There’s something about the holidays that tends to turn us all into writers. With cleverly worded Christmas letters and thoughtful thank you notes to send after each festive event, it’s the perfect time of year to tell your loved ones how much you care.

When you find the time to sit down with your stationery and pen, you might be wondering where to begin. Don’t fret! We’re here to help. With over 100 years in the stationery business, we’ve written our fair share of thank you notes here at Crane. So pour yourself a cup of tea or cocoa, pull up a chair, and follow these tips for writing the perfect holiday thank you notes. We’ve even included a few samples to spark your inspiration.

The Basics

The best way to get started is to follow this simple formula. In each thank you note, you should include the following five things:

1. A Greeting

Open your note with a simple salutation. When in doubt, you can’t go wrong with “Dear.” Since the tone is personal and informal, if you are writing to a friend or loved one, feel free to use nicknames.

2. Expression of Gratitude

While it is perfectly appropriate to write a standard thank you card, including details about the specific gift you received adds a personal touch and lets the giver know how much you appreciate their gesture.

3. Statement About the Future

Here is your chance to tell your friend or loved one how much you appreciate them and to let them know you can’t wait to see them again. To make your note even more special, mention something you discussed when you received the gift, or the last time you spoke.

4. Reiterate the Thank You

Close on a grateful note and reiterate your gratitude.

5. Regards

There are many ways to end your note; choose one that conveys warmth and is appropriate for your relationship.

Here are some fun examples of ways to sign off that go beyond “sincerely”:

• Love,
• Best wishes,
• Cheers,
• Warmly,
• Fondly,
• Beyond grateful,
• Blessings,
• Feeling spoiled,
• With gratitude,
• Love and thanks,

Need some more inspiration? Here are some holiday thank you note examples to fit a variety of situations.

Monetary Gifts

Gift Card

Dear ____,

Thank you for the generous gift card to [store]. I am so excited to refresh my ski gear before my next trip to Vail. I have a feeling that this season is going to be amazing! I can’t wait to hear about your visit to Spain. Let’s plan to grab a coffee when you get back.

Thanks again. I so appreciate your thoughtfulness and am happy to have you as an aunt.

Love,

Money or Check

Dear ____,

I just used the Christmas gift you sent toward a new pair of boots and I have got to tell you, my feet look fabulous! I’m so excited to wear them. Thanks so much for your generosity. I’m touched beyond words.

I loved looking at pictures of your precious grandkids and cannot wait to see you this Easter. Thanks so much for your generous gift and, of course, your delicious Christmas cookies.

Feeling spoiled,

Gift from a Close Friend

Dear ____,

I cannot thank you enough for the adorable cocktail glasses. They look perfect on my bar cart. You know me so well! I am sipping on a martini as I write this. I can’t wait to have you over for a cocktail sometime soon so we can put them to good use.

Thank you so much for your thoughtful gift and priceless friendship. I am so happy to have you in my life.

Cheers,

Gift from a Distant Relative or Acquaintance

Dear ____,

Thank you so much for the lovely mug and chocolates. The mug will make my days at the office just a bit brighter. How did you know that I had such an insatiable sweet tooth? I can tell that you are such a thoughtful and giving person, and I really enjoyed our conversation over dinner.

Thank you again for your sweet gift. You’ve made my day.

Sincerely,

Office Secret Santa

Dear ____,

I am so lucky to have you as my Secret Santa! I adore candles and can never have too many of them. The scent you chose made my house smell absolutely delightful. Thanks so much for your thoughtful gift and for being such a joy to be around in the office. You always brighten my Mondays.

Thanks again, and I hope you have a wonderful holiday back home in Wisconsin.

Warmly,

Gift from a Colleague or Business Acquaintance

Dear ____,

Thank you so much for your thoughtful holiday gift. My team and I have been enjoying the beautiful holiday treats all week. It’s always a pleasure doing business with you.

Thank you for thinking of me during the holidays. I hope you have a happy and prosperous new year!

Sincerely,

Dinner Party

Dear ____,

What a spectacular party. You really are an incredible host! Thank you for letting us be part of it all. We had a lovely time. My husband and I cannot stop talking about that chocolate cake – we’d love to get the recipe from you next time we see you.

Thanks again for the evening filled with laughter, conversation, and delightful food; I am still smiling just thinking about it.

Love and thanks,

When to Send your Note

The best time to send your note is a few days after receiving your gift or attending a party, but it is never too late to show your gratitude. If a week or two has passed, your recipient will still be delighted to read your kind words.

No matter what the occasion or gift, a handwritten thank you note is the best way to share your gratitude with the ones you love and make a wonderful impression.

The post How to Write the Perfect Post-Christmas Thank You Card appeared first on Crane Post Script.

For a truly meaningful connection, each card should contain a unique message inside — one that reflects the nature of your relationship with your loved one.

If creating a series of these personal notes sounds intimidating, don’t be daunted. These sample Christmas and holiday card messages can inspire you to create the right wording to wrap your good wishes in a lovely holiday bow. So, turn up the holiday tunes, sip some hot cocoa, and have fun with this classic holiday tradition!

Holiday Card Messages for Friends

The holiday season is an ideal time to remind your friends of what you love most about your relationship. Incorporating something special to both of you, whether it’s a specific memory or an inside joke, can make a message especially moving.

Use these examples as inspiration:

• Friends like you make Christmas — and life! — merry and bright.
• Thinking warmly of you during the cold winter season.
• Sending warm wishes for happy holidays and a healthy New Year from our family to yours.

Tip: If you’re writing to a married friend, be sure you’re including their partner. Consider adding a note that includes your friend’s significant other, like “Julie, tell Steve about the time we saw Santa at the mall in grade school!”

Holiday Card Messages for Your Spouse

Writing a Christmas card or holiday card for your spouse is a lot like writing a love letter — it should reveal your emotions and your appreciation for the life that you’ve built together.

Use these examples of card messages to write for your partner as inspiration:

• I hope you know our life together is the most precious gift I could ask for.
• I’m counting you as my life’s greatest blessing during this season of miracles.

Tip: Your note doesn’t have to be gushy and sentimental if that’s not how you typically talk. Feel free to crack a joke that’ll spark a warm glow in your significant other’s heart.

Holiday Wishes for Significant Others

Like writing to a spouse, think of the message you include in your card to boyfriend or girlfriend as the chance to send a mini-love note. However, you should match the tone of your greeting to the stage of your relationship; be thoughtful about making major declarations if you’re not ready.

Use these examples of messages you could write to your significant other as inspiration:

• The best gift this year is spending time with you. I couldn’t ask for anything better.
• Hoping the holidays this year are just the beginning of many blessed years together.

Holiday Cards for Your Parents

Highlight the love, the memories, and your gratitude for everything they’ve done for you in the note you include in your parents’ Christmas card or holiday card.

Examples of holiday messages for your parents include:

• Merry Christmas, Mom and Dad! Hope I made it on the “Nice” list this year!
• Thanks for teaching me the reason for the season. Happy Hanukkah, Mom and Dad.

Holiday Cards for Siblings

You probably share some of your earliest holiday memories with your brothers and sisters. Share your favorites and hatch plans to create new memories in the years to come with the message in your Christmas card.

Use these examples of holiday card messages for a sister or brother as inspiration:

• Merry Christmas to the kid whose crazy ideas landed me on the naughty list every year!
• Hope your kids have as much fun together this year as we did every year during the holidays!

Holiday Wishes for the Whole Family

When you have a large extended family, it can be difficult to see everyone during the holidays. Create a sense of family connection with even your farthest relatives with a meaningful message that highlights your family’s shared history and values.

Use these examples of Christmas card messages you could write for family members as inspiration:

• We might not be together in person this Christmas, but we’re always together in my heart. Merry Christmas!
• Prayers and love from our family to yours this holiday season.

Kid-Friendly Holiday Cards

Make little ones feel special by creating a unique holiday greeting written just for them. Write messages at an age-appropriate level for the child, and be extremely cautious with references to Santa (no spoilers).

Use these examples of holiday and Christmas card messages for children as inspiration:

• We talked to one of Santa’s elves and we heard you’re on the “Nice” list this year. Keep up the good work and have a very merry Christmas.
• When we count our blessings this season, we’ll be counting you as one of our family’s most precious gifts. Happy holidays!
• Happy Hanukkah to our special nephew. We hope you enjoy eight magical nights of spinning the dreidel and lighting the menorah!

Holiday Card Messages for Grandparents

Give grandparents a holiday note with what they want to hear most — news of, or notes from, their grandchildren.

Use these examples of holiday messages for grandparents as inspiration:

• Stacy says to wish you a “Merry Christmas!”
• Happy holidays to the best Grandparents in the whole wide world.

Tip: For cards little ones who are too young to write, quote a message or include a drawing from them to warm their grandparents’ hearts.

Holiday Card Messages for Grandchildren

Real mail, written especially for them by some of their favorite people in the world, can help feed your grandchild’s excitement for the holiday season.

Use these examples of messages for grandchildren as inspiration:

• Nana and PopPop are sending you extra-special blessings for a happy holiday season. We love you!
• We can’t wait to see you at your school’s holiday play. Merry Christmas!

Tip: Check with the parents of children to find out if there are any holiday traditions your grandchildren are especially excited about this year and mention them if you can.

Holiday Cards for Managers, Coworkers, and Employees

Holiday card messages for the people you work with are professional correspondence, and you should treat them that way. Notes should be warm and personal, but not overly familiar.

Use these examples of messages for colleagues as inspiration:

• Wishing you joy and light this holiday season!
• Hope you enjoy time with those you love during the holidays.

Tip: If you’re not sure about the personal life of a colleague, be cautious about making references to family, religion, or children.

Warm Wishes for Teachers

Holiday cards are one of the school year’s prime opportunities to thank your child’s teachers for all they do.

Use these examples of cards you could write to a teacher as inspiration:

• Have a very Merry Christmas! Steve couldn’t have written his letter to Santa without all you’ve taught him.
• Wishing you the happiest of holiday seasons and sending our extra special thanks for all you do for Michael.

Tip: Teacher greetings are also professional correspondence, so be sure to be neutral if you don’t know which holidays your teacher celebrates.

Addressing the Group

When you’re sending a message to more than a few people, it’s hard to be especially personal. To make your card feel special, add a note that’s as specific as possible.

Use these examples of holiday card messages you could write to a group as inspiration:

• Happy holidays to the county’s top softball team! Looking forward to beating you in the New Year.
• Warm holiday wishes, and many thanks, to the staff at Greenview Senior Center.

Remember: Group messages should reflect the range of people who will receive it. Unless you know specifically the entire group’s religious affiliations (for instance, if you’re writing to a church group), use language that’s as inclusive as possible.

Fun Messages for Your Card!

Find more inspiration for Christmas card and holiday messages in pop culture references, such as:

• Holiday music: Quote favorite song titles or lyrics, like “Have a Holly, Jolly Christmas.”
• Favorite holiday characters: Messages from Rudolph, Santa, or even the Grinch can add lighthearted fun.
• Puns: Use a play on words, like “I love you a latke! Happy Hanukkah!”

How to Sign Your Holiday Cards

A Christmas card isn’t complete without a handwritten signature. Close your card’s message with words that match the tone of the rest of your card. Some examples include:

• Merry Christmas,
• Warmest Wishes,
• All the Best,
• Happy Holidays,

Writing these notes can be a meaningful part of your holiday celebrations. So, above all, have fun as you write them. Set the scene to make writing a festive holiday experience — play holiday music, enjoy a few Christmas cookies, perhaps even invite a friend to write cards while you’re writing yours. Find a beautiful selection of holiday cards and holiday stationery at Crane.

The post Christmas Card Message Ideas for Holiday Cards & Notes appeared first on Crane Post Script.

TIPS FOR HOSTING A WONDERFUL FRIENDSGIVING

• Consider what kind of gathering you want to have. Would an intimate evening of conversation be more your speed, or an evening of lively music, bustling guests, and large dinner portions be more appropriate? This will set the mood for the evening and invitations you share. Don’t forget to consider the size of your space.
• Create your guest list. Think of all the amazing friends in your life that you’re thankful for, then stick to either your dearest companions for a small dinner or a “more-the-merrier” approach for a lively feast. Don’t forget to consider new friends or friends who won’t be able to travel back home to their family’s Thanksgiving meal, as they will greatly appreciate a Friendsgiving invitation.
• Create the menu. Keeping in mind any dietary restrictions and preferences that your friends may have, creating the menu is where you can truly put a personal touch on your Friendsgiving event. This is the perfect time to share your family traditions with friends who may not have experienced them before or bring out a recipe for a new dish you’re dying to try. The menu should be balanced across all food groups. A wide selection will make sure that all your friends will be able to completely fill their plates.

• Send out invitations. Notifying your friends of the event in advance is always a good idea and the best way to make your event truly feel special and warm is through a physical invitation. Make sure to include an RSVP date and the list of dishes and drinks needed so that guests can RSVP with their preferred choice. You’ll likely have to contact some of the guests to tell them their preferred dish has already been claimed, but that will also encourage your friends to RSVP early!
• Deliver instructions for dishes guests should bring. Friendsgiving is all about friends coming together, and thus the tradition dictates that each friend should bring a dish to the event, potluck-style. As turkey (or an alternative main dish depending on preference) is typically the most work, the host should be responsible for cooking it. Beyond the turkey and gravy, ask your confirmed friends to bring a variety of side dishes, appetizers, and desserts.
• Gather supplies and prepare. Consider the items that you may need extras of: plates, side plates, napkins, silverware, cups, and even items like paper towels. Try to stay away from cheap-looking paper or plastic plates and go with higher quality options, like silverware if you have enough. This can elevate a gathering from a casual meal to an exquisite event.
• Don’t forget extra drinks (and ice). While most of the alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages should be covered from the menu, it never hurts to have extra on-hand just in case. Don’t wait until the last minute to request someone pick up a bag of ice on the way to the dinner! Prepping one fancy cocktail for everyone is a fantastic way to welcome them in.
• Start setting up in the morning. You will be busy in the kitchen all day, so before that happens, set the table with care. By doing so, you will be able to identify if there are any items missing that you may need your friends to bring last minute!

• Keep the decorations simple and elegant. Friendsgiving is all about spending time with people you are grateful for and those people will feel the same way. Don’t stress over the decorations; choose simple, subdued colors for all napkins and plates, only add a few small decorative items to the dinner table, and use votive candles in the surrounding area to make the setting feel warm and calm. For an extra personal touch, table place cards are ideal way to take the guesswork out of where everyone will sit at the table while also adding a touch of elegance.
• Find a unique way for people to share what they are grateful for. Going around the table and asking everyone to say what they are thankful for is a classic tradition, putting a fun twist on this can make it more fun and heartwarming. One option is to have everyone anonymously write down what they are thankful for on a notecard and put it into a bowl. The host can then pull these notes out one by one and have everyone guess who wrote it. Another option is to create a keepsake to remember the event by. You can pick out an item, like a decorative pumpkin or a large printed group photo, on which everyone can write what they are thankful for.
• Include Friendsgiving games. Adding games to the event is an easy way to make sure your guests are entertained throughout the day. Simple games and activities work best, as your friends will likely want to spend time chatting and catching up and may be too distracted to focus on a complex game.

• Thank you cards. Within the week after your Friendsgiving, send out thank you cards to all your attendees to show them exactly how much it meant to you for them to spend a fun day together. They’ll certainly appreciate the thought you put into the event up until this final touch.

By now, you’ve made it. Friendsgiving was a success! Next on your schedule is your holiday party! Find out how to choose a holiday party theme with these tips from Crane.

The post Tips for Hosting a Wonderful Friendsgiving appeared first on Crane Post Script.

Writing Tips for Your Business Holiday Cards

Before you begin writing, keep the following tips in mind. Business holiday cards should:

Be inclusive

In professional settings, you likely won’t know the religious background or personal preferences of each person. Keep the focus on the feelings you hope the recipient will have during the holiday season — warmth, joy, peace — rather than on a specific holiday.

Reflect your company’s style

Although it’s more personal, business holiday cards should match your brand’s tone. If your company is more formal, your holiday cards should reflect that. On the other hand, if your professional relationships are more lighthearted and casual, you can be more relaxed in your business holiday messages.

Emphasize relationships, not sales

A holiday card from a business offers a special chance to relate with colleagues, so it shouldn’t be written as a sales pitch. Yes, write about hopes for your ongoing relationship, but don’t write messages about hoped-for sales.

With the above ideas in mind, you’ll decide whether to print or handwrite the message in your business holiday cards. Typed cards create a clean, uniformed look while handwritten cards provide a more personal feel. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide how you’d like to represent your business.

Wording Ideas for Your Business Holiday Cards

The specific wording for holiday business cards will vary based on the size of your business and your client list. The more recipients you have, the broader your message will be.

Opening Messages

If you’re a small company and you are writing as an individual, the card should reflect that personal feel. Traditional opening messages, such as “Dear Mr. Smith,” are an option, particularly if you’re handwriting the entire message.

On the other hand, if the holiday message you’re creating comes from a more corporate voice, you might opt for a general printed message for the opening, with a more personal handwritten note at the end coming directly from you.

Body Messages

The general principles for business correspondence apply to the message you write in a holiday business card. That means you should remember the following:

• Focus on the season, rather than a particular holiday with messages such as “Warm wishes for a wonderful holiday season,” rather than more holiday-specific themes (for example, “Merry Christmas” or “Happy Hanukkah”).
• Avoid making assumptions about the private life of the person you are writing to. Messages directly speaking to family or a married state might not apply to them.
• Include a recap of the past and a look to the future. Messages that highlight the connection you share with the recipient or speak to an ongoing relationship are appropriate ways to underscore your relationship.

Closing Messages

The closing you choose before signing a business holiday card should be professional, but should also be as warm as the standards of your business or industry allow.

This could be as simple as changing the closing before your signature from “Sincerely” to “With Warm Wishes.”

The key is selecting a message that reflects the way you already interact with the recipient. A good test for a potential holiday business card closing is to read the words you’re considering out loud and imagine saying it to the person you’re writing to; if you’d feel uncomfortable saying it, try something a little more formal.

After closing, be sure to sign it yourself. A handwritten signature is essential for a warm business holiday card.

The Best Time to Send Holiday Cards

Holiday cards should arrive anytime from late November, after Thanksgiving, to early December. Because so many people take the last few weeks of the year off, the first two weeks of December are an ideal time to send messages when people are getting into the holiday spirit.

Sample Holiday Business Card Messages

From a small business to a client you know well/work with closely in a more casual field:

Happy Holidays, Donna!

I’ve enjoyed our work together this year and hope you enjoy every minute of the time you’ll spend with your grandchildren this season. Looking forward to starting on the Smith Project in January.

All the Best,

From a business to a client in a more professional field:

Dear Mr. Smith,

The team at Archive Industries wishes you a wonderful holiday season and a prosperous New Year.

Warm Wishes,

From an employee to a supervisor:

Dear Pat,

Thanks for all you’ve taught me in the past year. I’m looking forward to working together to make [year number] ACME’s best yet!

Happy Holidays,

Use these outlines to help guide you in writing your business holiday cards this season.

Where to Buy Business Holiday Cards

Crane offers a classic collection of corporate holiday cards to serve your correspondence needs. You can also write a message on your professional stationery and customize it to the season.

The post How to Write Business Holiday Cards – Tips & Examples appeared first on Crane Post Script.

Bible verses in your holiday cards can convey the perfect well wishes to your loved ones. That being said, it is key to consider the recipient, and whether including a Bible verse is appropriate. For example, Bible verses can be wonderful for friends and family you know well. However, including Bible verses in more formal, less personal cards to coworkers and acquaintances may not be as appreciated, especially if you don’t know which religion, if any, they practice. In these cases, it may be more considerate to use a more generic holiday message.

Here are a few inspiring Bible verses you can easily add to your holiday cards.

Christmas-Specific Bible Verses

When it comes to Christmas verses in the Bible, most are found in the New Testament, which is the part of the book that covers the Christmas story: the birth of Jesus. In particular, the gospels of Luke and Matthew go into great detail about the traditional story. However, the Old Testament also includes some verses that refer to the birth of Jesus.

• “And there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch by night. And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them.” —Luke 2:8-9
• “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel.” —Matthew 1:23
• “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” —Isaiah 9:6
• “Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.” —Isaiah 7:14
• “But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.’” —Luke 2:10

Short Christmas Bible Verses

If you just want to include a short line in your card and fill the rest with a personalized message, you may want to consider some of these shorter Christmas verses.

• “When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy.” —Matthew 2:10
• “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” —Luke 2:11
• “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will towards men.” —Luke 2:14
• “Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!” —2 Corinthians 9:15
• “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God.” —Matthew 5:9
• “Let your light shine before others.” —Matthew 5:16

Christmas Bible Verses for Children

Are you sending cards to children? If so, you need to choose a meaningful verse that’s easy for young recipients to read. The following verses are perfect for children whose parents celebrate Christmas, but who are still learning the religious story behind the holiday.

• “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” —John 3:16
• “She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” —Matthew 1:21
• “The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone.” —John 1:4
• “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” —Romans 6:23

Non-Christmas-Specific Bible Verses

If you’re not connecting with any of the above Christmas verses, don’t worry; there are many other inspiring passages to fit your well wishes. The following quotes are reminders to love one another and be kind, which is just the message to send this season.

• “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” —John 1:29
• “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.” —Mark 12:30
• “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” —Romans 15:13
• “Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.” —Psalm 55:22
• “The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace.” —Psalms 29:11
• “And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love.” —1 Corinthians 13:13

How to Incorporate Bible Verses into Christmas Cards

Once you’ve chosen the perfect Bible verse, it’s easy to incorporate it into your cards. In most cases, Bible verses are the main block of text on the interior, meaning they may be in a large or bold font. Then, beneath this, you can sign your name and an optional personal message.

If you’re designing your own card, you may even want to put the Bible verse on the front of the card, as this makes it even more noticeable. Pair it with a picture of your family or an icon of the nativity for the full effect.

As the saying goes, Jesus is the reason for the season, and including Bible verses in your holiday cards is a good way to share your joy with your loved ones. With this list of ideas for holiday cards, you should have no problem finding the verse that speaks to you.

The post 21 Bible Verse Ideas for Holiday Cards appeared first on Crane Post Script.

Meghan’s Favorite: Celestial Holiday Greeting Card

Why she chose it… “This new design is one of my favorites. It feels modern and sophisticated, yet captures the magic of the season.”

John’s Favorite: Paisley Ornament

Why he chose it… “One of my all-time favorites. Beautifully composed, magnificently printed. A classic.”

Karen’s Favorite: Snow Man and Friend Greeting Card

Why she chose it… “Charming, whimsical, and endearing. Beautifully engraved and embossed. Evokes a feeling of wonder and friendship in a secular way.”

Sita’s Favorite: Classic Christmas Tree

Why she chose it… “The color palate, the details and the delicate lettering throughout, makes this a very charming and beautiful design.”

The post Our Holiday Favorites – Designer Picks appeared first on Crane Post Script.

Sending out holiday cards can, at times, seem like a chore. But imagine the thought process that goes into the cards themselves. Today we’re sitting down with the designer of this timeless collection, one that will make friends and family alike rejoice in the season with each new card they open. Sita Silva will tell you that there are sources of inspiration for her collections everywhere, primarily in other artists, fashion designers, textile designers, filmmakers, photographers, and everyday life.

For the holiday collection specifically, she credits a serious immersion in the holiday season – and one that seems to begin earlier and earlier with every passing year. We, for one, are so pleased to hear it, because this collection is not to be missed. Understanding the beauty of each piece and every design begins right here, so stay tuned as we take a deep dive into the season with the lovely and immensely talented Sita Silva herself.

Tell us a little about yourself (i.e. background, artistic/creative sources of inspiration, hobbies, family life, etc.).

Early on, I knew I wanted a career in the arts. I honestly wasn’t sure which field as long as I got to be creative while making a living. With the support of my mother and father, I went to the School of Visual Arts to study graphic design with a focus in editorial design and motion graphics.

What drew you to designing stationery?  What makes it special/different from other design work?

For many years I worked for a company that helped build brand identities for small apparel start-ups. I worked as an art director, designed branding systems, website layouts, marketing materials, and photography – everything down to the trim on the garments! But I wanted my work to mean something and wanted to create something that became a part of someone’s life.

My career in the stationery field began as a wedding invitation and stationery designer at Ellen Weldon Design. Currently, I’m a holiday greeting card designer for Crane. I wanted to create things that people cherished; things that became a part of their lives and served as reminders of life’s special moments.

What’s a day in the life of a designer look like?

Every day is different, but generally I scan my emails in the morning and check to see which meetings I have for the day or for the week. We have weekly design meetings and I also have a weekly meeting with our Senior Art Director, Karen Herzig. I work on anything that is urgent first. This can be anything from sending last-minute changes to our production team to reviewing illustrator artwork and sending feedback. Then, if I’m starting a new album, I create and finalize a collection plan which lists and identifies concepts, SKU count, and category breakdowns for each item that will be in the album.

Throughout the rest of the day, you can usually find me working on next year’s album while proofing an album that is currently being produced. Throw in 1 to 3 meetings a day and that pretty much sums it up. 

What’s on your desk?

My desk is usually a mess with stacks of Christmas décor magazines, project folders, pens, markers, erasers, pencils, sticky notes, Pantone chips, a scanner, and small cutting mat. And somewhere amongst this mess is my laptop, monitor, and pen tablet.

Anything you can’t live without?

I absolutely need my computer, but when I’m sketching or creating a piece of artwork, I rely heavily on these very thin erasers. They are similar to a clickable pencil but instead of lead an eraser comes out. They are about 1/8” diameter and they let me erase with precision, and they’re an absolute must for me.

Tell us about your inspirations for the Collection:

My biggest source of inspiration for Crane Holiday is actually our Crane archives. I use the archives as my inspiration guide and as the core foundation to the direction of any collection. Staying true to the Crane aesthetic for holiday is very important. So, I always go back to the archives at the beginning of a project and immerse myself in Crane Christmas! Classic charm, history, nostalgia, and tradition: these are things that embody the holiday season, and I think that’s why people gravitate towards our Crane holiday cards. We like to hold true to the same aesthetics while adding a little something new or unique.

Would you say there’s any part of your personal life that contributes to your designs?

My love of Christmas! I am one of those people who want to start decorating earlier and earlier every year. This year, I convinced my husband to start decorating even before Thanksgiving!

Anything from your personal holiday traditions that lends to your seasonal artistry?

Any time I’m out shopping and I see a Christmas section I am always taking snapshots, looking for color trends, or anything else that might inspire a design.

Tell us about your design process and your experiences with creating this holiday collection:

The design process begins with a lot of analyzing and gathering of images and information. How are people decorating their homes for Christmas? What colors are their ornaments? These are questions that I ask myself. I start off by gathering information and inspiration.

As I mentioned before, I immerse myself in the Crane archives and pretty much immerse myself in the holiday season in general. I start to gather things like magazine clippings, snapshots of window displays – even patterns I found on chairs or vases. All these things are in different locations so I put them all together in a binder in combination with Pinterest boards. I love Pinterest and I have so many boards.

Then: I start sketching and concepting. I also review and run ideas by our art director. All designs and concepts get reviewed and go through various stages of approval before I start to contact our illustrators.

For the collection coming out this year, I tried to incorporate more whimsical elements along with adding an extra touch of color wherever possible, while still keeping to the classic Crane aesthetic.

What’s the best part of seeing this collection come to life?

I like hearing what people’s favorites are and I find it really interesting to see what people gravitate towards. But one thing I love is knowing that these cards are being sent out to friends and family members and they get to be present in people’s homes. That’s the best part for me.

What do you think makes the holidays collection such a special part of the year for senders and recipients?

Sending a holiday card is a great way for people to connect with one another, share news, communicate something meaningful, or just to simply say “thank you” during this time of year. And with a gorgeous Crane holiday card, you are just making that sentiment even more special. Everyone loves receiving holiday cards. Every time I receive a holiday card it makes me smile!

Is there any one, cohesive thing that defines the holiday collection?

Throughout the collection what’s most innate in each design is an element of joyful charm, expressed beautifully through our exquisite engraving.

Any favorite pieces from the collection? Why?

My favorite piece from the collection is the Venetian trees card. It carries a bit of my graphic design style, geometric shapes and swirls. It’s both whimsical and modern, yet elegant at the same time.  I designed and served as art director for this piece, which was brought to life by one of our extremely talented illustrators.

The post The Holidays With Sita appeared first on Crane Post Script.

As the temperature drops, our thoughts inevitably turn to the holidays. The decorations, the family dinners and then the stress creeps in… it’s time for another holiday photo for your card! Relax, it’s not as hard as it may seem. Gather the family, find a photographer and remember these elements that make a great family photo.

Togetherness

Family photos should have a sense of connection. Typically, this is through touching: holding hands, hugging, leaning on one another. But sometimes it can be as simple as a look between the parents.

A Pleasing Background

When it comes to background, keep it simple! Places with lots going on are distracting not only to the photo subjects, but also to the viewer. You want something that blends in nicely, that compliments the subjects rather than distracting from them.

Relax

Everyone does not have to have the exact same perfect smile, have their hair just perfect or be sitting up perfectly straight. Sometimes the best photos are the unscripted ones, the unexpected moments between kids, a laugh the whole family shares. These shots show a slice of personality and are usually favorites.

So, relax, it’s not that scary! Holiday photos can be fun and a great part of your family legacy.

Photo Do’s and Don’ts

DO: Include the whole family in the photo. Your family and friends want to see you, too, not just your kids and pets.

DO: Pick a time of day when your kids are most happy and relaxed. Just before nap or bedtime is never a good idea.

DO: If you are using a professional photographer, let them direct you.

DON’T yell, threaten or try to get your kids to do what you think they should be doing for the photo.  That’s what you hired the pro for! Trust that they will get what they need.

DO: Know when to say when. When kids are done, they are done.

DON’T try to get “just one more shot.” You most likely will not get the shot, causing more irritation for your child.

DO: If you are including a family pet, bring a pet wrangler. This is someone to have the treats, make the sounds your animal responds to and contain your pet properly.

DON’T: Make every family member wear the exact same outfit. If you routinely go out all dressed identically, then great, go for it, but if not, it will look kind of odd in a photo! I prefer my clients to coordinate, rather than match exactly.

DON’T: Wait till the last minute to make an appointment if you are planning to use a professional photographer. The fall is one of the busiest seasons, and the best studios book up weeks or months in advance.

The post How To Take the Perfect Holiday Photo Card Picture appeared first on Crane Post Script.

Invitations

The invitation sets the tone for the event. Exquisite printing in vibrant ink on our coveted 100% cotton paper will certainly evoke one of a soiree not to miss.

Place & Table Cards

Create a feast most memorable by making guests feel impossibly special. Table cards, which guide them to their respective seats, and place cards, which greet them once they arrive there, do just that.

The post Stationery for Holiday Season Entertaining appeared first on Crane Post Script.

Here are our etiquette tips on how to craft the perfect Thank You Note.

Say it with style

Your Thank You Notes should reflect your aesthetic, whether it’s classic, romantic, minimalist or modern. The recipient of said note should know who it’s from even before he/she reads a word.

Be gracious in a timely manner

Thank You Notes should be sent out as soon as possible after you receive the gift. One to two weeks is the sweet spot. Your note should be a thoughtful gesture, not a reminder for the gift.

Give credit where credit is due

Make sure to address your Thank You Note to the person or persons who gave you the gift. If the gift is from your friend and her husband, your note should address both individuals (even if you know she “did all the work”). Everyone likes to feel appreciated, after all.

Name drop

Mention the gift you received by name. It may seem like a small detail, but in an era of generic, automated emails, it’s nice to receive something that is personalized just for you.

Go the extra descriptive mile

Everyone hopes that the gift they give isn’t going to collect dust, destined for the Goodwill bag when spring cleaning comes around. Prevent such worry with a sentence or two about how/when/where you might use the gift and how excited you are to do so.

Let’s practice, shall we?

Dear Lindsay, Jeff and Gabriel,

Thank you so much for the gorgeous silk Hermes scarf. You know my taste so well! I can’t wait to wear it out to dinner with Barrett; it’s really the perfect accessory for a lovely night out in the city. I hope all is well, much love to you all.

Truly,
Olivia

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