Dear Queenie,
My parents raised me to always send a “thank you” note to anyone who gave me a gift, even if I had already thanked them in person, and I am trying to raise my children the same way.
My question is, is it still necessary for them to write something down on paper and mail it? These days with email and text messaging and WhatsApp and all, is it okay to send an electronic “thank you” or do they still have to do the pen-paper-stamp-Post Office thing?
Queenie, what do you say?—Thank you Etty Ket
Dear Etty Ket,
I believe most of the etiquette gurus still believe in what you call “the pen-paper-stamp-Post Office” thing. However, I think an electronic “thank you” message should be adequate under certain conditions.
First, you must be sure the gift-giver will receive it. Remember, many older persons are not completely in tune with the modern electronic era.
Second, the note should include some message specific to the person who will receive it – for example, a mention of the gift they sent and how it will be used,
Mass mailings of a generalised “thank you” message sent simultaneously to a number of people never were and still are not acceptable, whether sent by “snail mail” or electronically.
