Do you love to send or give greeting cards for every occasion, but cringe at the thought of how much it’s eating into your budget?
If yes, you’ve landed on the right page!
Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to save money on greeting cards, while still sending love and well wishes to your friends and family.
Buy in Bulk
Purchasing cards individually can be costly, particularly for special occasions like birthdays or holidays.
However, if you know you’ll need a few throughout the year, why not buy in bulk?
Many retailers offer greeting card packs with a variety of messages for different occasions. These are usually more cost-effective than purchasing individual cards.
For instance, if a single card costs $4, a bulk pack of 20 might cost $30, effectively reducing the cost to $1.50 per card.
That’s significant savings!
Utilize Discount Stores
Don’t overlook the power of discount stores.
These budget-friendly stores often have a vast selection of greeting cards for every occasion at a fraction of the price you would pay at a regular retail store.
You’ll find beautiful designs and messages that cater to every sentiment, be it birthdays, anniversaries, or holidays.
Embrace DIY
If you’re crafty and love a creative project, why not make your own greeting cards?
Homemade cards add a personal touch that your loved ones will surely appreciate, and they’re usually cheaper to produce.
All you need are some basic craft supplies like cardstock, colored pencils, glitter, glue, and maybe some stamps or stickers.
You can also find blank cards and envelopes for card making.
Plus, DIY can be a fun and therapeutic activity!
E-cards
In our increasingly digital age, e-cards have become an accepted and appreciated form of communication.
They’re convenient, instant, and most importantly, free or very inexpensive!
There are countless websites where you can customize e-cards with your personal message and send them via email or social media.
And don’t worry, e-cards can still carry that personal touch – many sites allow for customization with photos or personal messages.
Keep an Eye Out for Sales
Be on the lookout for sales, especially after big holidays.
Many retailers discount their holiday-specific cards post-holiday, which is a great time to stock up for the following year.
You may have to plan ahead, but the savings are often worth it.
Check out Online Marketplaces
Online marketplaces such as Amazon often have fantastic deals on greeting cards.
These platforms host a variety of sellers who offer bulk packs of greeting cards at discounted prices.
Be sure to read reviews and check the seller ratings to ensure you’re getting quality cards.
Start a Card Exchange
Consider starting a card exchange with friends, neighbors, or family.
The idea is simple – everyone buys a pack of cards, then swaps with each other. This way, you get a variety of cards for the cost of a single pack.
It’s a fun, economical way to diversify your greeting card stash.
Explore Dollar Stores
Don’t underestimate dollar stores when hunting for affordable greeting cards.
You’d be surprised at the selection they have to offer, often at a price tag of just $1 or even less.
While they might not always have the most intricate designs, they serve the purpose and convey the message at an unbeatable price.
Go for Printable Cards
The internet is brimming with printable greeting cards that you can simply download and print at home.
Many are free, while some might require a nominal fee.
With a good quality printer and cardstock, you can have a gorgeous greeting card ready in no time.
One of my favorite websites to print free cards is Homemade Gifts Made Easy! You can find a variety of adorable designs on this website.
Card-making Apps
Several smartphone apps let you design your own cards.
Apps like Canva have user-friendly interfaces, and you can choose from a myriad of designs, fonts, and colors to create a card that’s uniquely you.
Once done, print it out or go green by sharing it digitally.
Visit Your Local Library
Yes, your local library could be a resource for saving on greeting cards.
Some libraries have resources like craft workshops, or they may have cardstock and other materials that you can use for free or for a small fee.
They might also have card-making books for inspiration.
Repurpose Old Cards
Don’t throw away your old cards!
With a little creativity, you can repurpose them into new ones. You can cut out images or messages and create a collage on a new piece of cardstock.
Not only is this cost-efficient, but it also adds a nostalgic touch to your cards.
Being frugal doesn’t mean you need to give up on lovely traditions like sending greeting cards.
With these tips, you can continue spreading joy to your loved ones without breaking the bank.
Remember, the value of a greeting card doesn’t lie in its price tag. It’s the thought and sentiment that truly counts.
By getting creative and shopping smart, you can save money while keeping the tradition alive.
With these money-saving tips in your frugal toolkit, you’ll be ready to share the love on every occasion without stressing about the cost.
So go ahead, bring out that pen, and pour out your heart without pouring out your wallet!
Frequently Asked Questions
Isn’t it cheaper to just send a text or an email instead of a greeting card?
A text or an email is definitely cheaper, and even free. However, a physical greeting card carries a personal touch and sentimentality that digital communication often lacks.
That being said, e-cards are a great compromise between cost-effectiveness and conveying heartfelt sentiments.
I’m not very crafty. Can I still make my own cards?
Card-making doesn’t have to be complex. Even a simple handwritten note on a piece of cardstock can be a beautiful, meaningful card. There are also plenty of card-making tutorials online for beginners.
Where can I find printable cards online?
Websites such as Homemade Gifts Made Easy (mentioned above) offer a range of free printable card templates.
What is the quality of greeting cards from dollar stores or discount stores like?
While the quality may not match up to premium greeting card stores, dollar store and discount store cards often serve their purpose well.
They usually have a variety of designs and messages to choose from, and the quality is generally decent, considering the low price point.
I like the idea of e-cards, but are they really acceptable for all occasions?
While the acceptance of e-cards can depend on the individual and the occasion, they have become widely accepted in this digital era.
E-cards can be customized with personal photos and messages, making them suitable for nearly any occasion.
How do I start a card exchange?
Starting a card exchange is as simple as reaching out to friends or family members who might be interested.
You can set up a schedule (like once a year) and exchange cards in person or through mail.
I want to repurpose old cards, but isn’t it inappropriate to send a reused card?
Not at all! Repurposed cards are not only eco-friendly but also come with a unique, personal touch. It’s not about reusing the entire card, but about repurposing elements of it.
By using bits and pieces to create a new card, you’re not only recycling but also creating something unique and heartfelt.