The holiday season is the perfect time to spread joy, express gratitude, and strengthen connections. One way to do this is through a warm, inclusive holiday and New Year’s email. However, true holiday cheer comes from ensuring everyone feels welcomed and valued. That means considering accessibility, including Braille-friendly formats, to ensure your message reaches everyone.
Here are some practical and creative ways to craft an inclusive holiday and New Year’s email that resonates with all your recipients.
1. Embrace Inclusive Language
Start by choosing language that acknowledges diverse celebrations. Instead of using phrases specific to one holiday, opt for broader greetings such as:
- “Wishing you a joyful holiday season and a bright New Year!”
- “Happy holidays to you and your loved ones!”
Be mindful of cultural and religious differences, and focus on themes of togetherness, gratitude, and hope that are universal.
2. Prioritize Accessibility and Braille-Friendly Formats
Accessibility goes beyond just using alt text for images. Consider the following steps to make your email truly inclusive:
- Use Screen Reader-Friendly HTML: Structure your email using clean, semantic HTML to ensure compatibility with screen readers.
- Provide a Text-Only Version: Include a plain-text version of your email for better accessibility.
- Braille-Ready Documents: Offer downloadable versions of your content in accessible formats like BRF (Braille Ready Format) for individuals who use Braille displays or printers.
3. Optimize Visual and Textual Contrast
Make your content easy to read by using high contrast between the background and text. Avoid decorative fonts and stick to simple, legible typefaces. This benefits everyone, including those with low vision.
4. Include Descriptive Alt Text
If your email features images, include detailed alt text to describe the content. For instance, instead of “holiday banner,” use: “A cheerful holiday banner with snowflakes and the message ‘Season’s Greetings.'”
5. Provide Multilingual Options
Consider translating your email into different languages to cater to a more diverse audience. You could also add a link to a webpage offering translations.
6. Offer Multiple Contact Methods
Ensure your recipients can engage with you in ways that work best for them. Include email, phone numbers with TTY (Text Telephone) options, and social media links for ease of access.
7. Test and Gather Feedback
Before sending your email, test it using accessibility tools like screen readers and Braille devices. Seek feedback from people with diverse needs to identify areas for improvement.
A Sample Inclusive Holiday Message
Subject: Wishing You Joy, Peace, and a Bright New Year!
Dear [Recipient’s Name],
As the year comes to a close, we want to extend our warmest wishes to you and your loved ones. May your holiday season be filled with joy, and may the New Year bring fresh opportunities and happiness.
To ensure everyone can enjoy our message, we have provided a Braille-ready version [link] and a plain-text option [link].
Thank you for being a part of our community. We look forward to connecting with you in the coming year.
Warm regards,
[Your Company/Organization]
Final Thoughts
Crafting an inclusive holiday and New Year’s email is a meaningful way to show your commitment to accessibility and empathy. By taking steps to accommodate all your audience’s needs, you ensure your message spreads joy to everyone. This holiday season, let’s celebrate inclusion and make sure no one is left out of the festivities!