How to Write a Thank-You Note for Every Gift Scenario (Including Those Presents You’re Exchanging!)

AngelaProffitt-HowToWriteThankYouNotesEveryGiftScenario-Blog
Photo: Kristyn Hogan

Got writer's block? Don't put off writing your wedding-related thank-you notes any longer. After all, you should try to send a thank-you card within three months of receipt (and no, you don't have a year to send your thank you's, that's a total wedding myth!). To help, we've put together some sample thank you notes for every gift-giving scenario.

Scenario #1: Someone gives you money

Expert Advice: Don't mention the amount, but do explain how you'll use the cash

Dear Aunt Melissa and Uncle Marc,

Chris and I were thrilled with your generous and thoughtful gift. You've brought us one step closer to our dream house. Looking forward to seeing you again when we're back home for the holidays!

Love,
Emily

Scenario #2: You don't know who gave you the gift

Expert Advice: Mention that you're looking forward to meeting her at the wedding

Dear Mrs. Bergen,

Thank you for the gorgeous crystal bowl. It will look absolutely perfect on the coffee table in our apartment. My mother has always spoken so fondly of you. Chris and I look forward to finally meeting you at the wedding. (I'll be the woman in white!)

Sincerely,
Emily

Scenario #3: You don't know what the gift is

Expert Advice: Focus on the giver's kindness rather than the mystery

Dear Jane and Tom,

Chris and I want to thank you for the wonderful wedding gift. You are such a creative, caring couple, and we feel lucky to count you as friends.

Best,
Emily

Scenario #4: It's a group gift

Expert Advice: Send individual thank-you's, but give a shout-out to the group

Dear Lisa,

Thank you for the gas grill. It's so cool and high-tech — just what we've been wanting. We're lucky to have friends who know us so well. You'll have to come by for some of Chris's famous ribs soon!

Warmly,
Emily

Scenario #5: You already have one (or already exchanged it)

Expert Advice: Don't acknowledge the situation or say how you'll use it; talk about the gift instead

Dear Derek,

Chris and I want to thank you for the vintage cocktail shaker. The art deco design is so sleek and handsome. You are clearly a man with good taste! We're so happy you were able to make it to the wedding.

Sincerely,
Emily

Scenario #6: You hate it and can't return it

Expert Advice: Don't be a phony and rave about the gift, but do say something positive

Dear Grandma,

Thank you so much for the fish platter. The color reminds me of the china we used for family dinners at your house, and I'm delighted to see it again! We're thrilled that you'll be at our wedding and at having the entire Goodman family together.

Love,
Emily

Scenario #7: The person gave a gift off your registry

Expert Advice: Mention how much you love the gift and that you plan to use it regularly

Dear Margaret,

Thank you so much for the juicer. Chris and I have been wanting one for a while and we're already coming up with new recipes. We'll have to have you over for brunch soon so you can see it in action! We're so happy you were able to make it to the wedding.

Love,
Emily

This article was written by Heather Lee for Brides.com.

Comments are closed.