How to Choose Christmas Cards That Feel Personal

Some Christmas cards get a polite smile. Others make someone say, “That is so me.” Those are the ones I love.

 

Choosing a card doesn’t have to mean finding the grandest design or writing the longest message. Sometimes a little illustration, a silly pun or a reference to something you both love says more than a whole paragraph.

If you’re starting your Christmas card list this November, here are a few ways to make each card feel a little more personal.

Start with the person, not the Christmas checklist

Before choosing a design, think about who you’re sending it to. Are they the friend who always makes you laugh? The foodie with very strong opinions about snacks? The person who loves something a little unusual?

A card that matches their personality feels chosen, rather than simply ticked off a list. You don’t need a different design for absolutely everyone, but picking out a few especially fitting cards can make the whole experience more enjoyable.

Let a little humour do the talking

Christmas messages don’t have to be serious to be thoughtful. A playful card can be a lovely way to celebrate the kind of friendship built on shared jokes, terrible puns and laughing at the same things.

My tin-shaped Christmas cards bring a little fishy fun to the festive season. “Have a Fin-tastic Christmas” is the sort of greeting I’d choose for someone who appreciates a pun and a design that’s a bit different from the usual Christmas card.

You can keep the message inside simple, too: “A little festive cheer for my favourite catch. Can’t wait to see you soon!”

Choose artwork you genuinely enjoy

A Christmas card can be a tiny piece of art as well as a seasonal greeting. Look for colours, details and illustrations that make you pause and smile.

I create the original illustrations for Be Unique by Romy here in Brighton. My cards are a way to share those designs in a small, personal format, whether you’re sending a festive hello across the country or handing one to a friend over a cup of tea.

You don’t need to know exactly how someone will display their card. Choosing artwork you think they’ll enjoy is a thoughtful starting point.

Add one detail that could only come from you

If writing Christmas cards leaves you staring at a blank page, try adding one specific detail rather than searching for the perfect seasonal greeting.

It might be a memory from this year, a thank-you for something they did, or a plan you’re looking forward to together.

For a friend: “Still laughing about our seaside day out. Here’s to more adventures, and fewer seagulls stealing lunch, next year.”

For someone who has supported you: “Thank you for being there this year. It meant more than I probably managed to say at the time.”

For someone you haven’t seen enough: “We’re overdue a proper catch-up. Let’s make time for one in the new year.”

A few honest words are enough. You don’t have to turn every card into a letter.

Include someone who might not expect a card

Your Christmas list doesn’t have to stop at close friends and family. A neighbour, a helpful colleague or someone who made your year a little easier might appreciate a small festive thank-you.

Keep it warm and uncomplicated: “Thank you for all your kindness this year. Wishing you a lovely Christmas.”

It’s a small gesture, but it gives you a chance to say something that can easily get lost in the everyday rush.

Give yourself time to enjoy sending them

Choosing cards in November gives you a little breathing room to write them gradually rather than all at once. Put a few aside for an evening, make a cup of tea and start with the people whose messages come easily.

If you’re posting cards, check the current delivery guidance for your destination before sending them. For cards you’ll give in person, keeping a small stack ready can make the festive season feel a little less last-minute.

A small card, chosen with care

The best Christmas card isn’t necessarily the biggest or the most traditional. It’s one that feels right for the person receiving it, with a message that sounds like you.

If you’re looking for illustrated Christmas cards with a little character, browse my Christmas card collection and choose a little festive cheer for someone on your list.

Romy x