Thank-you notes are one rule of etiquette that's here to stay. While everyone appreciates the gift, writing thank-you notes is not usually a favorite occupation. Ironically in today's world of instant communication, you are still expected to send a handwritten thank-you note every time you receive a gift.

What to Say

Thank-you notes for any shower gifts should be (or should have been!) sent within a few weeks of receiving the gift. For wedding gifts received prior to the wedding, you can thank-you notes as soon as you receive the gift. Just be sure to sign your maiden name to any thank-you cards written before you're married. For gifts received at or after the wedding, write your thank-you notes as soon as possible, within a month or two.

Really, thank-you notes are pretty simple. Here is what to include:

Mention the gift

Make a brief statement about how you plan to use it

Thank the guest for his or her generosity.

Here are a couple of samples to help get you started.

Thank-You Note for a Wedding Gift

Dear Lynn and Dennis, Thank you so much for the place setting of formal china. We really look forward to enjoying a lovely meal on our beautiful tableware during your next visit. We are so glad you were able to be with us at our wedding.

Fondly,

Christine

Thank-You Note for a Monetary Gift

Dear Barbara and Art,

Thank you so much for the generous gift. It will truly help us in completing our set of formal china. We appreciate your thoughtfulness. We are so glad you were able to be with us at our wedding.

Fondly,

Christine