If you’re wondering how you can get started with writing a postcard to a friend, look no further than this guide! We’ll walk you through some tips, tricks, and best practices for writing postcard messages that are sure to leave your friend (or any postcard recipient) grateful for the time you’ve put into a small gesture.
Using the Postcard as Intended
If you’re planning to mail your postcard, be sure to adhere to the general regions identified in the postcard design. Most postcards feature an image on one side, and on the reverse side – an area (typically to the left) where you can handwrite a custom message to the recipient.
On the right side of this area is normally a series of lines intended for you to address your postcard for mail services to use.
These lines should include:
- Your Friend’s Name(s)
- Street Address
- City, State, and Zip Code
This “backside” of the postcard may also have a small square outlined or designated in the top right corner. This area is where you would then place a postal stamp before placing the postcard in a mailbox for carrier services to begin delivery.
General Tips for Writing Your Postcard Message
The great part about a postcard is that anything goes! When you’re writing a postcard to a friend or family member, we tend to believe that the intent of your message is more important than how well it’s written. There’s always room for a little creativity, spontaneity, emotion, or fun – so don’t hold back! Postcards have very little space to use for your message, so make the most of it!
Ideas for What to Write About
Whether you’re traveling and find a particular postcard photo to be interesting, or you just find something that you’re just sure your friend will appreciate – the imagery often sets the tone. But when the time comes to flip that postcard over and write your message – you may be feeling stumped on how to break through writer’s block and get started.
If that’s the case, here are some recommendations that might help you to get started!
- Mention what you’ve done, seen, or have been feeling on the day you’re writing your message. If you’re out of your normal surroundings and want to share an image and message about your journey – starting simply with the new things you’ve seen, places you’ve been, whether you’ve experienced, or even the food you’ve eaten can be a great starting point.
- Mention why you thought of your friend when you picked this exact postcard. Was it a funny image? A tourist destination you’ve seen? An interesting artifact of where in the world you are at the time? Letting your friend know why that postcard jumped out to you and made you think of them is one of the simplest ways to show your friend that you’re thinking of them in a meaningful and direct manner.
- Share a funny story, quote, or something you’ve learned on your current adventure. Did you meet any interesting people? Find that “locals” in the place you’re at do something or say something that’s particular in some way? Postcards are an excellent way for you to share more about what’s unique about where you are with your friend – and make for a great discussion when you talk to them or see them next.
- Start with a drawing or doodle! Postcards might have lines to help you write messages, but that doesn’t mean you have to write only words! Include a little doodle, sketch, or drawing – even simple faces can go a long way towards brightening the day of your friend when they receive your postcard!
- Include how you’re feeling with your friend. Are they helping to keep an eye on your pets or children while you’re away? Are they stopping by your home to check the mail, water the plants, or tend to things like your trash pickup? Express your thanks and gratitude for what they’re doing to help support you while you’re on your trip or adventure!
Don’t Stress the Small Stuff
Simply stated – postcards are designed to be simple. Don’t worry about writing the perfect message. What matters is that you’re thinking of your friends, had them in mind when you selected a postcard and wanted to share what you’re up to with them because you appreciate them.
How to Write a Postcard to a Friend?
Use the postcard as it was intended, including the message, address and postage areas as designated. Write a message that's sincere and directed to your friend - and include why you're thinking of them.