The Etiquette of Sending E-Cards: Dos and Don'ts for Digital Greetings

The digital age has revolutionized the way we communicate, and greeting cards are no exception. E-cards, or electronic greeting cards, have become a popular alternative to traditional paper cards, offering convenience, cost-effectiveness, and a wide range of design options. However, navigating the world of digital greetings requires a certain level of etiquette. Sending an e-card isn't always appropriate, and there are certain dos and don'ts to keep in mind to ensure your message is well-received. Understanding these guidelines is crucial for maintaining meaningful connections in our increasingly digital world. In 2025, it’s not just about sending any e-card; it’s about sending the right e-card, in the right way. Choosing the perfect holiday card can brighten someone’s day during the festive season.

Before the prevalence of instant messaging and social media posts, e-cards offered a unique personalized communication. Today, the novelty may have diminished slightly, but the thoughtfulness behind a well-crafted e-card remains. Think of e-cards as an evolution of the handwritten note. You wouldn't dash off a serious message on a napkin, would you? The same consideration applies to digital greetings. In this guide, we'll explore the etiquette of sending e-cards, providing you with the knowledge you need to make a positive impact with your digital greetings in 2025.

When to Send an E-Card (and When Not To)

Knowing when to send an e-card is perhaps the most important aspect of digital greeting etiquette. While e-cards are suitable for many occasions, there are certain situations where a traditional paper card or a more personal form of communication is more appropriate. The key is to consider the relationship you have with the recipient, the nature of the occasion, and the potential impact of your message.

E-cards are generally well-suited for informal occasions and relationships. Sending a birthday card to a friend or colleague is a perfectly acceptable use of an e-card. Similarly, sending a thank you card for a small favor or a congratulations card for a minor achievement can be a thoughtful gesture. E-cards are also a convenient option for sending greetings to a large group of people, such as sending Christmas card to business contacts or acquaintances. This year, many companies are opting for e-cards to reduce their environmental impact, a trend expected to continue into 2026 and beyond.

However, there are times when an e-card simply won't do. For deeply personal or sensitive situations, such as expressing sympathy card or sending condolences, a traditional paper card is almost always the better choice. Similarly, for significant life events, such as a wedding card or the birth of a child ( new baby card ), a more formal and tangible gesture is generally preferred. Think of it this way: if you would normally call the person or visit them in person, an e-card might feel impersonal.

Consider your audience as well. While younger generations are generally more receptive to digital communication, older generations may still appreciate the sentimentality of a paper card. Before sending an e-card, take a moment to consider the recipient's preferences and potential expectations. If in doubt, err on the side of caution and opt for a traditional card or a more personal form of communication. Sending a valentine card via post can be a more intimate and heartfelt gesture.

The Dos of Sending E-Cards

Once you've determined that an e-card is appropriate for the occasion, it's important to follow certain guidelines to ensure your message is well-received. These dos will help you create e-cards that are thoughtful, personal, and impactful.

• Personalize Your Message: Avoid generic templates. While e-cards offer a convenient way to send greetings, taking the time to personalize your message will make it much more meaningful. Include specific details about your relationship with the recipient, references to shared experiences, or personal anecdotes. This shows that you put thought and effort into your message. Even a few handwritten sentences within the e-card design can make a big difference.
• Choose the Right Design: Select an e-card design that is appropriate for the occasion and the recipient's taste. Consider their personality, interests, and sense of humor. Avoid designs that are too flashy, overly sentimental, or potentially offensive. If you're unsure, opt for a simple and classic design. The goal is to complement your message, not overshadow it.
• Proofread Carefully: Before sending your e-card, take the time to proofread your message for any spelling or grammatical errors. A poorly written e-card can be off-putting and detract from your message. Pay attention to details such as capitalization, punctuation, and sentence structure. A polished and error-free message shows that you care about the recipient and respect their time. Sending a retirement card with a typo can ruin the sentiment.
• Send at the Right Time: Timing is crucial when sending e-cards. Send your birthday cards on or close to the recipient's birthday. For holiday cards, aim to send them a week or two before the holiday. Sending an e-card too early or too late can make it seem like an afterthought. Consider time zones if sending internationally to ensure your card arrives at a reasonable hour.
• Consider the Format: Optimize your e-card for different devices. Ensure the design and message are readable on both desktop computers and mobile devices. Test the e-card before sending it to ensure it displays correctly across various platforms. A well-formatted e-card shows attention to detail and ensures the recipient has a positive experience. A heartfelt mother's day card shown incorrectly might be a let down.

The Don'ts of Sending E-Cards

Just as important as knowing what to do is understanding what not to do when sending e-cards. Avoiding these common pitfalls will help you prevent misunderstandings and ensure your message is well-received.

• Don't Use E-Cards for Sensitive News: As mentioned before, e-cards are generally not appropriate for delivering bad news or discussing sensitive topics. If you need to share difficult news, a personal phone call, a handwritten letter, or a face-to-face conversation is almost always the better choice. E-cards can feel impersonal and dismissive in such situations. Sending a get well card is nice, but in person is usually preferred in serious cases.
• Don't Send Group E-Cards for Personal Occasions: Avoid sending generic group e-cards for personal occasions such as birthdays or anniversaries. These types of e-cards often feel impersonal and insincere. If you're sending an e-card to a group of people, make sure it's relevant to the group as a whole and not intended for individual recipients.
• Don't Overuse E-Cards: While e-cards are a convenient option, don't overuse them to the point where they become your primary form of communication. Variety is key to maintaining meaningful connections. Mix up your communication methods by sending traditional cards, making phone calls, and visiting people in person. Over-reliance on e-cards can make you seem lazy or unconcerned.
• Don't Include Inappropriate Content: Be mindful of the content you include in your e-cards. Avoid anything that could be considered offensive, controversial, or inappropriate for the recipient. This includes jokes, images, and language. Remember that your e-card reflects your personal brand, so make sure it's consistent with your values and reputation.
• Don't Forget the Personal Touch: E-cards are convenient, but shouldn't replace sincere interactions. A father's day card is great, but call him too!

Crafting the Perfect E-Card Message

The message is the heart of any greeting card, whether digital or traditional. A well-crafted e-card message is thoughtful, personal, and appropriate for the occasion. Here are some tips for writing effective e-card messages:

• Start with a Warm Greeting: Begin your message with a warm and friendly greeting that is appropriate for your relationship with the recipient. Use their name and a personal salutation such as