When to Send Thank You Notes for Wedding Gifts

According to etiquette guru Peggy Post, it is a myth that newlyweds have one year to write thank you notes. However daunting the task seems, it is best to tackle it as soon as possible so your guests know their gifts were received and appreciated.

Before the Wedding

Despite the chaos of wedding preparations, thank you notes should be sent out within two weeks after receiving a gift. On emilypost.com, Peggy Post says, "Ideally, a response should be written on the day you receive a wedding gift."

Mailed Gifts

Gifts received by mail should be acknowledged as soon as possible, within one or two days. You may call the sender to let her know you received her gift, but a phone call does not replace a handwritten note.

After the Wedding

Thank you notes for gifts received at the wedding should be sent within three months after the wedding date. Even if it has been more than three months, however, you should still send a note.

Writing Notes

Always handwrite a wedding thank you note. In the case of monetary gifts, it is appropriate to let the person know how you intend to use their gift, such as putting it toward a down payment for a home or completing your china set.

Tip

Keep a list of gifts received and who gave them. As you write your thank you notes, check off the gift and giver so you're sure not to overlook sending a note.
You can use the wedding invitation/guest list as a starting point, listing gifts beside the giver's name. However, if you receive a gift from someone who was not invited to the wedding, be sure to add their name to the thank you list right away so they are included when you write your notes.

References

• Emily Post: Wedding Thank You Etiquette