TMI The equaTIon SupplIeS
You: The Instant Expert
The Equation
Pro Tip: Send Late Over Never
Add up these six elements.
No matter how much time has passed, still send a note, says Diane Gottsman, founder of the Protocol School of Texas. Simply start by apologizing that it took you so long.
Dear so-and-so + Thank you for the gift or action + How you enjoyed it (or plan to) + Something nice about the giver + A desire to catch up soon + sign-off = Now was that so hard?
Supplies
The Paper Chase
Rifle Paper Co. Monogram Stationery, $16 for eight cards and envelopes
Some customs are worth upholding. Follow these timeless tips for showing your appreciation.
TMI
Stuff you really shouldn’t mention:
1 2 3
Amount of cash
Confession that you’ll be returning it
Hard Copy or Digital
You don’t have to fib outright (“I’m wearing the bedazzled cowboy hat right now!”). Just acknowledge the giver’s thoughtfulness—that part, at least, is the truth.
horn tooting
A thank-you is about them, not you. Save the details of your promotion for your next missive.
The Sign-off
“XO” (and its cousins “XX” and “XOXO” ) are ubiquitous on social media…even from peeps you’ve never met IRL. But on a thank-you? “Unless you would actually hug or kiss the person if you saw her, resist the urge,” says Jodi R.R. Smith, an etiquette consultant in Massachusetts. “Respect boundaries.”
176
The Choice
Say thanks only for “the generous gift” instead of naming a dollar amount.
Do you need to pen a card, or will an e-thanks do? “Ask, ‘How memorable should this be?’” says Derek Blasberg, author of modern advice book Classy. “An e-mail gets the point across, but something handwritten leaves a lasting impression.” Here’s a cheat sheet: Favor
If, say, a friend buys you lunch, there’s no need for paper, but a quick e-mail (“Thanks for that delish meal—it was great to see you!”) is always appreciated.
Job interview
Gift
If you got the Both. Send a short present (and e-mail that day thanked the giver) (triple check for in person, you’re typos). Then drop set. (Exception: an envelope Always send a card in the mail when for wedding or you get home. shower gifts.) If it was shipped to you, reciprocate with a mailed note.
Clock wise from top left: cl aire benoist, prop st yling: lisa edsÄlv/Bernstein & andriulli (2); masterfile; courtesy of Rifle paper co.
Skip cards that are already printed with “thank you” in favor of custom ones that have your initials or name—both chic choices. Select a simple block or script font and look for flat versus fold-over cards: This stylish, no-nonsense option has less space to fill. Try minnieandemma .com, minted.com, and riflepaperco.com.
The Equation
Pro Tip: Send Late Over Never
Add up these six elements.
No matter how much time has passed, still send a note, says Diane Gottsman, founder of the Protocol School of Texas. Simply start by apologizing that it took you so long.
Dear so-and-so + Thank you for the gift or action + How you enjoyed it (or plan to) + Something nice about the giver + A desire to catch up soon + sign-off = Now was that so hard?
Supplies
The Paper Chase
Rifle Paper Co. Monogram Stationery, $16 for eight cards and envelopes
Some customs are worth upholding. Follow these timeless tips for showing your appreciation.
TMI
Stuff you really shouldn’t mention:
1 2 3
Amount of cash
Confession that you’ll be returning it
Hard Copy or Digital
You don’t have to fib outright (“I’m wearing the bedazzled cowboy hat right now!”). Just acknowledge the giver’s thoughtfulness—that part, at least, is the truth.
horn tooting
A thank-you is about them, not you. Save the details of your promotion for your next missive.
The Sign-off
“XO” (and its cousins “XX” and “XOXO” ) are ubiquitous on social media…even from peeps you’ve never met IRL. But on a thank-you? “Unless you would actually hug or kiss the person if you saw her, resist the urge,” says Jodi R.R. Smith, an etiquette consultant in Massachusetts. “Respect boundaries.”
176
The Choice
Say thanks only for “the generous gift” instead of naming a dollar amount.
Do you need to pen a card, or will an e-thanks do? “Ask, ‘How memorable should this be?’” says Derek Blasberg, author of modern advice book Classy. “An e-mail gets the point across, but something handwritten leaves a lasting impression.” Here’s a cheat sheet: Favor
If, say, a friend buys you lunch, there’s no need for paper, but a quick e-mail (“Thanks for that delish meal—it was great to see you!”) is always appreciated.
Job interview
Gift
If you got the Both. Send a short present (and e-mail that day thanked the giver) (triple check for in person, you’re typos). Then drop set. (Exception: an envelope Always send a card in the mail when for wedding or you get home. shower gifts.) If it was shipped to you, reciprocate with a mailed note.
Clock wise from top left: cl aire benoist, prop st yling: lisa edsÄlv/Bernstein & andriulli (2); masterfile; courtesy of Rifle paper co.
Skip cards that are already printed with “thank you” in favor of custom ones that have your initials or name—both chic choices. Select a simple block or script font and look for flat versus fold-over cards: This stylish, no-nonsense option has less space to fill. Try minnieandemma .com, minted.com, and riflepaperco.com.
