In this digital age, some couples can’t believe that a thank you for any major gift should be hand-written and snail-mailed! But put yourself in the shoes of your guests. They are spending big bucks on a wedding gift – and the wedding gift is just the beginning. Likely there has been a shower gift and perhaps a stag expense. If they are coming from a distance, there are the costs of travel, hotel and meals. If it’s an adults only wedding, they may have babysitting expenses. Add those up and it’s pretty clear why a digital or informal ‘thanks’ is not enough. Some couples have actually had nonspecific thank you cards printed and sent, assuming that they’re covered. In fact, these cards, no matter how attractive or expensive, are insulting.
Include in your notes:
- The specific gift should be mentioned. The exception is a gift of money.
- The phrase ‘your generous gift’ is useful when the gift is money.
- Make specific mention of how you will enjoy having/using the gift.
- Mention how happy you were that they shared your special day.
Who writes the notes
As long as both the bride and the groom have legible handwriting, putting pen to paper can be shared. Perhaps the bride may choose to write to her parent’s friends and relatives, and the groom may agree to write to his parent’s friends and extended family. They can share the work in writing to their personal friends.
It’s a warm and thoughtful gesture if both sign all of the notes.
Originally published in Today’s Bride magazine, Fall/Winter 2015.
