11/15/2024
HOLIDAY CARDS
BEST PRACTICES + PROPER ETIQUETTE
There's nothing better than sending a little joy through the mail - especially during the holidays! Here is your reminder to get your holiday cards printed and your envelopes written!
When addressing envelopes: Mr./ Ms./ Mrs./Dr./Mx.: Use the correct title before the recipient's name. Dr. is reserved for medical and academic doctors.
Names: Write names as they prefer to be
addressed (e.g., nickname or full name).
Pluralization & return address guidelines: When it comes to pluralization, for most last names, simply add an s at the end. For last names that end in s, x, z, ch, or sh, add es to the end. Never use an apostrophe! For the return address, include your full name and address in the top left corner, or on the
back flap of the envelope for best practice!
USPS guidelines and unique mailing tips: Stamp placement: set the stamp in the top right corner, if using vintage stamps, make sure they add up to the correct amount you need for mailing! Hand cancelling: A special request to have a USPS clerk manually cancel your stamp with a hand-stamp, rather than automated machines. Simply ask your postal clerk if they offer hand cancelling! This works best when you have really delicate envelopes, or if
you use a wax seal on the back to close it! Wax seals: If using wax seals on the outside of your envelope, ensure they're securely attached to avoid delays! Also, make sure to ask your clerk to manually cancel your stamp with a hand-stamp so the mail goes through properly! We recommend using quick and easy peel & stick seals! Writing & mailing can take a bit of time! Make sure you're accounting for both factors when choosing your mail out date!
General writing tips: Choose ink or calligraphy markers that won't smear or bleed! Make sure your address is legible!!! If USPS can't read your writing, it will make sending it out tricky! When in doubt, consider writing the recipients name in calligraphy and use a neat print style for the location it's being sent! Play around with the style! You don't have to have the writing perfectly centered, sometimes it's fun to try something a little different!
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
