfection Holiday Designs on Etsy