Introducing the D Weddings ABCs of Etiquette: Sure, you can flip through Emily Post’s bible of good manners, but what do Dallas brides, planners, and guests expect when it comes to local wedding etiquette? Dallas wedding experts tell us how to graciously navigate every wedding-day situation.

Three: That’s the magic number of months you have to get those thank-you notes out post-honeymoon, according to Jennifer Applbaum of Invited Paperie. “The best idea is to write your notes as you receive your gifts,” she says. It’s fine for the bride and groom to divide the notes, except for bridal shower gifts—unless it’s a couples shower. And yes, you do still have to mail a note for shower gifts. Applbaum recommends curling up with nice paper, fun pens, and a refreshing drink to make sure the task is enjoyable and not a chore. She shares her recipe to the perfect thank you: “Begin with a line of thanks and name the item you received specifically,” she says. “Then, give one or two sentences about how you plan to use the gift. Your closing sentence can be to tell them how nice it was or will be to see them at the wedding and say another thank you for their kindness.”