The Lost Art of Sending Notes (Add a Pen!)

Do you remember the last time you got a handwritten note in the mail? Not a bill or an advertisement, but a greeting or postcard with a personal note written in pen. If you're like us, that note probably made you smile before you even opened it. 

In a world of quick texts written in 21st-century shorthand, there's something special about putting pen to paper to say, "Thank you", or, “I’m thinking of you.” We liken it to sending a little piece of yourself through the mail. The best part is that it captures your handwriting quirks and maybe a crossed-through word or two that make it perfectly imperfect. 

Why Waste a Stamp When You’ve Got Unlimited Messages? 

Besides the fact that it conjures memories of Jane Austen (minus the quill pen), handwritten notes have a way of conveying magical messages. When you take the time to select a meaningful card, write your message, find a stamp, and walk to the mailbox, you’re telling the recipient, “You are worth the effort!”   

Plus, handwritten notes are timeless. Texts disappear into the digital vortex, but cards often end up on refrigerators, bulletin boards, or lovingly stored in memory boxes for future generations to find. We like to consider handwritten notes as tiny time capsules of gratitude. 

Not Your Run of the Mill Paper 

The best part of handwritten notes – the endless options. The fancier note writer might choose a classic greeting card with plenty of space to write and an envelope to practice calligraphy addresses. A down-and-dirty sender might select a postcard for a quick note that gets straight to the point. Bonus – slightly less expensive postage!  

Spread Positivity (To Yourself, Too!) 

We’re not sure if there’s a science behind it, but we can tell you that we feel good when we write notes. Something about intentionally sitting down with a special pen to reflect on someone's kindness also lifts your spirits. We consider it an envelope-sized mindfulness exercise. 

And for the person receiving the note, your card is like a ray of sunshine amongst all the junk mail. Handwritten notes tell them you cared enough to do more than fire off a quick "thx!" 

Kickstart Shoppers’ Note-Writing Adventures 

Why not help shoppers get in the mood? We’ve talked before about setting up a mail station in your store, and the holidays would be the perfect time! Trends may have shifted away from the long-winded holiday letter, but revelers still want to drop a note to loved ones near and far. And we think “thank you” and “thinking of you” note writing is a little less of a chore when you send a vintage card instead.  

We hope our treasure trove of retro cards inspires note-writers browsing your aisles. If you need help sourcing the right stack to add to your shelves, drop us a note (see what we did there). We’d be happy to fill your shelves in time for last-minute shoppers!