Should I Use Online Group Greeting Cards or Physical Cards?

Our world is becoming more virtual than ever, and the act of sending greeting cards is changing to match. While the past’s postage stamps, metal mailboxes, and paper envelopes were once the only choice, the future is becoming more online and horizons for gratitude, celebration, and appreciation are broadening. 

Today, traditional physical cards are now joined by online group greeting cards, giving people more options to express appreciation and celebrate special occasions. On one hand, eCards are cutting edge and flexible (and email boxes are still open on Sunday). On the other hand, some people simply enjoy tradition.

If you’re on the fence about which option is right for you, look no further. Let’s explore the key differences between online group greeting cards and physical cards, so you can decide which best suits your needs.

Group Greeting Cards vs Physical Cards: Convenience 

One of the primary benefits of online group greeting cards is convenience. With just a few clicks, you can gather well-wishes, messages, and even photos from a group of people anywhere in the world. If time is of the essence or distance is a problem, the ease of access to eCards is a solution. This makes online group greeting cards a great option for last-minute celebrations, surprise parties, or large group efforts at the office.

On the other hand, physical cards require time and effort. You need to go to the store, fight through crowds in the card aisle, purchase the card, personally sign it, pass it around the office (and hopefully find it), and then send it via mail or give it to the person. This traditional method adds a personal touch, but it’s not always the most practical.

Group Greeting Cards vs Physical Cards: Personalization

When it comes to personalizing greeting cards, both online and physical options provide unique opportunities. Online group greeting cards offer customizable templates that allow you to add personal messages, names, and even upload images, GIFs, and videos. These digital features enhance creativity and make the card feel more authentic and memorable. 

Online group greeting cards also allow for real-time collaboration among group members, enabling everyone to contribute their own unique message. With eCards, there’s unlimited space to leave your thoughts, giving everyone the opportunity to tell the recipient exactly how they really feel.

On the other hand, physical cards do provide a tangible experience for recipients. The act of physically holding a card and feeling its texture is something that can’t happen in a digital world. That being said, this tangibility comes with drawbacks, as the card could be lost or damaged while being passed around the office. Despite what Kevin from accounting may say, no one wants to see a coffee ring on their birthday card when they receive it.

Group Greeting Cards vs Physical Cards: Cost-Effectiveness

Cost is always an important factor to consider when choosing between online group greeting cards and physical cards for your occasion. Online greeting cards often come at a lower price point, depending on the platform. This affordability is especially beneficial when sending cards to large groups or for frequent occasions throughout the year.

Oftentimes, group greeting card platforms offer packages for businesses celebrating lots of special events for employees. These packages can include unlimited boards at a fixed price, giving managers and admins the flexibility to plan their celebration budgets in advance. 

Physical cards, on the other hand, typically require the purchase of materials such as cardstock, envelopes, and postage (if you’re sending them out). Plus, if you prefer more elaborate designs (queue the lace and premium paper) for cards, the costs can quickly add up. 

Group Greeting Cards vs Physical Cards: Environmental Impact 

In today’s age, we’re all becoming more environmentally conscious in our decision-making. Online group greeting cards have a clear advantage in terms of sustainability. Group greeting cards don’t require trees for paper, require any supply chain for shipment, and definitely don‘t end up in landfills. On the whole, they significantly reduce the carbon footprint associated with traditional cards.

Physical cards, while cherished by many, often contribute to deforestation and are not always biodegradable (although there are some recyclable options). Plus, they take up plenty of space in wasteful big box stores, requiring lighting, staffing, and more just to enter the market. 

Group Greeting Cards vs Physical Cards: Variety and Design Options

When it comes to variety and design options, online group greeting cards also have the upper hand. Online platforms offer a seemingly endless amount of templates and themes to choose from. For easy access, companies like Kudoboard organize them by occasions and personal preferences. 

No matter the interest, there’s likely a group greeting card for your loved one. If your recipient is a big dog lover, there’s a dog birthday card to suit their needs. If they’re a cyclist, rest assured there are bike designs. If they like simple or plain, there are plenty of other templates that let the messages shine. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, wedding, or any other special event, you can find a design that suits your needs.

On the flip side, physical cards, though limited in design choices, still have their own charm. They often feature hand-drawn illustrations, embossed details, or embellishments like glitter, ribbons, and bows. These tangible effects can make physical cards feel luxurious, especially when choosing more expensive, high-quality options from a specialty card shop.

Group Greeting Cards vs Physical Cards: Accessibility and Reach

In the new world of hybrid and remote workplaces, geographical barriers are challenging for physical cards. Friends, family, and coworkers are spread out across the globe, making it impossible to get them all to participate. So, while paper cards allow for a physical presence in celebrations, they can be limited in their reach.

In contrast, online group greeting cards have no such limitations. Once created, they can be instantly accessed and shared across borders, regardless of the sender’s or recipient’s location. It’s simple and easy to invite contributors through email, and these platforms often integrate with workplace communication tools for easy access. This accessibility makes online cards particularly beneficial for dispersed groups of friends, colleagues, or family members who aren’t able to celebrate in person.

Group Greeting Cards vs Physical Cards: Digitally Archived Messages 

Another advantage of online group greeting cards is the ability to digitally store messages for easy-access later. Online group greeting cards are stored digitally (and publicly available, if you choose), allowing all to revisit and appreciate the messages and memories at any time. This also allows for continuous collaboration, where people can add new messages and well-wishes to the card even after the initial send-off

In contrast, physical cards have sentimental value as physical mementos, but they take up space and require more than just a simple URL address to access. Over time, physical cards often suffer potential damage and storage challenges as they are moved, reorganized, and revisited.

Deciding between Group Greeting Cards and Physical Cards

In the age of technology, choosing between online group greeting cards and physical cards is about convenience, personalization, cost-effectiveness, sustainability, and emotional impact. Online group greeting cards offer convenience, customization, and accessibility, while physical cards have a certain old-world, tactile charm. 

For businesses operating remote or big parties of people, group greeting cards usually make the most sense. Friends and family have unlimited space to leave thoughtful messages, can contribute from anywhere in the world, and can access cards with only an internet connection.

Ultimately, your decision should consider the occasion, your relationship with the recipient, and your personal preferences. Whichever you choose, the act of expressing appreciation and celebrating loved ones is what truly matters.