by: 
A Guide to Gratitude
Your wedding day was a beautiful celebration filled with love, joy, and cherished memories. Now, as the newlywed bliss settles in, it's time to express your gratitude to those who made your special day even more memorable. Writing thank you cards is a wonderful way to connect with your guests one last time, and every card should include a handwritten note for that personal touch. Here’s a guide to help you navigate this meaningful task.
The Importance of Handwritten Notes
Handwritten notes add a personal touch that printed messages just can't replicate. When your guests receive a thank you card with a handwritten note, they feel genuinely appreciated. This small effort goes a long way in showing your gratitude and making your guests feel special.
What to Say: Crafting the Perfect Message
Your thank you notes should reflect your genuine appreciation and the unique relationship you have with each guest. Here are some examples to get you started:
For Close Friends and Family: "I loved seeing you again; it’s been too long. You’re so thoughtful for coming all this way to attend my wedding. It means so much to me!"
For Acquaintances or Distant Relatives: "Thank you so much for attending our wedding and for your generous gift. Your presence made our day even more special."
For Your Wedding Party: "Words cannot express how grateful we are for all your support and hard work leading up to our wedding. We couldn’t have done it without you!"
For Monetary Gifts: “Thank you for your generous donation. We can’t wait to put it towards (our honeymoon, our one year anniversary trip, our mortgage, a puppy, etc).” With monetary gifts, it’s important and thoughtful to state what you will use the money on to include your guests on the use of their gift!
Feel free to personalize these examples to suit your voice and the relationship you have with each guest.
Making It a Gratitude Practice
Writing thank you cards can be a wonderful gratitude practice. Here are some tips to keep you moving forward without feeling overwhelmed:
Write One or Two a Day: This approach keeps the task manageable and allows you to stay consistent without feeling too time-consuming.
Be Grateful Every Day: Incorporating gratitude into your daily routine can make you a happier person overall.
Practical Tips for Writing Your Thank Yous
Take Breaks: If your hand cramps, take a break. Writing thank you cards should be a pleasant task, not a painful one.
Stay Organized: Set up a tray with a list of gifts, envelopes, paper, and treats (like M&M’s). Consider writing all the envelopes (or getting them pre-printed) with the guest list so you don’t have to keep track of how many you have left. Buy stamps ahead of time and send out a few cards each day.
Why Bother?
Manners Matter: It’s sometimes hard to attend all the events and give gifts. Showing your appreciation keeps you on everyone's good side.
Special Attention for Your Wedding Party: Your wedding party worked extra hard to be at the celebration. For them, the more personal, the better.
Writing thank you cards is more than just a task; it's an opportunity to reflect on the love and support you received on your wedding day. By taking the time to write heartfelt, handwritten notes, you're not only expressing gratitude but also creating a lasting connection with your guests. So grab your pen, set up your thank you note station, and start writing! Your guests will appreciate the effort, and you'll find joy in the practice of gratitude.
