Celebrating the handwritten love letter on Valentine’s Day

Spell-checkers and delete buttons —they have a lot to answer for if you ask author Michelle Mackintosh. While Michelle’s books are all about learning the art of correspondence, her message is simple: speak from the heart and worry less about making things ‘perfect’.

In her books on creating care packages and inspiring ‘snail mail’ Michelle asks us to consider something handmade for moments like Valentine’s Day. Even mistakes, such as smudged ink on the page, say a lot about the effort you’ve put in to your letter, card or care package. Michelle argues that imperfections, which naturally come with doing something truly handmade, are part of the charm for the recipient. After all, your loved one will appreciate your effort far more than anything else.

So, in a world where we delete images that aren’t perfect before we post them, where we spellcheck our emails before they’re sent, where an SMS is more common than hearing someone’s voice, Michelle asks us to consider sending a handwritten message this Valentine’s Day. Here are her tips for a crafty, heart-warming message:

Your words, other people’s art

If you really don’t have the confidence to put your own creative skills to the test this Valentine’s Day, there is another option. Consider using Cardly, a small business that is reinventing the humble greeting card by matching your words with the skills of professional artists.

Left: Image of card with koala and the words “If I were a drop bear, I would drop on you.” Right: Image of a card with a red heart and key and the words “Valentine you have the key.”

Across the miles

Also, remember the humble aerogramme? What a wonderful way of sending a letter to loved ones overseas. This beautiful international aerogramme from Australia Post featuring the Australian Wildflower Purple Tassles will bring a lovely local touch to its foreign destination.  

Ready to stamp and send your love letter?

Buy stamps

You may also like

Australia Post acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we operate, live and gather as ​a team. We recognise their continuing connection ​to land, water and community. We pay respect to Elders ​past, present and emerging.