Definitive Guide to Writing Thank You Notes & Cheat Sheet

Do you need a guide to writing Thank You notes? Look no further because I’m sharing my best tips and a cheat sheet to make it easier for you. You’ll never have writer’s block again! 

Show your gratitude with a hand written note

Writing thank you notes is so very important after receiving gifts from a baby or bridal shower, weddings, a sweet 16 birthday party, and more. I’ve always found them to be slightly difficult to do, especially in bulk.

Although I FEEL the gratitude, it can be difficult to put into words, or it seems too short or trite, or I don’t know how to transition my thoughts, etc. This is when it’s a good idea to have a guide to writing thank you notes that will keep you on track and personalized to each recipient.

You’re going to love this foolproof guide, and to help me create this post I designed 6 custom note cards with Basic Invite. Aren’t they beautiful! There are so many designs and colors to choose from, as well as invitations and announcements. You’re sure to find something you love.

Guide to Writing Thank You Notes

There are a few basic points to keep in mind when writing thank you notes.

1. mention the gift
2. mention how you received the gift {baby shower, via mail, during lunch together, etc}
3. mention how you will use the gift
4. mention the person’s generosity, and your appreciation
5. mention how much their thoughtfulness meant to you

example: Thank you for the beautiful baby blanket(1) you gave me over lunch last week(2). It was such a thoughtful gift that we will cherish for years to come(4). We can’t wait to wrap baby James in it(3)! We’re so blessed to have friends like you in our lives(5). Thanks again. Love, Taylor.

The important thing is to speak from the heart and express real gratitude. The same formula applies to acts of kindness too.

example: Thank you so much for helping me with my move last week! I know it’s no small sacrifice to give up your Saturday to help me out like that, and I truly appreciate it. The time and labor you provided made it possible for me to get settled into my new place, and I couldn’t have done it without you! So grateful to have a friend like you! Love, Sarah.

Cheat Sheet for Writing Thank You Cards

I’ve put together a thank you note “cheat sheet” below. You can use this as your guide and fill in the blanks. Just write this special note inside one of the Thank You cards and you’re all set!

Doesn’t this make it so much easier? I’ve been using this method for years and it’s been such a life saver when my brain doesn’t want to function at the end of the day. Make sure you pin and share this post so you and others can use it! You’re welcome!

If you need cards at the last minute, here’s a cool site where you can choose a theme, customize, and print Thank You cards at home, for FREE.