6 Tips to Make Sure You Don’t Overlook Your Thank-You Notes

When it comes to post-ceremony etiquette, one of the most important gestures is sending thank-you notes. This extra courtesy shows genuine appreciation to those who recognized—and celebrated—the once-in-a-lifetime significance of your special day.

No wedding thank-you is complete without confetti and favors. Today there’s a dazzling array of sugared almonds, artisan sweets, and creative keepsakes—hand-crafted boxes or whimsical trinkets—that reflect the mood you chose for the entire event.

Tokens alone aren’t enough. A thoughtful handwritten card carries weight, and thank-you notes are very much back in vogue. Some couples surprise guests by turning the notes into charming place cards at the reception; others prefer to send theirs after the honeymoon, once the excitement of the wedding has settled.

Etiquette dictates that you mail your thank-you cards within a few weeks of the wedding and before returning from—or no later than right after—the honeymoon. This ensures your gratitude arrives while the joyous memories are still fresh.

Every guest deserves a bespoke “thank you.” Mention the specific gift they gave, and consider including a photo from the celebration—perhaps featuring the guest alongside the newlyweds. Another delightful idea is to mail a postcard from your honeymoon, complete with a personal message and an image of an unforgettable moment.

The paper and design you used for your invitations, menus, and seating chart should carry through to your thank-you notes. If you wrote your invites by hand, use the same stationery and envelopes. If you chose pre-printed cards, stick with the same fonts and decorative motifs. Consistency adds an air of refinement.

Simplicity never fails. A short, heartfelt message in your own voice is always best. If you’d rather borrow words than risk awkward phrasing, select a fitting quote, a few lines of poetry, or a snippet of a favorite song that resonates with you. Whether you opt for a formal, romantic tone or a more conversational style, the key is to let your sincere gratitude shine through.