AN INTERVIEW WITH A PAPER LOVER . . . FEATURING BRANDY THORNTON

Paper notes and notecards carry so much intent and meaning, and we wanted to hear some paper lovers put that meaning in their own words. We hope you enjoy this first installment of our Interview series! If you’re a paper lover, and you’d like to send in your own responses to these questions and be featured in our next blog, please email shop@beamazingpaperco.com with your responses! We can’t wait to hear what a handwritten note means to you.

Question 1: What makes a paper note or card special to you?

The message written by a friend or loved one makes the note or card special to me.  While the words written are what I love the most, also just knowing that someone thought of me and took the time to write out a handwritten note and put it in the mail to me in this time of text/email means so much!  I love friends and loved ones that, like me, favor snail mail over digital correspondence!

Question 2: How do you typically craft the messages you include in your cards?

OFten times, I'm writing someone to say hello, to check in and see how they are doing, or I'm writing them for a specific occasion such as a birthday.  I also like to send cards to friends and loved ones on the anniversary of a loved one's passing or a day that I know is hard for them for whatever reason just to let them know they are thought of and prayed for as they face that hard day.  I also love to send cards out to remind friends and loved ones that I am thankful for them and their friendship.  Those 'just because' cards are so fun to send too because you know that the person receiving it will be so surprised to receive a card and that's just so fun!

Question 3: What feelings or emotions do you experience when you receive a card in the mail?

Opening up the mailbox to find a card from someone instantly puts a smile on my face! Receiving a card in the mail makes me feel loved and special.  Receiving a card in the mail reminds me that someone thought of me and that's a wonderful feeling! 

Question 4: Have you ever kept a card for a long time after receiving it? If so, what made you hold onto it?

A fun fact about me is that I've kept all the cards I've ever been given!  I have boxes of cards and letters I've received throughout my lifetime! I have the birthday cards from my first birthday and every card, note, and letter I've received since!  I keep these cards in boxes I call my "Joy Boxes" because it brings me such joy to look back through those cards.  It makes my heart smile to know that I am loved by so many people. Now that I've lost all of my grandparents and my Mama, the cards and letters they gave me over the years are some of my most cherished possessions.  

A couple of years ago, I decided that I wanted to keep the cards I receive in a year on display throughout the entire year.  There's a fun, colorful, garland of pom poms hanging above the doorway in my living room and since New Years Day of this year, I have clipped each card I have received in the mail to that garland.  At the end of this year, I'll take down the fun cards I received throughout the year and add them to my "Joy Box" to make room for the Christmas cards when they begin to arrive!  I love walking into my house and seeing these cards hanging above the doorway and every time I glance up at those cards, I smile!  

Thank you so much to Brandy for sharing your thoughts and feelings about paper mail and writing messages from the heart. Let us know in the comments what resonated with you most.

10-Tips to Help You Write a Thoughtful Note

Have you ever sat down to write a note or send cards and you find yourself at a loss for what to say?

Writing a thoughtful note involves expressing genuine sentiments and consideration for the recipient. Whether it's a birthday card, a thank-you note, or a message of sympathy, here are 10- general tips to help you write a thoughtful note:

1. Select the Appropriate Type of Notecard: sending the correct notecard doesn’t have to be difficult but you should make sure it’s appropriate for the message.

2. Start with a Warm Greeting: Begin your note with a friendly and personal salutation. Use the recipient's name to make it more personal.

3. Express Your Feelings: Clearly state the purpose of your note. Whether it's expressing gratitude, offering condolences, or celebrating an occasion, be sincere in your expression.

4. Be Specific: Include specific details related to the occasion or reason for the note. This shows that you've put thought into your message.

5. Share Personal Memories or Experiences: If applicable, share a relevant personal experience or memory. This adds a unique and special touch to your note.

6. Use Positive Language: Frame your words in a positive and uplifting manner. Focus on the positive aspects of the situation or the person you're addressing.

7. Show Empathy: If the note is for a difficult situation, express empathy and understanding. Let the person know that you are there for them.

8. Express Appreciation: If the note is a thank-you, express your appreciation explicitly. Mention the specific actions or gifts that you are thankful for.

9. End with Well-Wishes: Conclude your note with well-wishes or a positive sentiment. This leaves a lasting impression and leaves the recipient with a good feeling.

10. Add a Personal Touch: Consider adding a small drawing, a quote, or something that adds just a little more to your note.

If possible, consider writing your note by hand. Handwritten notes often feel more personal and thoughtful. Remember, the key to a thoughtful note is sincerity and a genuine connection to the recipient. Take the time to consider their feelings and tailor your message accordingly.

And never forget the impact that a thoughtful note can have on the person receiving your note.