Writing a Letter of Appreciation (with Sample)
Use this sample letter of appreciation as a template for your formal notification.
A letter of appreciation is a nice gesture when someone has went out of their way to do something nice for you. It could be to thank them for a gift during the holiday season, or just a sentimental card to tell someone how much they are appreciated. A well written letter can replace a generic thank-you card and have a more personal touch.
The worst thing to do is to waiting too long. If someone gives a gift to you, the best time to send an appreciation letter is within two weeks. If you choose to follow etiquette, it would be within three days. But, if you have forgotten, or your schedule has been hectic, sending a letter later is better than not sending it at all.
Fast Method
Because today’s society is so electronic, you may choose to send the letter via email. A typed letter may not be the fastest method, but it doesn’t have the personal touch and intimacy of a handwritten one. The recipient’s lifestyle should dictate the delivery method.
For instance, if it is your mother, she would probably prefer something thoughtful and handwritten. However; a teenager probably would opt for an electronic delivered letter. Whether handwritten or typed, they all should follow the same format.
There is no need for a formal date and address on the letter itself. Start with a salutation, like “Dear Grandma.” Since this letter is more of a personal one, never address someone formally, like “Dear Mrs. Jones.” Some may opt to put a date on, which is totally acceptable, especially if the person you are sending the letter too is sentimental in nature.
First Paragraph
The first paragraph should open right up with the reason why you are writing. Be specific, especially if this is going to a boss or a parent who may have done several things for you. If they gave you money, specify the amount and tell them how much this came in handy. If they babysat for your children, offer up praise on a job well done and how nice the much needed break was.
Be sure to include lots of little compliments in the letter. If the item was personalized, like a picture frame, make sure to say how well it is going to look in your living room. Make the person feel that their gift or gesture was exceptional.
The end of the letter needs to be futuristic. For example, you need to state that you can’t wait to get together again, or how special the times together are. It is also acceptable to let them know that you want to repay the favor, especially with a gift like babysitting.
Closing
The closing should always be something thoughtful like, “sincerely”, “yours truly” or affectionately. If it is a relative, it is appropriate to end with the word love. You want the ending of the letter to put a smile on their face and to reiterate what you tried to say in the letter.
If you are doing an email, delivery the email is as simple as hitting the “send” button. When dealing with handwritten letters, they must have a proper envelope and a stamp. If you have a nice stationery set that you have been waiting to use, this may be such an occasion.
The worst thing to do after the letter is written is to procrastinate about the delivery. Make sure to send it out right away and make your special friend or loved one’s day. A letter of appreciation is not hard to write, it just takes a few minutes to let someone know how special they are.
Sample Letter of Appreciation
Dear Aunt Sally,
The jar of peach preserves that you sent to us what perfect. It is so unlike those jams and jellies you buy in the store. With each bite I could taste the amazing peaches like I ate as a child with you and Uncle Rubin. Your peach tree was always a highlight when we would come to visit every summer.
I am looking forward to getting together this year for our family reunion. I hope you will bring more of your peach treats this year, as they are always a big hit. I can’t wait to see you and hopefully return the favor by making a batch of preserves, maybe cherry. Take care and tell Uncle Rubin I said hello.
Love,
Karen
By Andre Bradley
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Dear Aunt Sally,
The jar of peach preserves that you sent to us what perfect. It is so unlike those jams and jellies you buy in the store. With each bite I could taste the amazing peaches like I ate as a child with you and Uncle Rubin. Your peach tree was always a highlight when we would come to visit every summer.
I am looking forward to getting together this year for our family reunion. I hope you will bring more of your peach treats this year, as they are always a big hit. I can’t wait to see you and hopefully return the favor by making a batch of preserves, maybe cherry. Take care and tell Uncle Rubin I said hello.
Love,
Karen
By Andre Bradley
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