The History of Christmas Cards and Key Christmas icons that Sell in the USA

The tradition of sending Christmas cards dates back to the mid-19th century, originating in England. Sir Henry Cole, a prominent educator and patron of the arts, is credited with sending the first commercial Christmas card in 1843. Designed by artist John Callcott Horsley, this card featured a festive illustration of a family celebrating together, flanked by images of charitable acts. The simple yet heartwarming message, "A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to You," set the tone for the cards that would follow.

Christmas cards quickly gained popularity in the United Kingdom and spread to the United States by the late 1840s. Louis Prang, a German immigrant and printer, is often referred to as the "father of the American Christmas card." In the 1870s, Prang began mass-producing high-quality, colorful cards featuring a variety of festive images, making Christmas cards accessible to a broader audience.

Key Icons and Themes in Christmas Card Designs

In the USA, certain icons and themes have proven to be perennial favorites in Christmas card design, helping to ensure their appeal and commercial success.

1. Santa Claus: Santa Claus, with his jolly demeanor, red suit, and bag of gifts, is a beloved figure in American Christmas culture. Cards featuring Santa are popular with both children and adults, evoking nostalgia and the magical spirit of the holiday season.

2. Christmas Trees: The decorated Christmas tree, often adorned with lights, ornaments, and a star on top, is a central icon in holiday celebrations. Cards showcasing beautifully decorated trees resonate with the joy and warmth of family traditions.

3. Snow Scenes: Snow-covered landscapes, cosy cottages, and winter wonderlands are classic themes that evoke the serene and peaceful aspects of the season. These designs appeal to those who cherish the beauty and tranquility of a white Christmas.

4. Religious Imagery: For many, Christmas holds significant religious meaning. Cards featuring nativity scenes, angels, and churches remind recipients of the spiritual aspect of the holiday. Messages of peace, hope, and goodwill often accompany these designs.

5. Holiday Greetings: Simple and heartfelt messages such as "Merry Christmas," "Happy Holidays," and "Season's Greetings" remain staples. Cards that combine beautiful typography with festive imagery tend to stand out and appeal to a wide audience.

6. Animals: Winter animals like reindeer, cardinals, and owls often feature in Christmas card designs. These images, combined with snowy backdrops or festive elements, add a whimsical touch that can be particularly appealing.

Trends and Modern Touches

While traditional icons remain popular, modern Christmas cards often incorporate contemporary design elements. Minimalist designs, humorous illustrations, and customisable photo cards have become trendy, catering to a variety of tastes and preferences.

Eco-friendly cards made from recycled materials or those that support charitable causes are also gaining traction, reflecting a growing awareness of sustainability and social responsibility.

The enduring popularity of Christmas cards in the USA lies in their ability to capture the essence of the holiday season through beloved icons and heartfelt messages. Pure Art Licensing Agency supplies artwork for Christmas cards to publishers worldwide, with a strong presence in the US market. Our artists' greeting cards can be found in shopping malls and high street shops across the country, including stores like Walmart, Target, American Greetings, Hallmark, Christmas Tree Shops, and Hobby Lobby. Whether steeped in tradition or embracing modern trends, our best-selling designs evoke joy, nostalgia, and a sense of connection among friends and family.