How to Write 100 Wedding Thank You Cards Without Losing Your Mind: An Irish Bride's Secret
If you're staring at that mountain of wedding thank you cards you need to write and wondering how you'll ever get through them without going completely mad, I've been there. After writing over 100 cards myself (yes, really), I've cracked the code on how to tackle this mammoth task without losing your marbles - or your new marriage!
First Things First: Get Organised
Right, before you even pick up that fancy pen your aunt got you "specially for the thank you cards" (hint, hint), here's what you need:
- A comfy spot to write
- Your wedding gift list (please tell me you kept one!)
- A stack of cards
- Some decent pens
- A large glass of wine (optional but recommended)
The Secret Formula That Saved My Sanity
Here's the thing nobody tells you: trying to write all your thank you cards in one go is like attempting to drink all the pints in Temple Bar - it's just not going to end well. Instead, here's my tried-and-tested method:
The Rule of 10
Never write more than 10 cards in one sitting. Trust me on this one. Your handwriting starts to look wobbly after that, and you'll begin writing things like "Thank you for your generous gift" over and over like a robot.
Timing is Everything
Start within two weeks of getting back from honeymoon. Any longer and your mother-in-law will start dropping not-so-subtle hints about her friend Mary still waiting for her thank you card.
Divide and Conquer
Split your list into manageable chunks:
- Family (they'll notice first)
- Wedding party
- Friends
- Work colleagues
- Everyone else
What to Actually Write
Look, we've all received those generic thank you cards that feel about as personal as a TV licence reminder. Here's how to make yours better:
For cash gifts (aka the famous brown envelope)
"Dear Auntie Joan,
Your incredibly generous gift will help us [specific thing - e.g., 'put the deposit down on our first home' / 'splurge on that amazing dinner in Paris on our honeymoon']. We're so grateful you could celebrate with us, and it was lovely to see you throwing shapes on the dance floor!"
For actual presents
"Dear Uncle Pat and Mary,
The beautiful Waterford Crystal vase has already found pride of place in our living room - we think of you every time we look at it. Thank you for such a thoughtful gift and for sharing in our special day."
Quick Tips to Keep You Sane
- Get your other half involved: Mine did all the addressing of envelopes (after some gentle persuasion)
- Make it fun: Pour yourself a cuppa (or that glass of wine), stick on some music, and tackle them in short bursts
- Track your progress: Nothing beats the satisfaction of ticking names off your list
When Disaster Strikes
Can't remember what someone gave you? Here's your get-out-of-jail-free card:
"Your thoughtful gift and presence at our wedding meant the world to us. We're so grateful you could share in our special day."
The Home Stretch
Remember, done is better than perfect. Your guests just want to know their gift was received and appreciated. They're not expecting Yeats-level poetry (though if you can manage that after three glasses of wine, fair play to you).
And if you're reading this three months after your wedding and haven't started yet - deep breath. Better late than never. Pop the kettle on, grab those cards, and just start. Your mammy can finally stop asking about them.
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