The Art of Small Talk on Postcards: My Postcrossing Journey (And Why I Almost Stamped My Life Away)

Jennifer Jones
Jul 10
3 min read

I joined Postcrossing to connect with people around the world — and so far, I’ve exchanged postcards with folks in Europe, Asia, Canada, and Australia. I’d already shared the saga of my Great Postcard Hunt (spoiler: it involved sticker shock and several deep sighs — you can read about that here).

But what I didn’t expect was the real challenge: writing the little note on the back.

(Yes, I tend to overthink things. I remind Matt that it’s part of my charm. 😉)

The Struggle Is Real: Small Talk, Postcard Edition

Writing a postcard message is basically small talk in written form… and if small talk were an Olympic sport, I’d definitely bring home last place.

Sure, Postcrossing provides helpful prompts — share a fun fact, mention your hobbies, talk about a recent trip. Each member fills out a profile with preferences and conversation starters. Some even include lists of things they’d love to hear about (thank you, organized strangers).

Still, I found myself fumbling for something clever and heartfelt in 40 words or less. How do you make a meaningful connection on a 3x5-inch card?

The One-Stamp Life Hack

One postcard I received had a pre-stamped message with the sender’s name, job, and hobbies. It was simple, tidy, and completely anxiety-free. Honestly? I strongly considered adopting it myself.

Stamp. Sign. Send. Done. No “How’s the weather?” required.

At first, my own cards weren’t much better:

“Hi, I’m me. I like art. Hope you like this card.”

Not exactly the message I wanted to send.

The more postcards I received, the more I realized: You can create a connection in just a few words.

Even a simple line like:

“I visited your country in college. Loved the food!”

“Here’s a quote I love: ‘Be fearless in the pursuit of what sets your soul on fire.’”

They weren’t essays, but they felt real. And they meant something.

“Go Thunder!” and Other Global Surprises

A few of my incoming postcards included messages like:

“Congratulations on OKC winning the NBA Championship!”

People had spotted my Oklahoma address and added a personal shoutout. That made my whole week. Strangers from across the world, celebrating something local with me just because of a ZIP code? Incredible.

It reminded me: Postcrossing isn’t about writing the perfect message. It’s about connection — and sometimes that looks like a stamp, a scribbled sentence, and a goofy doodle of a flamingo.

What I’ve Learned from Postcrossing

What fascinates me most is this: Everyone on Postcrossing seems to want the same thing — to connect.

It’s like a no-pressure pen-pal program. No weekly updates. No emotional baggage. Just a joyful, fleeting moment shared across continents and mailboxes.

So yes, Postcrossing isn’t just about collecting postcards or showcasing your penmanship. It’s about sending a little piece of yourself into the world — and maybe, receiving a little magic in return.

Thinking of Joining?

If you’ve ever wanted to connect with someone halfway across the world (or just finally use that beautiful stationery you’ve been hoarding), Postcrossing is a fun and surprisingly meaningful place to start.

✨ Already a member? Got a funny or memorable message you’ve received (or sent)? Drop it in the comments — I promise I won’t judge if you once wrote:

“Wish you were here… but not really.”

(Because maybe, just maybe, I’ve sent that message a time or two myself. 😉)

Guess where this one will go? Some lucky recipient has no idea what's in store. ;)

🎨 Curious about the art I send? I design and mail my own handmade postcards — little pieces of creativity that now live on five continents (and counting!).

Check out a few of my custom postcard designs here.