The Art of Greetings Cards: A Timeless Tradition That Connects Us

In an era of instant messages and digital connections, the simple act of sending a greetings card remains deeply meaningful. But have you ever wondered where this tradition began? Why do we still cherish handwritten messages on paper when technology offers faster alternatives? Let’s explore the fascinating history, cultural significance, and emotional power of greetings cards—one of the most enduring forms of human connection.

A Journey Through Time: The Origins of Greetings Cards

The tradition of exchanging messages dates back thousands of years. The earliest known greetings cards can be traced to ancient China, where people exchanged messages of goodwill for the New Year. Meanwhile, the Egyptians used papyrus scrolls to write friendly and formal notes.

However, it wasn’t until the 15th century in Europe that greetings cards as we know them started to emerge. Handmade Valentine’s cards were particularly popular among the wealthy, often featuring intricate lace, ribbons, and hand-painted illustrations. In the 18th century, with the invention of the printing press, greetings cards became more widely accessible.

The real revolution came in the 19th century, when Sir Henry Cole, a British civil servant, commissioned the first commercial Christmas card in 1843. His goal? To encourage people to use the newly established postal system. This simple yet elegant card depicted a festive family scene and the words "A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to You." It was an instant success, paving the way for the greetings card industry as we know it today.

The Evolution of Greetings Cards: From Handwritten Notes to Digital Designs

Throughout history, greetings cards have evolved in both style and purpose.

🖋️ Handmade & Calligraphy Cards – Before mass production, cards were often hand-drawn and personalized, making them unique and sentimental.

📬 Postcards & Folded Cards – The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw the rise of illustrated postcards, often used for travel souvenirs or brief messages. Folded greeting cards, accompanied by envelopes, became the standard for birthdays, holidays, and special occasions.

🎵 Musical & Pop-Up Cards – With advancements in printing and manufacturing, greetings cards took on new dimensions. Sound chips were introduced in the 20th century, allowing musical cards to play tunes. Pop-up designs added an element of surprise and artistry.

💻 E-Cards & Digital Greetings Cards – The internet brought a new era of greetings, allowing people to send both static and animated e-cards with just a click. While convenient, they often lack the personal touch of a physical card.

📜 Printable & Customisable Digital Cards – Today, many people prefer a hybrid approach—choosing downloadable, customisable designs that can be printed at home or edited online. This not only blends the charm of a traditional card with the ease of digital convenience but also significantly reduces environmental impact. By printing only what is needed, we eliminate unnecessary waste and avoid the carbon footprint associated with mass production and the transportation of physical cards between printers, warehouses, and shops. A small change with a meaningful impact on our planet.

Why Do We Still Love Greetings Cards?

Despite all the technological advancements, greetings cards remain incredibly relevant. But why?

❤️ A Personal Touch – A handwritten message carries far more emotion than a text message or an email. It shows thoughtfulness, time, and effort.

📦 A Physical Keepsake – Unlike digital messages that get lost in the inbox, greetings cards are often cherished and kept for years as sentimental mementos.

🌍 A Universal Tradition – From Japan’s elegant New Year’s cards to the vibrant Diwali greetings cards in India, nearly every culture has its own version of sending warm wishes. Whether for birthdays, weddings, sympathy, or celebrations, greetings cards transcend borders and generations.

🎨 An Artistic Expression – Modern greetings cards are more than just messages—they are miniature works of art. From watercolour florals to minimalist typography, they reflect personal style and creativity.

Keeping the Tradition Alive in a Digital World

As we navigate an increasingly digital world, the beauty of a tangible greetings card feels more special than ever. Whether it’s a printed card, a personalised digital design, or a hybrid of both, the essence remains the same: connecting with others in a heartfelt, meaningful way.

At BOHHOS Studio, we celebrate this timeless tradition by offering beautifully designed, customisable digital greetings cards—perfect for any occasion. Whether you want to send a quick message or create something truly unique, our designs allow you to express yourself with warmth, creativity, and authenticity. Each card is designed for easy at-home printing, giving you the flexibility to create a tangible, heartfelt keepsake while reducing waste and environmental impact.

So, when was the last time you sent (or received) a heartfelt card? Perhaps today is the perfect day to revive this wonderful tradition.