Thinking of You Week is back for its 12th year, and it’s set to be the biggest and brightest yet! From 21 to 27 September, we’re inviting everyone to join in a nationwide wave of kindness by sending cards to friends, family, neighbours, and anyone who could use a little lift.
Whether it’s a note of encouragement, a little love, or just a friendly hello, a handwritten card is a simple way to show you care—and it can mean the world to someone
Read on for lots of free toolkits and ideas to help you use this occasion to drive sales.
Posters to Help You Celebrate
We’re thrilled to announce that Windles are printing this year’s official Thinking of You Week posters, designed by Paper Salad, which will be distributed to retailers at The Henries judging.
Huge thanks to them for helping spread the love!
Retailers can also pick up free posters from these publishers or their sales agents and reps;
Put them in your shop window, create a display, or use them to spark conversations—let’s get everyone talking about card-sending!
Retailer Initiatives and free toolkits!
Last year retailer Earlybird teamed up with Windles to provide GCA retailers with a fantastic initiative to drive footfall in their stores and build links in their community. Read Spreading Smiles for Thinking of You Week to see what Heidi did last year and inspire you for any initiatives for Thinking of You Week 2026.
Another inspiring retailer is Sophie Edwards, who has also shared news of her success increasing sales through Thinking of You Week – see her story and free toolkits on this link Say it wIth A Card
Get Inspired
Whether you’re a retailer, publisher, or just a card-sending superstar, there’s loads of ways to get involved.
Visit the Thinking of You Week website for:
A Handy Guide for Retailers
In 2024, London’s award-winning card shop Earlybird teamed up with a local primary school for a Thinking of You Week-inspired card design competition. Students were asked to create a card that would make someone happy. The designs were proudly displayed in Earlybird’s shop window, where customers voted for their favourites—turning the whole community into a celebration of creativity and kindness.
Building on that success, Heidi from Earlybird has created a brilliant “How-To” guide to help other retailers get involved. It’s full of practical tips, creative ideas, and inspiration to make your Thinking of You Week celebrations easy, fun, and impactful.
Are you planning something special for Thinking of You Week?
We’d love to know!
📧 Email your stories, photos, and plans to hello@gca.cards
📸 We’ll be sharing your amazing ideas on Instagram @thinkingofyouweek_uk
Let’s make 2026 the most joyful Thinking of You Week yet!
Useful links
Downloads
