Thank You How-To

Christmas gifts have been opened and enjoyed . . . so now it's time to write thank you notes! But what's the proper etiquette?

First, when do you send the note? Personally, I try to send a thank you within one week of receiving the gift. For Christmas gifts sometimes I buy happy new year cards to send as thank you notes and mail them on 12/31. Emily Post simply says "as soon as possible" and "don't hesitate if you feel you're late: a late note is always better than no note at all."

Now, what do you write in the note?

1. Be sure to address the giver personally by starting the note with "Dear Pink" or "Dear Mr. and Mrs. Maple."

2. Say thanks and be descriptive - "Thank you so much for the lovely . . . " or "Thank you very much for the fantastic . . . "

But what if you received money? Thank the giver for their "generous gift" and tell them how you plan to use it ("I'll look forward to using it on my upcoming trip . . ." or "It will be of great help towards this semester's books . . . ")

3. Add some additional personal statement - "It was so nice to see you on Christmas at Aunt Maple's house . . . " or "I can't wait until our annual ski trip next month . . . " The etiquette tips from Crane & Co. say to mention the past and allude to the future.

4. Say thanks again - "Thanks again for your thoughtful gift . . ."

p.s. Isn't the thank you note above so pretty? It's the Boatman Geller wildflower spring foldover note now ON SALE for $20 for a package of 50!