Wedding Tactics

Merry Christmas to anyone reading this right now, btw.

Ahem. PLEASE hear this… this entry is dedicated to the art of a well written Thank-You note.

I have spent the last 24 hours entertaining my in-laws to be and I’m loving it. However, at this time of year, regardless of your religion or lack thereof … it is a good time to remember what you have to be thankful for, and also, to send a quick note to those who make you even more thankful. Or even if you aren’t thankful for them, send them a thank you note for any gifts they give you.

Throughout the entire wedding-planning process, you will be meeting vendors, friends, clergy, and all sorts of people who are giving you gifts and assistance. Sending follow-up information helps you stand out, helps them remember you, and also makes your experience of working with them a little more personal.

Thanking them properly can go a long way.

I’m not an etiquette expert, although, for the sake of this site, I have Emily Post’s book on order, so I can properly answer any questions directed my way. I digress….

So, this is not an exact science, and I also believe that anything you write should come from your heart, not a script. Hell, you’ve read my blogs … I follow no script.

The basics for a good Thank-You Note:

1. Say THANK YOU and name the item.
2. Briefly explain your plans for using it or what it will mean to you.
3. Wrap it up and sign it sweetly.
4. Send thank you notes as soon as you get a gift!!!*
5. “Etiquette” says you have like 2 months after a wedding to send thank you notes, but you’ll start getting gifts a few months before the wedding, so keep a record and send the darn note, ASAP.

*I actually took a small little spiral notebook and dedicated it the GIFT LOG. I attempt to record all gifts we get and send a note sometime within the next week. Soon can mean within the month.

Some examples:

1. Good Note, sort of formal:
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Redman,
Thank you so much for the gorgeous vase! I can’t wait to put my freshly grown tulips in it this spring. Also, thank you for traveling so far to join us for our wedding. Your generosity is much appreciated. Have a happy and healthy new year!

Warmly,
Stacy & Marc

2. Good Note but more casual:
Dear Adam and Tali,
Thank you for the great housewarming gift! I never would have been as creative as you and had our engagement photo put onto coffee mugs. We love them – and so does our family. In fact, they’ve been here all weekend and they keep using my coffee cup! It was really sweet of you to be so thoughtful and imaginative. See you at New Years!

Love,
Stacy & Marc

3. BAD NOTE: (too simple and not personal)

Dear Uncle Sherman,
Thank you for the present.
Thanks for coming to the wedding.
Love,
Stacy and Marc

The moral: Send Thank You notes promptly and be a little personal about it.