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I love getting holiday cards with family photos, and while it’s now easier than ever to keep up with friends and family throughout the year thanks to Instagram and Facebook, nothing beats having a lovely printed photo to tack to the fridge or hang on the mantel.
But I’ll admit that I don’t often manage to send family photo cards at the holidays, and that’s in large part due to the cost. When you add the cost of having family photos taken as well as the expense of posting them around the country — or, in some cases, around the world — holiday photos can get expensive quickly. Thankfully, there are ways you can keep the cost down.
Here are some ideas for making beautiful holiday cards on a budget this year.
1. Find a photographer friend
Skip the pricey professional photographer and recruit a friend with a good eye to capture your family’s charm. Head to a local park or set up a cozy corner at home, and let them snap away. Bribery with eggnog (adult or all-ages version) or baked goods is encouraged! Pro tip: Pick a time with soft natural light — early morning or late afternoon — for the best results. Bonus: You’ll get a relaxed, candid vibe that radiates holiday joy. Be sure to share these tips and tricks with your photographer.
2. DIY kiddo pics with ParentMap’s pro tips
If just the kids will be the stars of your holiday card show, you have everything you need to take a gorgeous photo. Trust us! You don’t need a professional photographer or even a fancy camera — just check out our guide: 6 Tips for Better Holiday Photos From a Professional Photographer. The short version: Use natural light, like near a window or outdoors, and keep the background simple to let your little stars shine. Candid shots work wonders — think giggles, hugs or even them goofing around in the Pacific Northwest drizzle. With a few easy tricks, you’ll have frame-worthy snaps.
3. Use a cheap or free card template
Once you have the photo for your holiday card, you can make it look more professional with a holiday card template from Etsy. They’re incredibly affordable (many are under $5) and give your holiday card a polished look. With these templates, you can add text, sparkly stars or even a multi-photo layout. Pinterest is another place you can find holiday card templates — and some bloggers provide them for free. This template for a chalkboard look from the Old Salt Farm blog is free and you can use PicMonkey to edit it. Before purchasing, be sure to check that you have the correct software to work with the template. Once you’re happy with your design, print the file at your local pharmacy or photo store.
4. Use photo-holder cards
Turn simple printed photos into fun holiday cards by pairing them with cheerful card holders with matching envelopes. There are designs for all tastes, from glittery snowflakes and festive holly, to rustic buffalo plaid and minimalist white. Just slip your printed photos in, add a handwritten note inside and you’re done! This option keeps costs low while giving a personal touch that friends and family will cherish — and they’re a breeze to assemble.
5. Let the kids craft the cards
Turn holiday card-making into a fun family craft session! Gather supplies such as construction paper, markers, stickers and glitter glue, and let your kids’ creativity shine. They can draw festive scenes, stamp holiday shapes, or even use their handprints to make reindeer or trees. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also create one-of-a-kind keepsakes for friends and family. Bonus: It’s a screen-free activity that keeps little hands busy — and the results are guaranteed to be adorable.
6. Use Paperless Post
It’s not quite as satisfying as sending a paper card, but Paperless Post is a great option if you’re stuck for time, if you just need a free option or if you have a lot of international card recipients on your list. You can design something gorgeous that will land in your friends’ and family’s email inboxes — and Grandma can always print it out for her fridge!
7. Keep an eye on Groupon and other online deals
At this time of year, Groupon often has deals for holiday cards. You’ll want to make sure to read all of the fine print to ensure you’ll be able to get your holiday cards before the holidays! You can also stay ahead of the holiday rush by watching for online photo printing deals leading up to Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and early December. Sign up for email lists from Walgreens, CVS, Staples and similar retailers — they frequently offer flash discounts on photo prints, cards and more. These deals pop up year-round, but holiday promos are extra generous. With a little timing and a few clicks, you’ll have gorgeous cards without stretching your holiday budget.
Editor’s note: An earlier version of this article was published in November 2019. It was updated by ParentMap’s editorial team in November 2024 with new ideas for creative cards on a budget and additional resources.
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