Who Should be On the Christmas Card List

This holiday season, it's not about the nice or naughty lists. The most important list during Christmas is the one of the people who will receive your cards. Whether you're sending printed or digital Christmas cards, selecting the right people to send them to is a crucial step. To make this task easier, we've put together a helpful list of people you should consider sending Christmas cards to, along with card suggestions that are sure to be loved by all.

1. Family Members

Family members are some of the most eager recipients of Christmas cards. They’ll adore your holiday wishes, along with any festive photos of the family. You can even add a Photo Block to display additional pictures if you wish!

Be sure to include these people on your Christmas card list:

• Parents and in-laws

• Siblings

• Grandparents

• Cousins

• Aunts and uncles

• Distant relatives who always look forward to your card

Show off your family with the "Winter Wonderland" photo card by Minted. If you prefer to use multiple photos, try the "Family Memories" card by Paper Source.

2. Friends and Friend Groups

While your friends might stay updated through social media, they’ll still appreciate a physical or digital Christmas card. Don’t forget to add your best friends and closest companions to your list so they can join in the festive cheer. With Paperless Post, you can easily upload a list of names and email addresses, or connect through your phone contacts. You can even share a link on social media for a wider reach!

Make sure you include these friends:

• Close friends

• Not-so-close friends (but who knows, they could become closer!)

• Parents of your kids' friends

• Members of your book club, sports team, or hobby group

• Work colleagues

• Childhood friends (even if you haven't spoken in a while)

Send your Christmas wishes with the "Frosted Pines" card by Paperless Post. If you prefer humor, try the "Merry Christmas from Our Crew" card by Odd Dot Press.

3. People in the Neighborhood

Even if you don’t know much about your neighbors other than their friendly dog, it's still nice to send them a holiday greeting. You can gather email addresses or phone numbers at your next neighborhood gathering and send cards digitally to everyone. A shareable link posted to your neighborhood's bulletin board can also work!

Consider sending cards to these neighbors:

• Neighbors on your block

• People you see around town

• Neighbors who know your kids or pets

• Babysitters or pet sitters in the neighborhood

• HOA board members

Let your neighbors see more of your family with the "Holiday Cheer" photo card by Paper Culture. Or, for a bright, cheerful option, send the "Joyous Wishes" card by Zazzle.

4. Teachers, Coaches, and School Personnel

Show gratitude to the adults who spend time with your children by sending them a Christmas card. It’s a kind gesture to send holiday cheer to teachers, coaches, and school staff. Be sure to schedule your card deliveries early in December so they arrive before the school holidays begin.

Add these people to your list:

• Your child's teacher

• Classroom aides or paraprofessionals

• Sports coaches

• Tutors

• Office staff

• The principal

Send a lovely card like "Winter Elegance" by The Paper Chase Press to your child’s teacher. Or, for something personal, try "Our Little Scholars" by Minted for a family photo with your kids.

5. Charity

Consider sending Christmas cards to charitable organizations or causes you care about. It’s a meaningful way to offer support during the holiday season. You can also choose a card to send directly to volunteers or workers who dedicate their time to helping others.

Send a card to:

• Charity organizations

• Volunteers and workers in local nonprofits

• People who help run fundraising drives or awareness campaigns

Show your appreciation for those doing good with the "Giving Spirit" card by Paperless Post. Or, choose the "Seasonal Wishes" card by Minted, which conveys a sense of goodwill.

6. Stylists and Cosmetologists

Your hairdresser, nail technician, or massage therapist might know your style, but they may not know much about your life outside of their services. A Christmas card is a great way to share a little holiday cheer with them and show appreciation for their work.

Send cards to these people:

• Hair stylists

• Nail technicians

• Massage therapists

• Estheticians

• Dog groomers

The "Holiday Skating" card by Rifle Paper Co. makes a beautiful and stylish gift for those who help you look your best. Alternatively, the "Winter Charm" photo card by Minted could feature a family photo from your last visit to the salon.

7. Medical Professionals

Doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers deserve a little extra cheer this season. If you’ve had visits with your medical team during the year, why not send them a card to show appreciation? Whether it’s a digital or printed card, your gesture will surely brighten their day.

Include these medical professionals:

• Doctors

• Pediatricians

• Dentists

• Orthodontists

• Veterinarians

• Nurses

Send a charming card like "Joyful Gatherings" by Paperless Post to show your gratitude. For a more playful touch, you could go with the "Paws-itively Festive" card by Tiny Prints for a veterinarian or pet care provider.

8. Church or Religious Leaders

If you're part of a religious community, it’s a thoughtful gesture to send a Christmas card to your church or religious leaders. This small act of kindness shows appreciation for their guidance and spiritual support throughout the year.

Add these people to your card list:

• Your pastor or priest

• Church staff members

• Religious mentors or leaders

Send a warm card like "Merry and Bright" by Minted to your religious leaders. Or, choose the "Peaceful Christmas" card by Shutterfly, which beautifully conveys the spirit of the season.

9. Clients and Customers

Let your clients and customers know they are appreciated by adding them to your holiday card list. Whether sent directly from you or your business’s HR department, a holiday greeting can strengthen your professional relationships and remind them of your excellent service.

These clients and customers should be included:

• Long-time clients

• New clients

• Customers who are part of a loyalty program

• Prospective clients you hope to work with next year

• Clients you haven’t connected with recently

A wonderful option like "Golden Tree" by Paperless Post can feature your company’s photo to remind clients of your connection. Or, simply send the "Season’s Greetings" card by Minted with your company logo.

10. First Responders and Military

Sometimes, it’s important to think beyond your personal circle and send cards to those who serve the public. First responders and military personnel often spend the holidays away from their families. A thoughtful card expressing your support and appreciation can go a long way.

Consider sending cards to:

• Police officers

• Firefighters

• Paramedics

• Military personnel

Find an organization that helps distribute cards, such as USASOA, to send your messages of thanks. For a peaceful, heartfelt card, choose "Winter Solstice" by Paper Culture, or go for the "Patriotic Stars" card by Shutterfly to honor those in service.

11. Coworkers, Bosses, and Employees

For many people, their work family is just as important as their personal one. Sending Christmas cards to colleagues, bosses, and employees is a great way to maintain connections and spread goodwill. You can choose a professional tone while still making it festive and personal.

Consider these people for your work card list:

• Managers or supervisors

• Colleagues in your department

• Senior executives (CEO, CFO, etc.)

• Direct reports

• Employees (if you’re the employer)

Send a polished card like "Glittering Winter" by Crane & Co. for a more formal holiday greeting. If you prefer a personal touch, try "Warmest Wishes" by Paper Culture, featuring a group photo or team snapshot.

12. Social Groups or Clubs

Whether you belong to a local club, a sports league, or a social group, sending a Christmas card to members can be a great way to share some holiday cheer. A simple card expressing your gratitude for their camaraderie can go a long way.

Consider sending cards to:

• Sports team members

• Book club participants

• Volunteer groups

• Social clubs or meetup groups

A festive card like "Winter’s Embrace" by Paper Culture can be a great choice for a group. Or, the "Joyful Times" card by Minted works well for groups with a lighthearted vibe.

Send Christmas Cards Your Way

Choosing who to send your Christmas cards to doesn’t have to be hard—especially with Post Pigeon. Think about the people who have made a positive impact on your life and how much a simple card can mean to them. Whether physical or digital, a Christmas card brings joy and spreads love to everyone on your list.