Thank You (note?)

A friend recently asked “What is the proper RSVP or Thank You when invited by email?” Good question. This is a confusing proposition in this day of email invitations — or god forbid, “evites” – but an important one. Since the purpose of manners is to make those around you feel at ease, this is an issue that needs immediate attention. The answer is simple. One should answer an invitation in the manner it was received: a paper invitation requires a paper thank you; a telephoned invitation requires a telephoned thank you and finally, the host who emails an invitation should expect an emailed thank you. Of course, written thank you notes are usually always appreciated and appropriate. Usually, I say because one should use caution when writing an overly enthusiastic note. You don’t want to look like a bounder or a climber. An experienced host will detect bounding and you will have defeated your purpose, which was to recognize your host’s generosity and to endear your presence at her next event. You never want to look too eager. The key is to convey that you are an old hand at this and you appreciate her effort. Don’t blow it.

Every gentleman should have personalized correspondence cards. Here are some resources at different price levels for any budget. Keep it simple. Order white or ivory cards with black or navy embossed name or monogram. End it with a matching envelope liner if you want. It’s more expensive but the look is rich. It’s important, trust me.

SocialPrimer recommends: Brooks Brothers, Crane, Dempsey & Carroll and of course SP’s own Correspondence Cards is the best quality at the best price I have found in the market.