As the world becomes saturated with digital alternatives to just about everything, some forms of communication have naturally become less prominent—including the practice of sending actual handwritten letters in the mail. (Remember those?) When the majority of us head to the mailbox, we find bills, unsolicited coupons, and maybe a catalog or two. Rather than a stack of letters and postcards from friends and family, we’re left with envelopes that go unopened before hitting the recycling bin.
Thankfully, all is not lost. The art of snail mail has begun to resurface—thanks, in part, to folks attempting to support the USPS as well as an abundance of time spent at home, unable to see loved ones. Rather than texting or FaceTiming, we’re going back to the age of handwritten letters. In an era with so much difficulty, it’s so nice to find a silver lining.
While receiving a note in the mail is day-making, sending one is even better. There’s just something so therapeutic about sitting down to pen a love letter to your partner, a quick catch-up note to your BFF, or a sweet card to your grandma. Taking the time to actually write—with your hands and not a keyboard—beats an email any day.
Of course, writing letters also allows for myriad creative opportunities. We all want our envelopes to stand out in the slew of bills and coupons. Adding stickers, extra stamps, and going wild with color can turn your snail mail into a genuine work of art. Below, you’ll find some easy ways to spice up your letters—and, in turn, make someone’s day a little bit brighter.
1. Stickers & Washi Tape Are Your Friends
Do yourself a favor and stock up on cute stickers and a hefty supply of washi tape immediately. They’re an easy way to decorate the front and back of your envelopes—and you can always cut out a few stickers and send them along with your letter as a little treat for your recipient.
2. The More Stamps, the Merrier
Scavenge Etsy for vintage stamps, then turn them into part of your envelope design. Sure, slapping on one Forever stamp will get your letter to its destination, but it’s much more fun to cover your letter in unique stamps to thrill your recipient from the moment they open their mailbox.
3. Go Bold With Color
As long as what you’re writing on your envelope is legible, go bold. Try bright colors, metallics, or even sparkles. The sky’s the limit here, so don’t be afraid to break out your most colorful markers.
4. Try All Different Sizes
Write a miniature note to your beloved and send it in a tiny envelope for a fun pick-me-up. Stuff a huge envelope full of confetti and send it to your best pal for their birthday. Don’t let yourself be limited by the standard 4-by-6 card size— try mixing it up! Experimenting with different shapes and sizes of letters and envelopes can make for some seriously fun mail.
5. Play With Placement
Play around with where you write the address, name, or return address. Try penning the recipient’s name in big, bold letters and then writing the address small and at the very bottom. Or put your return address on the back of the envelope with a sticker and special message. It’s all about the details.
Sending someone a card or a letter is always a heartfelt and genuine gesture, but there’s no reason it can’t be fun for you too! Whether you decide to break out the craft supplies you’ve stowed away for a rainy day or want to incorporate your loved one’s favorite color in a way that you know will make them smile, there are a thousand ways to express yourself while sharing the love. There’s never been a better time to throw your energy into making someone’s day with a few creative details that will stick with them long after they open their mailbox. When you spend time and energy on a little message of love, everyone wins.
