For me, a handwritten note will never go out of style. A handwritten note is a timeless form of expression, capturing not just meaningful moments yearning to be shared but serving as a treasured record of life’s musings, cares, challenges, joys, and experiences. Such a long-standing tradition should be accompanied by companions that elevate the ceremony — like fine stationary and vintage stamps.

Vintage stamps have style and endurance. They bring comforting nostalgia, a beautiful aesthetic, and sweet surprise to a recipient’s mailbox. Here are my five reasons to use vintage stamps:

#1 Elevates a Letter from Ordinary to Exceptional

Using vintage stamps immediately elevates a letter from ordinary to exceptional. When graced with a unique combination of old postage a letter becomes a beautiful gift for the recipient. These exquisite additions add a special touch that shows extra care and meaning and even a bit of intrigue.

#2 Evokes a Bygone Era

In today’s fast-paced world of frivolous communication a letter graced with vintage stamps evokes nostalgia for a more thoughtful time. When letters were the primary and preferred means of communication stamps held more magnitude and were an essential component of bringing important news and joyful tidings. By using vintage stamps today you pay homage to their significant role and timeless beauty.

#3 Serves as a Treasured Keepsake

Given the stature and history that vintage stamps hold — in today’s modern world a letter mailed with these little pieces of artwork also serves as a keepsake and treasured memento for the lucky beneficiary. Paired with fine stationary, a letter that arrives with fine vintage stamps can even serve as a stand alone piece of art that can be displayed in one’s creative studio, library, or other sitting area.

#4 Brings Creativity to Your Day

While there are many reasons to give the gift of vintage stamps to others, let us not forget that collecting and curating these delicate beauties is a lovely way to add creativity and inspiration to your everyday. I delight in the discovery and ordering of vintage stamps by time period, theme, hue, and even old memories. There is no end to the gorgeous combinations that you can create to illuminate various types of stationary and that will offer a visual feast for the giftee.

#5 Adds a Unique Touch for Special Occasions

If you only send letters or cards on special occasions you can still use vintage stamps as a way to bring more festivity to the moment. For holidays find stamps that deliver the spirit of the season, for birthdays and milestones add stamps that remind you of the recipient — perhaps pictures of their favorite hobby, animal, flower, icon, etc. For engagements, weddings, and new babies bring in stamps that are a nod to the setting where the couple met or were married or the gender or name of the new little one.

Etsy is by far the best source for extensive and reliable vintage stamp vendors. My favorites are Postage Stamp Studio, Treasure Fox, and Vintage Postage Shop.