In our high-tech, fast-paced world, it’s easy to feel a little disconnected. That’s why I love seeing the renewed interest in old school “snail mail”. There’s something special about making meaningful connections through physical mail.
I have ten easy and inexpensive snail mail ideas to share, and I hope you’ll try some (or all) of them. My hope is that they’ll inspire you to slow down, spread a little kindness, and reconnect with the people you care about… one letter at a time.
1) Send a heartfelt note. Mail a letter to a grandparent or a child away at camp or university, write a thank you note to a teacher or coach, or send a short “just because” note to brighten someone’s day.
2) Send something handmade. A child can send a drawing to a grandparent, or an adult can make something small enough to slip into a card. Magnets, keychains, bookmarks, friendship bracelets and ornaments are fantastic options.
3) Send a recipe. Print one from the internet that you think a family member or friend might like or handwrite one of your favourites.
4) Send a joke, riddle or funny card. We spend a lot of time sending random memes to friends and family. So, why not take a few extra minutes to send something funny by mail instead? The recipient is guaranteed to smile when they find it in their mailbox.
5) Send a real physical card. Instead of sending a birthday, anniversary or thank you text, send a real physical card in the mail. Postcards are fun options too. The extra effort says, “I’m thinking about you… and you are worth spending time on.”
6) Send stickers. Make your own stickers, buy one that reminds you of someone special, or find a fun sheet at the dollar store. (It’s fun to decorate the envelope with stickers too.)
7) Send someone a trinket. Send something you already have or buy something inexpensive. A small, thoughtful gift is a great way to send love, support, or encouragement.
8) Send a treat. Mail a favourite package of candy, chocolate bar, tea bag, hot chocolate packet, or gift card. And for an extra bit of whimsy and fun, add some confetti made with a paper punch.
9) Send a photo. Digital photos are great, but there is something special about a physical photo that you can frame or stick to the front of the fridge. Print one at a local store or pull one from an old album. What’s more fun than sharing a special memory?
10) Send a “Top 10 Things I Love About You” list. Handwrite a list or use PicMonkey or Canvas to design one. It’s a lovely (and simple) way to let someone know how much they mean to you.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab some envelopes and a book of stamps and help revive “snail mail” with me.
