Hello, Darlings! Today, we are talking about a southern staple and tradition: hand written “Thank You” cards! 

When I was growing up, I had the privilege of being a Southern Debutante in my town, and this was where I learned a lot of the traditions and etiquettes of southern living. However, writing “Thank You” notes was one of those things that my mother and grandmother had engrained in me from an early age, way before the days of being a Deb. It’s very common for Southern ladies to write “Thank You” notes, so common, that it is expected. It’s proper etiquette, and to be honest, it’s just the nice (right) thing to do after someone else has done something kind to you.

Now we all know the rule of writing these sweet letters after wedding showers, weddings, and baby showers, but what other occasion is this appropriate? My guide for this is: “If you think you should write a “Thank You,” if you question it at all, then do it!” It never hurts to extend your gratitude through a hand written card. Personally, I think it means even more to receive one of these notes when I’m least suspecting it.

Here’s to the “How To”:

1. Pick your stationery – This is totally up to you! Pick something that reflects YOU! There are lots of personalized options through Charlotte’s. Or you can do a more standard card like these!
2. Pick your ink – Black is a classic ink, also very sophisticated. This is my go to. My mother is a blue ink gal. Other colors are fun, but use them sparingly and know how they will be received by the one who will open the card. I love a nice bright pink ink, but I would not use to this write a “Thank You” for just anyone.
3. Get your addresses – This is simple, just ask.
4. Address the envelop properly – Always place the sender address front and center on the envelop, and your address in the top left corner. Be sure to properly address their name. Example: Mrs., Ms., and Miss mean totally different things. Also, if someone is a Dr., definitely acknowledge them as such.
5. Address the card appropriately – This is similar to above. You can use “Dear” to begin your greeting. Never use “Hey” in a Thank You card. Don’t ask. Just don’t do it. After the greeting, follow with their name and a comma.
6. Write the content – I have developed a card map to writing “Thank You” cards. I like them to know that I am Thankful, What I like, Why I like it, and How I am already using it. I start by saying something along the lines of “Thank you so much for this beautiful gift (insert gift).” That established the Thankful and the What. Then, I would say, “I absolutely love the way it coordinates with my home (insert Why.)” The why will totally vary based on the gift! Then, “I have already been able to use it … (insert How).”
7. Making the content fit – In step 6, this only works if you received a gift of some sort, but some times, people bless us in acts of kindness. In this case, your card map changes. This card map looks more like this: Show gratitude, What you are thankful for, How it made you feel, Why it means so much. Example: Thank you so much for (insert action). Your generosity (insert action) made me feel so special (insert feeling). I appreciate having a friend like you, and your (action) does not go unnoticed. (Insert why.)
8. Signature – Sign the card with just your name. If you have a formal title, and if you are signing as that, go for it. (This applies mainly when your card is coming from your job or title.)

That about wraps up our “Thank You” card tutorial for today! If you have any questions or suggestions, please leave them in the comments! I hope 2017 gives you many reasons to write “Thank You” notes this year!!

– the Wife