The Joy of Christmas Cards: History and Market Insights
Exploring the cherished tradition of Christmas Cards. Learn about the history and current sales trends.
TRADITIONS
Grace Callahan
11/11/20243 min read
The History and Evolution of Christmas Cards
The tradition of sending Christmas cards dates back to the early 19th century. The first known Christmas card was created in 1843 by Sir Henry Cole, a prominent British civil servant, and John Callcott Horsley, an artist and illustrator. Cole, who helped establish the Public Record Office (now The National Archives) and the Victoria and Albert Museum, wanted to find a way to encourage ordinary people to use the postal service, which had recently been modernized. Horsley designed a card featuring a festive scene of a family celebrating together, accompanied by the greeting, "A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to You."
From this humble beginning, the tradition of Christmas cards quickly gained popularity in Victorian England. By the late 19th century, advancements in printing technology made it possible to produce cards more affordably, and they became a common way for people to send holiday greetings to friends and family. The practice soon spread to other parts of Europe and North America, where it was embraced with enthusiasm.
Over the decades, Christmas cards have evolved in terms of design, themes, and materials. Early cards often featured intricate illustrations of winter landscapes, religious scenes, and festive decorations. As printing techniques improved, cards began to include embossed details, glitter, and even pop-up elements. In the mid-20th century, photographic Christmas cards became popular, allowing families to share personalized images along with their holiday greetings.
Today, Christmas cards come in an incredible variety of styles, from traditional and nostalgic to modern and whimsical. They are available in both physical and digital formats, catering to diverse tastes and preferences. Despite the rise of electronic communication, the tradition of sending Christmas cards remains a cherished way to express goodwill and connect with loved ones during the holiday season.
The Business Side of Christmas Cards
The market for Christmas cards is a significant segment of the global greeting card industry. Despite the growing popularity of digital communication, physical Christmas cards continue to hold a special place in the hearts of many consumers.
According to recent market analysis, the global greeting card market was valued at approximately USD 24 billion in 2021, with Christmas cards accounting for a substantial portion of this figure. The United States, the United Kingdom, and Germany are among the largest markets for Christmas cards, reflecting the strong cultural significance of the tradition in these regions.
In the United States alone, it is estimated that around 1.6 billion Christmas cards are sent each year. This represents a significant portion of the approximately 6.5 billion greeting cards purchased annually in the country. The average American household is estimated to spend around USD 30 to USD 50 on Christmas cards each year, which includes the cost of cards, postage, and related accessories such as envelopes and decorative seals.
Several major manufacturers dominate the Christmas card market. Hallmark, founded in 1910, is one of the most well-known and respected names in the greeting card industry. The company offers a wide range of Christmas cards, from traditional designs to contemporary and humorous options. American Greetings is another prominent player, known for its innovative and high-quality cards. Other popular manufacturers include Papyrus, known for its luxurious and artisanal cards, and Rifle Paper Co., which offers beautifully illustrated and whimsical designs.
Despite the challenges posed by the digital age, the Christmas card market continues to thrive. Many consumers appreciate the tangible and personal nature of physical cards, which can be displayed and cherished as part of holiday traditions. Additionally, the rise of online shopping has made it easier than ever for consumers to purchase and customize Christmas cards, further contributing to the market's resilience.
An example of the beautiful handmade Nativity cards that are available on Amazon