Hello November!
Tips for the perfect holiday photo card!
Could someone please explain to me how we are already over a week into November? And does anyone else still have 1,829,468 things1 on their holiday to-do list, or is it just me? While I can’t wave my magic wand and have everyone’s holiday to-dos completed (believe me, I wish I could!), I can make one aspect a little easier: holiday cards.
Where to start?
A lover of giving and receiving cards, I’ve researched a lot of platforms, so here are some of my favorite cards and designs, in case you are still looking!
All Time Favorite (for value, design, and ease): Minted
Year after year, I return to Minted for my holiday photos. They have a beautiful selection of designs, are easy to use, and are reasonably priced for their quality. You can also pay to upload a spreadsheet with addresses for your entire list, and the envelopes arrive already addressed! 10/10. (My favorite designs this season: this plaid, multi-photo option, this minimalist dream, and this vintage masterpiece)
Runner Up: Artifact Uprising
For any photoprinting needs, Artifact Uprising’s quality can’t be beat. Uploading your photo is reasonably easy, and the cards are beautiful. That said, they don’t have nearly the variety that Minted does, and depending on how many you purchase and what sales you find, Minted can be a little more affordable. 9/10. (Favorite designs: this unusual shape and this classy two-tone number)
Best Value: Shutterfly
If you’re looking for classic, affordable options, Shutterfly is an excellent option - plus they always seem to have a sale running! They have a plethora of designs, which occasionally can be overwhelming, but guarantee that there’s something you will love. The quality isn’t nearly as good as Minted and Artifact Uprising, but for cards going on your bestie-from-college’s fridge, it definitely gets the job done! 8.5/10 (Favorite designs: a classic, yet bold option, a whimsical photo frame, and for when you can’t choose just one)
So you’ve picked your card, now it’s time to pick your photo!
Tip 1#: You’ll know the photo when you see it. It’ll be the one that makes you smile, the one you come back to again and again and again, even if it’s not perfect.2 Can’t decide on just one? Pick a multi-photo option and choose more!
Tip #2: I cannot emphasize this enough, download your photo from the online gallery - do not screenshot! Downloading preserves the quality of the detail, ensuring it prints perfectly.
Tip #3: Pick a night to address and stamp your cards. Turn up your holiday playlist, pour yourself some cocoa, and get in the holiday spirit!
Did you know that your photos can also make perfect gifts? Stay tuned, because in my next email, I’ll be sharing my recommendations for photo gifts for all the special folks in your life!
Till then, good luck with your holiday to-dos!
PS: If you use my photos for a holiday card, be sure to send me a photo (or an actual version - I love snail mail!) of your card, and receive 10% a future session AND be included in a drawing for a free session for next year!
Down from 1,829,470. I’ve printed holiday cards and ordered my son’s present. That’s it.
I had a vision of the Nubble Lighthouse in the back of our photos, but it that the one we went for? No, we went for the one where my son (unbeknownst to us) had bumped the tripod, so the lighthouse was no longer in the shot. But our smiles were too authentic not to use!
Great ideas, Amelia!!