Jenna's Lovely Jamboree: 5 Tips for the Perfect Thank You Card

I am a firm believer in hand written thank you cards. I love getting things in the mail other than bills and coupons for items I don't even buy at places I don't shop. :) In our sensory overloaded days it's easy to get caught up in checking items off your to-do list and even easier to forget to thank the people that help to make that possible. Taking the time to ~~stop~~ slow down, look someone in the eye, and say thank you can turn someones day right side up - and that someone may even be YOU!

So here are my 5 tips for the perfect thank you card:

1. Stationary
Stationary doesn't have to be fancy or expensive. I keep my eyes peeled at the dollar section at Target for super cute thank you {and blank} notecards. My newest TY card shopping spot is TJ Maxx. See below for some of the darling cards I picked up recently.

2. Recipients
Sending a text or an email is soooo convenient and quick however, handwriting a note shows you took time out of your day to express your feelings. Family, friends, co-workers, strangers, and future bosses {POST-INTERVIEWS!} will feel the appreciation and may be more willing to go out of their way for you next time it's needed. Tip: write out your message on a scratch piece of paper before you go pen-on-paper.

3. Language
Take into consideration the person you're sending your note to and tailor your message to the recipient. When you write a note to a friend or family member you can be more relaxed in your messaging. Feel free to add extra exclamation points {my favorite!!} and happy faces. For your co-worker and definitely your future, hopefully, potential boss/ interviewer you'll want to present yourself more professionally. You know your relationships and dynamics best, so be sure to use great judgment when crafting your messages.

4. Penmanship
Oh this makes my heart and hands happy! I love to write things down. I fake calligraphy and am a huge fan of cursive writing. I have this natural hybrid handwriting that doesn't look too bad. Everyone is capable of chicken scratch and this is the time to hide that far, far away. Use a nice pen {something that rolls smoothly and doesn't do crazy things with the ink} and tuck a few sheets of scratch paper under the card to create a cushioned writing surface. I love the Sharpie Fine Tip Pens but found a less expensive option I've been using on everything from Write Dudes.

5. Delivery
Hand delivery or Snail Mail? I'm a fan of both. I also like hiding thank you notes for people to find later. The fiancé finds his fair share of hidden notes in various places - usually weeks/months after the fact. For post interview and professional type notes I recommend snail mail. Be sure to track down the correct address and do your research about how to address {care of, mail box number, department name, title, etc.} the envelope.

I encourage you to find someone in your life, anyone who could use a boost of happiness in their day, and write them a note today. Let them know you're thinking about them and thank them for something they've done for you recently. :)