Stephanie Hoover
Artist & Printmaker
stephaniehooverart.com
Stephanie Hoover
Artist & Printmaker
stephaniehooverart.com
November 20, 2025
I recently asked a question on an active Facebook group focusing on a fairly affluent community. The question was simple: do you still send physical Christmas cards? Secondarily, would you purchase one-of-a-kind Christmas cards created by local artists?
Sadly, the bulk of those who responded answered in the negative. Some simply said they no longer participate in this time-honored tradition. But most mentioned that artist-made cards were too expensive to be mailed, only to assume the recipient would throw them in the trash.
As an artist, you can imagine how disheartening I found these responses - particularly because my handmade cards, featuring original art, are often sold at a lower price than the average retail price of mass produced cards.
As disappointing as these comments may be, however, they have forced me to reconsider my creation of "traditional" Christmas cards. Instead, I'm pondering the creation of cards that serve the double purpose of both seasons greetings and tree decorations. (Look for more info on that coming soon.)
It is my 2025 Christmas wish - and, I'm sure, that of countless artists trying to make a living from their craft - that consumers will take a moment to actually compare the prices between retail greeting cards and their far more unique and meaningful artist-made alternatives. After all, if your friends and family are worthy of the time it takes to send a card - why not make it the most beautiful greeting card they will receive this season?