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The Art of Writing a Meaningful Letter

HOW TO CONVEY YOUR THOUGHTS + FEELINGS TO YOUR LOVED ONES WITH PEN + PAPER

Article by Kate Baxendale

Photography by Stock Images + Provided

In our world of text messages, emails and social media, communicating with people near and far has never been easier—or more impersonal. When's the last time you sent or received a handwritten letter? It's a thoughtful and heartfelt way to convey your thoughts and feelings, and it's a permanent record of communication between two people that far outweighs any text message thread. Not sure where to start? Here are a few pointers to get your pen flowing across the page.

1. Choose a recipient for your letter

Perhaps your childhood best friend or your grandmother has been on your mind lately. If you could see them right now, what would you want to tell them? Try opening the letter with a greeting that's more "you" than the typical "Dear ____." Try "Hi, ____!" or "Hey, girl!" Just because it's a handwritten letter doesn't mean you have to be formal—unless you want to, of course!

2. Set a tone or intention for your message

Why are you writing to them? Maybe you aren't able to see each other because of current social distancing rules and travel restrictions. Or you know they are going through a difficult period in their life and you want to cheer them up. Your letter should be lighthearted. Write something that will make the recipient smile. Recount a favorite memory, or remind them why they mean so much to you.

3. Keep it brief

Most stationery doesn't leave much room for long-form letters. Keep your message short and sweet, but get your point across: "I've been thinking about you lately, and just because we don't talk as much as we used to doesn't mean you aren't still dear to my heart."

4. Wrap it up

Try to close your letter with a sentence or two that indicates that your message has been conveyed. Don't end it abruptly. "Please know that you're in my thoughts, and I'm only a phone call away. Can't wait to see you at so-and-so's wedding in September."

5. Goodbye

Just like your greeting, personalize your sign-off with something other than "Sincerely" and/or sign the letter with the name only that person calls you. I always sign my cards and letters with a heart or "XOXO."


Stationery

Now that you know how to write a heartfelt letter, you'll need some beautiful stationery to write on. Here are a few great options:

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