5 Steps to the Perfect Thank You Note

September 7, 2007 Stationery Etiquette, Stationery No Comments

5 Steps to the Perfect Thank You note.
David Slavin, StationeryXpress.com

Why is it that many people clutch when it’s time to write a thank you note?
It’s easy to say “Thank You” with a personalized note… for a gift, for a friendship, for a favor, for a special event or family memory: be brief and be sincere!

1. Handwrite your thank you notes. It’s inappropriate to email a thank-you note. Handwritten notes suggest that you took the time to compose the note intended specifically for that person.

2. Select personalized stationery that reflects your personality. In our text messaging world, Personalized Stationery says “Thank You” with your own personal style. Personalized Stationery or Embossed Stationery with your name or monogram is always appropriate for Thank You Notes. Stationery Xpress is a great resource for a complete selection of Personalized Thank You Notes.

3. Simply start your note with “Thank You for…” and mention the gift or event. Three or four sentences should do. Mention something specific about the gift and how useful or thoughtful it is or how much you enjoy it. Avoid saying too much, this is not about you! This is about expressing your appreciation and thanking someone for their generosity.

4. Write from the heart. The best thank you notes are sincere and written in a conversational tone.

5. Write right away! Although anytime is a good time to receive a thank you note, it’s best to send the thank you note as soon as possible. A good rule-to-follow is to send a thank you note within 2 weeks of receiving a gift—for anything! Wedding Thank you notes should be sent approximately 2 weeks to 1 month after you return from your Honeymoon.

Use quality paper. Avoid large sheets of paper which are too big for your Thank You Notes. There are many Personalized stationery options including Note Cards or Folded Notes; other options to consider include raised printing (Thermography) or Embossing (also referred to as Blind Embossed). Either option is a great approach.

Handwriting a personal note is the only way to do it!