The Art Of Letter Writing
It’s a bit funny to write about something that used to be commonplace - necessary, actually - in a way that frames it as almost obsolete. But such are the times, at least for now.
I do sense a shift in the culture, though, at least on a micro level. A tide that’s reaching for slower, more grounded, more intentional ways to spend our time.
Why Letters Still Matter
There’s a certain magic in sending and receiving letters. When I receive one, I light up. I often set it aside, waiting for a quiet moment and a cup of tea - when I can curl up and read (and reread) it in peace.
I then sit with my thoughts - answering questions that were asked of me, gathering little details from my week to share, coming up with funny or thoughtful things to include.
And just a quick note on balance: I’ll often voice text one of my dear friends after receiving her letter. We elaborate on the stories we referenced but didn’t fully write out. It’s not about confining a friendship to pen and paper - but rather expanding it to include this beautiful, intentional medium.
What Makes a Beautiful Letter?
I really believe that to write a beautiful letter, you need to share what the world might call mundane...
“The weather was chilly this morning, so I drank my coffee on the porch.”
“I miss seeing my brother as often now that he lives far away.”
“A new restaurant opened up with rave reviews—maybe we can go try it together?”
“I’ve been wondering if it’s time to cut my hair… please talk me out of it if it’s a bad idea!”
These details are only “mundane” because we’ve grown used to a constant stream of entertainment - dopamine hits every five seconds as we scroll. Letter writing slows us down. It’s as much a gift to myself as it is to the person I’m writing to.
I don’t keep a journal (I wish I did, but I’ve never been particularly disciplined in that area), so writing letters has become a way to capture and savor what’s been happening in my life, what I’ve been thinking about.
Reading someone’s letter offers a rare window into how they think - what inspires them, what makes them laugh, what keeps them up at night. It helps me be a better friend.
How to Start Writing Letters
I realize this has turned into a love letter to letter writing itself, so let’s get a little more practical.
Here are a few ways you can start embracing the art of letter writing:
1. Gather Your Supplies
— Start with some stationery and stamps. Might I humbly suggest our hand-stamped stationery?
2. Start Noticing
— Slow down and pay attention to the world around you. What makes you smile? What small stories are unfolding in your daily life? What are you thinking about while you wait for your tea to brew, or your food to cook?
3. Set the Scene
— Begin your letter with a snapshot of your day. Set the scene. The recipient will enjoy knowing what the weather was like, where you were, what you were doing, when you sat down to write.
4. Ask Thoughtful Questions
— Include fun or deep questions to invite a reply:
“If you could only eat at one restaurant for the rest of your life, which would it be?”
“Where’s somewhere you want to travel, and why?”
“What’s brought you joy lately?”
5. Add a Little Something Extra (optional but delightful)
— A polaroid
— A favorite recipe
— A sticker or short poem
— A pressed flower from your garden
— An invitation to coffee or a movie night
6. Write from the Heart
— Express your gratitude. Share what the recipient means to you. Let them know how much you’re looking forward to hearing back.
A Letter to You
I hope this little virtual letter to you - yes, you, reading this right now - finds you well and soaking in even the smallest joys today.
If you decide to give letter writing a try, I’d truly love to hear about it.
Email me or dm me or... write me a letter ;)