We often take for granted the very things
that most deserve our gratitude.
– Cynthia Ozick

In our fast-paced world, the art of the handwritten thank you note is a slow-paced luxury. There’s something timeless and meaningful about taking the time to express your gratitude on paper. Whether you’ve received a thoughtful gift, attended a memorable event, or simply appreciate someone’s kindness, a thank you note can make someone’s day. 

Martha is sharing her tips on how to write the perfect thank you note that’s heartfelt, personal, and memorable.

Step 1: Gather Supplies

If you’re a seasoned letter writer or stationery lover, you’ll most likely have your favorite supplies or tools ready to use on your desk. For those looking to build their stationery collection, we have a few ideas that will aid in your thank you note writing practice. 

Pull your practice materials. We love to use the FAF Brass Desk Pads along with a pencil to gather our thoughts. This allows you to prep an outline, write your ideas, and erase as you go. If you feel the inspiration flowing through you, start on your final note from the get-go. 

Feeling ready? Gather your stationery! Writing thank you notes in bulk? Go for a matching notecard set to create an efficient process. If you’re writing to one person at a time, we recommend pulling a card that reminds you of them. Personalization always brings a smile to the recipient’s face.

This Oblation Handmade Paper Pack is our go-to for for a 5x7 card. They are beautiful, textured, and feature a deckled edge that brings your writing to life. If you have just a few thoughts to share, these mini notecards are an absolute joy to receive! Have something extra special to share? These gold-foil edged notecards are substantial and come in a variety of colors.

Writing really flows when you love your writing utensil. Grab a pen that feels good in your hand. One that has a full ink cartridge so there are no skips in your thoughts. The Anterique Brass Ballpoint Pen weighs 26 grams, creating the perfect balance in your hand. If you really want to lean into letterwriting, might we suggest a glass dip pen. Build up your ink collection and write each note in a different color. It keeps things interesting! 

Determine your final touches. Stickers and stamps add playful personality. Illustrate the envelope with things you love about that person. A wax seal encloses your thoughts. Martha likes to include a piece of her puppy hair.

Thank You Note Tools

Step 2: Time & Place
Now it’s time to write! Before diving into the message, it’s important to date your thank you note. This helps the recipient keep track of when the gesture occurred, but also gives it a sense of nostalgia when looking back on your note later. We know your note will be a work of art that they’ll want to keep forever. 

Feel free to add your home location or where you’re writing from to set the scene.


Step 3: Greetings & Salutations
Start your note with a warm and friendly greeting. If you’re writing to a close friend or family member, you can keep it casual and affectionate. For formal thank you notes, a more traditional greeting like "Dear [Name]" works perfectly. Some options include:

Dear Friend (for a casual, friendly tone)
Dear [Recipient's Name] (if you want to keep it a bit more formal)
Dearest [Name] (for someone especially close to you)

The salutation sets the tone for the rest of the note, so feel free to get creative or expressive! We also love an all caps greeting “HIIIII MARTHA!”. 


Step 4: A Heartfelt Thank You
This is the heart of your note. Express your gratitude clearly and sincerely. Avoid vague or generic phrases like “thanks for the gift.” Instead, mention the specific gift or gesture and explain why it means so much to you.

For example:
“Thank you so much for the beautiful necklace you gave me for my birthday. It’s such a thoughtful gift, and I’ve been wearing it every day! It reminds me of the trip we took to New York.”

“I truly appreciate the time and effort you put into hosting such a wonderful dinner party. I had the best time catching up with everyone.”

Add a memory that you shared together. The more specific you are, the more meaningful your thank you will feel. 

Step 5: Update
This is where you can fill your recipient in on your life. Let the person know how their gift or gesture has impacted you, or how you plan to use it. If you received a gift, share how it's becoming a part of your daily life or how it has made you feel.

For instance:
“The cookbook you gave me has been such an inspiration—I’ve already tried three new recipes and can’t wait to cook more from it! The pistachio butter cookies have been a household favorite. I’ll bake you some next time I see you!”

If it was an experience you’re thanking them for (such as a dinner or trip), you could write:
“The weekend getaway we took together was unforgettable. I can’t stop thinking about the hike we did on Discovery Trail! That view was extraordinary and exactly what I needed to reconnect with nature. So glad we did it together!”

Step 6: Look Forward
End your card on a positive note by expressing excitement for future plans or your continued relationship. This helps strengthen the bond you share with the person and leaves them feeling appreciated. It could be something as simple as:
“I can’t wait to see you again soon!”
“I look forward to our next coffee date!”
“I hope we can plan another getaway like that in the new year.”

Step 7: Complimentary Close
When it comes to signing off, choose a closing phrase that matches the tone of your note. For a more formal thank you note, you could use “Sincerely” or “Best regards.” For a more casual or heartfelt note, try “Warm wishes,” “With love,” or “XOXO”. 

Some options include:
Sincerely
Warm Wishes
With Love
Fondly
Gratefully
Love you!

Step 8: Post Script
The P.S. is a fun little addition to your thank you note. This land of afterthoughts adds some extra personality to your note. We prefer it to be updates about your dog’s life, but feel free to include an anecdote, a doodle, or your latest book recommendation.

While the words themselves are important, there are a few fun ways to make your thank you note even more special:

  • Include a small token or memento: A pressed flower, a photograph, or a tiny trinket inside the envelope can be a nice surprise.
  • Decorate the envelope: Whether it's with colorful stickers, hand-drawn designs, or even a wax seal, a decorated envelope can make your thank you note feel even more personal.

When to Send a Thank You Note 

There are countless occasions when a thank you note is appreciated. Here are just a few:

Birthdays: Whether it's a gift or simply a celebration, a thank you note shows you appreciate the thoughtfulness.
Holidays: After receiving a gift, holiday cards, or any gesture of kindness.
Housewarmings: Thanking someone for hosting or for a thoughtful housewarming gift.
Weddings: A thank you for the attendance, gift, or help in planning your big day.
Baby Showers: A thank you for a gift or for being part of the celebration.
Dinner Invitations: After attending a dinner, especially if someone went out of their way to host.
Thoughtful Gestures: Any unexpected act of kindness, from helping you move to offering a listening ear.
Something you’re grateful for about that person: Sometimes you’re just feeling extra love for your friend.

Writing a thank you note doesn’t have to be complicated. The most important part is expressing your gratitude in a genuine and heartfelt way. A few thoughtful words can go a long way in showing someone just how much their gift, gesture, or presence meant to you. So, next time you receive a thoughtful present or have an experience you want to remember, take the time to write a thank you note. It’s a small act that will leave a lasting impact.