Can you remember the last time you received a handwritten letter? A delicate card or even a tiny note addressed to you, and you only?… Focus on that moment, and how special it made you feel. How about the last time you wrote a loved one a letter, expressing how much they mean to you? If you have experienced either of these meaningful moments, you know the enchanting feeling that radiates from every word on the page.

The genuine gesture goes beyond the letter itself, it encompasses an entirely different feeling that has become nearly lost in today’s world. Amidst the ease and convenience of typing an email or sending a text within seconds, the act of sitting down to write a personal letter takes time, attention, and most of all, intent. Thoughtfulness transpires onto the page and that person will likely save that letter or card for years to come, unlike emails that will cycle into the never-ending stream of the internet. The reader will experience a newfound sense of recognition and acknowledgment, one they can physically hold close to their heart.

The art of handwritten letters breeds connection, sincerity, and appreciation in a timeless way that will never go out of style nor lose its value. Here are some examples of how to express your gratitude to those who make a difference in your life:

Thinking Of You 

It was an early afternoon on an ordinary Saturday and I went to the mailbox, as I flipped through the mail, there it was. A beautiful teal-colored envelope was addressed to me by a dear friend I hadn’t heard from recently. Before I even opened the envelope, I experienced this great feeling of excitement and joy. As I began to open the teal-colored linen notecard, I noticed her initials in cursive at the top and her message read, “I ran across a box of my things, recently, that I had long forgotten. I found all of the post-it notes and cards you gave me all those years ago. I just wanted you to know how much that means to me and the difference it made.” The letter continued to share details of her present-day life and at the very end she wrote, “I was originally just going to text you, but I decided otherwise.” I was so happy she did.  

Are you missing someone in your life that you lost contact with? We encourage you to reach out to that special person and let them know you’re thinking of them. Everyone could use a ‘pick-me-up’ from time to time as life gets chaotic and busy. There’s nothing like an unexpected “Thinking Of You” card, to remind you how much you matter and the difference you’ve made in that person’s life, and vice versa. As life is short, not everyone gets the chance to express those feelings of gratitude as the years go by, one small act can make an incredible impact on that person’s life, as well as your own.  

*eH insider tip: Matching your envelope with the pattern of your card makes all the difference in presentation appeal and transforms the card itself into a true gift – A present your loved ones can unwrap with excitement! 

Congratulations

What better way to express your support than with a heart-filled note of encouragement? Whether your friends, family, or coworkers are celebrating their birthday, anniversary, graduation, engagement, new home, new job offer, or newborn, there will always be a fresh chapter worth celebrating in your loved one’s life. Professional businesses can also send congratulatory acceptance letters to their new team members as a sign of respect, recognition, and excitement for their future endeavors. 

Through our life journeys, some friends and family may not always be able to be present for each accomplishment or milestone, but they’re there in spirit, cheering us on with hope and love. Handwritten letters give you the opportunity to celebrate that special event with them near or far. Sending a congratulatory letter, note, or card lets that person know you’re proud of them for accomplishing their dreams. Furthermore, the craft of writing the letter itself is a gift so rare and treasured amidst today’s technology-savvy era. 

*eH insider tip: Whether hosting your own celebration or accepting an invitation to another, you can add personal notes to each invitation or thank you card to add that extra appreciation to those who matter most to you. 

Season’s Greetings

As the cold weather approaches, as does the warm cheer of the Holidays. During the Holidays, it’s typical to exchange presents with loved ones or send them packages if they’re in another state. However, this is one of the best times of the year to express how much they mean to you. There’s no greater gift than knowing you matter deeply and make a significant difference in someone’s life ‒ It’s an unforgettable gift, one that will always be treasured and saved. 

*eH insider tip:  Sending Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and Happy New Year Cards are all great ways to share your noteworthy photos and memories with the ones you love. This is also a great opportunity to slip in a beautifully handwritten letter in the envelope! 

Sympathy 

Aside from the celebrations of life, there are also instances where our friends and family will need extra support in times of need.  Whether it be a tragic event of grieving over a loss in the family or undergoing an ailment, sending a Sympathy Card or Get Well Soon Card will let that person know you’re sending them your deepest condolences. This is a crucial part of any relationship, being there through the ups, downs, and curveballs of life. What you may view as a simple card, can serve as a pillar of light and strength to the recipient. A glimmer of hope and faith, to help carry them through their challenging time.

*eH insider tip: If you or someone you know is going through a grieving process or life adjustment, we believe that writing in a journal is a great way to express your thoughts and release them onto paper. One we hold dearly to our hearts and make a great gift, is this journal.

Generations

Last but certainly not least, one of the biggest takeaways from handwritten letters is the ability to revive an old-fashion, preserving the tradition of handwritten letters and their eternal value. The generations before us and before them know this all too well.  When the way of life was simpler, kinder, and when letters were a means of direct communication. Think about your grandfather writing to his beloved wife while he was away at war, times where people would count the days down till the following letter arrived, waiting desperately by the mailbox to hear from their loved ones. 

Sharing handwritten letters to your grandparents or older generations will not only allow them to enjoy the words you’ve taken the time to write them, but it will also allow them to reflect on their lives to all those meaningful moments where they exchanged letters. 
*eH insider tip: Bridging the generation gap with a handwritten letter can also blossom into a pen-pal companionship where handwritten letters can be sent back and forth on decorative paper, envelopes, and even with added artwork and crafts.

Ultimately, the art of handwritten letters is something that will always be admired for the meaning and tradition it carries. Don’t forget to share your favorite handwritten cards and envelopes with us –

 We’d love to see your beautiful creations!

To send a letter is a great way to travel somewhere without moving anything but your heart.

-eH