Image by karenwithak via FlickrA custom that has held its own in this age of electronic mail and instant messaging.
But, just when did the tradition of sending cards to friends and loved ones on Christmas originate?
The first ever Christmas card was created more than 150 years ago in England, and that, too, by pure chance.
He hit upon a novel idea to make his task easier.
A central panel was to depict a family enjoying the Christmas festivities.
And, thus was born the world's first ever Christmas card! Little did Cole and Horsley guess that this isolated instance would spawn one of the most honoured of all Christmas traditions down the centuries.
For about 30 years after England created the Christmas card, Americans continued to import theirs from the UK.
His designs included winter motifs and Christmas themes.
It was only much later that the focus shifted to snow landscapes, fir trees, decorated Christmas trees, glowing fireplaces and Santa Claus.
By the early 20th century, Christmas cards had conquered Europe and were particularly a big hit in Germany.
The card always involved some pulling of the string or lever to reveal some element of surprise! Pull out flower cards ruled the day.
Hall and two of his brothers - one of the biggest card making companies in the world today!
Around that time, in the early 20th century, several charities started selling Christmas greeting cards to raise funds for their organisations.
In 1953, US President Dwight D.
Today's modern Christmas cards sport a more trendy look with cartoons and funny verses.
Christmas cards boast a rich history, with many of the early greeting cards prized collector's items.
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