In the age of email and everything digital, there’s still something quietly charming about receiving a postcard. Whether it’s a sunny “wish you were here” from a friend abroad or a heartfelt thank-you from a small business, postcards continue to stand the test of time.
If you’ve ever found yourself wondering how to write a postcard or what to say, you’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything from layout tips to message ideas, so whether you’re sending a quick hello from holiday or promoting your next big sale, you’ll know exactly how to go about it.
What to Write on a Personal Postcard
Postcards are a compact canvas, perfect for sharing quick, heartfelt messages. Popular uses include holiday updates, birthday greetings, thank-you notes or even just a spontaneous hello.
The Basics
Before you get creative, it helps to understand the classic postcard layout:
- Front: Usually reserved for a photo, illustration or design.
- Back: Split into two sections. The right side is for the recipient’s address, while the left is where your message goes.
Tip: Don’t forget to include the date – it’s a small touch, but it helps the recipient place your message in time and makes it easier to recall the context when they look back.
Writing Tips & Ideas
If you’re stuck wondering what to write on a postcard, here are a few examples that could serve as thought starters:
- Holiday greeting: Hello from Lisbon! Just had the most delicious pastel de nata, still warm from the oven. Wish you were here to enjoy one with me (make it two, actually – I’m not sharing, it’s that good!)
- Birthday note: Hey you, happy birthday! Here’s to a day packed with laughs, surprises, and a bit of cheeky fun (I know you won’t disappoint)!
- Seasonal wishes: Merry Christmas from snowy Edinburgh! Just walked past a choir singing carols and thought of us that evening at uni…Hope your holidays are warm, bright and full of cheer.
- Just because: Hey from the Lake District! Just spotted a sheep sporting the same hairstyle as James (I kid you not!). Hope all’s well, sending smiles your way.
Notice how these all sound intimate and personal? It’s all in the details: Mention an inside joke, include a short anecdote, reference a shared memory…Even just one or two vivid details can make your message memorable and meaningful.
How to Write an Effective Business Postcard
Postcards aren’t just for fun. Small businesses use them for everything from promotional mailers and thank you notes to event invitations and business updates. But how do you write a postcard that promotes your business effectively? Here’s some useful tips, ideas and best practices.
When to Use Them
- New product or service launches
- Sales announcements or discount codes
- Invitations to events or openings
- Customer appreciation notes
- Appointment reminders
Key Elements of a Business Postcard
- Clear message: Keep your message focused and straightforward. Highlight one main point or offer so it doesn’t overwhelm the reader. Clarity helps the recipient quickly understand the purpose of your postcard and what you want them to do next.
- Branding: Make sure your postcard reflects your business identity. Use your logo prominently and stick to your brand colours and fonts. This consistency builds recognition and trust.
- Call to action: Be clear about what you want the customer to do: Visit your website, use a discount code before a certain date, call you for a quote…Whatever it is, make it clear, compelling and easy to do.
For example: Thanks for shopping with us! As a thank you, here’s 15% off your next order. Just use code TY15 at checkout.
Design Tips
- Use high-quality images that reflect your brand or product: Crisp, professional visuals catch the eye and help communicate your message instantly. Choose images that align with your brand personality and showcase your product or service in the best light. Make sure they’re high resolution, so they print sharp and clear.
- Keep text concise and easy to scan: Postcards have limited space, so every word counts. Use short sentences and bullet points if possible, making it easy for customers to quickly grasp your message without feeling overwhelmed.
- Make your call to action stand out visually: Whether it’s a discount code, website URL, or event date, your call to action should be clear and impossible to miss. Use contrasting colours, bold fonts, or buttons to draw attention and encourage immediate action.
A well-designed business postcard combines professionalism with personality. And when done right, it truly makes your message stick.
Things to Remember
Time to post your postcard! But before you do, here’s a summary of what to remember – and what to avoid.
Do:
- Remember to add the stamps – it’s easier to oversee than you’d think. If posting internationally, it’s best you do it from the post office to ensure you’ve got the necessary stamps.
- Use legible handwriting or opt for printed text to ensure your message is easily read.
- Include a return address if it’s important for the recipient to respond or if you want undelivered mail returned.
- Mind the timing – for example, festive cards should arrive before the holiday, and promotional postcards should coincide with sales or events.
Don’t:
- Rely on clichés – aim for fresh, original wording that feels personal and engaging.
- Overcrowd the layout. Keep it clean and focused to maintain impact.
- Use overly formal language unless the situation calls for it. An approachable, friendly tone usually connects better.
- Use generic stock photos that don’t reflect your brand or message. Authentic images resonate more and are perceived as more professional.
Tip: If you’re sending lots of postcards, consider more sustainable choices like recycled paper or even digital postcards.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re catching up with a friend or reaching out to customers, knowing how to write a postcard helps your message land with style. A few well-chosen words and a good design can make a big impact – and might even earn a spot on someone’s fridge.
