How to Make an eCard

• by Tracy C.

Introduction

• eCards are a popular way to stay in touch, and they're less expensive than a traditional card or letter. eCards are also environmentally friendly. With increasing interest in social networking, eCards are getting an additional boost, and attracting millions of users.

Step 1: Choose an eCard Provider

eCards often use animated graphics. (Creative commons photo by Klaus Friese)

• There are many eCard websites available depending on your mood and the occasion. You can also use Photoshop to create your own personalized eCard.

1. There are many eCard providers available online with varying graphics and attitudes.
2. Several popular eCard sites, some of which require you to become a member after a free month trial, are:
   • • Evite
     • American Greetings
     • Someecards 
     • Blue Mountain
     • care2 eCards
     • Regards 
3. There are also a few sites that allow you to add photos, videos, or other personalized messages to your greetings. Smilebox even allows you to upload iTunes and post to your personal blog or your Facebook page. But they don't have a platform to support Mac users yet. Two examples are:
   • • Smilebox
     • Hallmark

1. And there are sites operated by good causes or focusing on nature:
   • • Oxfam
     • Nature Conservancy
     • Conservation International
     • World Land Trust
     • eNature

Step 2: Select Your Card

There are cards to match your every sentiment. (Photo by Someecards)

• It's time to choose the perfect greeting for your occasion.

1. Most all sites divide cards into groups according to event or sentiment: holidays, birthday, get well, etc.
2. Because eCards are so easy to send, there are also plenty of options for simple greetings that let you stay in touch.
3. You may be able to customize your card with photos or video. As long as you have digital images, simply upload your photos and edit them to your liking.
4. You may also choose sounds. Keep your recipient in mind when making this decision: a former co-worker may not appreciate a card that sings Happy Birthday so the whole office can hear.
5. Write a personal message. Direct your card to a recipient and write a message to him or her.
6. Then, sign your name, and you're ready to send.

Step 3: Send!

• It's as easy as that! Input email addresses for your recipients (often you can upload these from your email address book), and you're ready to go.

1. You'll need the email addresses you wish to send cards to, which may be available to upload from your address book.
2. If you write a somewhat neutral message (Happy Holidays from the Chens!) you can send cards to multiple recipients at once.
3. Be sure to bookmark the eCard sites you liked so you can use them again next time.

Resources for How to Make an eCard

• Evite
• American Greetings
• Someecards 
• Blue Mountain
• care2 eCards
• Regards 
• Smilebox
• Hallmark
• Conservation International
• World Land Trust
• eNature
• eHow: How to Send a Free Christmas E-Card

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