Greeting cards began as simple sheets of papyrus, which both the Egyptians and the Chinese exchanged as messages of goodwill. As the concept of greeting cards evolved, Europeans began sending them to each other for holidays like Valentine’s Day, and this was as early as the 15th century. Of course, these cards were handmade and expensive, so not everyone could afford to send greeting cards for their holiday well wishes.

Greeting cards really hit the mainstream in the 1850s, when commercial printing and the invention of the postage stamp began allowing people all over the world to send greeting cards to their loved ones. Greeting cards are now a multi-billion dollar business, with people buying and sending cards for holidays, including religious celebrations, birthdays, and even as a simple thank you or gesture of love. The two largest greeting card companies, Hallmark and American Greetings, offer cards perfect for any occasion, with great themes and illustrations to suit everyone.

Of course, you don’t need to buy your greeting cards in a store. Computers and home printers have made it easy to create and print your own cards at home. Many people have also taken up paper crafts and have taken it upon themselves to make their own greeting cards out of many different materials, with embellishments ranging from ribbons to beads. Some even go as far as making their own paper, which is a time-consuming process, but definitely shows your recipient how much you care. Hand painting and ink rubber stamping can complete your homemade creation.

Greeting cards have gone from being an item used only by the wealthy to an everyday tradition. Whether you want to communicate with distant relatives or just let your sweetie know how much you love them, greeting cards are a great (and inexpensive) way to brighten someone’s day!