Thank you cards? Timing...

Now!! You can focus on the patio set for now and just mention the wine. Then if you want you can emphasize the wine in another thank you after the wedding. They are parents - they should be thanked lots As for thank-you cards, go to Target and grab a box of cute ones to use before you order some. It may not be the only gift. You'll always need thank-you cards so just don't get wedding themed ones.

For future reference, here is the thank-you note etiquette:

- If you receive a gift before the wedding/shower, send a thank you within two weeks.

- After a shower, you have 3-4 weeks to send thank you

- After the wedding, you have 6 months to write. I think that is the new recommendation, it used to be 1 year. I would imagine though that 3-4 months is more appropriate for an upper limit of time you have to write them.

hope that helps!

Now. Just to let them know how appreciative you are

You have a year to send a gift after a wedding... it has never ever been one year to send thank yous (although an alarming number of people get that wrong)

You have 3 months post wedding to write them - but should always send thank yous as soon as possible.

Always write thank-you notes as soon as possible after receiving the gift. Not only is it polite, but it will keep you from feeling as overwhelmed after the wedding.