The two most important things about writing proper thank you notes are: (1) writing it; and (2) getting it in the mail! The rest is all in the details. Here are my top three tips to help you master the art of the thank you note:
Stylish Stationery. Stylish stationery is a must-have – it doesn’t have to be fancy or expensive (and of course I’d love it if you have a stash of effie’s paper for just such an occasion) – but your stationery should be nice enough for your recipient to remember it. Keep stationery, stamps and an up-to-date address book on-hand; having theses essential tools is the first step towards success.
Time. Set aside time in your day – schedule it on your calendar or make letter writing an item on your “TO DO” list; 10 minutes is all you need to write a thoughtful and thorough message. Keep your notes simple and sweet, write from the heart and the words will come. If they don’t, give yourself a moment and think about what you would tell the person if you were sitting across the table from them at dinner and then let your pen flow!
People Remember NOT Receiving A Thank You Note. Kate Spade says you should send them within 3 days. If you can make that happen, by all means please do. But, given that we all lead busy lives, if you can get that puppy in the mail within a couple of weeks of the event/receiving the gift/etc. you’re good to go. Honestly, if you wait any longer, you may forget altogether. BUT, however “late” your thank you note may be, SEND IT. Yes, you heard me, SEND IT. No one remembers how “late” a thank you note was, but people do remember not receiving a thank you note.
Now, go on and write that note! Need a stylish stash of stationery to get you started? Start here.
Stylishly yours,
Kalyn
