Even in a world of constant and endless notifications, there’s no ping quite as exciting as that of receiving good, old-fashioned mail. I love the satisfying tear of the envelope, the imperfections of inky writing, the emojis of yesteryear. Unfortunately, I never, ever remember to write my friends, so I can’t blame them for sticking to digital communication.
This month is National Letter Writing Month, though, and Address Me Dallas is giving people the easiest way to put pen to paper to mailbox. The organization is hosting a letter writing party at Wild Detectives on Sunday, Address Me: Everything Needed to Send a Piece of You.
There will be a wide range of stationary and postcard options, stamps, pens, and typewriters. Artists and calligraphers from Kaligrafos will be there to hand-address envelopes, and the Dallas Pen Club will be giving fountain pen tutorials.
Who, you ask, wants to receive a letter from you? I would be happy to receive a letter from literally anyone, so feel free to send it to D Magazine. More appropriately, try reaching out to your grandparents, friends from out of town, your extended family, or that pen pal you lost touch with 20 years ago (maybe they’re still down?). If you don’t feel like talking to any of those folks, you can create a secret note of encouragement with Spread Joy 24-7, an organization that leaves notes of affirmation for strangers who need them.
The event will also include an exhibit of vintage letters, many of which are of local significance, curated by the Dallas Public Library. Address Me Dallas’ host Amy Walton sent me the amazing specimen below, which I feel obliged to share.
If you’re a history buff, you’ll appreciate this cheeky 1939 invitation to a pregame for a dance party hosted by the Dervish Club’s at The Adolphus. Turns out, people have always loved to get lit.
Make your own piece of history this Sunday, April 7 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Attendance and supplies are free; donations are welcome.