Early in my bridesmaid career, I spent an entire afternoon hot gluing tiny papier-mache flowers to a gold-painted birdcage. “What on earth is this for?” I whispered to the Maid of Honor, avoiding eye contact with the DIY bride. The MOH pointed to the gift table, where another bridesmaid was busy arranging a backdrop of paper lanterns and balloons.
Since then, I’ve noticed similar receptacles on gift tables at every wedding reception. Cards including cash (or a check) are quickly outpacing wedding registry items at modern weddings.
But etiquette is one thing that should never be outpaced. Here’s how to avoid that cringe-worthy “thanks for the cash” thank you note.
Avoid words like cash, check, money…
Never, ever start a thank you card with “thanks for the cash/check/money/donation to my honeymoon fund…” It’s impersonal and flies in the face of a graceful note. The “it’s rude to talk about money” rule still applies here. And you should absolutely never mention the amount.
Instead, include a phrase like “thank you for your generosity.” No matter how much they gave, it was a generous gesture.
Describe how you’ll use it
While it’s a little different from describing all the ways you’d use a crystal punch bowl, people still like to hear how you’ll enjoy their gift. It makes the note more personal. Add a thoughtful way their gift will contribute to something you’ll enjoy as newlyweds.
For instance, “Thank you so much for your generosity and for attending our wedding! Landon and I are so excited to decorate our new home. Thanks to you, we’re able to add chairs to our dining room table! We’re looking forward to hosting you for dinner soon!”
Mention the card
Remember, it’s not just about the money. Odds are this guest picked out a specific card and wrote a handwritten note to express their love and congratulations. Show them how much you appreciate their thoughts (and that you actually read their card!) by mentioning it in your thank you note.
For example, “Your card was so special to us! We always appreciate your advice.” “We laughed out loud at your card! Let’s hope we never get to Step 3….”
While you’re at it – say a special thank you to the bridesmaid who created your special “deposit box” (or birdcage, or dollhouse, or whatever). She worked hard for your money.
Style Me Pretty Contributor – Madeline Littrell is a corporate PR strategist and freelance writer. Born and raised in the South, she loves big hair, country music, and chicken fingers. Madeline lives in Dallas with her Sheltie puppy, Tennessee.