There’s something about the holidays that tends to turn us all into writers. With cleverly worded Christmas letters and thoughtful thank you notes to send after each festive event, it’s the perfect time of year to tell your loved ones how much you care.

When you find the time to sit down with your stationery and pen, you might be wondering where to begin. Don’t fret! We’re here to help. With over 100 years in the stationery business, we’ve written our fair share of thank you notes here at Crane. So pour yourself a cup of tea or cocoa, pull up a chair, and follow these tips for writing the perfect holiday thank you notes. We’ve even included a few samples to spark your inspiration.

The Basics

The best way to get started is to follow this simple formula. In each thank you note, you should include the following five things:

1. A Greeting

Open your note with a simple salutation. When in doubt, you can’t go wrong with “Dear.” Since the tone is personal and informal, if you are writing to a friend or loved one, feel free to use nicknames.

2. Expression of Gratitude

While it is perfectly appropriate to write a standard thank you card, including details about the specific gift you received adds a personal touch and lets the giver know how much you appreciate their gesture.

3. Statement About the Future

Here is your chance to tell your friend or loved one how much you appreciate them and to let them know you can’t wait to see them again. To make your note even more special, mention something you discussed when you received the gift, or the last time you spoke.

4. Reiterate the Thank You

Close on a grateful note and reiterate your gratitude.

5. Regards

There are many ways to end your note; choose one that conveys warmth and is appropriate for your relationship.

Here are some fun examples of ways to sign off that go beyond “sincerely”:

• Love,
• Best wishes,
• Cheers,
• Warmly,
• Fondly,
• Beyond grateful,
• Blessings,
• Feeling spoiled,
• With gratitude,
• Love and thanks,

Need some more inspiration? Here are some holiday thank you note examples to fit a variety of situations.

Monetary Gifts

Gift Card

Dear ____,

Thank you for the generous gift card to [store]. I am so excited to refresh my ski gear before my next trip to Vail. I have a feeling that this season is going to be amazing! I can’t wait to hear about your visit to Spain. Let’s plan to grab a coffee when you get back.

Thanks again. I so appreciate your thoughtfulness and am happy to have you as an aunt.

Love,

Money or Check

Dear ____,

I just used the Christmas gift you sent toward a new pair of boots and I have got to tell you, my feet look fabulous! I’m so excited to wear them. Thanks so much for your generosity. I’m touched beyond words.

I loved looking at pictures of your precious grandkids and cannot wait to see you this Easter. Thanks so much for your generous gift and, of course, your delicious Christmas cookies.

Feeling spoiled,

Gift from a Close Friend

Dear ____,

I cannot thank you enough for the adorable cocktail glasses. They look perfect on my bar cart. You know me so well! I am sipping on a martini as I write this. I can’t wait to have you over for a cocktail sometime soon so we can put them to good use.

Thank you so much for your thoughtful gift and priceless friendship. I am so happy to have you in my life.

Cheers,

Gift from a Distant Relative or Acquaintance

Dear ____,

Thank you so much for the lovely mug and chocolates. The mug will make my days at the office just a bit brighter. How did you know that I had such an insatiable sweet tooth? I can tell that you are such a thoughtful and giving person, and I really enjoyed our conversation over dinner.

Thank you again for your sweet gift. You’ve made my day.

Sincerely,

Office Secret Santa

Dear ____,

I am so lucky to have you as my Secret Santa! I adore candles and can never have too many of them. The scent you chose made my house smell absolutely delightful. Thanks so much for your thoughtful gift and for being such a joy to be around in the office. You always brighten my Mondays.

Thanks again, and I hope you have a wonderful holiday back home in Wisconsin.

Warmly,

Gift from a Colleague or Business Acquaintance

Dear ____,

Thank you so much for your thoughtful holiday gift. My team and I have been enjoying the beautiful holiday treats all week. It’s always a pleasure doing business with you.

Thank you for thinking of me during the holidays. I hope you have a happy and prosperous new year!

Sincerely,

Dinner Party

Dear ____,

What a spectacular party. You really are an incredible host! Thank you for letting us be part of it all. We had a lovely time. My husband and I cannot stop talking about that chocolate cake – we’d love to get the recipe from you next time we see you.

Thanks again for the evening filled with laughter, conversation, and delightful food; I am still smiling just thinking about it.

Love and thanks,

When to Send your Note

The best time to send your note is a few days after receiving your gift or attending a party, but it is never too late to show your gratitude. If a week or two has passed, your recipient will still be delighted to read your kind words.

No matter what the occasion or gift, a handwritten thank you note is the best way to share your gratitude with the ones you love and make a wonderful impression.

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Order the same stationery that the celebrities received at the VMAs–Alicia Keys, Heidi Klum, Kanye West, Rihanna, Drake, Ariana Grande and more!

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