Should I Send Greeting Cards in 2025? | My Thoughts
Why Do We Send Cards?
People have sent illustrated greeting cards since early civilizations in ancient China & Egypt, as a way to celebrate life events, holidays, and to express good wishes to each other.
In 2025, we send cards for all sorts of reasons to connect to others, such as birthdays, and anniversaries, to seasonal holidays like Christmas. The tradition of card sending stems from their versatility as they allow us to celebrate events, show somebody we care, or just say hi.
They have long been a popular way to connect to others, but in a world where we can communicate at the touch of a screen in a second, we might wonder whether paper greetings cards still hold a place in 2025?
Paper Cards in a Digital Age - An Outdated Concept?
In short, no. I think that now more than ever, in an increasingly digital and disconnected society, taking the time to send a tangible card is definitely a tradition worth keeping alive.
Here are 4 reasons why paper cards are just as important as ever in 2025:
- A Break From the Screens - Receiving a message that doesn't get lost in a swarm of notifications can be a welcome change from what we're used to these days. Feeling the paper, opening the envelope and reading a tangible card is a truly mindful, screen-free experience.
- Something Heartfelt & Personal - Knowing that somebody has taken the time to choose, write and send a card, rather than sending an instant text, can really make someone feel valued, remembered and loved.
- A Keepsake to Hold Onto - A beautifully designed card with a heartfelt message is a lovely keepsake that you can look back on in years to come and remember an event or person.
-
Creative & Thoughtful - Choosing a card that you know somebody will love is a great way to show them you're thinking of them.
...Plus, who doesn't love a good browse for the perfect card?
The Greeting Card Market in 2025 - A Timeless Tradition.
Let's look at the UK as an example, and reveal what the stats say about traditional greeting cards in 2025!
According to a recent GCA Report, around 90% of UK adults purchase greetings cards, with more people choosing to send handmade, custom cards over printed ones for a more personal touch.
Whilst e-cards are seeing an increase in popularity, traditional cards still make up over 3/4 of all cards sent in the UK even now, a clear sign of how deeply ingrained sending cards is in our culture.
Birthday cards make up 60% of all cards sold, with Christmas cards representing around 25% of the market, with these events being made special by putting up cards on the mantlepiece or walls as a way to decorate!
In 2025, the UK greeting card market continues to thrive, with most consumers appreciating the charm and emotional impact of sending and receiving something tangible in a virtual age especially. The same can be said for other countries, as this idea of sending a message to connect is a key part of our societies.
Digital Compliment, Not Competition
Although digital cards and personalised video messages are gaining traction, seeing a 15% increase year on year, they have not overshadowed people's preferences for sending a physical card. Instead, these new digital innovations complement the market, with lots of us sending something digital (like a birthday text) and a greeting card rather than one or the other.
The humble greeting card is proof that some traditions are truly timeless.
By embracing new innovations & designs, whilst retaining the charm of a heartfelt message, a greeting card is still the UK's favourite way to mark the occasion, express your appreciation, or simply connect to a loved one.
As a handmade card business owner, I strongly believe in their being something special about peeling back an envelope to open a card hand-written just for you. This powerful small pleasure is something that cannot be replaced by digital alternatives alone.
So next time you're wondering how to make someone's day, don't underestimate the power of putting a greeting card through their letter box. A few kind words & a beautiful card can serve as a reminder to someone that they are remembered, loved & valued.
Interested in Finding Your Next Handmade Card to Send?
If you're looking for your next handmade card, consider checking out my range and find a hand painted design for any occasion.
A few highlights from my designs. For the full range, shop my handmade greeting card collection in the 'products' section!