The holidays have a way of sneaking up on us! Between work, family gatherings, shopping, and everything else this season brings, getting family photos taken and holiday cards sent can easily fall to the bottom of the list.
The good news? It's not too late to plan for beautiful cards featuring your family photos. Whether you're hoping to send traditional Christmas cards or want to start the new year with a fresh family portrait, here's how to plan your session and card order.
When Should You Schedule Your Session?
If you'd like your cards to arrive before Christmas, earlier is always better. October and early November are ideal times to schedule family photos, but don't count yourself out if you're reading this later in the season.
My standard photo gallery turnaround is one week after your session. Once your gallery is delivered, you can select your favorite image and finalize your holiday card order.
After you've selected your design and finalized payment, please allow an additional four days for your holiday cards to be prepared.
You'll also need time to address your envelopes, add postage, and mail your cards. I take care of stuffing your envelopes for you, making one part of your holiday to-do list a little easier!
Don't Forget About New Year Cards!
Not every holiday greeting has to arrive before December 25.
New Year cards are a wonderful option if your schedule is full, you prefer a more relaxed timeline, or you'd simply like to start the year by sharing updated family photos.
They can be festive, simple, or focused on your family's favorite moments from the past year. You can even use a recent family portrait to create a card that feels timeless rather than specifically Christmas-themed.
The best part? You still get to share photographs of your family with the people who matter most—without the pressure of meeting an early-December mailing deadline.
Your Holiday Card Timeline
Here's a general guide to help you plan:
For Christmas cards: If you want your cards in the mail by the first week of December, aim to schedule your session in October or early November. This leaves time for your gallery, card preparation, addressing, and mailing.
For late-season sessions: If you're booking in mid-to-late November, we may still have time to get your cards out before Christmas, depending on your session date, card selection, and shipping timelines. Reach out before booking if you have a specific deadline in mind.
For New Year cards: Missed the Christmas card window? No problem! New Year cards are a lovely way to share family updates, celebrate the year ahead, and send a little love after the holiday rush. A December session can be perfect for cards you plan to mail in late December or January.
Let Me Help Make Your Holiday Cards Easier
Your family photos deserve to be enjoyed beyond a digital gallery. Turning them into holiday cards is a meaningful way to share your family's story with friends and loved ones.
At Lauren Matherne Photography, my goal is to make the process as simple as possible. I'll photograph your family, deliver your edited gallery within one week, and prepare your holiday cards within four days of your design selection and finalized payment. I'll even stuff the envelopes for you!
You'll just need to address them, add postage, and get them in the mail.
Whether you're planning Christmas cards or New Year greetings, let's create something you'll be excited to share.
Ready to book your session? Get in touch with Lauren Matherne Photography to find a date that works for your family.
Serving Rockdale, Texas, and surrounding communities.