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SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2009
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Xmas Cards Reflect Country's Somber Mood

Glitzy cards picturing holiday excess are out; simple and traditional is in

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(Newser) – Greeting card companies have noticed a big shift in what Americans want from their season’s greetings this year, the Wall Street Journal reports. As economic worries mount, glitzy holiday cards have fallen out of favor fast. Designers have made this year's cards more traditional, deepening reds and greens and focusing on simple holiday traditions like tree-trimming and snowy family walks.

Pictures of presents piled high and other reminders of consumerist excess are definitely out, analysts say. Short and snappy greetings have also been replaced by lengthier, more sentimental messages. "Now people want longer copy," a creative director at American Greetings said. "During difficult times, we see people wanting to connect on a deeper, emotional level that goes above and beyond."

Glitter, non-traditional colors, and symbols of excess have fallen out of favor on this season's greeting cards.
Glitter, non-traditional colors, and symbols of excess have fallen out of favor on this season's greeting cards.   (Shutter Stock)
Christmas cards are displayed with Christmas themed merchandise at Harrods in Knightsbridge.
Christmas cards are displayed with Christmas themed merchandise at Harrods in Knightsbridge.   (Getty Images)
Old Finnish Christmas card. Vintage styles like these are back in vogue.
Old Finnish Christmas card. Vintage styles like these are back in vogue.   (©Tant C)
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The cards with a lot of shopping bags or gifts piled high, the excess we thought was so cute last year, doesn't work now. We don't want to be reminded of our aggressive consumerism. - Candace Corlett, president of New York consulting firm WSL Strategic Retail

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Shannonals
Dec 9, 08 9:12 PM CST
Great, now greeting cards are making people mor depressed. Hey, let's generate cards with lots of presents and depress the parents who can't afford presents for their children due to layoffs Reply
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