Thank you so much for all of your Christmas orders – I can’t tell you how much it means – I have literally been overwhelmed. However, this does mean that I am no longer able to accept Christmas orders and any orders received from today, Monday 9th December, will not be processed in time for Christmas delivery, but will be delivered in January. You may still book on my ‘Beautiful handwriting’ workshop at Meadow in Stockbridge on 29th January.
How to write the perfect thank you letter
There’s an art to writing a thank you letter. It’s obviously always lovely to receive a thank you for an event you’ve hosted or a present you’ve given, but you really notice the difference when the letter writer clearly has this art! It’s a skill many of us should have, but perhaps find difficult to articulate. It’s one of those things in life that is absolutely required, but also somehow gets overlooked.
Here are some tips that will help you express your gratitude in style.
Start with a salutation
It may seem obvious, but start your thank you message by addressing your recipient with a salutation. How formal or informal you choose to make this is up to you. For people you’re not quite as familiar with, stick to Mr. and Mrs. Last name. Some examples are:
Get right to the point and express your thanks
And while you’re at it, make sure to mention what it is that you’re thankful for.
Some examples are:
Your birthday card made my day, thank you so much!
Your birthday gift was perfect, thanks for thinking of me.
Thanks so much for your generous wedding gift.
Mention a specific detail or two
What specifically, do you love about their gift, or did you love about their dinner party? No need to go overboard or exaggerate, if it’s not the most delicious supper you’re ever eaten, focus instead on the wine, or the table decorations or the company! However, do mention something specific that you appreciated or perhaps how you’re using their gift in your life. People love knowing that their time and effort was appreciated and used.
I’m so happy to use the birthday money on my trip to Scotland next week!
I wore your scarf today and got so many compliments!
We’ve been smoothie-making machines for the past month which has been very popular with my Mum and Dad!
Look ahead
Yes you’re excited about that smoothie mixer they got you, but don’t forget to let them know that you appreciate them as an important person in your life. This may not apply to every single scenario, but if you’re likely to spend any time with this person you can mention that future meeting in your note as a way to move the message along.
I can’t wait to have lunch with you both next month.
I’ll be visiting your neck of the woods in a couple months and I can’t wait to come and see you!
We’d love to have you over for dinner sometime soon and use the new cocktail glasses with you!
Finish with more gratitude and a warm sign off
Bring the attention back to where you started: to your gratitude. There should be no question about what the message is all about. It’s ok to spruce it up a bit, but try to stay away from over-the-top language.
I can’t believe you remembered my birthday, thanks again!
Thanks again for thinking of me, it means so much.
We are so grateful for your generosity, thank you for thinking of us.
End in a pleasant and friendly tone. Always keep in mind the type of relationship you have with the recipient(s) and sign off accordingly (professionally or casually).
Warmly,
Your Friend,
With love,
Final points
You should always:
I hope you enjoyed this blog. Perhaps you’ll need some lovely cards to match this thoughtful note of thanks!