In an age of a digital world, the handwritten note has become a treasured gem. Yet, how do you
begin? Emily Post is a timeless reference for etiquette.

When do you send a handwritten note?

 

 

Always send a note for:

Wedding or Baby Shower Gift                                   Gifts of Money

Congratulatory Gift or Card                                       Holiday and Birthday gifts

Gifts received when sick                                              Other gifts

Sympathy notes or gifts                                               Thank You gifts

FIRST. Start with a Greeting. Begin by choosing a physical or online thank you card that you like.

THEN, write a greeting like “Dear Sally.” Don’t forget to make sure you’re using the correct form
and spelling of the person’s name, as well as anyone else’s mentioned in the note.
Don’t start your note with “I” or “We.” Focus on the other person(s) by complimenting them. “You
have a talent for choosing the most perfect gifts!” or “Your party was so fun; it should have it’s own
tv show!”

EXPRESS your thanks. Begin with the two most important words: Thank you. Add specific details. In
the following sentence or two, in detail write about the gift, invitation, or kindness and how you
benefited from their thoughtfulness. Look ahead. Restate your thanks.

SIGNOFF with thoughtfulness and, when appropriate, humor like “Your favorite niece”

These personal yet simple steps that take four to eight sentences express gratitude and appreciation
for others and in turn, they will reflect back fondly of you. So put your stamp on others and get it
“write!”