A generationally embraced tradition dating back to 1843 (per Smithsonian Magazine), the process of designing and sending holiday cards has come a long way. While custom Christmas cards were once reserved for only the wealthy, the recent proliferation of smartphones with high-quality cameras, and online photo gift services such as Zazzle and Shutterfly, have made holiday photo cards easier and more accessible for everyone.
With the holidays quickly approaching and shipping delays predicted by all the major mail carriers, sending photo Christmas cards sooner rather than later isn’t a terrible idea. Since many Americans opt for custom holiday cards versus greeting cards sold preprinted at stationary stores and online, consider ordering them as soon as possible if you want to take advantage of the best deals and make sure they show up on time.
Things to consider
There are a number of factors to consider prior to ordering Christmas, Hanukkah, New Years and even non-denominational holiday greeting cards.
Cards range in price from $0.25 for a small, one-sided postcard at stores like CVS and Target (who often print holiday cards right in the store) up to more than $4 for more luxurious, foil-stamped photo cards with upgrades from the more premiere brands. Price per card is dependent on how many you order: It’s generally lower when you order in greater amounts.
If you’re price-sensitive, Target is a good place to shop right now — the Target Photo shop is offering 50% off sitewide when you use code SITEWIDE50 through Nov. 15. There are a number of pre-designed cards ready to frame your best family photos, if you tap the button below.
Price also varies on a number of other factors. Most standard cards feature flat edges, while rounded, scalloped or other shapes tend to cost more money per card. Other printing upgrades include paper type, finishes, foil stamping, envelope type and even envelope addressing. However, keep in mind that some brands include these in standard pricing and even offer free shipping, while others provide tiered pricing by printing and delivery speed. Take all of these factors into consideration when comparing prices between different Christmas card types.
CBS Essentials sourced some of the best holiday cards available now, along with coupon codes to save you money. Note that all prices are pre-discount and per card.
Artifact Uprising
Artifact Uprising offers new modern, whimsical and organic-feeling holiday cards constructed out of thoughtfully sourced materials. Choose from Christmas, Hanukkah, New Year’s and non-denominational, in addition to “editable greetings,” allowing you to customize your message. While many designs are minimalistic, luxurious touches such as foil stamping (available in a variety of metallic tones) and upgraded envelopes are available. Additionally, you can upload your contact list and have all of your envelopes addressed for an additional cost.
Save 20 percent on holiday cards thru midnight MST on Thanksgiving on Artifact Uprising with the CBS Essentials exclusive discount code MAILDAY20.
Minted
Another whimsical brand, Minted offers gorgeous designs courtesy of independent artists. Choose from nine different formats including postcard, petite, classic, folded, grand, ornament, vellum, all-in-one and booklet and a variety of paper options, color schemes, silhouette shape and foil color. They sweeten the deal with free recipient addressing, which often carries an extra charge at other brands.
Papier
Avoid sending the same card as your loved ones with the affordably luxurious options at Papier. Whether you opt for a creatively crafted photo card or just a personalized printed message featuring trademark artwork, the company’s superior paper goods never disappoint. Use the exclusive code CBSHOLIDAYCARDS to save 15 percent off holiday card sets. The code expires at midnight Nov. 23.
Mpix
A brand loved by photographers for reasonably priced prints, Mpix holiday cards feature professional-quality printing paper and materials. Many cards are designed by artists, bloggers and other creatives, with a variety of aesthetics to choose from. The company also offers free, quick shipping and a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee — if you aren’t happy with your cards, the company will make it right.
Shutterfly
Shutterfly revolutionized the personalized holiday card experience as one of the first companies to offer affordable photo cards to consumers. In this super competitive market, the company tends to attract customers via gorgeous and vibrant designs offered at fair prices (from $0.55 per card and up) with lots of incentives, including discount codes, promos offering free prints and more.
Simply to Impress
Simply to Impress prides itself on providing budget-friendly, easy-to-design cards. Like other brands, it offers a variety of cardstock, sizes, card shapes and foils in gorgeous designs, from sparkly glam to a rustic farmhouse feel. Shipping is not included, with cost varying by desired speed.
Paper Culture
If sustainability is important, consider Paper Culture. The company uses only sustainable materials, from 100 percent recycled paper to bamboo, and it even plants a tree with every order. The cards are also gorgeous, ranging from budget-friendly to luxe, and offered in a variety of designs, sizes, layouts and styles.
Use the exclusive code CBSESS for 50 percent off holiday cards until Dec. 7. This offer is not combinable with any other holiday card promotion, discount, or voucher. The discount also isn’t applicable toward extra options (e.g. envelope liners, thickness, trim, address printing, mailing services, and envelopes), gift certificates, taxes, or previously-placed orders.
Zazzle
Zazzle’s “holiday card maker” simplifies the process of designing holiday cards. Simply upload desired photos, enter your family name and choose your greeting. Within seconds, Zazzle generates many designs to choose from. Make sure to check for promos. Currently Zazzle is offering 50 percent off all holiday cards, with custom postcards on sale starting at $0.60.
Gift Boutique photo frame card
If designing a holiday card is too overwhelming, but you still want to include a family photo with your holiday greetings, these photo frame cards serve as a budget-friendly, easy alternative. Simply print any 4-inch-by-6-inch photo and slip it into any one of holiday themed cards, and voila. Each sets comes with 48 cards (four designs).
OhSimple DIY holiday card
For people with minimal computer skills who still want a DIY experience, Etsy is a great resource. A number of independent sellers offer holiday photo card templates for a one-time fee. Simply download the template and follow the instructions, uploading photos and editing greetings until you create the perfect card. Ready to print? Use your own printer with the card stock of your choice, or send to a local printing spot for professional quality cards. Some sellers, including OhSimple, offer printing services as well.
