Big Bear
Favorite Answer
I looked this up several years ago when writing thank you cards for wedding gifts. (in an etiquette book). It said you should start the sentence out with, "Dear______, Thank you for the lovely (or whatever word you want to use),_______(name of item).
I am sure we will put it to good use in our ______(kitchen). Or you can write that it will come in extremely handy, useful, etc..
Then sign your name.
?
It is POSSIBLE that he thought she was inserting a check, and she thought he was inserting a check, and that they gave you the card thinking a check was in there. You might want to write a note simply saying "Thank you for sharing this day with me!" or something like that, and then, because you didn't mention thank you for the check, if they did enclose a check they might ask you if you in fact got it, and if they never enclosed one, they would just take the note at face value. (I disagree with the responder who said that sending a thank you for being there would imply that you're mad about no gift. I don't think they would think of it as long as you're wording it positively.) As others said, it is possible that they did not HAVE money to give. And they may have assumed you had enough food to share. Their thinking depends on their past experiences. Where I grew up, only people very close to the celebrant (whatever event) would be invited, and all would bring considerable gifts. Where I live now, everyone is invited to everything, and bring your kids who we barely know, etc., because the more the merrier...the food is very simple, and a lot of people either don't bring gifts or bring small gifts. On the other hand, most people who would not bring a gift would think of bringing enough food to feed their own family. Whether they brought a gift or not, they probably came because they were happy for you and wanted to share in your special day. If they did not bring a gift on purpose, chances are they are embarrassed about it but did not want to show they didn't care by not coming. VERY few people have so little pride that they will simply go somewhere for a free meal. (If they are so poor that this is the only way they could get a decent meal that day, then just be happy that you were able to provide it for them.) Next time you have a big event, think carefully before inviting them. Think in advance that they probably will not bring a gift, and then think if you would want them anyway. Invite them only if you would want them anyway. (And if you wouldn't want them anyway, without a gift, you shouldn't be inviting them in the first place.)
jen
When you purchase an item with the gift card then write a not saying what you purchased with it.
If you need to send a thank you card right away, then say (Thank you for the gift card it will come in handy when I purchase (whatever)...
Karla R
I would basically go buy whatever it is with your gift card, and then write the note saying - "Thank you so much for the gift card. I was able to get ________________________ with it, and I am so excited about it. I really appreciate you thinking about me. Thanks, again!" and then sign your name.
Anonymous
If you were given money, write thank you for your gift of money. We really appreciate your kindness.
If you were given a gift, be sure to mention the gift, i.e. Thank you for the toaster, it is something we really needed.