## Why collecting birthday letters is a wonderful idea for a meaningful gift

When a milestone birthday rolls around – 25th, 40th, 50th, 80th – it’s a time for both celebration and reflection. Studies show that [close relationships](https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2017/04/over-nearly-80-years-harvard-study-has-been-showing-how-to-live-a-healthy-and-happy-life/), more than money or fame, are what keep people happy and fulfilled over a long life. A book of letters filled with memories and well wishes serve as the perfect reminder of the relationships in life that matter most, and a promise of more good times in the years ahead.

## How to collect birthday letters from friends and family members

Woman blowing out candles on birthday cake

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This is where the fun begins! A few weeks before you want to gift the book, send out an email or start a group text thread with everyone in your circle who might want to contribute – this includes family members, friends, co-workers, old classmates…really anyone who might have something meaningful to say about the recipient. Make sure you include a deadline so that you can ensure they will arrive on time (you don’t want any last-minute surprises!). 

## Getting your loved ones to write meaningful letters

To make collecting many letters easy, you need to address the _writer’s block_. Most people balk at a blank page, they just aren’t sure what to start writing. To help, consider offering some questions or prompts to make participating a little easier. Offering questions or prompts is also a great way to ensure you receive pages of sincere, thoughtful responses vs. a generic collection of repeated “happy birthday!”. [Here are some of our favorite birthday prompts for inspiration](https://yourkithandkin.com/birthday-book).

## Making your birthday letters into a personalized birthday book

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Once you’ve collected all those words, memories, and pictures, you can put them together in a scrapbook, photo album, or bound book. The very first [Kith and Kin books](https://yourkithandkin.com/) were made using a photobook service, or printed and bound via a local printer. Tools like [Canva](http://canva.com/) and [Adobe](http://adobe.com/) can be used to add color and design elements. Don’t forget to write a thoughtful intro, and add photos or any other mementos that help tell the person’s story. You’re on your way to a truly unforgettable gift!

## The extra effort is more than worth it

While creating a book of birthday letters may take a few more days, the result is truly wonderful – the perfect gift to celebrate the big day. So whether you’re looking to give your best friend “40 letters for a 40th birthday”, or you want to surprise your husband with something creative from all your loved ones, collecting birthday letters is a sure way to create a great gift – we’d argue even the best gift.

We’ve worked hard to make this process a cinch, so if you’re looking for a better way to collect these sentiments, invite friends and family to participate, or even print some you already collected, sign up for free today to start a [Kith and Kin book](https://yourkithandkin.com/).

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Searching for a gift that will leave a lasting impression? Unlock the beauty of creating a book of letters to celebrate a milestone birthday. Our blog post shares invaluable tips and inspiration to help you craft an unforgettable and sentimental present.

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Creating a Book of Letters for A Birthday – The Best Gift for Their Special Day

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