How to Customize a Valentine Card
The business of creating a personalized Valentine's Day card is always tricky, even if there are many options. It has just become too easy to stray into the realm of cheesiness. You might send an e-card or purchase a card; however, these options are impersonal and don't express much about you, the sender. A terrific choice would be to create your own card, whether you design one on a computer or make one by hand. For those who aren't so computer savvy, it's easy to craft a meaningful card for someone special.
Instructions
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How to Make a Valentine's Day Card Feel Personal
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Consider the person you're sending the card to. Everyone has a different personality and interests, which will set the tone for the card, such as funny, appreciative or witty.
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Browse a card store for inspiration. Perhaps you'll find a catch phrase to incorporate into your card.
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Consider your aptitude for crafts. If you're confident that you have the skills to create a pretty card, peruse MarthaStewart.com, and explore the crafts section for great tips.
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Collect personal materials to add to the Valentine's Day card. Photos are a great addition, but make sure they're different sizes so the card doesn't feel too uniform. Souvenirs from recent trips with that person will remind you both of shared memories and provide a great opportunity to write about them.
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Cut up some ribbons. Ribbons are a great addition to your card, whether they are heavily patterned or a simple red. Be creative where you put the ribbon, and remember to balance a heavily patterned ribbon with a simple card backdrop.
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Avoid going overboard with glitter. Glitter sometimes looks childish unless you're careful with the placement and amount. If you're unsure about glitter use, create small glittery hearts.
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Attach some dried flowers to the cards. Instead of giving the person a flower on Valentine's Day, a nice twist would be to put dried flowers inside the card. Pick colorful flowers and place them between books for several days -- or under any heavy flat surface that will flatten the flower. Once dried and pressed, delicately tape onto the card or place inside the card.
Tips for What to Write in the Card
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Handwrite your card. There's something about handwritten cards that show you put in some extra effort.
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Add some compliments. Compliments are like candy---everyone likes a couple but is too afraid to ask. Just don't go overboard.
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Express yourself. Don't use general statements -- discuss a memory you share with that person. In a world where sarcasm is rampant, being honest makes all the difference.
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Close your sentiment with something informal, such as "love," "cheers" or verbs. Verbs such as "hugs" or "kisses" will relay the level of intimacy you share with that person. Your words also set the tone for the card. Never end with "best," "from" and "sincerely," which are mostly for formal occasions and imply that the writer was too lazy to think of anything else. If all else fails, simply sign your name.
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Tips & Warnings
Avoid sending an e-card. They are highly impersonal and just scream "I'm lazy."
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Comstock/Getty Images
