How to address a postcard? A Step by Step Guide

Stationery Etiquette: How to Address a Postcard Effectively

Sending a carefully thought-out postcard is a great way of showing that you’re willing to go out of your way to prove your commitment to your loved ones. Especially in a world where heartfelt messages like “Happy Birthday” are delivered in a single, unfulfilling WhatsApp message, postcards are no less than a grand gesture. You can take two different routes to get your hands on a postcard. You can either buy a ready-made one from a nearby local shop on your travels or make a personalized one when you return. The former option may take some doing, but it’s definitely our recommended choice. A customized postcard, in our opinion, is more intimate and original and has a better chance of leaving a lasting impression on your recipient.

How to Address a Postcard: Breaking Down the Process

Sending a postcard gives your loved ones a unique insight into your adventures. To make sure that your postcard hits the bulls-eye, avoid careless mistakes like inaccurate addressing. Here are some tips to help you address your postcard the right way. Address the recipient on the back of your postcard. You should strictly adhere to this little rule because the frontispiece of your postcard will always be reserved for an eye-catching photo. Divide the back of your postcard into two equal sections: left and right. On the left side, pen-down the address of your recipient’s location. And on the right-hand side, write his name with a simple greeting, for example, “Dear Uncle jack” or “My Sweetheart Mona”. Most postcards usually have three or four lined spaces to include these two very important details. Remember, you should make your postcards informal, approachable, casual and upbeat. Nothing too fancy or over-the-top. The language used should be informal, in most cases, except one. When you’re addressing someone with whom you have a formal relation, for example, a professor or a boss, use titles such as “Dear Jack” or “Dear Professor”. And don’t forget the date. Quite similar to how you will date an assignment; write it in the top right-hand corner on the left side of the postcard. To add a personal touch to your postcard, include a handwritten message. If your handwriting isn’t legible or neat, ask a friend to share your sentiments. You can express anything, from a simple anecdote to friendly banter to the appreciation of a food that tantalized your taste-buds on your trip. The most important thing is that the recipient recognizes that the message is from you and not from a third-party. When you’re done, sign the postcard. Conclude your message with a simple goodbye or a “You would’ve loved this place if you’re here”. Whatever you think is appropriate and close to your heart. Lastly, stamp the beautiful, well-intentioned bugger. The right place for the stamp, as is with most envelopes, is the upper right-hand corner, in close proximity to the recipient’s mailing address. And don’t be stingy with postages. Add more than enough so that your card arrives safe and sound. Take this advice seriously, especially if you’re sending the card across International waters. First Class Mail might cost you a little extra, but if you can afford it, don’t settle for anything less. I prefer First mail because, in the off-chance, the mailing address is incorrect, the postcard still arrives at the right destination, without fail. The post office takes it on its own to address the postcard to the recipient’s most recent address stored in their system.  

10 Things to Share in your Postcard to make it more Sentimental

If you’re looking for ideas or a creative spark to make your postcard a verbal treat, sit down and look back on the adventures and experiences you had on your trip. No one is stranger to the power of storytelling. Sharing a story of a place you visited or an interaction you had with the locals will win over your recipient’s curiosity and attention. You can also educate the recipient with general travel tips pertinent to your journey. Things that he would want to keep in mind if he decided to visit this place on his own in the imminent future.

1. Tell them about a unique experience you had on a particular day.
2. Tell them a tale popular among the locals.
3. Share a tradition or a custom.
4. Inform them about what weather to expect.
5. Recommend them some historical places or popular restaurants to visit.
6. Share how your trip has shaped your views of the indigenous people.
7. Share a funny interaction you’ve had.
8. Tell him why they should make the visit to this place.
9. Shed light on the story behind your postcard photo.
10. Indulge them with a famous saying of the destination.

Is a Return Address on a Postcard Necessary?

There’s no need to include a return address on your postcard. But if you’re not using First Class Mail, and the post office, unfortunately, is unable to deliver the card to your intended recipient, they won’t be able to send back the card without a mentioned return address. So, to cover all bases, you should include a return address, so that your hard work and sentiments aren’t flushed down the drain, in any circumstance. You can mention the return address on the upper-left-hand-corner of the card. To raise your postcard among the common herd, especially when the holiday season is upon you, use custom postage stamps. This way, you can also showcase another photo of your travels, without using extra space. Whether you’re a novice or a complete dumbo of postcard creation, learning how to address a postcard is essential to save valuable time and effort and send postcards that always arrive at their destination. If you want to send a postcard to someone special, a Customized Postcard is the best way to go an extra mile. You can order customized postcards from Print Peppermint which are available in different sizes, designs, materiel, and textures. All you have to do is order your custom postcards online and we will get them delivered to your place.