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The day and after · After the wedding

What to avoid in a thank you card?

Answered by the UK Wedding Websites editorial team · Updated 2026-10-12

Short answer

Avoid vague phrases, late delivery, and generic wording. Do not mention the amount of money given or compare gifts. Skip inside jokes that exclude the sender, and never use printed labels for handwritten messages.

The main thing to avoid is a card that feels like a chore. A rushed, generic line like "thank you for the lovely gift" tells the giver nothing about them or their present. Do not mention the amount of money or a cheque value, as that can feel transactional and awkward. Avoid comparing gifts, such as "your gift was the best we received." Also steer clear of inside jokes or references that only you and your partner understand, as the sender may feel left out.

Do not send cards months late without a genuine apology. If you are behind, it is better to send a short, sincere note late than a polished one that is insincere. Avoid using printed labels for the message; handwriting, even if messy, shows effort. Finally, do not copy the same message for everyone. A few personal lines about the giver, their gift, or their presence at the wedding makes all the difference.

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