Wedding Etiquette Wednesday

Everyone loves to receive something in the mail; there is just something about going to the mailbox and seeing a hand-addressed envelope waiting only for you.

So, after a shower, engagement or wedding gift has been received, the gift giver is just as excited to receive something in the mail…(drumroll)…the thank you note!

Ten Do’s and Don’ts of Thank You Notes, courtesy of etiquette guru Emily Post.

– Do personalize your notes and make reference to the person as well as the gift.

– Do remember that a gift should be acknowledged with the same courtesy and generous spirit in which it was given.

– Do be enthusiastic, but don’t gush. Avoid saying a gift is the most beautiful thing you have ever seen unless you really mean it.

– Don’t send form letters or cards with printed messages and just your signature; don’t use email or post a generic thank you on your wedding web site in lieu of a personal note.

– Do promptly acknowledge the receipt of shipped gifts by sending a note right away or calling and following up with a written note in a day or two.

– Don’t mention that you plan to return a gift or that you are dissatisfied in any way.

– Don’t tailor your note to the perceived value of the gift; no one should receive a perfunctory note.

– Do refer to the way you will use a gift of money. Mentioning the amount is optional.

– Don’t include wedding photos or use photo cards if it will delay sending the note.

– Don’t use being late as an excuse not to write. Even if you are still sending notes after your first anniversary, keep writing!