Maybe you’ve seen cute stationery hauls or aesthetic letters all over your IG feed and thought: Wait…people still send snail mail?  (Spoiler alert: They totally do.)

If the idea of writing your first letter feels super awk or intimidating, we’ll help you figure out what to say and where to start.

Pen-Paling Is Actually Kinda Awesome

Let’s be real: Most of our conversations happen at lightning speed. We DM. We Snap. We fire off an emoji.

Writing a letter forces you to slow down and actually think about what you want to say. Instead of sending off a quick “lol” or ❤️ in the GC, you get the chance to dive into deep conversations on just about anything. (Plus, is it just me, or does receiving a physical letter feel weirdly exciting?)

Finding A Pen Pal Safely

Before you start decorating envelopes and buying stickers, let’s talk safety.

Look for school exchange programs, youth organizations or moderated pen pal communities designed specifically for other gals. Global Pen Friends is a great place to start–you can set age limits on who can contact you and specify your interests to match with like-minded people. (Pro tip: If you’re under 16, make sure a parent, guardian or trusted adult knows what you’re doing.)

You don’t even have to write to a total stranger. Remember that one cousin from across the country you see every three years? Now’s the time to KIT.

But…What Do You Even Write?

This is usually the part that makes people panic. What if I run out of things to say?

Start with the basics. Tell them about your hobbies, current TBRs, fave music, TV shows you’re obsessed with or your dream vacation destination.

Ask questions, too. Be curious about other people’s lives, cultures and stories. And DW if the conversation doesn’t instantly click. Just like IRL friendships, it might take time to find someone you really vibe with.

Make It Cute: Mail Edition

Arguably the best part of pen-paling? The stationery. Decorate your envelope with stickers. Add doodles in the margins. Include a postcard, a favorite recipe, a playlist recommendation or even a tiny drawing. You don’t need to break the bank either. My pen-pal of four years recently sent me a postcard of his golden retriever, Jasper, and tbh, it made my whole day.

The most important thing to remember is that there’s no “right” way to pen-pal. The unique little personal touches are what make each letter feel special. If you’re struggling for inspo, IG and Pinterest are great for sourcing pics and calligraphy how-to’s, and you can find sooo many cute stickers on Etsy.

For more ways to spend your summer…
💌 8 Outdoor Activities To Get Your Sweat On This Summer
💌 QUIZ! Which Show Should You Binge-Watch This Summer?
💌 BRB, Recreating Zara Larsson’s Dreamy Beauty Vibe

Top image: @skypaint_channel
Slider image: @sophias_bookemporium
Body images: @ggomyu, @mogcherie