How to Write Humorous Greeting Cards
There are many greeting card companies that buy ideas from freelance writers. Humorous ideas are especially in demand. Prices paid per idea range from $15 to $200. Most of the companies don't require experience, so if you have the ability to write short, punchy humor, the companies will be happy to consider your submissions.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
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1
Research the market by reading cards in stores. Try to spot popular topics. Pay attention to the tone of the writing. Check the backs of the cards to see the names of the companies that published them.
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2
Find companies that purchase freelance work by consulting the "Writer's Market" and/or directly contacting companies you discovered in Step 1. Read their writers' guidelines. Sometimes companies post guidelines on their websites. If not, you can request them by email or by snail mail. If you use snail mail, include a self-addressed stamped envelope (see Resources below).
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3
Brainstorm ideas, starting with the popular topics you discovered in your research. Keep free-associating without censoring yourself. Humor often arises unexpectedly as your brain flits from one idea to the next.
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4
Sharpen your first drafts. The lines on the front covers should compel readers to open the cards, and the punchlines should be unexpected and satisfying. Also make sure that your cards contain "me-to-you" messages.
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5
Keep file copies of your ideas on index cards, and indicate on the backs which companies you have sent them to, the dates and the responses.
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Tips & Warnings
Keeping good records is important, because often you will sell ideas only after you've submitted them to several companies.
Most companies frown on simultaneous submissions. Patience is essential. Companies buy only a tiny fraction of the ideas they receive, and they often take a long time to reach a decision.
