A text every once in a while is nice, but getting a GreetMate? That's an unforgettable experience. Unlike paper cards that get tossed or flowers that fade in a week, GreetMate designs hang around as long as you want them to!

While normal paper gift cards get thrown away we wanted to create something that lasts a life time, not only for the experience, but also to reduce waste.

This is why a good friend of mine (based in the USA) and I started GreetMate in 2019. We wanted to stay connected with loved ones near and far. Our goal was to create meaningful experiences that support long-distance relationships, making these experiences not only fun and personal but also practical.

1 billion Christmas cards are thrown into the trash each year

During the holiday season alone, it is reported that 300,000 tons of card packaging is discarded. Additionally, generic greeting cards are typically made from chemically processed and dyed paper.

64% of people claim it’s hard to find the perfect gift

Is a greeting card enough or should you buy a gift? Finding the perfect gift is a common challenge, with 64% of people acknowledging its difficulty. Due to the various tastes, price, and occasions.

33% is sometimes lonely

Reports indicate that up to 33 percent of the world's population experiences loneliness. Sending a small gift to your friends or family can help with this feeling.

Greeting cards are “essential”

Seven out of 10 surveyed card buyers consider greeting cards to be "absolutely" or "almost" essential. Meanwhile, eight out of 10 expect their buying habits to remain the same in the future.

Testing

This concept stands or falls with the right tolerances, best designs, appealing wood colors, and a balanced element of surprise. If the tolerances are too tight, the pieces won't interlock. If too loose, the design will fall apart. Overcoming this challenge was tough. However, after numerous trials and tests with various combinations, the perfect fit was achieved.

After looking at many wood samples, we selected two premium options: cherry, a creamy beige, and walnut, a rich brown. These choices display text clearly and offer two appealing color options.

Friends and family were sent a first batch of cards as Christmas rolled around. Our goal was to gauge interest and capture any feedback or recommendations. We included a questionnaire with the card and requested that they record their experience. Then compiled all the information to identify areas for improvement.

People described the GreetMate cards as "very fun, challenging, surprising". And a bunch mentioned they are the go-to gifts for those times when a basic card just won't do the trick.

“A gift or card that doesn't end up in the bin”

92% understood the concept

Most people understood the concept of assembling the puzzle immediately. Some found it a bit too easy, suggesting that introducing a range of difficulties could be interesting.

88% kept the design on display, and 40% kept the note on display

The Christmas tree or ball made it next to all the other Christmas decorations. However, the note was found to be too large to display.

38% Did not like the smell of the burned wood

It's a hit or miss with the smell; some people like it, while others hate it. Given that many people find it unpleasant, we decided to eliminate the smell. The solution? Place the item in cat litter overnight right after laser cutting.

27% Did not notice the instructions at first

The instructions, placed inside the sleeve where the card is located, are less visible for some people. This issue needs to be addressed in the final design.

Overal feedback was very positive! We logged all info and worked on refining our final design.

Each GreetMate design started as a 3D model of the sketched concept. I then sliced each object into 2D shapes and found ways to assemble them. Countless revisions of adjusting tolerances and sizing we're required for everything to fit seamlessly.

In our research, we found that instructions were sometimes overlooked. However, when noticed, people found them easy to use, except for displaying the written note. So, two improvements were needed: 1. The instructions should be less hidden, and 2. add instructions on how to display the note.

This is why we placed the instructions next to the card in the packaging; each design follows a three-step build process to maintain simplicity while still offering a bit of a challenge. These steps are visualised in the 3D models to ensure all instructions are consistent and on brand.

Protect, inform, and excite. That was the goal for this packaging. Besides that, no added boxes or protection besides a padded mailer, to reduce waste.

After several iterations, the result was an outer layer of E-flute corrugate paired with a BE-flute perimeter. Foam inserts in the corners secure each GreetMate card and absorb any shocks. A clear decal wraps around the open end, providing product details and a seal. All made with the lasermachine so I could either have it made or make it myself.

Step 1 - Pick your design

A large variety of designs to pick from. Whether your someone who's into cute objects, cool builds, or something that serves a purpose - we've got you covered!

Step 2 - Make it personal

Pick a title that fits the occasion, or just because you're in the mood. Then make it extra special and type an unforgettable note for that special someone.

Step 3 - Choose your wood

Pick from two premium wood options; cherry - a creamy beige, or walnut - a rich brown.

Send a GreetMate

In addition to social marketing, establishing a physical presence is crucial for building the gift brand. To achieve this, I attended several pop-up markets in Amsterdam throughout the years. I also rented a large corner in a pop-up store in Nijmegen, where people could purchase GreetMate cards in person. Julian did the same in Amerika.

“37% of gifts and greeting cards being purchased in the store”

Although the succes of GreetMate, it no longer receives daily updates or continuous work. This is primarily due to my current focus on Frshslabs and Montro. Thanks for reading!