How to write a love letter

Text messages are useful, but they are hardly romantic. Sometimes, only a letter will do (or if you prefer to keep it electronic, a letter by email).
Perhaps you have been with the same person for decades and want to tell them how much you still feel, or perhaps you are in the early stages, looking to meet singles in Manchester with eHarmony. Either way, follow these tips for love letters that will impress.

Presentation

Presentation is important. Do not write your love letter on a scrap of paper torn from an exercise book – make the paper you write on reflect the way you feel. Use good quality writing paper, or a card. Stay away from schmaltzy pictures of hearts and flowers (unless you know that the person you are writing to will love them).
If you go for a card, choose something with a picture that means something to the two of you – a place you have visited, for example. If you write by email, send your letter as an attachment rather than in the email body – it will increase the sense of mystery and excitement.

The beginning

Let the person you are writing to know why you are writing. Perhaps you were thinking about a special time you had together, and want them to remember it too? Or you feel you have lacked romance recently and want to remind them? Or maybe you are telling them you love them for the very first time? Whatever it is – let them know.

The body

Expand on what you have told them in the beginning section. Try to avoid cliché – it will tend to sound insincere. Focus instead on things that you love about them, and the things you have done together.
Remember that this letter is about them and about you as a couple – it should not be about you as an individual. If they want to write a love letter back, they will do. Until then, do not fish for compliments. The letter should be focused on making them feel special and loved.

The end

Finish off your letter with a killer phrase that will stick in their mind and make them smile when they think about your letter. Tell them that you want to be with them forever, or whatever it is that you feel. If you get a little bit cheesy at this point, it does not matter too much – just try to stick with something that sounds sincere and meaningful. From singles dating nights to love letters – in relationship terms, you have arrived.

Resource box

Lovingyou.com: Love letters
A collection of love letters and articles about love letters
Love Letters of the Civil War
Love letters from American Civil War soldiers
Esquire.com: How to write a love letter
A guide to love letter writing