Special touches to add to your cards

The very act of sending a card is unique these days. As people turn to technology to spread their well-wishes, those of us who love mail are finding more ways to create unique experiences when sending cards to people we love. One great way to spice up your cards is to add some interesting special touches. Here are a few to consider:

Interesting stamps 
Too many people forget that the packaging is a big part of sending a card! Envelopes and stamps can set the tone for the card inside. The U.S. Postal Service has a huge variety of stamps at any given time. Look for seasonal ones like Easter bunnies and flowers in springtime and Christmas trees during the winter. There are also fun celebrity options, like Elvis Presley or Johnny Cash. Go to the USPS website to browse their current options and even order stamps online.

Stand-out stickers 
Another great way to make your mail unique is to use stickers. If you have kids, let them get involved, too. Adding stickers doesn’t mean coating the entire envelope and card. Instead, placing stickers strategically – like on the point of the envelope closure – can prove useful and aesthetically pleasing. Craft stores offer a plethora of stickers, from summer-vacation themed beach accessories to funny sayings and even emojis. You’ll find stickers for every card recipient if you look long enough.

Photos 
Cards are personal. Many people treat them as keepsakes and store them for many years. You can add to the memories by including photos when you send cards. Here are some shots to consider:

• Holiday: Your family around a tree or menorah, everyone in their holiday best, a photo of your favorite pets in reindeer antler headbands.
• Birthday: A shot of the recipient from years past, a birthday cake you made for him or her, your kids wearing birthday hats in celebration of the recipient.
• Get well: A picture of you with the person so they can remember good times when he or she was healthier, an image of your dog or cat to cheer the person up.
• Thank you: If the recipient sent you money or a present, send him or her a photo of you with the gift or of the item you purchased with his or her help to show you loved it.

Interesting writing styles 
One of the most personal parts of a card is the writing. Just seeing the script of someone you love can brighten your day. For this reason, avoid typing on a card. Write in your regular handwriting if you know the recipient can easily read it. Or, consider taking calligraphy classes. This beautiful, flowing style of writing can elevate the recipient’s experience by making your words fancy and elegant. Calligraphy looks amazing when used to write your address and that of the recipient, as well as whatever well wishes prompted you to send the card. You can even look up writing styles on YouTube to add to your repertoire.