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Ultimate Guide to Holiday Cards: Turn Your Favourite Photos into Memorable Greetings

Custom Holiday Card with Family Photo

Creating holiday cards with your own photos is a perfect way to add a personal touch to your greetings, making them more meaningful and memorable. With our easy-to-use online builder, you can transform your favourite photos into beautiful holiday cards that friends and family will cherish. Here’s your step-by-step guide to designing holiday cards that stand out!


Step 1: Choose Your Theme and Style

Screenshot of Posterjack Holiday Card Maker - Choosing a Theme

Start by thinking about the overall theme and style you’d like for your holiday cards. Consider what will resonate with the people receiving them and what feels most authentic to your style. Here are some popular holiday card themes:

  • Classic Holiday Cheer: Bright reds, greens, and gold accents with festive patterns and symbols.
  • Winter Wonderland: Snow-covered scenes, cool blues, and soft whites for a serene look.
  • Minimal and Modern: Clean lines, simple colour schemes, and a touch of elegance.
  • Rustic Charm: Warm tones, cozy vibes, and a natural feel with wood textures or neutral backgrounds.
  • Family Fun: Bright, lively colours with playful, candid photos that capture real moments.

Step 2: Choose the Perfect Photo

Previewing Custom Holiday Photo Card Before Ordering

When selecting a photo, consider the overall composition and mood. Choose images that reflect the warmth and joy of the season, whether it’s a festive family portrait, a photo of the kids playing in the snow, or even a beloved pet in holiday attire! Our builder tool makes it easy to upload your photos, so you can preview exactly how each image will look with different themes and backgrounds.

Step 3: Customize Your Layout

Customizing Layout and Theme of Holiday Photo Card

Our Folded Cards come in two sizes—3.5"x5" and 5"x7"—and offer multiple theme options. The online builder tool lets you choose from a range of backgrounds and styles that you can personalize to suit your photo and message.

  1. Single Photo Focus: Highlight one photo for a bold, classic look.
  2. Multi-Photo Layouts: Create a collage of memories by adding a few photos.
  3. Themes and Backgrounds: Browse various pre-designed themes and backgrounds to add that extra holiday feel.

You can add text, change the font style, and add graphics to match your theme, making it easy to achieve a truly personalized design.

Step 4: Add Personalized Text and Greetings

Adding Personalized Message to Custom Holiday Card

Your holiday greeting is a chance to share warm wishes and a little bit of joy. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

  • Traditional Holiday Wishes: “Wishing you joy, peace, and love this holiday season!” or “Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!”
  • Reflective Message: Share a short update about your year or a few highlights, such as a new family member, a big move, or a memorable trip.
  • Lighthearted and Fun: “All is calm, all is bright... until the kids wake up at 5 a.m.!” or “Wishing you peace, love, and an abundance of homemade cookies!”
  • Personal Touches: Use a favourite quote, add your own holiday rhyme, or have each family member sign the card for a unique touch.

Consider who your cards are going to and make your message feel as warm and personal as possible. You can even play around with font styles and colours to complement your message.

Step 5: Add a Personal Touch with Embellishments

Take your card customization one step further by adding your own creative flair:

  • Ribbon or Buttons: Attach a small ribbon bow or button for a tactile element.
  • Glitter: Add a touch of sparkle with some carefully applied glitter.
  • Kid’s Artwork: Have the kids draw a little holiday doodle on the inside for a family-friendly touch.

If you’re planning to mail your cards, keep any thick or heavy embellishments in mind, as they could increase postage costs. Simple additions like small stickers or drawings are easy ways to make the card feel unique without adding extra weight.

Step 6: Print, Sign, and Send!

Beautiful Customized Holiday Card with Family Photo

When you’re ready to print, we will take care of the rest! Our Folded Cards are printed on premium cardstock and are shipped to you with envelopes included, so you can be sure your cards look and feel exceptional and are ready for you to give to family and friends as soon as you receive them.

  • Order in Quantities that Suit You: Whether you need just one card or a pack of 100, we offer flexible ordering, with prices that decrease as quantities go up—from $1.50 to $3.50 per card.
  • Handwritten Notes: If time allows, add a short handwritten note to make each card feel personal. Even a simple “Wishing you the best!” can make a big difference.

Create Holiday Cards That Will Be Treasured

This holiday season, make your greetings stand out with our Folded Cards. Designed to be fully customizable, they’re the perfect way to share your favourite memories and spread holiday cheer. Explore the various themes and styles we offer and get started on creating holiday cards that will become treasured keepsakes!

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