How to Write Thank-You Notes

www.AbsoluteWeddingStore.com

Experiencing writer's block? Consider these tips and sample notes for your wonderful wedding guests.

Situation: Someone gives you money
Don't mention the amount but do explain how you'll use the cash

Dear Aunt Melissa and Uncle Marc,
Chris and I were thrilled with your generous and thoughtful gift. You've brought us one step closer to our dream house. Looking forward to seeing you again when we're back home for the holidays!
Love, Emily

Situation: You don't know the person who gave you the gift
Mention that you're happy about meeting her at the wedding

Dear Mrs. Bergen,
Thank you for the gorgeous crystal bowl. It will look absolutely perfect on the coffee table in our apartment. My mother has always spoken so fondly of you - Chris and I look forward to finally meeting you at the wedding (I'll be the woman in white!).
Sincerely, Emily

Situation: You don't know what the gift is
Focus on the giver's kindness rather than the mistery

Dear Jane and Tom,
Chris and I want to thank you for the wonderful wedding gift. You are such a creative, caring couple, and we feel lucky to count you as friends.
Best, Emily

Situation: It's a group gift
Send individual thank-you's but give a shout-out to the group

Dear Lisa,
Thank you for the gas grill. It's so snazzy and high-tech - just what we'd been wanting. We're lucky to have friends who know us so well. You'll have to come by for some of Chris's famous ribs soon!
Warmly, Emily

Situation: You already have one (or already exchanged it)
Don't acknowledge the situation or say how you'll use it; talk about the gift instead.

Dear Michael,
Chris and I want to thank you for the vintage cocktail shaker. The Art Deco design is so sleek and handsome - you are clearly a man with good taste! We're so happy you were able to make it to the wedding.
Sincerely, Emily

Situation: You have it and can't return it
Don't be a phony-baloney and rave about the gift, but do say something positive

Dear Grandma,
Thank you so much for the fish platter. The color reminds me of the china we used for family dinners at your house, and I'm delighted to see it again! We're thrilled that you'll be at our wedding, and at having the entire Phelps family together.
Love, Emily

Dilemma: If a present arrives broken, should you tell he gift giver?
Only as a last resort. If the package was sent from a store, call the store and ask for a replacement. If the ackage was sent by the gift giver and was insured - which you can determine by looking at the postage - let the person know. Don't acknowledge the problem in your note.