Digital Christmas Cards vs Printed: Choose the Right Format

Use digital when speed and reach matter; use print when tactile and keepsake matter. You can do both without double work.

Quick decision guide

• Send digital: Long-distance, late in the season, eco-conscious, or large lists with emails.
• Send print: Elders, close family, clients/partners you value, people who display cards.
• Hybrid: Print a smaller batch for VIPs; send digital everywhere else.

Costs and timing

• Digital: ~$0; send instantly; keep files under ~2 MB.
• Print: ~$0.60–$3.50 per card + postage; order by Nov 20 (calm) or Dec 7 with rush; mail by Dec 10 domestic.

How to keep digital cards personal

• Short, specific line per recipient/group: “Loved your porch chats this year—Merry Christmas!”
• Send individually or small groups; avoid mass-bcc feel.
• Add a QR to a 20–30s video hello or private album.

How to keep printed cards impactful

• Matte 130–150 lb; 5x7 standard.
• Handwrite names on envelopes; add one personal sentence.
• Verify addresses; include 10–15% extras for late additions.

If your photo or background isn’t ready

• Take one window-lit shot; turn off overheads.
• Upload and generate 18 polished, print- and digital-ready scenes in 60 seconds—export 5x7 for print, 1080–2048 px for digital.

File specs

• Print: sRGB, 300 DPI, 5x7; faces/text 0.25" inside edges.
• Digital: sRGB; compress to under ~2 MB; use portrait/square for phones.

Messaging templates

• Digital: “No mailbox needed—sending warmth and gratitude. Your call/texts meant the world this year.”
• Print: “Thank you for being part of our year. Here’s a photo that makes us smile—hope it does the same for you.”

Bottom line

Match format to the relationship and timing. Keep words specific, specs correct, and lean on AI to finish fast if you’re late or the room isn’t card-ready.