Writing combined with creative Design is what’s needed to impress!
(The following blog is the first of a two-part series.)
“Creativity comes from the soul… It sustains us; gives us joy and hope for a better world to come!” DRG
A few decades ago, life was less complicated.
When we wanted to communicate, we used the telephone by dialing a number.
We also had the option of writing a letter or sending a greeting card compliments of the US Postal Service.
Today everything is rapid fire fast…. Most are digital in nature.
Such conveniences are now part of the everyday landscape… and if you can’t ‘catch up’ you are labelled a dinosaur.
But, consider the sectors of the population who want to make an impression by personalization rather than producing something in volume….
There are those of advanced age, who long for the former traditional methods of communication.
In 2026, physical greeting cards outpace e-cards with 76% of the market.
E-cards, video templates are growing with ~ 25 to 34 % of the market. (This includes 62% of Millennials and 59% of Gen Z) who prefer receiving a printed card over an e-card.
However, the public perception is that traditional cards are a dying breed, except with the senior set. The typical greeting card cost today is $5 to $6.00. ‘Pretty outrageous!
The ever increasing costs-
Paper and printing costs in 2026 are rising due to general market increases of 6% to 8% for standard offset and book grades, up to 13% for specialty or pressure-sensitive stocks.
Other driving factors - higher costs of production, petroleum, dyes, pigments, decreased overall demand for cards, paper mill closures and transportation costs.
E-card subscriptions generally cost between $5 and $8 per month or $20 to $54 per year depending on the manufacturer.
So, on the one hand, people prefer receiving physical cards, but may not want to pay the exorbitant prices to buy and send them.
The buying public is a lot more selective with their purchases these days.
***If you care about sending cards that are special and unique that will last a lifetime-
I had the pleasure of writing a thank you card verse for a 90 year old resident where I live.
Following her milestone birthday, many friends and relatives flew in from many parts of the U.S. to celebrate ‘just for the day’ (literally!)
My client was so touched by the fact that they took the time and expense to do so. She asked me to write a thank you card verse for her to express her appreciation. As she was unfamiliar with this area and didn’t drive, I decided to use a local printer whom I trust.
Once we discussed what she wanted for content, the actual narrative did not take too long. I always try to write with heart, which tends to come naturally!
I contacted my local printer - Alphagraphics, in Charlotte, N.C.
My client also had a very special photo of a sunset she wanted to include, taken years ago by a niece who was 7 years old at the time.
We had a few discussions with the printer regarding the type of card- postcard style versus, traditional 4 sided card, the quality of the material to be used, etc.
A final addition was a special photo credit on the back of the card for her niece.
The end result was a high quality production, filled with special touches!
It will remain as a unique keepsake for her and all of her family and friends.
This gesture also serves to help build a legacy, which is so important to
those we care about!
Other Occasions to Consider-
I can foresee similar cards as a wedding favor, birthday celebration, thank you, observation of a religious holiday, family celebration/reunion, funeral or wake, your favorite holiday such as… The average family with children at home spends between $445 and $652 per year on Halloween celebrations and more! Our collective imaginations are limitless if you need something special and unique!
A New Venture and Special Offer for You!
***As a result of this project, I have decided to introduce this concept as a special feature to followers of my website, social media as well as ‘word of mouth.’
Sample of a Personalized Card Order -
This is just an example with actual fees varying, depending upon the time and complexity needed.
I begin with a base price of $50 for the writing of a card verse, in addition $50 for my time and efforts including locating a local printer in your area (or my printer).
I would then collaborate with them on content and design, manage communications between all parties including shipping and delivery, as well as handle any special requests.
Printing and shipping costs would be billed separately to you by the printer.
**Rule of thumb, the larger the quantity, the less expensive the costs regarding what the printing company produces.
I hope you will take advantage of this opportunity… just in time for your special occasion. Don’t delay… There are a lot of opportunities and upcoming holidays! Let’s be creative together!
Contact me here- https://donnagore.com/contact
Thanks,
Donna R. Gore
Writer/Author