Saying "Thank you!"

So many people have a hard time saying the right thing or don't know how to say it.  This is especially true in regard to weddings and saying "thank you." 

First of all, anyone who does something out of the ordinary or beyond their duties for you and your wedding should receive a gesture of appreciation from you both.  This includes all of your attendants, ushers, parents, family and friends who help decorate or throw a party in your honor, and any vendors who you feel went above and beyond the scope of their jobs.

Thank-yous for gifts you receive before the wedding at engagement parties or showers or just early wedding gifts should typically be sent out within three weeks of the event or receiving of the gift. (Unless, of course, the gift is delivered the week of the wedding.)  For gifts received at or after the wedding, it is best for thank-you notes to be sent out within three months but for extenuating circumstances, up to a year after the wedding date is acceptable. (i.e. if you have problems moving or a long honeymoon)

Keep in mind that the guests at your wedding are not obligated to bring you a gift, even though it is typical.  The honor of their presence on your special day is a great gift in itself.  If someone does attend your wedding without sending a gift or bringing one with them, they still deserve to receive a thank you for their attendance and sharing in your joy.  These days, many people are sending gifts to the couple before the wedding day which definitely eases the newlyweds' to-do list after the honeymoon but it is still acceptable to bring a gift to the reception if your guests choose to do so.

When writing your appreciation be sure to include these things. 
1. First of all, the formality of the note should match the formality of your invitation and overall wedding.  The address on the envelope should always be formal and names should be written out fully.  On the inside of the card is where you can use informal nicknames and first names. 

2. Make sure to always thank them for the specific gift they sent (even if it was not something that matches your style) and how you intend to use it ( "We can't wait to try out our cooking skills with the pots and pans!").  If you intend on returning the gift still mention it specifically but say something about how you can't wait for them to visit you after you get settled in.
 (If, for some reason, their gift was not recorded or the list was lost, you can mention what a great addition to your home the gift will make.)

3. Thank them for sharing in the excitement of your day and say how much it meant to you to have them there.

4. If they were unable to attend the wedding, let them know you missed having them there but can't wait to share the photos or video of the day with them.

5. Always speak from the heart. If you have a special story or thanks to say to close friend, include it!  Personalization is always great!

So, brides and grooms, go stock up on extra thank-you cards and get to it! Good luck!
If you have any specific questions, please leave a comment!