Is it still proper to send thank you notes for wedding gifts?

Thank you notes remain an important part of wedding etiquette in the UK. Even in a digital age, most couples and guests still expect a personal thank you after a gift is received. A handwritten card or note is the gold standard, but a thoughtful email or message is acceptable if you have a very informal relationship with the guest. The key is that the thank you is personal, specific, and timely.

Aim to send your notes within two to three months of the wedding, though sooner is better. If you receive gifts before the wedding, you can thank people as they arrive, but many couples wait until after the honeymoon to send a single round of notes. Mention the gift by name and how you plan to use it, and add a personal line about the guest's presence at the wedding.

If you are the guest, do not expect a note immediately. Give the couple a few months to settle in. If you are the couple, keep a list of gifts and senders so you do not miss anyone. A small stack of thank you cards and a good pen are all you need.