My newest motto is “RESPECT THE THANK YOU NOTE”! I mean, when did NOT sending one become an acceptable notion! I scoff, I stamp my foot in admonishment, I turn my chin up at this undignified act! In case you are even thinking of skipping your “thank you” notes, read below for a needed lesson in the lost art that should be found immediately.
WHO:
Everyone that receives a gift- especially for an occasion like a wedding, shower or graduation.
WHAT:
A mailed card, a delivered letter or at the very least- a social media message. I mean, really people. We all know that your phones are attached to your hip and that you’re checking your 5 social media sites like a boss. You’re telling me you cannot even private message or post a thank you message? Child, please.
WHY:
Manners people! Manners! When someone gives you money, a gift or a token; it is only respectful to send a thank you note in return. Recently, I have noticed that I did not receive any thank you notes from a few different people after sending or giving significant gifts. This is disappointing and clearly puts me into the category of “wow I’m getting old and cranky”. However, we all work hard for our money and our time. Giving it away means a whole heck of a lot and should be validated.
I’ll admit that when I was younger, I did not yet understand the importance of this tradition. And when I was really young- in lieu of a card I made a phone call. A phone call is still an acceptable way to say thank you of course. But it is quite nice to receive an actual piece of mail as well.
WHEN:
As soon as possible. At least that’s what I do. Hey, sitting and writing notes isn’t my idea of a joyful evening either, but you just have to do it. There are for sure standards of etiquette that pertain to certain situations (and Emily Post never let me down) but the sooner the better in my opinion.
HOW:
Write your thank you notes in a personal way. Sounds simple but no one wants to read “thanks for the gift”. Adding in a small detail like “we used the money you gifted us towards our new mixer” goes a long way when the recipient receives your card, So easy, so simply and so very much appreciated! Find some of my fave thank you cards here.