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When (and How) to Give Thanks

Growing up, our parents taught that we should always thank people for giving us a gift. However, when it comes to weddings, there are so many gifts exchanged that it can be difficult to figure out exactly when and how to give thanks. Here are some pointers:

1)      Always send a formal thank-you letter via mail, even if you had a chance to say thank you in person.

2)      Send thank-you notes for more than just tangible gifts – don’t forget to thank your sister for hosting your in-laws or your best friend for putting together an amazing bridal shower for you.

3)      Send thank-you notes in a timely manner! All thank-you notes should be sent within three months of receiving the gift. However, it is always best to start writing and sending thank you cards as soon as you receive gifts. Bridal shower thank-you notes should be sent within two weeks.

4)      Always send the bridal shower or other thank-you cards separate from wedding thank-you cards.

5)      Make thank-you cards personal. Although it is easier to send a generic message to each person, spend some time writing a thoughtful note. At the very least, compliment the gift or service they provided you. If possible, mention when you plan to use the item they graciously purchased you (“We’ll use the beach towels next year in Hawaii!”)

6)      When expressing gratitude for gift cards or cash received, do not mention the dollar value received.

7)      Don’t ever tell the gift giver that you are planning to return their gift.

8)      Address note to the person who attended or the individual that signed the card. The envelope should be addressed as “Mr. and Mrs.” for couples and families.

9)      If a guest did not bring a gift, it is proper to send them a note thanking them for their attendance.

10)   Last, always double check that the you have correctly matched the gift with the recipient of the thank you. Nothing is worse than sending a note thanking your new sister in-law for something she didn’t get you!

Ask your wedding photographer about personalized thank-you cards customized with a photograph from your engagement session!