The lost art of handwritten thank you notes
Recently, I got a gift and a note from a client.
What I loved about the gift was the little details, like the slash through his name on the note.
I used to see this a lot in cards sent by designers and magazine editors when I worked as a designer.
It’s an old school little detail. The slash signals a closer / more personal relationship with the person. e.g. “Just call me by my first name.”
I've always loved the concept. I try to share this little detail as much as possible since I think handwritten thank you notes are a lost art. It's so much easier to send a text or email. My belief is that things have more meaning when they're less convenient.
I used to carve out a bit of time each week to write notes. They’ve become less frequent as my business has grown, but I’d like to get back into the practice of it.
Here’s how I like to write the perfect thank you note.
Actual thank you card I sent to “The Bike Whisperer”, who taught me how to ride a bike in 20-mins!
Use custom stationary
Having your own stationary really puts you in a unique category. You’re the kind of person that puts effort into things.
I get my stationary from the legendary Terrapin Stationers, they’re the go-to place for people like Marc Jacobs, Gucci, Rolex, and Vogue for their stationary and event invitations.
Pre-write your message
I usually pre-write and edit my message in Notepad before I commit to pen. This helps me avoid having to cross out words or ramble.
Keep it brief
Write no more than 4 sentences.
Anything longer should be saved for a proper letter. I start and end with “Thank you”, and specify why I’m saying thank you in the middle.
Write it in pen
My pen of choice is a Zebra Sarasa gel pen. The black is really dark and dries nearly instantly. It’s the perfect pen for left handers like me. Find one that works for you.
If you’re not as confident with a pen yet, you can use a guideline ruler or write lightly in pencil first. Make sure you ink over it with a pen that’s smudge proof for when you erase the pencil marks.
Write slow
Rushing makes your handwriting sloppy and more likely to make mistakes.
I follow the creed: “Slow is smooth, smooth is fast.”
Add a date
This is optional, but it’s always nice to find a card someone wrote you and look back on that date
If applicable, cross out your last name
It’s a way of saying “We’re close/cool/casual, just call me by my first name.”
If it’s a formal relationship/note (e.g. a business contact) leave your name intact.
Sign it!
Now’s a good time to practice your signature!
Finally, don’t be too precious
it’s ok if it’s crooked or “ugly”. That’s the charm of handwritten notes.
If you want perfect and neat, send an email.
