7 alternatives to Christmas cards

Every year loads of Christmas cards are sent and received, but usually they just end up getting recycled after Christmas. Try some of these fantastic alternatives and we're sure your friends will appreciate them.

1. JibJab greeting

JibJab allows you to send your friends animated videos starring you! Just upload your photo and you'll become the star. Check out all the options at www.jibjab.com

2. Make a small present

Make it a bit more personal this Christmas and cook up a little present such as jam or chutney. You can write a Christmas message on the label and it's a lot more personal than a shop bought card. Although it will take longer to make you can do a batch job so you only need to set aside half a day and then you're set for the Christmas season!

3. Combine your card with a tree decoration

These fantastic little cards come complete with their own Christmas decorations that you can use year after year.

Available from www.madewithlovedesigns.co.uk

4. eCards

eCards are pretty old skool, but there are still plenty of companies that will allow you to send free eCards. There are hundreds of designs available ranging from funny designs to more traditional ones. eCards are particularly great to send to people in other countries as they won't attract any postage costs and you can usually put a short message in them.

5. Plantable cards

Forget recycling your cards, turn them into pretty flowers! With this fantastic alternative to your usual Christmas card you can send a card knowing that it won't go to waste. These great cards are made from seed paper and make a nice floral addition to the recipient's garden. Available from www.plantableseedpaper.co.uk

6. Email newsletter

We're not talking about a company newsletter, we're talking about a personal email that you send to friends and family who you don't speak to that often. Not everyone is on social media, so it's a great way to keep the older generations in the loop with what you've been up to over the last year. Of course it only works if people have access to email, so for those that don't just print out a copy and pop it in the post.

7. Augmented reality Christmas cards

Use something like Aurasma to create your own augmented reality Christmas cards. It's free to make simple ones and there's even a simple 'How-to' video.

Christmas isn't far off now, check out some of these fantastic advent calendars and new exciting products that are available to buy in the run up to Christmas.

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• Christmas Cards