• BLOG HOME
    • MAIN SITE
    • HELP
    DoxZooDoxZoo
    DoxZooDoxZoo
    Home»General»From Then To Now: The History of Business Cards
    General

    From Then To Now: The History of Business Cards

    paulBy paul16 March 2023Updated:16 March 2023No Comments3 Mins Read
    Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIn Tumblr WhatsApp Email
    From Then To Now: The History of Business Cards
    Share
    Facebook Twitter LinkedIn WhatsApp Pinterest Email
    The History of Business Cards
    From Then To Now: The History of Business Cards 2

    Table of Contents

    • Is it from China?
    • What was the business card used for in the past?
    • The first business use of business cards
    • Carte de Visite
    • Business card
    • The business cards now

    Business cards have been around for years. At trade fairs and meetings, they are passionately handed out to potential partners or customers everywhere. But where does the business card come from? And was it always used the way we do? We dived into the history and found out for you!

    Is it from China?

    There are different stories about the origin of the business card. Some people claim that the business card was already being used in China in the 15th century. At that time, business cards were called Meishi. The Europeans who came there for trade found it interesting that they brought the custom to mainland Europe. According to another story, the origin is France. Here, the card was used to announce visitors. And which of the stories is the correct one?

    What was the business card used for in the past?

    The first form of business cards was used to announce visitors. The well-to-do sent a servant out with a card announcing his arrival. Did the recipient accept the little card? Did the servant return with the same card? Then you knew you were just welcome.

    This is also how the cards were used in the time of Louis XIV – also called Louis the Great or Sun King. Without an announcement through such a card, you did not have to count on a visit from the king. A business card was also ideal for writing down short appointments or messages.

    The first business use of business cards

    In the 17th century, business cards were first used for business purposes. Already somewhat as we can now. Back then, they were mainly cards to promote a business. Information, discounts, and directions to local businesses began to find their way into designs. The cards were still not very personal. Later, this use was replaced by advertisements in newspapers.

    Carte de Visite

    In the mid-19th century, in 1854, the first personal business cards were used in France. This was a photograph of André Adolphe Eugene Disdéri confirmed on a card, with his contact details underneath. These cards quickly became popular and were frequently handed out to family, friends, and customers. The first actual business card as we know it was born.

    Business card

    Soon the business card became a must item in the business market. Since printing became more common and affordable, the business card has become indispensable. Business cards are eagerly handed out at all levels of the business world and beyond. Despite the digital age we now live in, their popularity is hardly declining. Not surprisingly, so. Nowadays, you can choose from various paper types and finishes, which can also be an extension of you or your company.

    The business cards now

    You cannot attend a trade fair or event without handing out business cards. So we can speak of the successful development of this simple but effective product. And nowadays, it creates many more opportunities. Storytelling through a business card or other printed matter can put your company on the map. Still, looking for tips on the perfect business card? We will gladly give you examples of different business cards. That way, you can be full of ideas!

    Share. Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIn Tumblr WhatsApp Email
    Avatar of paul
    paul

    Related Posts

    Offset or Digital Printing? A Small Guide to Decision Making

    29 September 2023

    Sustainable Impact through Print Products

    29 September 2023

    Calculate Break-Even Point For Your Business

    13 April 2023

    Which Font Suits Your Brochure?

    16 March 2023
    Add A Comment

    Leave A Reply Cancel Reply

    Recent Posts

    • Offset or Digital Printing? A Small Guide to Decision Making
    • The Eye Feasts Too: Graphic Design Trends for Restaurants
    • How to Maintain Contact with Customers – Part 2
    • How to Maintain Contact with Customers – Part 1
    • Successful Packaging Design: Why It Matters

    Recent Comments

    1. Henry Jacob on Typographic design principles & 10 tips
    2. Ioana on 5 Best Places to Sell Art Online in the UK
    3. Kathryn LaCroix on Creative Customer Showcase- February 23
    4. Kathryn LaCroix on Creative Customer Showcase- February 23
    5. Lucy O'Donoghue on WORK FROM HOME DESIGNING PLANNERS
    Copyright - 2023 - Doxzoo

    Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.