The year 2026 is just around the corner. The tradition of sending physical greeting cards via mail might be rare these days, but that doesn't mean the sentiment is lost. In fact, digital greeting cards we send via WhatsApp or Instagram Stories have become the new way to stay connected with loved ones.

The problem is, we often get stuck using generic free templates. The result? Our greeting card looks exactly the same as the ones sent by five of our other friends. Not very special, right?

Whereas, a personal touch is crucial. A card designed with intention feels much warmer. Fortunately, we don't need to be professional graphic designers to create stunning cards. With Canva Pro, we can transform simple ideas into visual works that are aesthetic and, most importantly, personal. Let's break down how to maximize its premium features so our New Year's greetings this time stand out from the crowd.

Choose the Right Canvas: Story or Post?

The first step is often underestimated. We need to know first, where will this card "live"?

• If for Instagram Story/WhatsApp Status, use a 9:16 ratio.
• If for Instagram Feed/Facebook, use a 1:1 (square) or 4:5 (portrait) ratio.

In Canva Pro, if we change our minds halfway through, we can use the Magic Switch (Resize) feature. With one click, our Story design can be automatically resized to a Feed post without getting messy. This is a huge time-saver.

Don't Use Templates Raw

This is a rookie mistake. Canva has thousands of great templates, but the key is modification. In the Pro version, we have access to millions of Premium Elements. Look for fireworks illustrations, "2026" typography, or holiday ornaments marked with a "Crown" (Pro). These elements usually have a much more detailed and artistic design quality compared to free elements. Use these to replace standard elements in the template.

Personal Touch: Remove Background in a Snap

Want to include a family photo or a photo of ourselves in the card? Often, the original background of our photo clashes with the design aesthetic. With the Background Remover feature in Canva Pro, we can remove complex photo backgrounds with just one click. The result is very clean, even around hair strands. Paste our clean photo on top of the aesthetic design background. Voila! The greeting card instantly feels exclusive.

Stuck on the Caption? Ask AI

Sometimes the visuals are great, but we get stuck when writing meaningful words. Just "Happy New Year" feels too plain. Use the Magic Write (AI Text Generator) feature in Canva. Simply type a prompt like: "Write a warm, poetic, and hopeful New Year 2026 wish for a best friend." The AI will provide several beautiful sentence options in seconds. We just need to pick one and tweak it a bit.

Why Canva Pro?

Some might think, "Can't I just use the free version?" You can, but it's limited. Limited stock photos, locked elements, and the lack of a resize feature often restrict our creativity. With Canva Pro, we have complete freedom. No more annoying watermarks, and we can access premium fonts that make the text look expensive.

The good news is, access to this "creativity warehouse" doesn't have to be expensive. Through JoinBareng, we can share a Canva Pro subscription. We get all the world-class design features at a very friendly price, even cheaper than a bowl of meatballs.

So, this year, don't send mediocre greetings.