Etiquette: Thank You Notes/Writing Papers

Dear Reader,

Let's discuss thank you notes. Most people nowadays have forgotten the art of correspondence and most especially, the necessity of writing thank you notes. Most good people of breeding were instructed by their mothers in this art, and many probably had personalized writing papers from birth; however, I find it fitting to send a gentle reminder to the public regarding this matter. Some may not remember or even know when such a note is appropriate, so I will fulfill my duties and inform you so that you will always be correct:

1. A thank you note is never inappropriate.
2. A thank you note is required (and should be written within a fortnight) when a gift is received via the post or when the giver was not present at its opening or receipt. A note should be written even of the giver were present, at a bridal or baby shower, for example.
3. A thank you note should be written the very next day to the host/hostess after a party, dinner engagement, or bridge luncheon.
4. A thank you note should be written when any act of kindness or generosity has been performed.
5. A thank you note is most lovely when sent on personalized, engraved writing papers; however, when that is not possible, store bought notes are acceptable.
6. The content of same should be pleasant and specific. Do not write, "thank you for the gift" but rather, "thank you for lovely set of candles. They match our dining room wallpaper perfectly and Oswald and I will be using them every night to make our dinner together special.", etc.

A wide array of writing papers is available to even the woman of the most modest means. I personally recommend the Crane Company's papers (their website link has been provided) for every day use. One may order a variety of sets, to include the monarch papers, correspondence cards, foldover notes, and gift enclosure cards, with their respective envelopes. Happy writing!

Until next time...

HF

www.crane.com