Katherine Schwarzenegger Pratt and her husband Chris Pratt revealed a heartfelt way they expressed their feelings at the start of their relationship. When they began dating in 2018, the couple exchanged romantic handwritten cards, a practice that deepened their connection during busy filming schedules. Katherine, speaking exclusively to PEOPLE, shared how these notes became a cherished part of their early romance and have been treasured keepsakes ever since.
Chris and I, when we first started dating, and he would leave to go film or go on location, we wrote each other handwritten cards,
the bestselling author, 39, explained.
She added how these notes were shared, sometimes mailed, and other times discreetly placed for the other to find.
We would sometimes mail them, but I would also put them in his bag, or he would leave them on the counter,
Katherine continued.
These cards hold a special place in her heart. She remarked,
They have always been really beautiful, and I have, of course, kept all of those,
adding,
I have a whole collection of cards from Chris.
Marriage and Growing Family Life in Montecito
One year after starting their relationship, Katherine and Chris solidified their bond with a private wedding ceremony in Montecito, California, in June 2019. Following their marriage, the couple expanded their family with the birth of their daughters Lyla Maria in 2020 and Eloise Christina in 2022. Most recently, in 2024, they welcomed their son, Ford Fitzgerald. Chris Pratt is also father to Jack, 13, from his previous marriage to actress Anna Faris.
Katherine’s Appreciation for Marriage and Partnership
Katherine has expressed deep gratitude for her marriage to Chris, emphasizing how his sense of humor helps them navigate challenging moments. She values the equal partnership they maintain, especially as parents managing the rewards and difficulties of raising children together.
someone who brings humor in challenging times.
Katherine said, highlighting this important aspect of their relationship.
She also noted,
Then, also just knowing that we’re teammates in so much of life, especially parenting, which has its ups and downs,
underlining how teamwork is central to their connection.
Collaboration with Hallmark Brings Message of Handwritten Cards
Katherine has teamed up with Hallmark, contributing to their Valentine’s Day collection through greeting cards that reflect themes of love and meaningful connection. The collection includes designs like the
“You Make Life Beautiful Love Card”
and
“We Were Meant to Be Card,”
alongside keepsakes such as a
“Year of Date Nights Idea Jar”
and a “You & Me” picture frame.
She pointed out the unique impact of receiving a handwritten card in today’s fast-paced world. Katherine emphasized the value of taking time to write a personal message by hand instead of sending digital notes.
Now, more than ever, when you receive a handwritten card — whether it’s a thank-you card, a birthday card, a sympathy card, a just because card or a Valentine’s Day card — it’s that much more special, because it’s like, ‘Wow, somebody really took time to sit down, write something and not type it or voice note it,’
she said.
It lands totally differently now with the crazy, busy and chaotic lives that we all live.
Family Influences and Teaching the Tradition of Gratitude
Katherine credits her mother, Maria Shriver, for instilling in her the importance of handwritten thank-you cards and good manners. This influence remains central to Katherine’s values and parenting approach as she encourages her own children to appreciate this tradition.
My mom is really big on manners, so handwritten thank-you cards have always been, and continue to be, a huge part of my life,
she explained.
So when I heard about working with Hallmark, it was the most perfect thing ever, because this is such a big thing for me and my family, and now, as a parent, I can also teach the importance of that to my kids.
The Enduring Power of Thoughtful Communication
The story of Katherine Schwarzenegger Pratt and Chris Pratt’s early romantic practice of exchanging handwritten notes sheds light on the meaningful role that such gestures play in relationships today. Their example, combined with Katherine’s partnership with Hallmark, highlights how taking the time to write genuine messages offers a precious way to connect amid busy lives. As the couple continues to build their family, the value they place on heartfelt communication promises to inspire others to cherish similar traditions.
