To send Christmas cards, start with the people closest to you—family, friends, and loved ones—and then consider coworkers, neighbors, mentors, or anyone who made a positive impact in your life this year. Including both people you see often and those you haven’t connected with recently helps spread holiday cheer and keep relationships strong.
Family and Relatives
Immediate family members—parents, siblings, and children—are always top of the list. Sending a Christmas card with a family photo or a personal note reminds them of shared memories and keeps everyone connected during the busy season. Extended family like grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins also appreciate the gesture, especially if they live far away and don’t get to see you often.
Close Friends
Close friends are perfect recipients for a holiday card because it’s a simple, thoughtful way to show you’re thinking of them. Cards can rekindle connections, celebrate shared experiences from the past year, or just let someone know you’re wishing them joy this season. Including a photo, a funny anecdote, or a heartfelt note makes your card feel personal and memorable.
Coworkers and Professional Contacts
Sending holiday cards to coworkers, supervisors, or clients is a friendly way to strengthen professional relationships. A well-chosen card with a thoughtful message can make someone’s day, foster goodwill, and show appreciation for collaboration over the past year. Even a brief business holiday card greeting can help you leave a positive impression that lasts beyond the season.
Neighbors and Community Members
A holiday card for neighbors or local friends is a small gesture that goes a long way. It can brighten someone’s day, strengthen community bonds, and make everyday interactions a little warmer. Cards are also a fun way to share your family’s holiday traditions or photos with the people you see most often.
Mentors, Teachers, and Positive Influences
Think about sending Christmas cards to people who have made a difference in your life—mentors, teachers, coaches, or club leaders. Even if you don’t see them often, a thoughtful card expresses gratitude and acknowledges the role they played in your year. It’s a simple way to show appreciation and bring a smile to someone who’s supported you.
Easily Send Christmas Cards with Shutterfly
Keeping track of everyone on your list is simple with Shutterfly’s free online address book, which lets you store recipients and organize mailing efficiently. Free recipient address printing saves time while ensuring your cards get to the right people. Plus, you can personalize each card with photos and messages so every recipient receives a greeting that feels meaningful and festive.
Related Resources for Who to Send Christmas Cards to
Whether it’s family across the country, a friend you haven’t seen in months, or a coworker who made your year easier, sending a Christmas card is a meaningful way to connect and share joy. Taking the time to send a thoughtful greeting helps strengthen relationships, make memories, and brighten someone’s holiday season—one card at a time.
Additional Resources:
- When to Send Christmas Cards
- Personalized Christmas Ornaments
- December Quotes
- How to Make Christmas Cards
- New Year Quotes
- Personalized Christmas Gift Ideas
- Christmas Gifts for Friends
- Christmas Card Wishes
- Religious Christmas Wishes
- Christmas Family Photos: A Guide
- Merry Christmas Wishes for Friends
- Christmas Traditions

