For a significant other, your tone might be more affectionate. For instance, you might use a nickname like “babe” or “honey. ” For a birthday or graduation, you might keep the tone upbeat, focusing on how excited you are to start a new chapter. For more somber occasions, like the anniversary of a death, tailor your tone to be more sentimental.

For instance, to address a formal group, you might write: “Dear Edna, Ali, and Johannes McLeod,” or “Dear my lovely Phi-Kappa sisters. ”

Feel free to use proper pronouns or nicknames to address family members. For instance, “Dear Grandma” or “Dear Auntie B. ” If you’re not really familiar with the person, stick to “Mr. " or “Ms. " followed by their last name. [3] X Research source

For example, you could write, “Thank you so much for the lovely tulips! They’re so graceful and add such a pop of color and joy to my living room! I’ve put them on the piano so I can see and smell them every time I play or pass by. ” Make sure to use your creativity when describing the flowers — or the person itself! — in a unique way, using words like fabulous, appreciated, generous, considerate and sweet. [5] X Research source

For instance, you could add: “I’d love to take you out to lunch sometime to catch up!” or “I miss seeing you and can’t wait for our beach trip in December!”

For instance, “You are such a kind, caring friend to send me these flowers. Thanks again!” or “I really appreciate your thoughtfulness. Again, thank you so much for the flowers!”

For example, you might write “Best wishes,” to someone you’re not super close to and “Love and hugs,” to a best friend or close family member.

Make sure you’ve spelled the recipient’s name correctly! It may help to read your message aloud to make sure it sounds authentic.

Don’t stress if you don’t send it right away or even a week or two later. It’s generally acceptable to send it up to a month later but any time after that might be a little awkward (albeit still acceptable).

Place colorful stickers on the outside of the envelope or create your own designs with colored pencils or markers. Use stencils if you’re not confident about your free-hand drawing skills.

Hand-delivering letters might seem tacky, but a hand-delivered note is better than no note at all. Odds are, the person will be delighted that you bothered to write them a note in the first place. Avoid putting it in their mailbox as mailboxes are considered federal property and should only contain items marked by a postage stamp.

For instance, if you and the recipient hang out soon after you’ve received the bouquet, you could slip the card into their coat pocket, bag, or anywhere else where they’ll be sure to find it.