In 2018, psychologists at UT Austin and the University of Chicago invited over 400 participants to write letters of gratitude to someone who had helped them.
Researchers asked each writer to predict how their recipient would feel. Surprise, happiness, even awkwardness. What happened next broke expectations.
- Recipients reported feeling **significantly happier and more pleasantly surprised** than the writers had predicted.
- Across four experiments, writers consistently **underestimated recipients’ positive emotional response** and **overestimated any awkwardness**.
- Participants even admitted skipping letters because they feared sounding awkward or unskilled in expressing gratitude.
Even more compelling? The act of writing a single thank‑you note boosted the writer’s own well‑being. People felt warmer, more connected, and more confident in their relationships after putting pen to paper.
As a small business owner, you’re more than a storefront or an order confirmation: you’re a human being building connection.
A thoughtfully written thank‑you message to customers can deepen trust, leave a lasting impression, and even grow loyalty, all with just a few heartfelt sentences. Below are practical examples you can start using today to show meaningful appreciation.
1. New Customer Order
When someone places their very first order with you, it’s a big deal. They didn’t just scroll past: they stopped, clicked, and chose you. That kind of trust is worth more than a quick “thanks.” A thoughtful note here can turn a first-time buyer into a lifelong customer.
“Thanks so much for your order. We’re thrilled to have you with us!”
“Welcome, and thank you! Your support means the world to our small team.”
“So excited you found us. Thanks for giving our business a shot!”
To make it more personal, add their first name or what they bought:
“Thanks so much for your order, Alex. Hope you love your candle!”
2. Packaging Insert Thank You
A packaging insert might seem small, but it’s often the very first thing your customer sees when they open their order. A thoughtful message tucked inside a box can turn an ordinary delivery into something memorable. It’s a moment that makes them smile, feel appreciated, and want to come back.
Make Every Package Feel Personal
Your thank-you insert is often the first thing customers see. Add warmth and personality with our customizable packaging stamps — designed to turn simple packaging into a moment of connection they'll remember.
Order Custom Thank You Message Stamp“Thank you so much for supporting our small business. Your order truly made our day.”
“Every package we send is packed with care. And a whole lot of gratitude. Thank you for being part of our journey.”
“We don’t take your support for granted. Thank you from all of us at [Your Business Name]!”
To make it more personal, sign your name, reference the item, or even add a smiley face:
“Enjoy your new mug. – Jamie from [Your Shop Name] ☺”
3. Social Media DM or Comment
When a customer tags your product, posts a photo, or leaves a kind comment, it’s more than just content. It’s proof that what you’re creating matters to someone. A thoughtful reply is your chance to meet their enthusiasm with gratitude and deepen the connection.
“We’re so glad you’re loving it. Thank you for the support!”
“That post made our day. Thank you for sharing your experience!”
“You just made us smile. Thanks for the tag and your kind words.”
To make it more personal, mention what they said or how it made you feel:
“That review you posted? We were blown away. Thank you!”
4. Repeat Customer
When someone comes back to order again, it’s one of the most meaningful compliments a small business can receive. It means you didn’t just deliver a product. You built enough trust for someone to return. A thank-you here should feel personal, familiar, and full of appreciation.
“Thanks for coming back. Your continued support means everything.”
“We noticed it’s not your first order. You’re the best!”
“You’re part of our story now. Thank you for sticking with us!”
To make it more personal, mention the repeat directly or add a small surprise:
“This is your 3rd order. We tucked in a little bonus as a thank-you!”
5. After Providing a Service
When a service wraps up - whether it’s a completed project, appointment, or delivery - that moment is a natural bridge for building long-term trust. A well-timed thank-you can leave a lasting impression and turn a one-time client into a loyal advocate.
“Thank you for trusting us with your [project/service]. It was a pleasure working with you!”
“We appreciate the opportunity to serve you. Thanks again for choosing us.”
“It means a lot to be part of your journey. Thank you for letting us do what we love.”
To make it more personal, call out the type of service or add a specific detail:
“Designing your logo was a blast. We’re so glad you’re happy with it!”
6. General Thank-You for Support
Sometimes, you just want to say thanks — no big milestone, no special event, just genuine appreciation. Whether it’s in a newsletter, an order confirmation, or a post-purchase follow-up, this kind of message reminds your customers that their support fuels something real. A small thank-you here can go a long way.
“We’re a small team with a big dream. Your support helps keep it alive. Thank you!”
“Behind every order is a happy dance. Thanks for keeping us dancing.”
“Your support is our fuel. Thank you for being here with us.”
To make it more personal, mention a behind-the-scenes win or outcome:
“Your order helped fund our booth at the next craft fair. We’re so grateful!”
7. After a Project or Service
When a project wraps up, it’s more than just checking a task off the list. It’s the close of a collaboration. Whether it was a design, a coaching package, or a planning session, this is your chance to say thank you with intention. A thoughtful note here can leave a lasting impression and open the door for future work together.
“Thank you for trusting us with your project. It was a pleasure working with you.”
“Your collaboration made this a success. We truly appreciate the opportunity.”
“It’s been a joy working with you. Wishing you continued success ahead!”
To make it more personal, mention what you created or highlight something that made the process special:
“Your brand vision was so inspiring to bring to life. Thank you for the trust!”
8. After a Referral or Testimonial
When someone refers your business or leaves a testimonial, they’re putting their name and reputation on the line for you, and that’s no small thing. A thank-you message in return builds trust, deepens your relationship, and encourages them to keep sharing the love.
“Thank you so much for the referral. It means a lot to have your support.”
“We truly appreciate you recommending us. Your kind words go a long way.”
“You helped open a door for us. Thank you for thinking of us!”
To make it more personal, call out the specific referral or kind words they shared:
“Thanks again for connecting us with Morgan. That introduction means more than you know.”
9. After a Consultation or Meeting
A simple thank-you after a conversation — whether it’s a discovery call, intro meeting, or brainstorm — helps you stand out and stay top of mind. Even if the timing or fit isn’t perfect now, a thoughtful note can plant the seed for future collaboration.
“Thanks for taking the time to connect. I enjoyed learning about your goals.”
“I appreciated our conversation and the chance to explore next steps together.”
“Grateful for the time and insight you shared. I’m excited about what’s ahead.”
To make it more personal, mention something you discussed or how their story resonated:
“Loved hearing how your business started. Thanks again for a great conversation!”
10. Holiday or Year-End Appreciation
The end of the year is a natural time to reflect, and a perfect moment to say thank you. Whether you worked with someone once or all year long, a note of appreciation can reinforce the relationship and set the tone for what’s next.
“Wishing you a joyful season and a strong year ahead. Thank you for being part of our journey.”
“As the year wraps up, I just want to say how grateful I am for your continued support.”
“We’re lucky to work with people like you. Thank you, and here’s to what’s next!”
To make it more personal, mention a shared win or gesture of support from the year:
“Helping us launch our new collection this fall meant so much — thank you again!”
Make Every Thank You Count
A thank you note might seem like a small gesture, but in business, it can be the moment that turns a one-time buyer into a loyal customer.
Zappos, the online retailer known for its legendary customer service, built an entire brand around this idea. One customer called about a lost pair of shoes. Not only did Zappos overnight a replacement for free, but they also upgraded him to VIP and gave a full refund. Another customer lost her mother and couldn’t return a pair of shoes in time. Instead of pushing a return, Zappos sent her flowers with a handwritten note. That kind of empathy, that extra mile, is why their customers stay.
Say Thank You the Thoughtful Way
A simple message, stamped with care, can turn your packaging into something worth remembering. Our "Thank You for Shopping" stamp adds a warm, handmade touch that customers notice — and appreciate.
Shop the Thank You StampCustomers remember how you made them feel. A few sincere words can create connection, reinforce trust, and spark referrals you didn’t even see coming.
So don’t wait for a perfect moment. The right thank you message, shared at the right time, can be the most powerful marketing tool you already have. Let your customer know they’re seen, valued, and remembered, and watch what grows from there.
