Card Savvy: Thank You Cards

by Jennifer Sizemore (Sep 30, 2007)

Life is short but there is always time for courtesy. Ralph Waldo Emerson, Social Aims

As soon as I was able to write, my parents emphasized the importance of writing thank you notes for birthday and Christmas presents. Now, I send them for many different types of things:

To a party or dinner hostess
For kind favors or deeds from friends or family
After being hosted as a house guest
To business owners or clerks who have been extra helpful
To teachers and other caregivers
To volunteers who have helped me with a project

Although most etiquette advisers would say that a thank you card is not necessary for every kindness, it is always nice to show appreciation.

What to Say
In the days before I began making cards, shopping for a card was not something I ever entered into lightly. I would browse the aisle of cards, looking at hundreds of cards until I found the perfect sentiment for the occasion.

“Thank You” Sentiments

An act of kindness is long remembered
Grateful for you
Heartfelt thanks
It’s just like you to be so nice
Many thanks
Merci
Much appreciated
Muchas gracias
Sincere gratitude
Thanks a bunch
Thanks a latte
Thanks for all you do
Thanks for everything
Thanks so much
You rock!

Quotes

“A kind heart is a fountain of gladness, making everything in its vicinity freshen into smiles.” Washington Irving
“How beautiful a day can be when kindness touches it!” George Elliston
“The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the grandest intention.” Oscar Wilde
“There is no greater loan than a sympathetic ear.” Frank Tyger
“Those who bring sunshine to the lives of others cannot keep it from themselves.” James Matthew Barrie
“Unselfish and noble actions are the most radiant pages in the biography of souls.” David Thomas
“We can do no great things, only small things with great love.” Mother Teresa
“When I was young, I admired clever people. Now that I am old, I admire kind people.” Abraham Joshua Heschel

If you are struggling to find just the right thing to say, try browsing card galleries, idea books, or greeting card aisles for inspiration. Be sure to add a personal handwritten note to the inside, no matter how many cards you have to write. Remember, just because the card is sent to show your gratitude, don’t feel it has to have a thank you sentiment on the cover. A simple design or monogram card will carry a message of gratitude just as well as a card that says “thank you” on the outside.

What to Make
Although I keep a stash of thank you cards on hand for when I am pressed for time, I generally like to create the card I send with the recipient or occasion in mind. For example, I wouldn’t send a flowered card to my brother. If I am making a card of thanks to someone I don’t know well, I keep it simple. I will admit I make an extra-special card for someone that I know will keep it and not just toss it out.

If you are making a card to thank someone for their hospitality, try incorporating a photo from the visit into the design.
Want to include a gift with a thank you? Make a card designed to hold a gift card or CD. Attach a small brooch or pin to your card, working it in to the design.
A handmade card can be customized so get specific with your thanks - “Thank you for pet-sitting” or “Thank you for the use of your shoulder.”
Giving a card to someone that likes to read? Design it as a bookmark.
A card does not have to be square or rectangle. Play with different shapes to make your card unique.
If you are looking for a thank you gift to give a teacher or relative, try making a handmade set of thank you notecards.
Know your recipient’s hobby or interests? Include something from those in your design. For example, if your recipient loves cats, include a feline embellishment.