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Thank-You Note Know-How (556 words, US)

Once you say, "I'll marry you," you may be wearing more than just a ring - how about a wrist brace from writing dozens upon dozens of thank-you notes. Gifts are often plentiful from events like your engagement party, bridal shower, and, of course, your wedding day.

Unfortunately, telephone calls and e-mail won't fit the bill here. Instead, etiquette dictates that you send a handwritten thank-you note to everyone who gives you a gift. If someone gives you a gift for your shower and another for your engagement, you have to send a separate note for each gift.

Send one to everyone, even if it's your best friend whom you've thanked 1,000 times over. Thank-you notes also aren't just for tangible gifts like cash or those steak knives you registered for, though. Send thank-you notes to the person who let you have your engagement party at her home or who helped make your wedding day special, like your band, florist or photographer.

Notes should be written on stationery that complements the wedding. They are usually small, fold-over notecards with the words "Thank You" or your names on the front, and matching envelopes.

For less formal notes, you can buy basic thank-you cards or monogrammed or personalized stationery. Just remember to use your maiden name on any notes written before the wedding, since your married name can't be used until after the big day. You should write in blue or black ink, not a pencil or colored pen. Notes should express genuine appreciation and gratitude for the gift. They don't have to be long, but should mention the gift and how you'll use it.

Get started on those thank-you notes as soon as possible. You don't have to write all 300 in one day. Pace yourself. The rule of thumb is to mail shower thank-you notes within two to three weeks after the party. Early wedding gifts should be noted before your wedding day arrives. Old-fashioned etiquette says you have a year to thank everyone else who sends you a wedding gift, but try to get them finished by about three months after the wedding.

By Metro Creative Connection