Why Mail Still Matters
I love sending mail. Receiving it is nice, too, but I’ve always been a snail-mail kind of gal. I still keep personalized stationery, I always have a stack of greeting cards on hand, and I even love picking out just the right stamp for each occasion. Back in the ’90s, I used to spend many lunch hours at the Hallmark store searching for the perfect card.
Greeting cards - and first-class postage - have gotten more expensive over the years, but in a world of instant texts and emojis, nothing hits quite like opening the mailbox and finding a handwritten card. For college students adjusting to life away from home, that little envelope is a reminder that they’re loved, missed, and never far from your thoughts.
The best part? It doesn’t have to be fancy - just a simple note can make a big difference. And with a few smart shopping tips, it doesn’t have to be expensive either.
Where to Find the Best Deals on Greeting Cards
💌 Trader Joe’s
One of my best-kept secrets: Trader Joe’s greeting cards! They’re fun, unique, and just 99¢ each. Every time I’m there, I grab a few to keep my stash stocked.
💌 Dollar Tree
Don’t overlook Dollar Tree - they’ve got a solid selection of cards for $1.25 each, and you can often still find deals like 2 for $1.00. Both seasonal and everyday cards are easy to grab, so you’ll always have the right one on hand.
💌 Hallmark (Crown Rewards)
If you sign up for the Hallmark Crown Rewards program, you get a coupon for one free greeting card every month. It’s a simple way to slowly build up your collection without spending anything extra.
💌 Walgreens
While individual cards can be a little pricier here, Walgreens often runs Buy 1, Get 1 Free deals on Hallmark or Shoebox cards. Keep an eye on their weekly ads to snag higher-end cards without paying full price.
Build Your Own Card Stash
The trick is to stock up ahead of time so you’re not scrambling when the mood strikes. I keep a little basket of cards at home so I can quickly grab one, jot down a note, and pop it in the mail.
Think of how many times a quick card would brighten your student’s day:
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Before a big test or presentation
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After they ace an exam
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When they’re homesick or having a rough week
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To celebrate a birthday or holiday from afar
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Or simply just because 💌
I like to keep a mix on hand - encouragement, “just because,” seasonal, and funny cards are my staples. A card doesn’t need a big occasion - sometimes the unexpected ones mean the most.
A Simple Way to Stay Connected
Dropping a card in the mail takes just a few minutes, but it can mean the world to your student. It’s also a great way to balance giving them space while reminding them they’re loved and supported.
So the next time you’re at Trader Joe’s, Dollar Tree, Hallmark, or Walgreens, grab a few extras. A small stash of greeting cards might just become your secret weapon for staying close while your student is away at college. 💛