More than any other type of gift, the art of the thank-you gift is all about showing the recipient that time and care were put into the choice (which is why re-gifting is never a good option). Personalization is also essential in a handwritten note. If you take the time to write a thank-you note, whether it is to a teacher, a mentor, or a weekend host, the recipient will know that the sentiment is not just a copy-and-paste job, but that you are truly thinking of them.

When deciding how to express your appreciation beyond a note, one of the first decisions to make is whether to send a gift or give it in person. Etiquette professionals recommend that you take your cues from the situation. An important rule of thumb is to avoid gifts that would be a burden to you or the recipient.

You should never stress over what to choose. For more information on how to make sure your thank-you is on target every time, read the following.

Be Timely

Whether you bring them yourself or have them delivered later, flowers are a classic thank you gift for a reason. Flowers are cheerful, can be used in anyone's space and at any time, and are appropriate for both new and old friends. If the host is busy with other guests, you can offer to arrange them in a vase yourself.

Edible Arrangements' new FruitFlowers (opens in a new tab) offers ready-to-go chic pairings such as hand-picked roses and lavender or sunflowers and chrysanthemums. Also available are ready-to-go chic pairings such as roses and lavender and sunflowers and chrysanthemums.

Going even further

If you want something to take with you, an edible spread that the recipient (e.g., the dinner host) can serve immediately for other guests is a great option. included with FruitFlowers are chocolate-dipped Fruit makes the perfect dessert to share after dinner and can easily be mixed in with whatever was already on the menu (if you mess up your plans, the thank you will quickly fade away). If you are giving an arrangement in lieu of a thank-you, it will be an enchanting treat that the recipient can enjoy without being forced to do so.

When choosing a thank-you gift for a family member or couple, look for something that will please a crowd, and Edible Arrangements' FruitFlowers will please everyone with its combination of flowers and sweet treats (plus, the chocolate-coated (Plus, who can say no to chocolate-coated strawberries?).

Give something unique

When leaving a good impression is important, a simple thank-you note is the standard (e.g., for a business recommendation or for letting a new acquaintance stay at your house). To set yourself apart from others, be specific about what you are thankful for and why you did it. Don't rush: Taking the time to think carefully about what you want to say is key to crafting a note that conveys your sincerity. There is no cost for a handwritten note, and the best practice is to send a note to express your appreciation ahead of time, even if you bring a hostess gift. Send it within a week of the event.

In short, the art of thanking is about expressing gratitude and making sure the recipient knows it. Bookmark the gift of flowers and chocolates that many people appreciate, invest in a set of cards, and always make a lasting impression.