Helping someone is no easy feat. It requires you to offer your energy, time, or abilities to make life easier for someone else. It could even be at your own inconvenience. Despite this, some friends go above and beyond the call of friendship to help us. They can pick up your son from school, buy you a new pair of shoes, or attend your graduation.
Whatever your friend does for you, it is important to appreciate them. You can do this through a well-timed thank you letter. The letter will assure them that you value their friendship and appreciate their help. It will also remind them that they are not far from your mind.
In this article, we explore the ins and outs of a thank you letter to friend. These guidelines will help you thank your friend in the most thoughtful way possible.
Writing Tips for a Thank You Letter to a Friend
As established, a thank you letter to friend is an important document. As such, it should be drafted with the utmost care. You can make your letter formal or informal, depending on the nature of your relationship with the recipient. Other tips to keep in mind include:
- Use a friendly and appropriate salutation – This will depend on how close you and the reader are. It could also be determined by the age difference between the two of you.
- Mention your reason for writing – State specifically the deed or action that you are grateful for and why.
- Say thank you – Make sure to use the word ‘thank you’ to convey your genuine gratitude.
- Be sincere and genuine – Avoid exaggerating the details. If your friend didn’t do something, don’t mention it in your letter.
- Add a personal element – This could be an inside joke or short anecdote that is symbolic of your friendship.
- Offer to help the reader or support them should they ever need you.
- Close with thoughtful remarks – These should be meaningful and personal such as ‘with love’ or ‘forever grateful.’
- Add a gift – You can enclose a gift for your friend to thank them for their help. However, this is optional and will depend on your relationship.
- Proofread your letter for any grammar or spelling errors
Thank You Letter to Friend Format
{Date}
{Friend’s Name}
{Friend’s Address}
{City, State, Zip Code}
Re: Thank You for {Reason for Writing}
Dear {Friend’s Name},
I can’t express how much I appreciate the {help/support/advice/gift} you offered me on {mention when, e.g., date}. This past {duration}, you have been a source of unfailing {strength/joy/encouragement}. I am sincerely grateful.
You have been an amazing friend for {duration} now. Your generosity and selflessness continue to astound me. Had it not been for you, {state how important the help you received was}.
I hope you know that I am always ready to be there for you as you have always been for me. Whenever you need me, all you need to do is ask.
Thank you again.
Sincerely,
{Your Name}
Sample Thank You Letter to Friend for Support
24 August 2020
Anabel Jones
356 Garden St.
Wilmington, NC 45678
Dear Ana,
This is to thank you for your support and encouragement during my recent divorce. I dare say that without you, I would have been too crushed to get out of bed on some days. Your unfailing love and kindness continue to astound me.
Thank you for all the times you took Benny out so I could have some time to myself. Your help with the chores and presence at court proceedings are all debts I can never repay. Believe it or not, even your ill-timed jokes were heartwarming.
As I finally close this chapter of my life, I want to appreciate your role in getting me through. You are the best friend anyone could ask for.
You can always count on me. Thank you, Ana!
Sincerely,
Rose
Thank You Letter to Friend (Word Template)
- MS Word
Conclusion
It is easy to take your friends for granted. This can be construed as rude, especially if they always show up for you. A thank you letter to friend is the best way to communicate your gratitude after someone does something nice for you. You should make it sincere and meaningful.
For maximum impact, it is important that your message contains a personalized element. You can include a brief inside joke or a funny story you and your friend share.
Finally, always make sure to mention the exact reason you are thanking your friend and use the words ‘thank you.’