FAQ's
Q: What is Letters from the Northwoods?
It is a monthly snail mail subscription written and assembled by Vanessa Embling 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 noise. Just something intentionally slow and real, in your hands, once a month.
Q: How much does it cost?
Domestic subscriptions are $15 per month. Annual subscriptions are $165 per year, which is one month free. Coming soon: International subscriptions will be $18 per month to cover additional postage.
Q: When will my first letter arrive?
The first mailing goes out the first week of July 2026. Subscriptions placed by June 20th will receive the July mailing. After that, 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), this is the beauty of snail mail.
Q: Can I cancel anytime?
Yes. Cancel anytime by emailing vanessa@vanessaembling.com
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 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. It's an intentional use of multimedia.
Q: How do I change my address?
Email vanessa@vanessaembling.com before the 20th of the month and I will update it before the next mailing.