| Yes, we all love to receive gifts, and | | | | Dearest Aunt Sandy, |
| weddings are a perfect occasion for | | | | |
| gift-giving, as friends and loved ones | | | | Thank you so much for the generous gift. As |
| customarily honor the commitment of the newly | | | | you know, John and I have been saving for a |
| betrothed by showering them with wedding | | | | new home and your contribution will help |
| gifts. As the happy couple, just remember to | | | | greatly. We cannot wait to have you over for |
| always feel privileged - not entitled. | | | | a housewarming party very soon! Thanks again |
| Approach thank-you notes with as much thought | | | | for thinking of us and for sharing in our |
| and organization as the rest of your wedding | | | | special day. |
| planning process. | | | | |
| | | | To a more distant friend, relative or |
| Rules & Etiquette - | | | | business colleague: |
| | | | |
| Send thank you notes to acknowledge | | | | Dear Mr. & Mrs. Lee, |
| everything from place settings to gifts of | | | | |
| time or talent. Remember - a separate, | | | | Thank you so much for the lovely vase. It |
| handwritten note must be sent for each | | | | will go beautifully on our kitchen table, and |
| wedding present or act of kindness. Start | | | | Meghan and I will think of you each time we |
| sending thank yous as soon as gifts arrive, | | | | use it. Thanks again for sharing our joy. |
| even if it is before your wedding (but make | | | | |
| sure to use your maiden name). Gifts that you | | | | To someone who could not make it to the |
| receive on your big day should be followed up | | | | wedding but still sent a gift: |
| with a thank you note no later than one month | | | | |
| after you return from your honeymoon (now you | | | | Dear Denise & Chris, |
| can use your new last name). To ease the | | | | |
| process, keep track of wedding gifts and | | | | Thank you both very much for completing our |
| thank-you cards on the same list of names and | | | | sterling place setting collection. Martin and |
| addresses used for your invitations. | | | | I look forward to using it at every special |
| Personalize the thank you cards by ordering | | | | dinner we host. We truly missed you both on |
| them with your monogram or with a picture | | | | our special day and look forward to seeing |
| from your big day on the front. | | | | you soon. |
| | | | |
| What to Say - Wording Samples - | | | | To someone who was not invited to the wedding |
| | | | but sent a gift anyway: |
| Thank you notes are written and signed by one | | | | |
| person but should express the gratitude of | | | | Dear Lorie & Mike, |
| both the bride and the groom. ("Mike and I | | | | |
| sincerely appreciated...") Make direct | | | | Thank you both so much for the thoughtful |
| reference to the gift itself. For monetary | | | | gift certificate. Amanda and I look forward |
| gifts, indicate how the money will be used; | | | | to purchasing new appliances for our kitchen |
| whether to mention the amount given is | | | | with it. Thanks again for thinking of us |
| optional. Here are some suggested wording | | | | during this special time in our lives. |
| examples to get you started: | | | | |
| | | | For more stationery advice, visit the |
| To a close friend or relative: | | | | complete wedding invitation and stationery |
| | | | guide at - Elegant Galas Made Simple. |