Southern Hospitality: The Importance of Thank-You Notes

Southern Mamas will all agree on the importance of thank-you notes. My mother probably values only our “yes ma’am no ma’am-s” over thank-you notes. Growing up, my younger brother and I would essentially be on house arrest until our required thank-you notes went in the mail. Despite complaining bitterly when I was younger, I now appreciate the importance of a thank-you note. As my mom used to say, “If someone took the time to give you a gift, you can take the time to write them a thank-you note.” As much as it would pain my younger self to admit, she’s right! Thank you notes are a requirement.

If you’re wondering when it’s appropriate to write a thank-you note, my personal guideline is if you have to ask, you should. What I basically mean is that it’s better to be overly thankful than come across as rude. Some situations are pretty obvious when a note is appropriate, such as receiving a gift or being hosted on a trip, but some situations are less clear. I personally don’t think a thank-you note is necessary for receiving a birthday card (although it’s always nice to call and thank the sender). I also don’t send a thank-you note for receiving a hostess gift, as the gift-giver is thanking YOU for hosting them. If someone hosts you for a smaller dinner party or brings you a meal, it’s polite to send a thank-you note. A great reference if you’re unsure is Emily Post's etiquette books.

Emily Post’s Everyday Etiquette: How to Handle the Top Manners Dilemmas

---

Get the Look:

Atlanta Hot Tip: I love Rifle Paper Co and typically use their stationary. If you’re in Atlanta, Read Shop in Vinings sells their products. If you don’t have access to Read Shop, you can order stationary from the Rifle website.

Read Shop

Rifle Paper Co

Hydrangea Thank-You Notes: Rifle Paper Co

"S" Monogram Cards: Pencil & Paper Co. for Anthropologie

---

Thanks for reading!

- Sam