After the whirlwind of your wedding day, it’s time to reflect on the love and generosity of your guests. Writing thank you cards is an essential post-wedding task, but it can feel overwhelming if you’re unsure where to start. The good news? With a few simple guidelines, you can turn this chore into a meaningful expression of gratitude.
At Vibe Non-Long Island, we’ve put together a list of thank you card do’s and don’ts to help you navigate this process with ease and grace.
The Do’s of Wedding Thank You Cards
1. Do Start Early
Begin writing your thank you cards as soon as possible—ideally within three months of your wedding day. Starting early helps you avoid a last-minute rush and ensures every guest feels appreciated.
2. Do Keep a Detailed Gift List
While opening gifts, maintain a list of who gave what. This will make writing personalized thank you notes much easier and prevent any awkward mix-ups.
3. Do Make It Personal
A generic “thank you for the gift” won’t cut it. Mention the specific gift and how you plan to use or enjoy it. For example:
- “Thank you for the beautiful wine glasses—we can’t wait to use them for our next dinner party!”
- “We’re so grateful for your contribution to our honeymoon fund. It helped us create unforgettable memories in Italy!”
4. Do Include All Guests
Every guest who attended your wedding deserves a thank you card, whether they brought a gift or not. A simple note thanking them for their presence can go a long way.
5. Do Handwrite Your Notes
Handwritten thank you cards feel more personal and heartfelt than printed or digital ones. Your guests will appreciate the time and effort you put into each card.
6. Do Choose Beautiful Stationery
Invest in high-quality stationery that reflects your wedding theme or personal style. Custom thank you cards featuring a photo from your wedding day are always a hit.
7. Do Use Proper Etiquette
Address each card personally and formally (e.g., “Dear Aunt Susan” or “Dear Mr. and Mrs. Smith”). End with a warm closing like “With love” or “Warm regards,” followed by your names.
The Don’ts of Wedding Thank You Cards
1. Don’t Delay Too Long
While three months is a reasonable timeframe, waiting much longer can come across as inconsiderate. Aim to send your thank you cards promptly to show your appreciation.
2. Don’t Copy and Paste
Avoid writing the same message for everyone. Personalize each note to reflect the unique gift or contribution each guest made to your wedding.
3. Don’t Forget Anyone
Overlooking someone can be a major faux pas. Cross-reference your thank you card list with your guest list and gift log to ensure no one is left out.
4. Don’t Overthink It
While it’s important to be thoughtful, don’t stress about crafting the “perfect” message. A sincere and straightforward thank you is always appreciated.
5. Don’t Neglect Group Gifts
If a group of people contributed to a gift, send individual thank you notes to each person whenever possible. If that’s not feasible, send one card addressed to the group.
6. Don’t Use Digital Notes
While e-cards or emails may seem convenient, they lack the personal touch of a handwritten thank you card. Stick to traditional paper cards for a more meaningful gesture.
7. Don’t Be Too Formal
Your thank you cards should feel warm and genuine, not overly stiff or formal. Write as if you were speaking directly to the person.
How to Get Started with Thank You Cards
Writing dozens (or even hundreds) of thank you cards can feel like a daunting task. Here’s how to tackle it efficiently:
1. Break It Into Chunks
Set aside time each day to write a few cards. Breaking the task into smaller sessions makes it more manageable.
2. Create a Comfortable Setup
Find a quiet spot, gather your stationery, and have your gift list handy. Pour yourself a cup of tea or coffee to make the process more enjoyable.
3. Involve Your Spouse
Divide the thank you card responsibilities with your partner. This not only makes the task go faster but also allows you to share the gratitude.
4. Focus on Quality Over Quantity
Take your time to craft meaningful messages, even if it means writing fewer cards each day.
Sample Thank You Card Wording
For a Monetary Gift:
“Dear [Name],
Thank you so much for your generous gift! We’re saving it toward a down payment on our first home, and your thoughtfulness means so much to us. We’re so grateful you could celebrate our wedding day with us—it wouldn’t have been the same without you.
With love,
[Your Names]”
For a Physical Gift:
“Dear [Name],
We absolutely love the [gift]! It’s already found a special place in our home, and we can’t thank you enough for your kindness. Having you at our wedding meant the world to us, and we’re so grateful for your support as we begin this new chapter.
Warm regards,
[Your Names]”
For Guests Who Didn’t Bring a Gift:
“Dear [Name],
Thank you for celebrating our wedding day with us! Your presence made the day even more special, and we’re so grateful to have you in our lives.
With appreciation,
[Your Names]”
Conclusion
Writing thank you cards is a beautiful way to reflect on the love and support you received on your wedding day. By following these do’s and don’ts, you can express your gratitude thoughtfully and with style. Remember, your guests will cherish the effort you put into making them feel appreciated.
At Vibe Non-Long Island, we’re here to help you navigate every step of your wedding journey. Stay tuned for more tips and tricks to make your wedding planning experience unforgettable!
