I like to send real handmade holiday cards to my family, friends and business associates. In the olden days I used to have about 75 names (!) on my personal card list. Design tricks included carving a custom stamp or cutting a stencil to add to folded cardstock (I liked runes), so I could make a bunch quickly.
These days my list is a lot smaller, but my process is still simple. I use printed tags to decorate the handmade cards, with few embellishments like washi tape, buttons and string. The tag usually contains a sentiment. Otherwise, there are always stickers. My plan is to send out this year’s cards in the next week, before my holiday prep takes over my days.
Here’s the important thing – people like getting handmade cards, even when the design is simple. I know this because I’ve had business associates reach out and say so.
If you are part of a creative industry, it can make you memorable to embrace that and put together handmade holiday greetings at least for some of your network. Alternatively, you can embellish existing cards with a few spots of glitter glue (which dries fast!) or some beads, stickers, or tape.
But either way, this is a time to reconnect with past colleagues, check in on works-in-progress that your associates started through the year, and just reach out as see what people are up to.
Right now the film industry relatively quiet. Few projects get started during the holiday season. Other than seasonal retail, it’s not a prime hiring period. But the new year and new opportunities are approaching fast. I’m going to continue my networking and be in a good position for January.
Speaking of January, my resume writing course will be coming out in January to help you be ready for all the California film tax incentivized projects that will be getting underway. In these tough times, not everyone can afford my done-for-you service, even with the payment plan. But you may be able to buy the course and the group coaching live sessions with me that will be part of it. You can join the separate email list to hear about the launch and the free presentation that will precede it, to help you make your decision HERE.
Here are some of my affiliate links to products I like:
- Bazic Glitter Glue https://amzn.to/3M549n6
- Bright Creations Glitter Glue https://amzn.to/43W5Rxh
- Christmas Washi Tape https://amzn.to/43W5Rxh
- Hanukkah Washi Tape https://amzn.to/4ojWDlD
Be careful. Washi tape is completely addictive!
Happy Holidays!