Thank You and Appreciation Ideas

Write a sincere thank-you note

The party's over. The gifts are unwrapped. And your big day is beginning to feel like a fond memory. But before beginning that walk down memory lane, take a minute to think about the people who helped make your day. The celebration isn't over until they know how much you appreciate them.

The Who...

• List every single gift-giver, whether their package arrived by mail, e-mail or in person.
• Now add in the friends who did anything to help out with the birthday party, anniversary, wedding, shower or get-together—including the ones who helped plan, decorated, ran errands, brought food and so on.

The Why...

• It's thoughtful. By taking time to write a note, you're sending a message that a gift or gesture was important to you. Translation—the person is important to you.
• It's memorable. Your handwritten note becomes your gift back to those who shared time or gifts with you. Don't be surprised if they keep your card.
• It's the right thing to do. And what an easy way to make a great impression or to strengthen your relationships.

The What (to say)...

• The beginning: Start with a word of sincere thanks.
  • Thank you so much for...
  • It made my day when I opened...
  • I appreciate the time you took to...
  • I'm so grateful you were there when...
• The middle: Refer to the specific gift or event. Tell them what it meant to you, why you like it, how you'll use it or something memorable about the occasion ...
  • Here's a picture of me with my new briefcase. It makes me feel like a professional at my new job!
  • Yellow has always been my favorite color, and the vase will match perfectly with my new sofa.
  • I plan to use the birthday money you sent to decorate my dorm room.
  • The going-away party you hosted meant so much to me. To have all my friends and family in one place was an experience I'll never forget!
• The end: Restate your appreciation with kind words for the one you're thanking.
  • Again, thank you for your generosity. I'm so excited about college. I'll let you know all about it when I get settled.
  • We felt so honored that you made the trip to be with us on our wedding day. We can't wait to see you again soon!
  • Your kindness has always meant so much to me through the years of our friendship.

The When...

• If possible, make sure your thank-you notes are sent no later than one month after the event.
• If it's more than a month past due, begin with a brief apology. "Please forgive my tardiness in getting this sent..."
• Have you already thanked them verbally or by e-mail? That's nice. But a handwritten note will mean so much more.

The Where
From wherever you are…to wherever they are.

And you're done.