(ARA) – Today we have more ways to communicate than ever before. From texting, e-mail, instant messaging and video calling to Facebook, Twitter and the constantly accessible smart phone; there are a million ways to communicate with loved ones.
While “sexting” scandals seem to be the topic on every gossip columnist’s mind these days, the old-fashioned love letter is still a popular way to show you really care about someone. A recent study by Hotmail shows that 69 percent of American adults admitted to sharing romantic words and photos via e-mail. Further, 60 percent of women and 46 percent of men said they save the romantic e-mails they receive from their partner. According to nationally recognized etiquette consultant Mindy Lockard, “E-mail can be a memorable way to say, ‘I love you’ if you do it right. The love letter is still a treasured keepsake even in the modern age.”
With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, here are some quick tips to the modern day love letter:
Where you share
It’s one thing to broadcast what you’re eating for breakfast via social media; it’s another thing to share words of love that are only meant for one person. Impersonal public announcements in 140 characters can easily be missed in the overload of a daily news feed. If you are going to use technology, consider a modern day love letter in the form of e-mail. E-mail is private, can include photos and videos of special memories and can be printed, kept and treasured. With the prevalence of e-mail on smart phones, your love letter can be re-read anywhere and anytime your sweetheart wants to think of you.
Be romantic and personal
A love letter is an expression of deep emotion, so be thoughtful and sincere – try to avoid too much humor or racy language. Before you write, pause, collect your thoughts, and make a list of the things you love about the other person. Think about their unique qualities and characteristics and why you fell in love. Including photos and special memories will only benefit how your words are read – not just today but for years to come. Hotmail, for example, offers many simple, free ways to add a little color to your words and personalize your message with graphics, backgrounds and even a customized photo album layout for groups of photos. Don’t be afraid to be creative and personal.
Use your words: You don’t have to be Shakespeare but you also shouldn’t rely on emoticons to do your talking. Don’t use texting shortcuts for words (“u” instead of “you”) and before you hit send, double check your letter and make sure your intended message is clear. Use an endearing greeting and their first name such as, “To my dearest …” and sign off with an expression of love such as “All my love.”
