How To Write a Love Letter

In these days of email, voice mail, and texting, letter writing is nearly a lost art. Valentine’s Day is a perfect opportunity to express yourself in the written word. You may think your feelings are evident, but almost everyone will appreciate being adored in writing. If you can craft a good old-fashioned love letter, you’ll give someone the tingles and earn a place in the Happy Memories box. Pour yourself a glass of wine and follow these tips.

The Presentation
Cards with pre-printed sentiments are all wrong, but a meaningful image can add punch to your prose. If you’re not into cards, spring for the good paper. A ragged edged page of college-ruled ripped from a spiral notebook doesn’t cut it. If you’re going low end, go all the way. Use a cocktail napkin, back of a receipt, or stolen menu – anything that says you could not wait to ink your sentiments.

Don’t like your handwriting? Too bad. A typed love letter may as well be a solicitation from your insurance agent. It’s not personal. Draft your letter on the computer first. Cut, paste, edit until your words express what you want. Then write out your masterpiece longhand.

The Words
State your business. Tell your beloved why you’re writing. For goodness sake, use your own words. If you’re a Yo Babe kinda guy, don’t pretend you’re Shakespeare. It won’t ring true and chances are your girl won’t be impressed. Then again, if you’re the poetry type (or your lover is), quote away. Just remember that this is not a Hallmark card. You can be corny, but be real. Speak from the heart about one or more of the following:
· Remember your first meeting
· Describe how you knew you were in love
· Explain how your love has improved your life
· Tell how much you miss your love when you're apart
· List the things you share in common
· Reminisce about special times
· Trace the road you’ve traveled together so far (corny is okay - remember!)
· Share the qualities that make him/her special
End with a strong and positive closing of heartfelt gratitude for your love’s presence in your life. Then sit back and relax. Rewards are coming.