by Barbara Kasey Smith

Created on: August 22, 2009

What to say in thank-you notes and cards...

Here are a few rules to follow when you write someone a thank-you note:

(1) A thank-you note should always be written within two weeks of receiving a gift, or for an expression of thanks for any type service someone has done for you, i.e., when you stay overnight at someone's home, someone picks you up at the airport, takes you sight-seeing, invites you to dinner, someone gives you a party, etc., etc.

(2) Write the thank-you note within two weeks.

(3) Send the note through the U.S. Postal Service and not by e-mail.

(4) Write it on a nice piece of stationery...a hand written card is better than one you can buy from a store.

When you write the thank-you note, here are some of the things you should write about:

(1) Express your gratitude for the gift/service/services. Mention the gift by name and describe how nice you thought it was, if it was for a service...tell them how much you appreciated the overnight, meal, etc. and mention some nice points about the visit or dinner, etc.

(2) If someone gave a nice party for you be sure to go into details about what you enjoyed about the party and how much you enjoyed the food. You might mention one of the foods in particular and allow them to know you enjoyed their food selections. If gifts were given at the party, be sure to mention in the thank-you card how you will be using the item/items you were given. If it was a monetary gift, mention what you plan to buy with it, or use it for and tell them it was a gracious gift that could be used.

(3) If the service or gift was received from a friend, grandparents, aunt or uncle, be sure to write something about the fact that you are looking forward to being with them or seeing them in the near future.

(4) You should always repeat your thank-you for the service/gift that was given to you. This is always a good way to end the thank-you note.

(5) Your valediction should appropriately convey the type of relationship with the recipient, i.e., Respectfully, Warmest Regards, Yours Truly, Kindest Regards, Truly Yours.

I believe that anyone who performs any type of a service for you and/or your family, a thank-you note should be sent to the person who performs the service or sends the gift. People know you appreciate them and what they've done for you, but you should always reciprocate by sending a thank-you note.

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