The rising cost of postage, plus concerns about the environment, have put people off expressing their festive good wishes on paper.

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But what you put in your cards isn’t the only message you are giving to the recipient.

Psychologist Louise Goodard-Crawley tells Alex Lloyd what your choice of cover design could say about you.

TRADITIONAL NATIVITY

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PEOPLE who opt for Mary and Joseph with baby Jesus in a manger are likely to be traditional, sentimental and probably religious.

They appreciate the warmth that comes from reconnecting with age-old customs.

This card choice reflects a desire for the season to be steeped in familiar rituals, with the essence of togetherness and the spirit of giving.

The sender is a creature of habit who always tunes into what will now be the King’s Speech at 3pm.

But they are also likely to complain about how Christmas has become too commercial.

TYPOGRAPHY

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CHOOSING a card with a bold design based around festive words suggests that the sender finds beauty and expression in the simplicity of letters and fonts.

They’re drawn to the power of a well-chosen phrase or a beautifully crafted message, making them likely to have a “Live, Love, Laugh” sign on their Instagram-friendly kitchen wall.

A typography-themed card signals a love for language and a desire to offer a stylish and eloquent expression of the festive spirit.

LUXURIOUS BLING

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SENDERS who go for cards covered in metallics and glitter appreciate the finer things in life.

They have a penchant for glamour and extravagance, making them likely to go all out when they spoil their loved ones.

They will be stocking up on luxury treats from M&S, when normally they shop at Aldi, and dressing to the nines as they cook the festive roast.

This sort of card conveys a desire to make a statement and celebrate the holiday season in a style that’s both bold and opulent.

They love to celebrate and to dazzle.

SAFE & SECULAR

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CHOOSING a card with a sensible and safe design reflects a person with a thoughtful and inclusive approach to the holiday season.

This selection signals a desire to celebrate in a way that is respectful of all beliefs and backgrounds.

The sender wants everyone to feel included in the festive joy, no matter who they are, and to get along harmoniously, even if just for one day.

And they hate to upset people.

So much so, they are likely to be extremely diligent about keeping a list of every card they received last year, so they don’t miss anyone out.

AMUSING ANIMALS

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SELECTING a witty animal-themed card reveals a sender with a playful and light-hearted side.

By opting for furry friends engaged in festive antics, they’re saying, “Why take everything so seriously?”.

This choice suggests a desire to spread joy, and they probably spam their social media feeds with viral videos of cute cats and dogs.

This sort of card radiates a contagious sense of merriment, making it clear that for them, the holiday season is all about embracing the fun and lighter side of life.

CHRISTMAS-LITE

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OPTING for a card with a minimal nod to Christmas signals a laid-back and easy-going approach to this time of year.

This person likes to keep things simple and fun, steering away from the traditional glitz and glamour.

They want a stress-free celebration and they aren’t shackled by traditions.

They would happily opt to spend the day on a beach abroad or ditch roast turkey for a takeaway.

After all, this sender is here for a good time, not a chaotic one – and they know that Christmas is just one day.

NOSTALGIC

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PICKING scenes from times past suggests a sender who is sentimental and likes to hark back to the traditions of their childhood.

They are inviting you to join them on a trip down memory lane and enjoy the magic of the past.

This person is likely to decorate their tree with old family baubles and watch classic films like It’s A Wonderful Life.

But their nostalgia is warm and comforting, rather than lamenting that life isn’t what it used to be.

CHEEKY

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PEOPLE who send cheeky cards with rude jokes or saucy images are likely to have a playful spirit and a subversive nature.

They would rather enjoy a laugh than take the festivities too seriously.

And they probably leave their shopping to the very last minute instead of agonising for weeks over gifts.

Their priority is partying and having a good time, rather than possessions.

By sending this card, they want everyone to raise a smile. And if someone is offended, that’s their problem.