FAQ's
Q: What is Letters from the Northwoods?
It is a monthly snail mail subscription written and curated by Vanessa from her home on a lake in northern Wisconsin. Each month you receive a personally written letter, a fine art photo postcard, a small surprise, and a QR code linking to an original ambient nature video filmed in the Northwoods. No algorithm. No digital scrolling. Just something intentionally slow and real, in your hands, once a month.
Q: Are the letters handwritten?
No, the letters are written personally by Vanessa but professionally printed. Handwriting 100 or more letters each month would compromise the quality and legibility she holds herself to. What you receive is a beautifully printed personal letter written by Vanessa, in her own voice, about her real life.
Q: When will my first letter arrive?
Order by the 20th of the month to receive next month's letter. The letters mail at the beginning of each month (by the 7th of each month). It will take 3-12 days for the letter to reach its final destination (longer for international). Patience...this is the beauty of snail mail.
Q: Can I cancel anytime?
Yes. Cancel anytime by clicking on "Manage My Subscription" at the bottom of the home page. Or click here.
Q: What if my letter does not arrive or arrives damaged?
Letters will mail by the 7th of each month. Please allow 3-12 days after that for the letter to reach you (within the U.S.). Because it mails through the post office, there is no tracking. If your letter/envelope arrives damaged because of the USPS systems, please reach out. Email me at vanessa@vanessaembling.com and I will make it right, either by resending or refunding that month.
Q: Can I give this as a gift?
Absolutely, and it makes a beautiful one. Gift subscriptions are available in 3, 6, and 12 month packages. Every gift can include a message from the sender that Vanessa will hand write and include in the first envelope. Gift subscriptions do not auto-renew.
Q: Do you ship internationally?
COMING SOON! International subscriptions will be $18 per month. Delivery typically takes 2 to 4 weeks in the mail, depending on location.
Q: What is the QR code inside the letter?
Every mailing includes a QR code linking to an original ambient nature video filmed in the Northwoods by Vanessa. Think of it as your window to the lake. No narration. Just the sounds of this place, exactly as it is. I saved you a seat.
Q: How do I change my address?
You can edit your delivery address in the member portal: here. Or, email vanessa@vanessaembling.com before the 20th of the month and I will update it before the next mailing.