Savvy Bride answers your thank you note etiquette questions.

How long do I really have to send out those thank you notes?
Only six to eight weeks after the wedding. Any longer than three months and you are entering that grey area and guests could become concerned their gift was not received.

Can I use e-mail?
No! Each note must be a handwritten heartfelt expression of gratitude.

What about a preprinted note?
Sorry, we just can’t let you off the hook like this. Fully preprinted notes don’t just verge on tacky, they are tacky fair and square. Saying thank you is just not something you should skimp on. A need we say it – no fill in the blank card either.

What should I include in my note?
Mention the gift and let the giver know how you will be using it, e.g. this place setting will be used when we celebrate our first Christmas together. Try to include something special about the giver, e.g. thank you for flying all that way for us. Let guests who couldn’t attend how much they were missed.

What is they gave us money?
Never state the amount, instead thank them for their generosity and mention how you might be spending the gift, i.e. this will help us purchase a new lounge suite for our brand new home together.

If I got a shower and wedding gift from the same person, can I just send one note?
We’re afraid not. Each gift deserved its own personal note. As for group gifts, each person deserves an individual response.

What if I plan to return the gift?
Correct etiquette is to acknowledge the gift and not mention that you are going to return it or exchange it.

How can I manage thank you note writing so that it doesn’t drive me insane!?
One option is to write each note as the gift is received, thus spreading out the work. Another is to set up a note kit slim enough for your purse. Anytime you are kept waiting for even five minutes, you can author a great thank you note. Many brides also use online management tools so they can view or update their list from anywhere.