Holiday Cards You’ll Love to Send That Last Beyond the Season

Holiday Cards You’ll Love to Send That Last Beyond the Season

Assortment of five white plantable seed paper holiday cards with watercolor designs including Christmas bells, a cardinal on a pine branch, colorful ornaments, a festive wreath, and a Christmas tree, arranged on a white background

Holiday cards, including Christmas cards and eco-friendly holiday cards, are more than just pieces of paper with greetings. They are a seasonal tradition that connects people, expresses gratitude, and spreads joy . Even in a digital-first world, handmade holiday cards and plantable seed paper holiday cards continue to hold a special place.. Sending a card shows thoughtfulness and effort, creating a tangible connection that digital messages often cannot replicate.

For even more actionable tips on sending meaningful holiday greetings, check out our  10 Practical Ways to Use Seed Holiday Cards This Season

Family holiday cards, digital templates, and customizable holiday cards cover every household and occasion. Funny, modern, or handmade designs convey gratitude and joy effectively

 

A vintage-style illustration of the first 19th-century Christmas card, featuring a central scene of a Victorian family gathered around a table toasting, surrounded by smaller vignettes of people helping the poor, all framed by elaborate decorative borders of holly, ivy, and figures in Victorian attire. The card has warm, muted colors and the greeting 'A MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY INONE YEAR TO YOU.' It is placed on a textured, light paper background with soft shadows, evoking a historical and elegant feel

 


Historically, holiday cards date back to the 19th century, with the first commercial Christmas card created in 1843 in England. Today, millions of holiday cards are sent each year in the United States alone, with families, friends, and businesses participating in this enduring tradition. Cards are often displayed on mantels, walls, or desks, serving as a festive reminder of the season and the relationships we value.

The emotional impact of a holiday card is significant. Receiving a card can make someone feel remembered and appreciated. It is a small act of kindness that strengthens relationships, whether with family, friends, coworkers, or clients. Cards are also memorable keepsakes, often collected or saved from year to year.

At the same time, modern trends emphasize sustainability. Eco-conscious consumers are increasingly seeking cards made from recycled paper, biodegradable materials, or even plantable seed paper. This combination of tradition and environmental responsibility makes holiday cards relevant today, appealing to both sentimentality and social values.

While digital greetings offer convenience and speed, physical cards stand out in a crowded online world. They provide a pause from screens, invite tactile engagement, and create moments of joy that are more personal. Whether it’s a handmade card, a printed photo card, or an eco-friendly design, sending a holiday card continues to be a meaningful way to celebrate the season.

In this article, we will explore the types of holiday cards, messages, designs, trends, DIY options, and eco-friendly solutions. You will also learn where to buy cards, how to choose the right card for each recipient, and tips for maximizing impact. By the end, you will have a complete guide to sending thoughtful, memorable holiday greetings that resonate with recipients and align with modern trends.

Types of Holiday Cards

Holiday cards come in many styles, formats, and materials. Choosing the right type depends on your message, audience, aesthetic, and budget. Below is a full breakdown of the most popular and emerging categories so you can understand what people search for, what they prefer, and which styles work best for different situations.

Simple, modern holiday cards appeal to families, young adults, and professionals seeking clean, elegant designs.


Christmas holiday cards

A stylish flat lay of six classic Christmas cards with modern minimalist designs in a soft red and green palette. The cards feature abstract circular and snowflake motifs, arranged on a light wooden table. Gold Christmas ornaments, warm glowing fairy lights, and a gold pen are scattered around, creating an elegant and festive editorial scene

Christmas cards remain the most widely sent holiday greeting. They usually feature classic themes like ornaments, snowflakes, Santa, nativity scenes, making them popular as Christmas photo cards or custom Christmas cards. Many families send annual Christmas photo cards to update friends and relatives on their year. Others choose non-photo cards with simple designs for a timeless look.

Funny holiday cards

Funny cards, also called funny Christmas cards or humorous holiday cards, are increasingly popular because humor cuts through the busyness of the season. These can include puns, sarcastic jokes, pet-themed humor, cartoons, and playful illustrations. Funny cards are ideal for friends, siblings, coworkers, and anyone who appreciates a lighthearted moment during the holidays.

A flat lay of five humorous Christmas greeting cards with playful hand-drawn illustrations and text. Designs include 'Santa's Had Enough!' with tangled lights, 'I'm only here for cookies!' with a gingerbread man and a dog, 'Chilling by the Fireplace!' with a snowman, and 'He swore it wasn't him...' with Santa and a cat next to a gift. The cards are arranged on a wooden table with cookies, a pen, and a red envelope, conveying a lighthearted festive mood

Handmade holiday cards

Handmade holiday cards and artisan holiday cards offer a personal touch. They can be crafted with cardstock, watercolor paper, stamps, paint, washi tape, stickers, embossing tools, or scrapbooking elements. Handmade cards are meaningful for family, close friends, or anyone who values creativity. They also pair beautifully with eco-friendly materials like recycled paper or seed paper.

Eco friendly holiday cards

 

A cozy lifestyle flat lay featuring five different styles of plantable seed paper holiday cards, arranged like an inspiration board on a rustic wooden table. The cards include designs with snowflakes, a geometric wreath, a central floral border with 'Happy Holidays', a pine branch and berry illustration, and a botanical border. The scene is decorated with warm fairy lights, natural pinecones, evergreen branches, a cozy knitted hat, kraft envelopes, and a steaming mug of hot chocolate with a candy cane, evoking a festive and eco-conscious holiday atmosphere

Eco-friendly holiday cards, sustainable holiday cards, and seed paper cards appeal to sustainability-focused consumers.. These cards are often made from recycled paper, biodegradable materials, soy-based inks, or plantable seed paper that grows wildflowers when planted. Eco holiday cards reduce waste and help recipients feel good about participating in a greener holiday season.

Family photo holiday cards

A flat lay of several modern minimalist holiday photo cards, each featuring multi-photo collage layouts of families, with clean typography wishing 'Happy Holidays' and 'Merry & Bright'. The cards are arranged on a neutral tabletop alongside subtle decor including eucalyptus leaves, minimalist vases, and warm fairy lights, creating a sophisticated and personal holiday greeting display.

Family photo holiday cards or custom photo Christmas cards allow families to showcase their favorite memories from the year. Popular layouts include one large hero photo, multi-photo collages, year-in-review designs, or themed images like matching pajamas or outdoor winter portraits. Photo cards create a personal connection and often become keepsakes.

Modern and minimalist holiday cards

Minimalist holiday cards or modern Christmas cards feature clean lines. Think monochrome themes, abstract shapes, soft neutrals, or minimal gold accents. These cards are popular with younger adults, design-forward families, and professionals who want a sleek, contemporary look.

No-photo holiday cards

Not everyone wants to include a photo. No-photo cards are ideal for people who prefer traditional greetings, artistic illustrations, or messages that focus more on holiday sentiments. These cards can include watercolor designs, text-only layouts, patterns, or nature-inspired themes.

A cozy home interior scene featuring a beautifully decorated wooden mantelpiece. A string of assorted holiday cards is clipped with small wooden clothespins to a twine garland, draped over lush evergreen branches and eucalyptus. Twinkling fairy lights are woven through the greenery, and two small white house-shaped luminaries add to the warm glow. A fireplace below flickers with a warm fire, and a knitted Christmas stocking hangs on the left, creating an inviting and festive holiday atmosphere.

Business and corporate holiday cards

Business holiday cards and corporate Christmas cards are sent to thank clients, customers, and partners.. Corporate cards often feature professional designs, neutral themes, and messages expressing gratitude for the year’s partnership. Industry-specific versions exist for real estate agents, insurance professionals, healthcare providers, and more.

A sleek flat lay of modern corporate holiday cards arranged on a clean white desk. The cards feature simple, professional designs in neutral tones of white, gray, and gold, with minimalist geometric patterns and holiday greetings. A silver laptop with a blank screen, a silver pen, and a white coffee cup are placed alongside the cards. Minimalist winter décor, including white frosted pinecones and small white candles in glass holders, completes the professional and elegant workspace aesthetic

Digital holiday cards

Digital cards are fast, affordable, and convenient. They can be sent via email, text, or social media. Many platforms offer animated cards, interactive designs, and customizable templates. Digital cards work well for busy senders or last-minute greetings.

Holiday cards in bulk

Bulk purchases are ideal for large families, teachers, businesses, or people who send dozens of cards each year. Bulk sets often include matching envelopes and multiple design variations. Buying in bulk also reduces cost per card.

Holiday card boxed sets

Boxed sets are typically packaged assortments of cards featuring coordinated themes or designs. They’re great for senders who want variety without having to design each card individually. Boxed sets often include classic scenes, winter artwork, or minimalist holiday themes.

Holiday card dimensions

Holiday cards come in multiple sizes, with 5x7 being the most common. Other popular options include square cards, postcard-style cards, slim vertical cards, and mini cards. The size you choose affects postage costs, visual impact, and envelope style.


Holiday Card Messages

Holiday card messages, including funny holiday card messages and professional holiday messages, are the heart of every card. They express your thoughts, gratitude, and seasonal wishes in a way that feels personal and meaningful. The best message depends on who you are writing to, the tone you want to set, and the style of card you choose. Below are message categories that cover the most common holiday card intents.

General holiday greetings

General greetings work for almost anyone. They are simple, warm, and appropriate for friends, coworkers, neighbors, or distant relatives. Examples include:

  • Wishing you a joyful holiday season

  • Happy Holidays and best wishes for the New Year

  • Sending you peace, joy, and warm holiday cheer

  • May your season be filled with comfort and happiness

These messages are versatile and easy to personalize with a name or short handwritten note.

Professional and corporate messages

Business holiday cards require a tone that is polite, professional, and appreciative. They aim to strengthen relationships while keeping the message neutral and respectful. Examples include:

  • Thank you for your partnership this year

  • Wishing you continued success in the year ahead

  • Grateful for the opportunity to work together this year

  • Warm holiday greetings from our team to yours

Professional messages avoid humor and stay focused on gratitude and future collaboration.

Family and friends

Holiday messages for loved ones can be personal, heartfelt, and reflective. This category allows you to share warm wishes, memories, and appreciation. Examples include:

  • May our holidays be filled with laughter and love

  • Grateful for every moment we shared this year

  • Sending our family’s love and warmest holiday wishes

  • Here’s to cozy nights, joyful days, and beautiful memories

These messages work well for photo cards, family newsletters, or handwritten notes.

Teachers

Holiday cards for teachers focus on gratitude, encouragement, and appreciation. Examples include:

  • Thank you for your guidance and inspiration

  • Wishing you a restful holiday and a wonderful New Year

  • Grateful for your patience and dedication this school year

  • Sending warm holiday wishes to an amazing teacher

Short notes from students, parents, or an entire class fit this category well.

Religious and non-religious messages

For religious cards, include faith-based sentiments. Examples include:

  • May your Christmas be blessed with peace and joy

  • Wishing you hope and light this Christmas season

For non-religious cards, focus on universal themes. Examples include:

  • Wishing you warmth and happiness this holiday season

  • Sending peace and joy to you and your loved ones

Offering both options ensures inclusivity for diverse audiences.


Funny holiday card messages

Funny messages add personality and playfulness. They work well for friends, coworkers, and anyone who enjoys humor. Examples include:

  • Yule be sorry if you miss this holiday cheer

  • Merry Everything and Happy Always

  • Hoping your holidays are filled with more treats than tasks

  • Eat, relax, repeat

Humor can be light, pun-based, or slightly sarcastic depending on the relationship.


Short, quick, and simple messages

Short messages are ideal for bulk cards, gift enclosures, or when you want a clean, minimalist style. Examples include:

  • Season’s greetings

  • Happy Holidays

  • Cheers to the New Year

  • Warm holiday wishes

These small phrases are easy to pair with a photo or signature.


New home holiday card messages

New home holiday cards combine seasonal warmth with congratulations.Examples include:

  • Wishing you joy and warmth in your new home this holiday season

  • Happy Holidays from our new home to yours

  • Celebrating cozy beginnings and joyful holidays ahead

  • May your new home be filled with love and laughter

Perfect for new homeowners or families who moved during the year.

Newlyweds holiday card messages

Newlyweds holiday cards highlight love and the excitement of a first holiday season together.

Examples include:

  • First holiday season as Mr and Mrs

  • Wishing you a joyful season filled with love and laughter

  • Celebrating our first holiday as newlyweds

  • Here’s to love, joy, and new traditions

Great for photo cards and wedding-related mailers.

Military holiday card messages

These messages express gratitude, respect, and encouragement for military members and their families. Examples include:

  • Wishing you a safe and happy holiday season

  • Thank you for your service and dedication. Happy Holidays

  • Sending strength and warm holiday wishes

  • Grateful for your courage and wishing you peace this season

These messages work for deployed service members, veterans, and military families.


Holiday Card Designs and Templates

Holiday card templates provide ready-to-use layouts for photos, messages, or DIY designs, allowing families, businesses, and crafters to create personalized cards efficiently.

The design of a holiday card plays a huge role in how memorable, thoughtful, and visually appealing it feels. Whether you prefer handmade cards, modern digital layouts, or eco-friendly options, there are many design paths to explore. Each one offers unique benefits depending on your style, purpose, and audience.

Printable holiday card templates

Printable templates let you create custom cards at home using a ready-made design. These templates often include flexible layouts where you can add personal messages, family photos, or brand elements. Printable cards are ideal for quick projects because they save time while still allowing full customization. Many people choose printable templates for small-batch holiday cards, last-minute needs, or creative freedom without design software.

Free online templates

Free digital templates are widely available on online design platforms. These tools offer drag-and-drop features, customizable graphics, and pre-designed holiday art. They work well for budget-friendly projects or for people who want a no-fuss way to create holiday cards without design experience. Some platforms also allow you to export the final design as a digital card or printable file.

DIY designs

A four-panel step-by-step collage demonstrating the creation of a DIY holiday card on a rustic wooden tabletop. The first panel shows hands sketching a wreath outline. The second panel shows hands adding watercolor to the wreath. The third panel shows hands applying gold embellishments and twine. The fourth panel displays the finished watercolor 'Merry Christmas' wreath card with red text, nestled with a kraft envelope, evergreen sprigs, and red berries, showcasing the creative process and the completed artisan card.

DIY holiday cards are perfect for anyone who enjoys hands-on creativity. Popular methods include hand-drawn artwork, stamping, calligraphy, collage, quilling, and mixed media. DIY cards feel personal and heartfelt, making them ideal for close friends, teachers, and family members. Handmade cards also align well with eco-friendly and craft-focused holiday traditions.

Double-sided versus single-sided

Choosing between single-sided and double-sided card designs affects both aesthetics and function.
Single-sided cards have artwork on one side and a message or signature on the other, creating a simple and clean layout.
Double-sided cards include graphics or photos on both sides, giving more room for decorative elements or storytelling.
Double-sided cards are common for photo collections, family updates, and business holiday cards that require additional space.

Watercolor holiday cards

Watercolor designs offer a soft and artistic appearance. They work beautifully for winter landscapes, holiday florals, or abstract seasonal themes. Watercolor cards can be hand-painted or digitally created but maintain the same warm, elegant feel. These designs are especially popular for premium printed cards or artisan handmade stationery.

Modern layouts

Modern holiday cards focus on clean composition, simple shapes, and uncluttered elements. Common design traits include muted colors, minimal illustrations, and refined typography. This style appeals to those who prefer a sleek and contemporary look rather than traditional ornaments or classic motifs.

Photo insert ideas

Cards featuring photo inserts remain one of the most popular holiday card styles. They highlight meaningful moments, such as family portraits, engagement photos, baby announcements, or pet pictures. A strong layout, balanced framing, and high-quality images make the card visually appealing. Photo cards are ideal for holiday updates and milestone celebrations.

Typography trends

Typography can influence the tone and character of a holiday card. Current trends include modern serif fonts, clean sans serif styles, elegant calligraphy, and playful handwritten lettering. The font you choose should match the overall design and help communicate the mood of the season. Bold text works well for modern cards, while script fonts pair nicely with traditional or romantic designs.

How to Choose the Right Holiday Card

Choosing the right holiday card involves considering your audience, purpose, design preferences, and budget. The best card should reflect your message and fit the style you want to share during the season.

Most holiday cards measure 5x7 inches; square, postcard, or mini cards are also popular. In the U.S., over 1.6 billion holiday cards are mailed each year, demonstrating their lasting appeal across households and businesses.

Material and sustainability

Materials influence both quality and environmental impact, which matters for eco-friendly holiday cards, plantable seed paper holiday cards, and recycled holiday cards.. Recycled paper, seed paper, and biodegradable packaging appeal to sustainability-focused recipients. Premium cardstock creates a polished look for professional or formal cards, while lightweight paper offers an affordable option for large mailings. Material choice is especially important for eco-friendly or handmade holiday cards.

Small businesses and eco-conscious shoppers select plantable seed paper holiday cards to send greetings that grow into flowers, combining sustainability with creativity.

Photo versus no-photo

Photo cards feel personal and work well for families, newlyweds, or pet lovers who want to share a special moment from the year. No-photo cards rely on design, illustrations, or typography, making them suitable for businesses and recipients who prefer a more classic or neutral approach. Choosing between the two depends on the tone of the message and your intended audience.

Handmade versus printed

Handmade cards bring individuality and special attention to detail. They are a thoughtful choice for close friends and loved ones. Printed cards provide consistent quality, fast production, and efficient bulk ordering, making them perfect for businesses, large families, or anyone sending dozens of cards. The decision often comes down to time, quantity, and personal preference.

Bulk versus small set

Bulk holiday cards work best for corporate mailing lists, schools, churches, and organizations. They usually come with volume pricing that reduces cost per card. Small sets are ideal for personal gifting, small households, or curated handmade designs. Before ordering, consider how many cards you truly need to avoid extras or shortages.

Budget options

Holiday cards are available across a wide range of price points. Advanced printing, premium paper, and custom artwork increase cost, while digital downloads, printable templates, and simple cards offer budget-friendly solutions. Deciding on a budget early helps narrow down the type of card and materials suitable for your needs.

Card size and dimensions

The most common holiday card size is 5 by 7 inches, but other formats like square cards or postcard-sized mailers are also popular. Smaller cards save on postage and work well for simple messages. Larger cards provide room for photos, detailed artwork, or family newsletters. Size determines how much space you have for design elements and text.

Industry-specific business cards

Business holiday cards should match your industry’s tone and branding. Real estate agents often use cards with home imagery or branded photography. Corporate offices tend to select clean, professional designs with subtle branding. Creative industries may lean toward artistic or bold styles. Tailoring your card to your industry helps maintain professionalism and strengthen brand recognition.

Eco-Friendly Holiday Cards

Eco-friendly holiday cards have become increasingly popular as more people choose sustainable options for seasonal gifting. These cards focus on reducing waste, using natural materials, and making environmentally conscious design choices. Eco-friendly cards also add meaning because they reflect care not just for the recipient, but for the planet.



Seed paper cards

A three-panel sequence showcasing the lifecycle of a plantable holiday seed paper card in a festive setting. The first panel shows an intact 'Merry Christmas' wreath card on a white wooden table with evergreen branches, red berries, and warm fairy lights. The second panel shows the card partially broken down in soil in a terracotta pot with small green sprouts emerging, accented by holiday confetti and bokeh lights in the background. The third panel displays a terracotta pot brimming with colorful blooming wildflowers, surrounded by festive lights, berries, and evergreen, effectively telling the story of an eco-friendly holiday gift that grows

Plantable seed paper holiday cards are one of the most eco-friendly options available. They are made from recycled materials and embedded with real seeds. After the holidays, recipients can plant the card in soil, water it, and watch flowers grow. Seed paper turns a traditional card into a sustainable gift and creates a memorable experience that lasts beyond the season. This style is perfect for gardeners, nature lovers, and anyone who appreciates green living.

Recycled paper

A meticulously arranged flat lay showcasing various eco-friendly holiday card materials on a light wooden surface. The scene includes stacks of off-white recycled paper, sheets of flecked seed paper with visible dried flower petals, jars of vibrant green and red soy-based inks, natural kraft paper envelopes, and a spool of rustic jute twine. Small wooden tags labeled 'Recycled', 'Plant Me', and 'Soy Inks' are strategically placed, emphasizing the sustainable theme and clean, organized aesthetic.

 

Recycled holiday cards reduce waste and use fewer natural resources.. Recycled paper options may include post-consumer materials, natural fibers, or unbleached pulp. These cards still look beautiful, especially when paired with minimalist or rustic designs. Recycled paper holiday cards are ideal for eco-conscious shoppers and brands that value sustainability.

Biodegradable packaging

Zero waste holiday cards often come with biodegradable or compostable packaging This includes recycled envelopes, plant-based sleeves, or no-plastic packaging. Using biodegradable packaging reduces landfill waste and aligns with the growing trend of low-waste gifting. For businesses, this type of packaging demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainability.

Sustainable printing

Sustainable printing focuses on responsible production methods. Many eco-conscious printers use vegetable-based inks, water-efficient processes, or renewable energy sources. These techniques reduce chemical waste and improve the overall environmental impact of each card. Sustainable printing is ideal for both small handmade batches and professional large-scale orders.

Benefits of Eco-Friendly Holiday Cards

Eco-friendly holiday cards help reduce paper waste, introduce greener alternatives, and support responsible purchasing. They also encourage recipients to be more mindful during the holiday season, which is often associated with excess packaging and waste. Choosing eco cards sends a positive message about caring for the environment while still sharing heartfelt holiday greetings.

Examples of eco holiday designs

Eco-friendly holiday card designs tend to feature natural themes, minimalist layouts, and earthy color palettes. Popular design elements include winter florals, botanical illustrations, recycled textures, and soft watercolor accents. Seed paper cards may showcase flower petal inclusions or textured handmade paper. Many eco cards also use simple typography and rustic details to highlight their sustainable nature.


Where to Buy Holiday Cards

Finding the right place to buy holiday cards depends on your style, budget, and the kind of message you want your card to send. Whether you prefer handmade holiday cards, eco-friendly holiday cards, plantable seed paper holiday cards, or custom holiday card printing, there are plenty of options that fit every need. Seed Bloom Gifts specializes in plantable seed paper holiday cards, eco-conscious holiday cards, and sustainable Christmas cards.

Large Retailers and Custom Card Platforms

Major retailers are popular for their convenience, wide variety of designs, and easy customization tools. These are ideal for anyone needing fast processing, bulk holiday card orders, or photo holiday cards with templates.

Examples: Shutterfly, Snapfish, Costco, Zazzle, Papyrus, Hallmark, Staples

  • These well known websites and stores allow you to upload photos, add text, choose themes, and personalize layouts.

  • They offer seasonal discounts, bulk pricing, and fast shipping, which helps if you need holiday cards printed quickly.

  • Many customers choose these retailers for consistent quality and reliable printing, especially for family photo cards or company holiday cards.

Many platforms offer digital holiday cards, modern layouts, and customizable templates, making it easy for any sender to find the perfect card for family, friends, or corporate clients

Handmade Marketplaces

For people who want something more artistic or unique, handmade marketplaces offer holiday cards that feel personal and one of a kind.

Examples: Etsy shops, independent card makers, small craft businesses

  • These platforms are perfect for shoppers looking for watercolor holiday cards, hand drawn illustrations, minimalistic modern designs, or personalized messages written by the artist.

  • Many handmade sellers also allow custom names, specific colors, or themed designs that match your holiday party or brand aesthetic.

  • This category is popular for buyers searching for something meaningful, especially when giving cards as part of a gift set or sending cards to clients who appreciate artisan work.

Eco Friendly Holiday Card Brands

Eco conscious buyers are increasingly searching for holiday cards that align with sustainable values. These brands focus on recycled materials, biodegradable packaging, and environmentally responsible production.

  • Eco friendly holiday cards often use recycled paper, cotton fibers, soy based inks, or plantable seed paper that grows into wildflowers.

  • Choosing sustainable cards is a great way to reduce waste during the holiday season while still sending a meaningful and heartfelt message.

  • This is also the best category for people looking for zero waste holiday cards or plastic free packaging.

This section is where Seed Bloom Gifts fits naturally and strategically. Your plantable seed paper holiday cards provide a memorable, eco friendly alternative to traditional cards. Instead of being thrown away, your cards can be planted and grown into flowers, giving recipients a positive and lasting experience.

Local Stores and Boutiques

Some customers still prefer browsing in person. Small stationery shops, bookshops, museum stores, or local gift boutiques often carry curated holiday card collections.

  • These shops usually stock high quality cardstock, letterpress designs, and small batch prints.

  • Local shopping appeals to customers who want to support their community or discover something they cannot find online.

  • Many stores now feature eco friendly or artisan made holiday cards as part of their seasonal displays.

Corporate and Business Holiday Card Suppliers

For companies sending cards to clients, partners, or employees, specialized business printing companies offer professional designs and bulk pricing.

  • These suppliers focus on corporate photo cards, branded messages, and polished layouts.

  • They often provide templates for real estate agents, medical offices, financial firms, and small businesses.

  • Businesses can include logos, signatures, or greeting variations for different departments.

DIY Holiday Cards

Creating your own holiday cards adds a personal touch and allows for unique, memorable designs. DIY cards can be simple or elaborate depending on your time, materials, and creativity.

Holiday card kits
Kits provide all the materials you need to make cards at home, including pre-cut cardstock, envelopes, stickers, and embellishments. They are ideal for beginners or anyone looking for a convenient DIY option.

Materials
Common materials for DIY cards include cardstock, patterned paper, markers, colored pencils, watercolor paints, glue, ribbons, and stamps. Choosing quality materials ensures that your cards look polished and durable.

Tools
Essential tools include scissors, craft knives, rulers, cutting mats, embossing tools, and adhesive tape. Specialty tools like quilling kits or watercolor brushes can enhance the design.

Step-by-step guide

  1. Select your card size and fold the cardstock.

  2. Choose a design template or sketch your layout.

  3. Add decorations, drawings, or text.

  4. Allow any paint or glue to dry completely.

  5. Insert your card into an envelope and address it.

Funny handmade ideas
Incorporate humor with playful illustrations, puns, or quirky messages. For example, hand-drawn holiday-themed cartoons or witty text can make your cards memorable.

Advanced DIY options include 3D greeting cards or quilled designs, ideal for mantels, desks, or seasonal displays

Watercolor, quilling, and mixed media
Advanced DIY cards can include watercolor backgrounds, quilled paper designs, or mixed media combining various textures. These techniques create visually striking, one-of-a-kind cards that stand out during the holiday season.

Holiday Card Trends for 2025

A four-panel modern collage showcasing 2025 holiday card trends. The top-left panel displays minimalist beige and charcoal cards with gold foil Christmas tree and star designs, set with pampas grass and gold ornaments. The top-right panel features a white card with an intricate AI-generated gold snowflake pattern and 'HAPPY HOLIDAYS' text. The bottom-left panel shows eco-friendly seed paper cards with a 'Merry & Bright' message and botanical illustrations, alongside a terracotta pot with sprouts, highlighting sustainable textures. The bottom-right panel presents a multi-photo collage holiday card with family pictures, wishing 'OUR YEAR. OUR JOY. 2025.' The overall collage uses neutral tones of beige, gold, and white, reflecting contemporary design trends.

Holiday card trends continue to evolve as technology, design preferences, and sustainability influence how people send greetings.

AI-designed templates
AI-designed holiday cards are now helping create unique designs.. AI-generated templates can offer custom layouts, color palettes, and typography that match current trends, making card creation faster and more creative.

Minimalist aesthetics
Simple, clean designs are increasingly popular. Minimalist holiday cards use subtle colors, clean typography, and understated illustrations. This style appeals to recipients who prefer modern and elegant greetings.

Simple, modern holiday cards with understated illustrations and clean lines remain a top trend, appealing to recipients who favor contemporary and elegant designs.

Eco-friendly materials
Eco-friendly holiday cards, plantable seed paper cards, and sustainable Christmas cards remain a top priority. Cards made from recycled paper, seed paper, or biodegradable packaging are not only environmentally conscious but also convey a thoughtful gesture to recipients who value eco-friendly practices.

Photo collage cards
Combining multiple photos from the year into a single card is a popular trend. Collage cards allow families to share highlights, pets, or memorable moments, creating a personal and visually engaging holiday greeting.

Digital and mailed-for-you services
Hybrid services allow users to create digital cards that are printed and mailed automatically. These options save time, offer convenience, and ensure that cards reach recipients without the sender managing the mailing process.

Holiday Card FAQs

An infographic providing quick holiday card tips, set against a soft winter background with blurred bokeh lights and snowflake icons. The infographic is divided into four sections with modern icons and soft red and green color blocks. 'WHEN TO SEND' advises mailing by Dec 10th (US/Canada), Dec 1st (International), and anytime in Dec for hand-delivery. 'COMMON SIZES' lists A7 (5x7 in), A2 Popular (4.25x5.5 in), and 4x4 or 5x7 in Square. 'WHAT TO WRITE' suggests personalizing, sharing a highlight, warm wishes, adding a photo, and keeping it short and sweet. 'ECO-FRIENDLY OPTIONS' includes recycled paper, plantable seed paper, digital e-cards, FSC certified, and soy-based inks

How many holiday cards should I order?
The number of cards depends on how many friends, family members, colleagues, or clients you want to reach. For personal use, order enough for close family and friends, plus a few extras. For businesses, calculate based on client lists and employees, and consider ordering a small surplus for unexpected recipients.

What to write in a funny holiday card?
Funny holiday card messages can include puns, playful jokes, or lighthearted commentary. Keep the tone appropriate for the audience. Examples include “Yule be laughing all season long” or “Eat, drink, and be merry… but don’t forget the card!”

What’s the standard holiday card size?
The most common size is 5x7 inches. Other popular formats include square cards or postcards. The size affects design space, envelope choice, and mailing costs, so select a size that fits your message and style.

When should you send holiday cards?
For Christmas and other winter holidays, it is best to send cards in early to mid-December. For New Year or year-in-review cards, sending them in late December ensures recipients receive them in time for the season. Planning ahead avoids delays caused by postal services.

Are eco-friendly cards worth it?
Yes. Eco-friendly cards, including seed paper or recycled options, reduce environmental impact and show thoughtfulness. They are increasingly popular among recipients who value sustainability and are an excellent choice for both personal and business greetings.


Key takeaways for 2025

  • Choose the right type for your audience. Family photo cards, humorous greetings, minimalist designs, or corporate messages work for different recipients.

  • Personalize your message. Thoughtful wording makes even a simple card memorable.

  • Embrace sustainability. Eco-friendly cards, recycled materials, and plantable seed paper add lasting value.

  • Plan ahead. Ordering early ensures timely delivery and a polished presentation.

  • Explore creativity. DIY cards, AI-designed templates, and unique artistic designs make your greetings stand out.


Four cozy Christmas gifts wrapped in simple brown kraft paper and tied with red and white baker's twine, each featuring a different plantable seed paper gift tag with festive watercolor illustrations. The tags display designs like bells, a wreath, and ornaments. The gifts are arranged on a rustic wooden table with fresh evergreen branches and red berries, against a softly blurred background with warm, glowing Christmas tree lights, creating a warm and sustainable holiday aesthetic.

The principles of thoughtful messages, creative designs, and eco-conscious materials apply to greeting cards for birthdays, graduations, and other special occasions.

At Seed Bloom Gifts, we help you send eco-conscious, beautiful holiday cards that grow beyond paper. Our plantable seed paper and artisanal designs make holiday greetings meaningful for people and the planet.

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