Getting married is a joyous occasion because of the chance to celebrate with loved ones, but it also involves a great deal of preparation. Sending out a lot of thank-you notes is a chore that may seem challenging. It's simple to let them build up to an insurmountable mountain. But have no fear; assistance is at hand.
What's the single most crucial step to do following a wedding? Send handwritten notes of appreciation. It's not simply courteous; it's also practical. If you've gone to the trouble of inviting someone from out of town and paying for their airfare and presents, you owe it to them to at least thank them for coming.
Inviting close friends and family members to celebrate the union of the bride and groom is a wonderful experience for all involved. Writing thank-you notes to your guests may not be at the top of your to-do list, especially if your wedding is on the pricier side.
It's crucial to set aside some time to do this since your guests will appreciate knowing they were recognised for coming to your event. Even if they weren't able to make there in person, they'll be glad to hear that the presents they sent have been received.
Thank you cards are a great way to show appreciation to those who made an effort to attend your wedding. However, it might be challenging to know what to say and how many letters to write.
This article will explain the best practises for writing thank you notes to guests in order to both express appreciation for their presence and ensure a fun time is had by all.
After the tornado of excitement has died down, you have one last chore to complete: writing your wedding thank you notes. The first step is deciding what kind of thank you card to send, as there are numerous variations on the theme.
To make the task of writing wedding thank you cards less overwhelming, consider the following advice.
Why Wedding Thank-You Notes Matter
Weddings themselves may not be as conventional as they once were, but sending out handwritten thank you letters to those who helped make the day special always will be.
A wedding thank you note should, at the very least, acknowledge that you received a gift or kindness and reflect the time and attention that went into delivering it. In and of itself, that's significant.
At their best, wedding thank-you cards can show a friend or loved one that you appreciate them not just for what they did for the wedding, but for everything they've done for you throughout your life. And that is of far more significance; it is crucial. It's about prioritising the needs of those closest to you.
Prep and Planning
Stock Up
— By the time the wedding invites have been sent out, you should have chosen thank-you note stationery and begun compiling a list of guests' addresses. Stamps are essential, and you may find that your self-address ink stamper or labels become indispensable.
Time It Right
— Thank-you letters for a wedding shower should be sent no later than two weeks after the shower, and wedding thank-you cards should be sent no later than three months after the wedding. Target those windows, but keep in mind that it's better to be late than never.
Divide & Conquer
You and your partner should spread out the thank-you notes across several days. In most cases, one spouse should focus on writing to his or her own circle of friends and family, but you could also choose to divide up the writing equally.
Or, if you really want to show your team spirit, you might both sign each thank-you card.
Tips To Writing Your Wedding Thank-You Notes
Let's start with the basics of how to write a proper letter. According to Elaine Swann, head of The Swann School of Protocol and an authority on wedding etiquette, "a thank you note should essentially just have three simple aspects." "Always express your gratitude, identify the present, and comment on it. So long!"
1. Gather Addresses
Having guests fill out envelopes with their addresses was a brilliant idea for the wedding.
Since many of our friends are always on the move, it was a huge pain trying to track down their current addresses for invitations. A friend of ours helped us with the design, and they even provided the pens and blank envelopes.
As soon as invitations are sent out, compile a spreadsheet with everyone's mailing information. (You read that right!) When the presents start coming in, you'll have an easier time keeping track of who to thank.
Besides the contents of the package, the date it was delivered, the date the card was posted, and any relevant notes, your file should also include the date and time of delivery. Do not forget that spreadsheets are your friends.
A helpful hint is to get a stamp that displays your current address. We were able to get one from Etsy, and it has been an absolute godsend. No address labels were printed, and the cost was only about $11. This is such a sweet addition to your appreciation notes!
2. Write Down What People Got You
We all know that the natural inclination is to rush through unwrapping presents, especially when there are many of them. However, to avoid losing or mixing up senders' information, be meticulous and make a note of each present as you open it. In the end, you'll be grateful to us.
We made sure not to forget who gave us what by writing down the contents of each gift in the accompanying cards or on a separate piece of paper.
Keep this handy while you jot down your gratitude.
3. Start Right Away
The sooner you get started on the thank-you notes, Swann advises. In doing so, you can spare yourself the stress of having a mountain of notes piling up later. The earlier you sit down to compose your notes, the sooner you can get them in the mail.
4. Work In Batches
There will be a lot of thinking and presents to sort through after the wedding. How could We best approach this seemingly interminable project? Make a bunch of copies of the notes. To prevent being overwhelmed, set aside an hour or two every day to work on multiple cards.
5. Share The Workload
To avoid putting undue stress on one person, try to divide up the work as evenly as possible between you and your collaborator. Arrange the invitees in groups according to their familiarity with the guest. If you want to make the activity feel less like work, try rewarding yourselves with a night in together afterwards.
6. Send Them Out Within a Month of Your Wedding
You should mail your wedding thank-you notes as soon as you can after the ceremony. We found that completing sets of 5-10 every night and sets of 15-25 on weekends was helpful.
You should be able to accomplish it with the aid of your checklist. Do you still have concerns? Here are some thank-you note etiquette pointers you should definitely follow.
7. Don’t Forget Your Vendors
The service providers went to great lengths (ideally) to ensure that your wedding day was wonderful. Help future brides find and pick the best wedding professionals by leaving reviews on WeddingWire. Here is an article full of creative vendor gift ideas for when you want to show your appreciation in a more substantial way.
8. Keep Your Stationery On Theme
Swann suggests finding thank you cards that fit well with the overall wedding theme. You can really impress your guests by ordering matching invitations and stationery with the same monogram or logo if you have the funds.
If not, have no fear. Swann recommends finding an accessory that "goes with the colour scheme, theme, or overall aesthetic" of the wedding.
9. Make It Specific
Describe the gift and how you intend to use it in your thank-you note; for instance, are you excited to make waffles for brunch with your new waffle iron? Take note of that.
Including such details helps the letters feel much more heartfelt and genuine. Money presents are treated the same way. Tell the donor exactly what you intend to do with his or her money.
We would like it if you would photograph each opened present so that you could easily refer to the image while making your notes. This is especially useful for presents that have been opened and then stashed away or buried behind a mountain of other gifts.
10. Choose A Beautiful Card
Do something special for your visitors and donors. Pick out a stunning design for your cards if you want your guests to remember your thoughtful thank you notes, and it will be even better if they match the rest of your wedding invitation suite.
Writing Etiquette
1. Handwrite The Notes
According to Swann, it is preferable if your notes are handwritten rather than printed and then signed. Sending digital thank you notes is frowned upon, even if invitations were sent electronically.
2. Include All Names In The Gift
Verify that the correct name appears on the gift card. Even if you just know one half of the couple that signed the card, be sure to include both names in your letter.
3. Promptly Send Out Cards
Swann recommends that newlyweds send out their thank you notes no later than a week following the wedding. Don't just send out individual greeting cards if you've written several at once.
There's no need to hold off until every donation has been tallied. Send a thank-you note right away if you get a wedding present before the big day.
Swann adds that the "thank you" card is meant to acknowledge the gift itself. Even if the gift was given to you for the wedding, you still want to express your gratitude. Get your messages out as soon as possible.
As a part of the wedding package, some photographers will throw in a few thank you cards at no extra cost. A little patience is understandable if this describes your situation.
You should talk to your photographer about timing so you know when to expect the personalized thank you card. Then your visitors will appreciate the subtlety and get the joke!
4. Specify The Amount For Monetary Gifts
Swann dispels the misconception that you shouldn't disclose the amount you received by saying, "When thanking somebody for the gift of money, it's crucial for you to put the precise amount that they provided you."
She gives two reasons for this. You are acknowledging receipt of the funds and validating the amount received. If the money was sent online or through the mail, the sender will appreciate knowing that their transaction was secure.
When Should You Send Wedding Thank You Cards?
Now that you have some inspiration for the cards' contents, you may be wondering how long you have until they need to be mailed. Here are the guidelines for when you should send your wedding thank you notes:
Send pre-wedding thank-you notes for pre-wedding presents. The usual time frame for writing a thank-you message is two to three weeks after the recipient has received the gift.
Within three months following the wedding, send out thank you notes. There is an unspoken "law" that says you have a year to send your thank-you notes after the wedding, although it's considered more polite to send them no later than three months after the big day.
In other words, it's never too late to start. Yes, thank you notes should be sent within three months, but just because that deadline has passed does not mean you should shrug it off and move on. As long as you don't wait until the last minute, even if it's been three months, it's better late than never.
Who Gets a Thank You Note?
Not only should wedding guests but also the gift providers be thanked. It's crucial to express your gratitude to the folks that made your wedding day a success. Each couple will have their own unique list, but here are a few suggestions. You should write a letter of appreciation to.
- Whoever gave a present, whether in kind or in the form of money.
- All the people that had a role in making your wedding day go smoothly.
- Anyone who gave you a party. If the party is hosted by more than one person, each host should get a message of gratitude.
- anyone who did something like host a bridal shower or help with the flowers, or anyone who helped with the wedding in any way.
- You and your wedding party.
- Suppliers for your wedding.
Whether you're hosting a small, intimate gathering or a large, extravagant bash, this list will likely be shorter or larger accordingly; nevertheless, if in doubt, a thank-you message is always appropriate.
Wedding Thank-You Card Wording Templates
1. Thank-You Card Wording for a Registry Gift
For the convenience of your guests, start your register as soon as you are engaged, and be sure to keep it up-to-date regularly. Here is some wording for a present bought from your wish list.
To: [Names of Invitees],
The crystal wine glasses are gorgeous and well appreciated. We have a full set now, and you know how much we like wine. When you come back again, let's get a drink together and celebrate your return. Once again, we appreciate your consideration.
To the best of your abilities,
Your Name Here...
2. Thank-You Card Wording for a Cash Gift
Funds in cash form are easily added to a wedding registry. A cash present is adaptable (and meaningful) since you can use it to fund any pursuit that suits your personality. The following is an appropriate response to a monetary wedding gift.
To: [Names of Invitees],
Thank you so much for your thoughtful donation. Our long-awaited kitchen renovation will finally get underway this spring. Thanks for coming all the way to join in the joy of the wedding with us. I can't wait to see you again [when we have another opportunity to get together].
Warm regards,
Your Name Here...
3. Thank-You Card Wording for a Gift Card
Do you know that you may pre-order gift cards? They are not only convenient for the host, but they also provide a wide selection of gift options for the visitors. This generic thank-you note for a wedding gift card should serve as a template.
To: [Names of Invitees],
I appreciate the Airbnb gift card very much. Because to your kindness, we will be able to save up for that cross-country road trip we've been dreaming about. It was wonderful to have you share in our wedding day with us. Please come back and visit us soon; we miss you!
Warm regards,
Your Name Here...
4. Thank-You Card Wording for an Off-Registry Gift
For the wedding present, some guests may choose to go outside of the registry. It is still appropriate to express gratitude for their kindness even if this is the case. This is a sample wedding thank you card for an unanticipated gift.
Dear [guest name],
Thank you so much for your thoughtful donation. Every time we use this knife set to experiment in the kitchen, we'll remember you. We appreciate you being a part of our most important day by sharing in the joy of our marriage with us.
To the best of your abilities,
Your Name Here...
5. Thank-You Card Wording for a Gift From Someone You Don't Know (Yet)
Here's how you thank a guest who isn't a relative or close friend in a card if they gave you a present.
Dear [guest name],
The crystal vase you gave me is stunning. It's the perfect size for our foyer, and I'll remind [spouse's name] to keep it blooming. My dad has talked so kindly of you throughout the years, and we look forwards to meeting you at the wedding in a few weeks. We appreciate your generosity and your presence in our life at this thrilling moment.
Sincerely,
Your Name Here...
6. Thank-You Card Wording for a Gift You Don't Love
Sending a thank-you note is customary, even if you didn't particularly enjoy the gift you received for the wedding. Here is how to reply politely in such a situation.
To Whom It May Concern,
The vibrant serving dishes are a nice touch; thank you! They will forever remind us of you and this wonderful period in our life. Thanks so much for being a part of our special day.
Fondly,
Your Name Here...
7. Thank-You Card Wording for a Guest Who Didn't Give a Gift
Although it is customary to provide a gift to the newlyweds, it is not required. According to custom, your guests have up to a full year after the wedding to send you a present.
Include letters for people who didn't send a present in your last batch, as thank-you notes should be delivered no later than three months after the wedding day.
Even if they don't send a present in response to your thank-you card, you should still take the time to express your gratitude to everyone who made it out to your big day.
To Whom It May Concern,
You all made our wedding day so special. Having you there to celebrate the start of this new era in our lives meant the world. We look forwards to your return.
Fondly,
Your Name Here...
FAQs About Wedding Thank You Notes
While planning a wedding is a big responsibility, so is being a wedding guest. Thank-you cards aren't just about the gifts; they're about showing gratitude for the time, effort, and money your loved ones spent preparing for and attending your wedding.
Here's the thing: You have two to three weeks to send the note for presents received before the wedding. For gifts received during or after the wedding, you have up to three months—but try to send them ASAP!
You'll need to send a thank-you card for every gift you receive so yes, that means you'll need to send a separate thank-you note for shower gifts, engagement gifts, wedding gifts, etc. Be sure to have plenty of stationery handy and stick to a schedule, so you don't get overwhelmed.
As the saying goes, their presence at your wedding is present enough, so yes, it's a good idea to send thank-you notes to guests who attended your wedding but did not send a gift.
From an etiquette perspective, there's no need for guests to write thank-you notes to the couple (technically, the gift is the "thank you"). However, if the guest wishes, a kind email thanking the couple for their hospitality is a kind but unnecessary gesture.
Conclusion
Many recent newlyweds haven't even begun to send out their wedding thank-you notes. Finding addresses can be a time-consuming process, which is why greeting cards are often not sent out as frequently as they should be. They also serve as a wonderful keepsake to remind your guests of the fantastic time they had at your wedding. Before you break out the fancy paper and ink, make sure you know the correct format for a wedding thank you note. Writing a thank you note for a wedding present is the same as writing any other kind of thank you note.
Your thank-you note for wedding gifts can be any length you like. Guests should be thanked for their contributions no later than two weeks before the wedding. It is courteous to note the intended use of any monetary wedding gifts in the thank-you card. For some couples, it's more meaningful to send individual notes of gratitude to each branch of the family tree. While email is convenient for quick messages, it is not appropriate for more formal occasions, such as wedding thank you notes.
You can save time when it comes time to mail the cards by using pre-printed return address labels on the envelope flap. Two to three weeks prior to the wedding is the typical window for gift delivery. If you make it a habit to write a couple of thank-you notes every day, you'll soon find that it's easy to fit them into even the busiest schedule. In case you're having trouble "handwriting" digital greeting cards, programmes like Postable can help. Get some shiny new, user-friendly pens for a change.
Thank-you notes are an activity that should involve both partners. Everyone of your notes should be written with your own style and flair. Make sure you have plenty of stamps on hand at all times. Don't forget to buy postage and then find out you can't mail anything. You're welcome to use some, all, or none of the following for your wedding thank you cards.
The purpose of the wedding thank-you card is to demonstrate to a friend or family member that the present they gave you was appreciated. Sending out wedding thank-you cards is a wonderful way to express gratitude for the monetary gifts received from guests. Ways to show appreciation to those who played a role in your big day. If you receive donations, it is important to send each donor a thank-you note. Vendor gifts are a great way to show your appreciation to those who went above and beyond for your wedding.
Content Summary
- Sending out a lot of thank-you notes is a chore that may seem challenging.
- Writing thank-you notes to your guests may not be at the top of your to-do list, especially if your wedding is on the pricier side.
- Thank you cards are a great way to show appreciation to those who made an effort to attend your wedding.
- After the tornado of excitement has died down, you have one last chore to complete: writing your wedding thank you notes.
- The first step is deciding what kind of thank you card to send, as there are numerous variations on the theme.
- To make the task of writing wedding thank you cards less overwhelming, consider the following advice.
- At their best, wedding thank-you cards can show a friend or loved one that you appreciate them not just for what they did for the wedding, but for everything they've done for you throughout your life.
- Pick out a stunning design for your cards if you want your guests to remember your thoughtful thank you notes, and it will be even better if they match the rest of your wedding invitation suite.
- Send a thank-you note right away if you get a wedding present before the big day.
- Even if the gift was given to you for the wedding, you still want to express your gratitude.
- You are acknowledging receipt of the funds and validating the amount received.
- The usual time frame for writing a thank-you message is two to three weeks after the recipient has received the gift.
- Within three months following the wedding, send out thank you notes.
- Not only should wedding guests but also the gift providers be thanked.
- It's crucial to express your gratitude to the folks that made your wedding day a success.
- You should write a letter of appreciation too.
- If the party is hosted by more than one person, each host should get a message of gratitude.
- Funds in cash form are easily added to a wedding registry.
- This generic thank-you note for a wedding gift card should serve as a template.
- For the wedding present, some guests may choose to go outside of the registry.
- This is a sample wedding thank you card for an unanticipated gift.
- Sending a thank-you note is customary, even if you didn't particularly enjoy the gift you received for the wedding.
- Although it is customary to provide a gift to the newlyweds, it is not required.
- Include letters for people who didn't send a present in your last batch, as thank-you notes should be delivered no later than three months after the wedding day.
- One should express gratitude for gifts and help received by writing a wedding thank-you note.
- Your wedding thank-you notes should be mailed as soon as possible after the reception.
- It is essential to thank the people who contributed to the success of your wedding day.
- Sending a letter of thanks to those who helped you out monetarily or otherwise is always appreciated.
- You can use this sample thank you note for a wedding gift card as a guide.
- Even if the gift you received wasn't what you were hoping for, it's still polite to send a note of gratitude.
- Traditional gift giving etiquette states that you can wait up to a year after the wedding before opening any gifts from guests.
- Writing thank-you notes to your guests may not be at the top of your to-do list, especially if your wedding is on the pricier side.
- You and your partner should spread out the thank-you notes across several days.
- Send a thank-you note right away if you get a wedding present before the big day.