Inviting Company is one of our favorite manufacturers of cute, whimsical stationery & invitations.  We were reading their blog one day, and they shared some great advice on thank you note etiquette.  We hope that their grace-filled words will spark a desire to keep the tradition of a thank you note alive, especially in this age of emails & evites. 

As we are gearing up for the holiday season, be sure to remember one very important gift…the gift of gratitude! In this technological age, so many sentiments are flung hastily down the information highway at the stroke of a key. And while this may be convenient, it is far from personal. There is no better way to show your appreciation than with a hand written thank you note. A well thought out thank you shows that you not only cherish the gift, but the giver. It’s quick, easy, and oh so significant. 

It is important to get your thank you notes out in a timely fashion. Proper etiquette suggests sending notes within two weeks of receiving the gift. Show your gratitude while it’s fresh on your mind. Your gift giver will certainly value you taking note of their kindness.

It doesn't take long to express gratitude in a note and even the simplest note will go a long way in showing your thanks. Remember that wording does not need to be perfect. An imperfect note that shows heartfelt thanks will go much further than no note at all.

Ten Do’s and Don’ts of Thank You Notes - courtesy of Emily Post.

1. Do personalize your notes and make reference to the person as well as the gift.
2. Do remember that a gift should be acknowledged with the same courtesy and generous spirit in which it was given.
3. Do be enthusiastic, but don’t gush. Avoid saying a gift is the most beautiful thing you have ever seen unless you really mean it.
4. Don’t send form letters or cards with printed messages and just your signature; don’t use email or post a generic thank you on your wedding web site in lieu of a personal note.
5. Do promptly acknowledge the receipt of shipped gifts by sending a note right away or calling and following up with a written note in a day or two.
6. Don’t mention that you plan to return a gift or that you are dissatisfied in any way.
7. Don’t tailor your note to the perceived value of the gift; no one should receive a perfunctory note.
8. Do refer to the way you will use a gift of money. Mentioning the amount is optional.
9. Don’t include wedding photos or use photo cards if it will delay sending the note.
10. Don’t use being late as an excuse not to write. Even if you are still sending notes after your first anniversary, keep writing!