The tradition of sending holiday cards dates back to 1840s England and a man who wanted to acknowledge the people in his life with a token of gratitude. He commissioned an artist friend to create a custom design and reproduce it on thick paper, then sent it out to friends and relatives, giving the world the first Christmas card. The sending of cards became a popular alternative to long, handwritten letters during a season filled with traditions and observances.
Today, we love that tradition–both sides of it. As Pacific Northwest artists, we relish the opportunity to craft a card uniquely for our GHDA community. It’s a chance to merge our love of design with our love of the people around us–the clients, colleagues, and friends who trust, encourage, and work alongside us. And as a team, we love signing and sending these cards. It’s a celebration of another year’s partnership.
The card signing itself is a ritual. The entire GHDA team sets aside one afternoon in December to gather around our conference table with festive snacks and our favorite pens to personally sign more than 800 cards. It’s a lot, yes, but like we said, we cherish it.
As the year draws to a close, we take this opportunity to say thank you. Thank you for another year of great design, of great conversations, great memories, and great achievements in crafting places to call home for people across Western Washington.
You make the art of architecture a rich, rewarding, and relational pursuit.
Happy Holidays!
Here’s a look at this year’s card!
