How to Send Electronic Birthday Cards

happy birthday image by Ewe Degiampietro from Fotolia.com

Electronic birthday cards are a convenient way to send birthday greetings to friends and loved ones. There are many online greeting card websites available and hundreds of cards you can choose from, including animated and interactive birthday cards. According to the Greeting Card Association, Americans send around 500 million electronic cards a year.

Choose the electronic card (eCard) website you will use. This decision will depend on a variety of factors. One thing to consider is cost. Some websites, such as bluemountain.com, require you to purchase a membership before you can start sending eCards. Others, such as 123greetings.com, offer eCards completely free of charge. Another aspect to consider is style. Each site uses its own artists and therefore has different styles. Choose a style that fits the person you will be sending the card to.

Click on “Birthday” to browse just the birthday cards. Most sites will offer eCards for many special occasions, not just birthdays.

Choose a category, or browse at random. Once you enter the birthday part of the website, you will most likely see links to subcategories within “Birthday” that will help you to narrow your search. Common birthday categories are Family, Friends, Funny, Belated, Pets, Children, For Her and For Him.

Choose a style for your electronic birthday card. Different websites will offer different kinds of cards. Some cards are still images, almost like postcards. Other cards have animation or special customizable features such as adding a personal photo. Some are even interactive, which allows the receiver to not only read the card but to experience it. Think about what kind of eCard your friend would enjoy the most.

Click on the card to view it. You will see a preview of the card. If you like it, you can begin personalizing it.

Write a personal message. Since an eCard is somewhat less personal than handing someone a card face to face, consider writing something that is specific to the recipient instead of sticking with clichés or pre-made messages.

Customize it even more. Many sites allow you to change the background of the card, the font size or color, and even the music. When you are satisfied with how your card looks, preview it to make sure it is exactly what you want.

Provide the necessary information so that your card can be sent. You will be asked to provide your name and email address as well as the name and email address of the person you are sending it to. You should also choose the date on which you want the card to be sent. Some sites will ask if you want to be notified of when the card is sent or when the recipient views it. You will be notified by email.

Press “Send.” You should receive a confirmation email saying that your card has been sent.