How to Make Money Writing Personalized Letters for Kids

Making money writing personalized letters for children is great fun. Of course there are those who help Santa out every year with his letter writing duties, but there are numerous other occasions when kids would love to receive a personalized letter.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer
• Stationery
• Envelopes
• Stamps
• Extras like glitter, confetti, etc.
• Great stories

1. Identify at least five holidays or occasions that could be made more special with a personalized letter for child. Think Halloween, new baby, birthday, back to school, etc.

2. Write more than a letter. Make it a sweet, but short, story that has several opportunities in it to insert details about the child. Simply putting their name at the top isn't enough.
   
   Do they have a favorite pet? What is their favorite toy?

3. Create a form that you will provide to the purchaser to complete. You'll want the child's name, address and any little tidbits that go along with Step Two above.
   
   Be sure to keep a file folder with every form so that you can continue to market to your clients.

4. Every letter should have a little something extra in it. Glitter is fantastic fairy dust, confetti shaped like baby bottles are fine for a new baby letter.

5. While your letter should be typed in an easy to read font, take the time to hand address your letter with nice, legible handwriting.

6. To market your letters, advertise where your clients are. Think about where you might find parents, grandparents, aunts, day care providers, etc.

7. DEFINITELY build a website for your letters business. It'll give you the opportunity to showcase how much fun your letters are while also ensuring potential clients that you are a reliable, professional business.
   
   In addition, a website will allow you to have clients order online and pay online. Even if you've never built a website before, check out Homestead in the Resources section for a free trial - no credit card needed. You can build a site quickly with no experience.

Tips & Warnings

• If you aren't a super creative writer, purchase story letter templates.
• Remember to keep great files and records of every letter you sell.
• Always over deliver! If a child gets a so-so letter that isn't professionally done, you will lose repeat business.
• Don't under charge! You have to make money to stay in business.

Resources

• Create a website in minutes
• Get story letters / templates

[CBPope]

on 12/8/2008 This is a great passive money making venture. Letters from Cupid in February, The Easter Bunny,Tooth Fairy, The Stork, Great Pumpkin, Turkey on Thanksgiving and, of course, Santa. Thanks for the idea. I'll get right on this!

[furrgoli]

on 11/3/2008 How much per letter?