A keepsake gift that gets better with time!

The words that matter most shouldn’t live in a text thread, get tossed with the wrapping paper, or be tucked away in a box. The Loved Journal is a meaningful alternative to greeting cards, made for the moments that deserve to last.

Instead of a stack of cards, give a keepsake journal to hold the handwritten messages of family and friends. All the love, all in one place. Whether it’s for a birthday, retirement, wedding, or goodbye, the Loved Journal turns fleeting sentiments into something permanent.

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The Heart Behind It

It started with one mom, one journal, and one small shift: asking for handwritten notes instead of greeting cards. That journal became my most cherished possession. Now, it is my mission to help others create the same kind of keepsake, one hand-written message at a time.

This is more than a product. It’s a movement focused on encouraging analog connections in a digital world. It's a way to slow down, put pen to paper, and create something that can be held, read, and treasured for years to come. The Loved Journal is just the beginning!

An analog connection in a digital world.

In today's digital world, hand-written messages mean more than ever. Don't stop at just a "Happy Birthday" at the bottom of a pre-written card. Write a few of your own words and it will be treasured for a lifetime.

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There's More to the Story:

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  • Striking, High Quality, Deep blue journal with textured cover and copper stamped "Loved" in lower right corner. Journal, Keepsake, Unique Gift

    Featured on MSN.com Lifestyle!

    Journals Not Cards was featured on the local ABC station, KCRG-TV9 on Valentine's Day: Marion woman builds business from family tradition (kcrg.com) The story was also featured in MSN.com's Lifestyle Section...

    Featured on MSN.com Lifestyle!

    Journals Not Cards was featured on the local ABC station, KCRG-TV9 on Valentine's Day: Marion woman builds business from family tradition (kcrg.com) The story was also featured in MSN.com's Lifestyle Section...

  • Stack of high quality Loved journals displaying the spines and sewn binding. Over 100 lined and framed pages for messages with facing pages left blank for drawings, overflow messages, or space between messages..

    Why buy a "Loved" journal?

    What makes a Loved journal special? Why not just buy an inexpensive journal from a big box store? The Loved journal was meticulously created after almost 10 years of using "just a...

    Why buy a "Loved" journal?

    What makes a Loved journal special? Why not just buy an inexpensive journal from a big box store? The Loved journal was meticulously created after almost 10 years of using "just a...

  • Ways to Use "Loved"

    Ways to Use "Loved"

    The beauty of this journal is that there are endless ways that it can be used. It was designed to truly be the gift for someone who has everything while...

    Ways to Use "Loved"

    The beauty of this journal is that there are endless ways that it can be used. It was designed to truly be the gift for someone who has everything while...

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Customer Reviews

Based on 8 reviews
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Trish R.
Exceptional Quality and Thoughtful Touches

I recently purchased two journals from Journal Not Cards to give as gifts, and I couldn’t be more impressed. The quality is exceptional—beautifully made with clear attention to detail. But what truly sets them apart is the love, care, and thoughtfulness that Becky pours into each one. It’s clear these journals aren’t just products—they’re crafted with heart and purpose. From the packaging to the personal touches, every part of the experience felt special. I’m so happy to support this amazing small business and can’t wait to order again!

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Destrea
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (If I could give more, I would!)

I have been wanting this journal for a long time, and it is everything I hoped for and more! Instead of receiving cards that get tucked away or lost, this journal allows loved ones to leave meaningful messages that I can cherish forever. The quality is outstanding, and the heart behind the creator is pure gold.

I can't wait to start filling it with notes from my kids—messages I can look back on even after they’ve grown and started families of their own. I also love the idea of my husband adding to it as our relationship continues to grow and evolve, and for friends and family to leave their words during visits.

This is more than just a journal; it’s a lifelong keepsake of love and memories. Five stars aren’t enough! Highly recommend!

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Tamara Seufferlein

This is a beautiful book! I plan to give to my sister for her birthday! I know she will love it, and the premise behind it!

It's a thoughtful and unique gift for the person who has everything! I think she will love it, too!

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Tonia Meling
Loved them

I bought 3 of these, 2 for a wedding gift and the other for a baby gift for my grand daughter. I showed them to my husband loved them as well.

I love thinking that new marriages and growing families can start this tradition right from the start! I specifically designed them to be appealing to everyone, and I'm glad your husband loves them, too!

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J.R.
Beautiful Journal

I'm still deciding how I want to use this journal---if I want to use like a card, for company to leave a message, to share notes between my kids......so many ideas.
This is so high quality and love to support a small business.

There really are so many ways to use it! The hardest part is making that first mark. Thank you for supporting our small family business!

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