Why Start a Greeting Card Business? 10 Surprising Reasons This Creative Side Hustle Could Change Your Life

I love running a greeting card business. There are so many benefits, I don't even know where to start. Building Wild Lines has given me control over my time, allowed me to get paid for being creative and – best of all – let me bring joy to thousands of people every year through my designs. It’s a true privilege.

That freedom because especially clear earlier this year, when 'morning' sickness turned my life upside down. I can't tell you how grateful I was to be able to retreat to my bed for two months, without having to announce my pregnancy to the world or request sick pay.

During those months, I realised how easily my life could have taken a different turn. Back in 2019, I quit my job to move into freelance editorial work and – while I was at it, without much work or many commitments – thought I might as well start a brand for my artwork. It was a low-pressure venture that I started on a whim to see how it went.

Looking back, I wish I’d known that starting a greeting card business was a genuine, achievable option when I was younger. That designing and selling cards could become a fulfilling venture you can start gradually and cheaply, while still in full-time work or study.

That's when I decided to create a resource on how to start a greeting card business. It's the guide that I wish I had at the beginning of my journey.

Why Start a Greeting Card Business in 2025?

Have you ever wished you could turn your creativity into a flexible, meaningful business? Do you dream of earning extra income doing something fun? If so, starting a greeting card business might be the perfect opportunity.

Cards are more than just folded paper – they’re tiny works of art that celebrate life’s milestones, make people smile, and connect us in a digital world. Yet, few people realise just how rewarding and life-changing a greeting card business can be.

Here are 10 powerful reasons why you should start a greeting card business in 2025 – and why it could be the best decision you make this year.

1. Greeting Cards Are Timeless – and More Relevant Than Ever

In an era dominated by texts and instant messages, a handwritten card is a rare treasure. It’s personal, heartfelt, and tangible. The greeting card industry remains strong because cards make moments memorable. No emoji will ever replace the joy of receiving a real card.

2. It’s an Incredibly Affordable Business to Start

Unlike many side hustles, launching a greeting card brand doesn’t require a huge investment. You don’t need to rent a studio or buy expensive equipment. You can print cards in small batches, test designs affordably, and scale as you learn what sells – making it one of the most accessible creative businesses.

3. You Don’t Need to Be an Artist or Business Expert

One of the biggest myths about greeting cards is that you need to be a professional illustrator or have a business degree. Not true! Many best-selling cards today feature simple messages, quirky doodles, or bold text-based designs. Creativity, determination and resourcefulness matter far more than technical skills. Anyone can start.

4. You’ll Build Skills That Benefit You for Life

Running a greeting card business teaches you real-world skills you can use anywhere: marketing, pricing, customer service, time management, even basic bookkeeping. These are practical, confidence-building abilities that can serve you in your career, future businesses, or everyday life.

5. Flexible Working – Do It on Your Terms

Whether you’re a busy parent, juggling studies, or working a full-time job, a greeting card business is easy to fit around your schedule. You can design on the weekends, package orders in the evenings or work in focused sprints. There’s no boss breathing down your neck, and you set the pace.

6. Cards Make People Happy – And You Get to Be Part of That

Few products carry the emotional weight of a greeting card. Your ideas help people celebrate birthdays, express love, share sympathy, or just brighten someone’s day. The first time you hear a customer tell you how much your card meant to them, you’ll know you’re doing something special.

7. Low-Risk Experimentation = Creative Freedom

Unlike mass-produced products that need huge upfront orders, cards let you experiment without risking your savings. Print a handful, see what resonates, and adjust your designs. This freedom to test ideas helps you develop a unique style without the pressure of high costs or large inventories.

8. Massive Potential – From Pocket Money to Full-Time Income

Some creators earn a little extra to cover monthly expenses, while others build greeting card businesses that replace their salaries. There’s no one-size-fits-all goal – but the earning potential is there if you’re willing to grow.

9. You Can Align It with Causes You Care About

Because you’re in charge, you can design cards that reflect your passions – whether it’s celebrating diversity, championing mental health, supporting wildlife conservation or using eco-friendly materials. Your brand can stand for something that matters to you and your customers.

10. A Greeting Card Business Opens Endless Possibilities

Starting with cards doesn’t have to end with cards. Once you build your brand, you can expand into art prints, stationery, gifts or even licensing your designs to other companies. Many successful greeting card makers have turned their side hustle into a creative empire – and it all starts with a single card.

But Is This Really for You?

Do you have an entrepreneurial spark inside you? It's important to get clear on why you want to start. If any of these ideas resonate…

✅ You crave a creative outlet.

✅ You want a side income that could grow into more.

✅ You love seeing your work bring people joy.

✅ You’re ready to learn and try something new.

…then starting a greeting card business could be the perfect fit.

So, Why Wait?

Whether you’re drawn to the idea of earning money on your own terms, sharing your unique sense of humour or style, or building a brand that feels true to you, there’s never been a better time to start. The greeting card market is vibrant, and the tools you need have never been more accessible.

If you’re ready to take your first step, our How to Start a Greeting Card Side Hustle guide is packed with practical, real-world advice – from branding to printing, Etsy secrets to avoiding rookie mistakes – everything you need to turn your creative spark into a thriving business.