Elegant Christmas cards

An elegant Christmas card is restrained. A single gold star. A sprig of pine on cream. One line in a good typeface and a lot of white space. It suits the people who would rather receive one beautiful card than a stack of noisy ones: clients, hosts, a senior colleague, the in-laws you want to impress, or a friend with a very tidy mantelpiece. Pick a card with calm lines and good proportions, then write a clear, unfussy greeting inside. Say thank you and say it properly. Send it by email or text, and schedule it for Christmas morning so it arrives with some ceremony.

5 things to write inside

Swap in their name. Change anything that doesn’t sound like you.

  1. quiet Dear [first name], with warm thanks for the year and every good wish for a peaceful Christmas.
  2. sweet [first name], it has been a pleasure to know you this year. May your Christmas be gentle and your new year bright.
  3. quiet Wishing you and yours a quiet and happy Christmas, [first name]. With gratitude and warm regards.
  4. sweet [first name], thank you for your generosity and good company. I hope the season brings you rest and joy.
  5. funny Dear [first name], may your Christmas be as well composed as your table settings. With admiration and best wishes.

Questions people ask

What do you write in an elegant Christmas card?

Keep it short and gracious. Thank them for something specific, then add a good wish for the season. 'With thanks for a wonderful year and warm wishes for Christmas' is polished without being stiff. Sign off with your name and nothing more.

Who should I send an elegant card to?

Clients, hosts, senior colleagues, a mother-in-law, anyone you want to thank with a bit of care. It also suits people who love simplicity. If you are unsure of their taste, an elegant card is a safe, thoughtful choice.

Is an elegant card still appropriate by email?

Yes, when the card is good. It arrives as a link and opens like an envelope, which gives it a sense of occasion. Add a short, well-written line and schedule it for Christmas morning, so it lands at a proper moment.