6 Thoughtful Alternatives to Traditional Christmas Cards

Every December, millions of Christmas cards are sent worldwide – a festive gesture, but one that can also feel impersonal and can generate a lot of waste. If you’re looking to send your holiday wishes in a unique, eco-friendly way this year, consider one of these creative alternatives to traditional Christmas cards. From plantable greetings to animated video cards, these ideas are perfect for making a memorable impact without adding to the recycling pile.

1. Send an Animated Video Greeting

If you’re looking to brighten someone’s day with a bit of fun, why not try an animated video greeting? Services like JibJab offer a twist on the classic card: they allow you to “star” in your own animated video. Simply upload a photo, select a holiday theme, and send it to friends and family.

With JibJab, you can bring a personalised, humorous greeting to life. It’s perfect for those who want to share a laugh with loved ones and create a memorable keepsake that’s sure to stand out from the rest. Plus, since it’s entirely digital, an animated greeting has zero waste, making it both festive and environmentally friendly.

2. Gift a Small, Handmade Present

For a more personal alternative, consider giving a small homemade present with a Christmas message attached. Think jars of homemade jam, chutney, or festive biscuits. A handwritten label with a short note can transform this small gift into a lovely holiday greeting.

Making homemade gifts might take a bit more time, but you can create them in batches and have an assortment ready to share with family, friends, and neighbours. These little presents allow you to send warm holiday wishes that also show you’ve gone the extra mile. To make it more sustainable, use recyclable or reusable jars and eco-friendly packaging, so the entire gift is low-waste.

For any more inspiration on Gifts in a Jar check out our blog.

3. Create a Christmas Decoration Card

Another option is to send a card that doubles as a Christmas decoration. These special cards come with small ornaments that can be hung on the Christmas tree year after year, making them a lasting keepsake. Sites like Made with Love Designs offer these cards, which often come in festive shapes and designs.

Unlike traditional cards, decoration cards aren’t something to simply toss away in January. They’re a lovely way for your friends and family to remember you each holiday season, especially if thttps://www.madewithlovedesigns.co.ukhey bring out the same decoration every year. By giving a card that transforms into a decoration, you’re not only spreading holiday cheer but also creating a new holiday tradition – all while keeping waste to a minimum.

4. Plantable Seed Paper Cards

If you want your Christmas card to have a lasting impact, plantable seed paper cards are an excellent option. These unique cards are made from seed-infused paper that recipients can plant to grow wildflowers or herbs after the holiday season. Instead of being recycled or discarded, these cards can bring new life to someone’s garden.

With options available from sites like Plantable Seed Paper, these eco-friendly cards offer a thoughtful, sustainable alternative to traditional greetings. By choosing plantable cards, you’re sending a gift that keeps giving, and your loved ones will be reminded of your thoughtful holiday greeting as they watch their garden grow. Not only do these cards reduce waste, but they also support local ecosystems by encouraging bee-friendly blooms.

5. Send a Holiday Email Newsletter

In today’s digital world, sending a personal email update can be a meaningful way to keep in touch. Instead of a physical card, try writing a holiday email newsletter to catch up with family and friends who you might not see often. Share highlights from the past year, family updates, and a few festive photos.

This is an especially thoughtful way to connect with relatives or friends who might not be on social media. Plus, sending an email newsletter is entirely paper-free, meaning there’s no waste. For those who prefer a physical copy, simply print out the email and send it by post. With a holiday newsletter, you can add a touch of personality and detail that a typical Christmas card can’t always convey.

6. Donate to Charity Instead of Sending Cards

One particularly meaningful option is to skip cards altogether and donate the amount you’d typically spend on them to a charity. You could choose a charity close to your heart, or use a platform like Don’t Send Me a Card, which allows you to donate money and send an e-card simultaneously.

With Don’t Send Me a Card, you can select from over 40 charities, choose an e-card image, write a personal message, and choose how much you’d like to donate. By notifying your friends and family of your donation, you can spread awareness about the cause you’re supporting and inspire others to consider charitable giving as well.

If you’d like to give a gift rather than just donate, consider Oxfam’s “Unwrapped” options, where you can purchase items like safe water, mosquito nets, or even bees on behalf of your loved ones. It’s a gift that provides real help to people in need, adding a powerful message of giving to your holiday celebrations.

If you're looking for a Xmas gift that gives back, discover our blog: 7 Opportunities Where You Can Give Back

Conclusion

The holiday season is a wonderful time to connect with loved ones, but that doesn’t mean you have to stick with traditional Christmas cards. Each of these alternatives allows you to share your holiday greetings in a way that’s meaningful, memorable, and, in many cases, more sustainable. Whether you opt for a personal email, a plantable card, or a donation to charity, these alternatives reflect the true spirit of giving and thoughtfulness.

So this year, why not try something a little different? Choose an option that reflects your values and helps spread joy in a way that’s kinder to the environment. Wishing you a Christmas filled with creativity, connection, and a little extra kindness for the planet.