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15 Examples: How to Thank Someone for Their Time

Last Updated on June 25, 2026 by Status.net Editorial Team

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We’ve all been in situations where someone has gone out of their way to help us, share their knowledge, or lend their expertise. It’s important to show gratitude to these generous people for the precious time they devoted to us.

In this article, we’ll explore various scenarios and provide you with examples and templates of responses to help you properly express your gratitude. Related: Thanking Someone [30 Responses for Professional Scenarios]

Part 1Understanding the Purpose of Thanking Someone for Their Time

Thanking someone for their time is not only polite, but it also helps nurture positive relationships and demonstrates your appreciation. This article will give you some examples and templates to use in different scenarios to make your thank-you more meaningful and impactful.

  • Acknowledging someone’s time and effort shows that you recognize the significance of their contribution and that it matters to you. Whether it’s a colleague who helped you with an assignment, a supervisor who gave you valuable feedback, or a friend who offered a listening ear, a heartfelt thank-you acknowledges their support.
  • Sending a thank-you note can leave a lasting impression. It reflects well on your character and reaffirms your dedication to maintaining a positive rapport. People often appreciate being recognized, and it encourages them to continue to be helpful and supportive in the future.
  • In professional contexts, it’s significant to convey your appreciation for someone’s time spent to help you learn, grow, or succeed. For instance, after a job interview, sending a thank-you email or letter to the interviewer will make you stand out from other candidates. By thanking the interviewer for their time, you also reiterate your enthusiasm for the position and the company.
  • All in all, it doesn’t take much effort to say thanks, but the benefits and positivity created are immense for both parties involved.
  • Related: Thanking Someone [30 Responses for Professional Scenarios]

Timing matters as much as wording. A thank-you sent within a day or two of the meeting, favor, or conversation feels connected to the moment and carries more weight than one sent a week later, when the details have already faded for the recipient. If you know you tend to put off writing thank-you notes, jot a quick line down right after the interaction, even if you plan to send a fuller message later. That small habit alone prevents most missed thank-yous.

Part 2Ways to Express Gratitude

  1. Send a thank-you email or card
    Following a meeting or an event, dropping a thoughtful email is always a good gesture. Make sure your message is genuine and specific to the experience shared with the person. For a more personal touch, opt for a handwritten card.
  2. Offer a genuine verbal thank you
    When someone spends time with you or helps you out, don’t hesitate to express your appreciation verbally. Whether in person or over the phone, take the opportunity to sincerely acknowledge their efforts.
  3. Share your appreciation on social media
    If you had a great meeting with a group of people or attended a fantastic event, it’s perfectly fine to publicly thank them on your social media platforms. Tag those involved, ensuring everyone gets the recognition they deserve.
  4. Return the favor
    When possible, show your gratitude by supporting the other person’s projects or events. If they’ve helped you with something, offer your assistance with something they may need help with. This reciprocity strengthens relationships and shows you’re truly grateful for their time.
  5. Give a thoughtful gift
    Sometimes, a small token of appreciation can go a long way in expressing your gratitude. Consider gifts like a gift card, a personal note, or a thoughtful gesture that shows you’ve paid attention to their interests or needs.
  6. Send a quick text or instant message
    When a full email feels like too much, a short text works well for informal or time-sensitive situations. A line as simple as “Thanks so much for your time today, it really helped me out” is easy to send right after a call, a favor, or a quick chat, and it still lands as sincere as long as you mean it. Avoid copying the exact same message to multiple people; even a small tweak referencing the specific conversation keeps it from feeling like a form reply.

Remember to tailor your expression of gratitude to the specific situation and relationship with the person you’re thanking. This ensures that your appreciation feels genuine and meaningful.

Part 3Other Ways to Say Thank You for Your Time

“Thank you for your time” is one of the most widely used phrases in professional and personal communication, and it works well in most situations. If you find yourself writing several thank-you notes in the same week, or if the standard phrase feels a little flat for the relationship, a few alternative phrasings can help your message stand out while still sounding sincere.

Synonyms and Alternative Phrases for “Thank You for Your Time”

For professional or formal contexts, consider:

  • “I appreciate you taking the time to walk me through this.”
  • “Thank you for making time for me in your schedule.”
  • “I’m grateful for your time and attention on this matter.”
  • “Thank you for sharing your time and expertise with me.”
  • “I appreciate the time and effort you dedicated to this project.”
  • “Thanks for setting aside time for our conversation.”
  • “Thank you for being so gracious with your time.”
  • “I’m thankful you carved out time in an already full day.”

For casual or personal contexts, consider:

  • “Thanks for hanging out with me, it meant a lot.”
  • “I appreciate you spending time with me today.”
  • “Thanks for sparing a moment for me, I know you’re busy.”
  • “Thank you for sharing your time with me, it made my day.”

Choosing the right variant often depends on how well you know the recipient and how the interaction happened. A slightly more formal phrase reads better in a follow-up email to a client, while a warmer, more casual line suits a friend or family member.

Thank You for Your Time and Effort Quotes

A short quote can round off a thank-you note nicely, especially when you want to acknowledge both the time someone gave and the effort behind it.

  1. “Time is the most valuable thing that a man can spend.” – Theophrastus
  2. “Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all others.” – Cicero
  3. “Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it.” – William Arthur Ward

Use quotes sparingly. One line at the end of a note adds warmth, but stacking several quotes together can make the message feel impersonal, which works against the sincerity you’re going for.

Thanking Someone for Taking Time Out of a Busy Schedule

When someone rearranges their calendar, skips lunch, or stays late to meet with you, it’s worth naming that specifically rather than defaulting to a generic thank you. Acknowledging that you understand how full their schedule is signals that you don’t take the gesture lightly.
Example:
Dear [Name],

Thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to meet with us. I know your calendar is packed, and I don’t take the gesture for granted. The conversation gave us exactly the clarity we needed to move forward.

With appreciation, [Your Name]

Thanking Someone for Their Time on a Phone Call

Phone calls often happen on short notice, which makes a brief follow-up thank you especially appropriate. A short email, text, or even a quick voicemail works well here.
Example:
Hi [Name],

Thank you for your time on the call earlier. I appreciate you talking through the details with me on such short notice, and it helped clear up a few things I’d been unsure about.

Best, [Your Name]

Part 4Scripted Thank You Notes: Real-Life Scenarios

Professional Meetings

Example:
Dear [Name],

Thank you for organizing the [event name]. Your efforts provided invaluable insights into [specific topic]. I’m grateful for the opportunity to connect with industry professionals and gain new perspectives.

Best regards, [Your Name]

Job Interviews

Example:
Dear [Name],

I appreciate the time you spent discussing the [job title] position with me. The conversation emphasized how well my experience aligns with the role. Your explanation of the company’s goals aligns with my career aspirations, and I am excited about the possibility of contributing to the team.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Related: How to Write a Perfect Thank You Email After an Interview

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Consumer Service Queries

Example:
Hello [Name],

I want to thank you for your prompt assistance with my issue. Your guidance helped me resolve the problem quickly, and the entire process was smooth. Your customer service skills are exceptional, and I appreciate your help.

Best regards, [Your Name]

Educational Sessions

Example:
Dear [Name],

I wanted to extend my gratitude for the insightful session on [topic]. Your presentation style engaged the attendees, and I left with many valuable takeaways. Your expertise in the subject was clear, and I’m looking forward to applying what I’ve learned.

Best wishes, [Your Name]

Survey and Feedback Requests

When someone completes a survey, provides feedback, or answers a set of questions for you, a short thank you note acknowledges the time they gave without expecting anything in return.
Example:
Hello [Name],

Thank you for taking the time to complete our survey. Your feedback gives us a clearer picture of what’s working and what we should improve, and we genuinely value the minutes you set aside for it.

Warm regards, [Your Name]

Thanking a Group or Audience for Their Time

Group settings, such as a presentation, a company-wide email, or a closing line in a speech, call for a slightly different tone since you’re addressing many people at once.
Example:
To everyone who joined today,

A big thank you to everyone who made time to be here. I would like to thank each and everyone of you for your attention and thoughtful questions; this session was better because of your participation.

With gratitude, [Your Name]

Templates for Crafting the Perfect Appreciation Message

Part 5Thanking a Colleague for Their Time

Dear [Name],

I wanted to extend my heartfelt thanks for generously dedicating your time to assist me with [project/task]. Your willingness to share your expertise and devote your time to this endeavor made a significant difference. It’s people like you who make teamwork a rewarding experience.

Warm regards, [Your Name]

Part 6Thanking a Colleague for Their Help

Dear [Name],

I just wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude for your assistance on [project/task]. Your insight and expertise were invaluable, and I truly appreciate your support.

Best,
[Your Name]

Part 7Thanking a Boss for Their Time

Hi [Boss’s Name],

I’m grateful for the time you invested in guiding me through [project/task]. Your availability and willingness to spend your valuable time discussing strategies and offering insights were truly appreciated. Your commitment to our team’s growth is evident, and it motivates us to do our best.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

For a supervisor or manager specifically, keep the tone a notch more formal if your workplace culture leans that way, and mention a concrete outcome so the message doesn’t read as routine.
Example:
Dear [Manager’s Name],

Thank you for your time this week reviewing my progress on [project/task]. Your feedback gave me a clear direction, and I already feel more confident about the next steps.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Part 8Thanking a Boss for Their Guidance

Hi [Boss’s Name],

I’d like to thank you for your guidance and support throughout [project/task]. Your advice and leadership helped me achieve success, and I feel lucky to work under your direction.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

Part 9Thanking an Employee for Their Time

Dear [Employee’s Name],

I wanted to acknowledge the time and effort you devoted to [project/task]. Your dedication and hard work were evident throughout, and they reflect your commitment to our team’s success. Your time and energy are invaluable assets to us, and we’re thankful to have you on our side.

Best regards, [Your Name]

Part 10Thanking an Employee for Their Hard Work

Dear [Employee’s Name],

I want to express my appreciation for your exceptional performance on [project/task]. Your dedication and hard work demonstrate your commitment to our team, and we’re grateful to have you on board.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

Related: Awesome Ways to Say “Great Job” to a Colleague

If you want to go beyond a written note, pairing the message with a small token of appreciation, such as a gift card, an extra day off, or a public shout-out in a team meeting, reinforces the message and makes the recognition feel more tangible.

Part 11Thanking a Friend for Their Time

Hey [Friend’s Name],

I wanted to express my gratitude for the time you spent with me during [specific event or time]. Your presence and the moments we shared were a source of comfort and strength. Thank you for giving me your time when I needed it the most; it means the world to me.

Warmly, [Your Name]

Part 12Thanking a Friend for Their Support

Hey [Friend’s Name],

I wanted to let you know how much I appreciate your support during [specific event or time]. Your kindness, positivity, and encouragement truly helped me through a difficult time, and I am grateful for our friendship.

Warmly,
[Your Name]

Part 13Thanking Someone for a Great Time Together

Not every thank-you note follows a favor or a piece of advice. Sometimes you simply want to thank someone for a good evening, a fun trip, or a memorable get-together. These messages tend to be shorter and more relaxed than professional thank-yous, and a little enthusiasm is welcome here.
Example:
Hey [Name],

Thank you for the great time last night! We had such a good time catching up, and I’m already looking forward to doing it again soon.

Talk soon, [Your Name]
If several people were involved in the evening or event, a group message or a tagged social media post works well: “Thanks to everyone who came out, we had a wonderful time!”

Part 14Thanking a Partner for Their Time and Support

Romantic relationships benefit from the same principle as any other relationship: naming what you’re grateful for makes the thank-you land more meaningfully. Whether it’s a boyfriend, girlfriend, or spouse who gave up a weekend to help you move, sat with you through a hard week, or simply made time for you despite a packed schedule, a specific and warm message goes a long way.
Example:
Hey [Partner’s Name],

I wanted to thank you for always making time for me, even on your busiest days. Having you by my side through [specific situation] meant more than I can put into words.

With love, [Your Name]

Part 15Thanking Everyone for Birthday Wishes

Birthday messages tend to arrive from many people at once across texts, calls, and social media, which makes a single collective thank you a practical option alongside a few personal replies for closer friends and family.
Example (social media post):
Thank you so much to everyone who sent birthday wishes! I’m grateful to have so many kind people in my life, and I’m truly touched by all the love today.

For someone who took the time to call or write a personal note, a quick individual reply, such as “Thank you for thinking of me on my birthday, it really made my day,” feels warmer than folding them into the group message alone.

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Part 16Thanking a Parent or Caregiver for Their Time

Dear [Parent/Caregiver’s Name],

I can’t thank you enough for the countless hours and endless love you’ve devoted to me throughout my life. Your time spent nurturing and guiding me has been the most precious gift. I am deeply grateful for every moment you’ve dedicated to my well-being.

With love, [Your Name]

Part 17Thanking a Parent or Caregiver

Dear [Parent/Caregiver’s Name],

I wanted to express my gratitude for everything you’ve done for me. Your love, guidance, and patience have shaped me into who I am today, and I will always treasure our relationship.

With love,
[Your Name]

Part 18Thanking a Teacher for Their Time

Dear [Teacher’s Name],

I wanted to express my sincere thanks for the time you invested in teaching and mentoring me in [class/subject]. Your dedication to my education and the extra time you spent explaining concepts and answering my questions made a significant impact on my learning journey. Your time was a catalyst for my success.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Part 19Thanking a Teacher for Their Help

Dear [Teacher’s Name],

I wanted to express my gratitude for your support and guidance in [class/subject]. Your knowledge, passion, and dedication to my success have had a lasting impact on my education, and I am truly grateful for your efforts.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

Part 20Thanking a Mentor for Their Time

Hello [Mentor’s Name],

I’d like to express my heartfelt appreciation for the time you generously devoted to mentoring me during my time at [school/program]. Your guidance and the hours you spent sharing your insights and experiences were invaluable. Your time has been instrumental in shaping my personal and professional growth.

Warm regards, [Your Name]

Part 21Thanking a Mentor for Their Guidance

Hello [Mentor’s Name],

I’d like to thank you for the invaluable advice and support you’ve provided during my time at [school/program]. Your guidance has not only helped me succeed academically but also shaped my personal and professional growth.

Warm regards,
[Your Name]

Part 22Thanking a Hiring Manager for Their Time

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude for the time you dedicated to our recent interview regarding the [position/job title] at [Company Name]. It was a pleasure to discuss the role and learn more about the company’s vision and values.

Your insights and the opportunity to meet with you have only increased my interest in becoming a part of [Company Name]. I appreciate your consideration and the effort you’ve put into the hiring process.

Thank you for your time, and I look forward to the possibility of joining your team.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Related: How to Write a Perfect Thank You Email After an Interview

If several people interviewed you, or if the hiring manager coordinated a panel interview around your availability, it’s worth acknowledging that directly: “Thank you for taking the time to interview me and for coordinating everyone’s schedules to make it happen.” A short line like this shows you noticed the extra logistical effort, which many candidates overlook.

Part 23Thanking a Customer or Client for Their Business

Thanking a customer or client is a bit different from thanking a colleague or a friend. The goal is to make the person feel valued as an individual, while also reinforcing why they chose to work with you in the first place. This kind of thank you supports repeat business and referrals, so it’s worth the extra few minutes to personalize it.
Example:
Dear [Customer’s Name],

Thank you for your business and for trusting us with [product/service]. We know you had options, and we don’t take it for granted that you chose to work with us. If there’s ever anything you need, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Warm regards, [Your Name/Business Name]

Small businesses in particular tend to lean on printed or handwritten thank-you cards to build a more personal connection with customers. A few ideas that work well:

  • Include a handwritten line referencing the specific product or service purchased, rather than a pre-printed generic message.
  • Add a small discount code or offer for a future purchase as a token of appreciation.
  • Keep your branding simple. Overly promotional cards can undercut the sincerity of the thank you.
  • For repeat customers, mention how long they’ve supported the business; loyalty deserves specific recognition.
  • If space allows, include a short note inviting feedback or reviews, since satisfied customers are often glad to share their experience when asked directly.

Part 24Common Mistakes to Avoid While Thanking Someone

  • Avoid gushing or being overly effusive in your gratitude. A simple and genuine expression of thanks will come across as much more heartfelt and sincere. Overdoing the praise can have the opposite effect, making it seem like you’re trying too hard or being insincere.
  • Be mindful not to come across as pushy or demanding when showing your appreciation. It’s great to express your interest in further collaboration or opportunities, but take care not to impose expectations on the recipient without their consent. Keep the conversation open and flexible to show respect for their time and priorities.
  • Ensure that your message is personalized and tailored to the recipient. A generic message might be better than nothing, but it won’t have the same impact as a specific and well-crafted thank you tailored to the person you’re addressing. Take a moment to reflect on the conversation you had and try to capture the essence and highlights in your message.
  • Keep the message concise and to the point. While it’s essential to show your appreciation, long-winded thank you notes can be overwhelming and challenging to digest for the recipient. Aim for brevity and clarity in your message, focusing on the core points that highlight your gratitude.
  • Finally, make sure to proofread your message thoroughly before sending it. Typos, grammatical errors, and poorly structured sentences can detract from the professionalism and impact of your thank you message. Give the text a thorough read-through before hitting ‘send’ and ensure your appreciation comes across as polished and sincere.

Another common misstep is relying on the exact same copied-and-pasted template for everyone you thank in a given week. Templates are useful starting points, and this article is full of them, but swapping in one or two specific details (a project name, a comment they made, a moment from the conversation) makes even a familiar structure feel personable and reduces the risk of the message reading as an afterthought.

Part 25How to Respond When Thanked for Your Time

When someone thanks you for your time, the most straightforward way to respond is by expressing your appreciation for their gratitude. Keep it simple, but also make an effort to subtly communicate your understanding of the effort they’re acknowledging.

Example 1:
Your response: You’re welcome! I’m glad I could help. If you have any further questions, feel free to reach out.

Being humble and gracious in your response is key. Acknowledge their thanks, but don’t make it seem like you’re expecting it. Show that you genuinely enjoyed your time and are happy to have been able to help.

Example 2:
Your response: Thank you for your kind words. I enjoyed our conversation and look forward to our next collaboration.

If the situation calls for a more formal response, such as in a business setting, be sure to maintain a professional tone while still expressing gratitude.

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Example 3:
Your response: I appreciate your acknowledgment, and it was my pleasure to assist you. Should you require any further support, don’t hesitate to contact me.

On the other hand, if you’re interacting in a casual or friendly context, showing a bit more personality in your response can be well-received, as long as it remains respectful.

Example 4:
Your response: No worries, happy to help! Always here for you if you need anything.

As a final point, responding empathetically can help build a stronger connection, especially if the person thanking you has shared something personal or showed vulnerability.

Example 5:
Your response: I’m grateful that you shared your thoughts with me. If you ever need someone to listen, I’ll be just a call away.

If “you’re welcome” feels overused, a few alternatives keep your responses feeling fresh without losing warmth:

  • “It was my pleasure.” (a good fit when someone says “thank you for coming” or thanks you for attending something)
  • “Happy to help anytime.”
  • “I’m glad it was useful.”
  • “Of course, that’s what friends are for.” (for personal relationships)
  • “Anytime, don’t hesitate to ask again.” (for ongoing professional relationships)

The right response also depends a little on the channel. A text message can stay short and casual even in a professional relationship, while a reply-all email thread usually calls for a slightly more polished response since more people will see it.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can one express gratitude for professional help?

To express gratitude for professional help, you can send a personalized thank you email or note. Mention the specific assistance they provided and the impact it had on your work or project. Keep your message concise and genuine, such as “Thank you for your guidance on the presentation; it helped me convey the data more effectively.”

What are ways to thank someone for their time and consideration?

  1. Write a thank you email or handwritten note, addressing the person by their name and specifically mentioning the help or support they provided.
  2. Acknowledge their effort in a team meeting or event to show public appreciation.
  3. Offer to return the favor if an opportunity arises, demonstrating your willingness to be of help in the future.
  4. Share a small token of appreciation, like a gift card or a small gift.

What are some quotes to convey appreciation for support and guidance?

You can include a meaningful quote in your thank you message to convey appreciation:

  1. “I can no other answer make but thanks, and thanks; and ever thanks.” – William Shakespeare
  2. “The roots of all goodness lie in the soil of appreciation for goodness.” – Dalai Lama
  3. “I would maintain that thanks are the highest form of thought, and that gratitude is happiness doubled by wonder.” – G.K. Chesterton

How to show gratitude for help and support received?

To show gratitude for help and support, consider the following actions:

  1. Express your appreciation promptly, either verbally, through a note, or an email.
  2. Be specific about what you’re grateful for and how it helped you.
  3. Share your progress or success, highlighting the role their support played in that achievement.
  4. Pay it forward by offering help to others in need, demonstrating the positive impact of their support on you.

How to thank someone for their time during a meeting?

To thank someone for their time during a meeting, you can:

  1. Verbally express your gratitude at the end of the meeting, mentioning any valuable insights or contributions they made.
  2. Follow up with a thank you email, highlighting the key takeaways you gained from the meeting and how it will benefit your work.

What are some tips for writing a professional thank you email for support?

When writing a professional thank you email, keep these tips in mind:

  1. Use a clear and concise subject line, such as “Thank You for Your Support.”
  2. Address the email to the person by their name.
  3. Begin your email by expressing your gratitude and specifying the support or guidance they provided.
  4. Mention the impact their help has had on your work or project, providing examples if possible.
  5. Conclude your email with a warm closing, such as “Best regards” or “Sincerely,” followed by your name.

What does “thank you for your time” actually mean?

“Thank you for your time” acknowledges that someone gave you something they can’t get back: minutes or hours out of their day. It’s a way of recognizing that their attention, effort, or presence had value to you, whether that time was spent in a meeting, a phone call, an interview, or simply a conversation.

What is a good synonym for “thank you for your time”?

Depending on the tone you want, options include “I appreciate you taking the time,” “thank you for making time for me,” “I’m grateful for your time and attention,” or, for a warmer and more personal note, “thanks for sharing your time with me.”

How do you thank someone for taking time out of their busy schedule?

Name the specific effort involved rather than using a generic line. For example: “Thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to meet with us. I know how full your calendar is, and I don’t take it for granted.” Mentioning what the meeting accomplished adds even more sincerity.

What’s another way to say “you’re welcome”?

Alternatives include “it was my pleasure,” “happy to help anytime,” “I’m glad it was useful,” or “of course, anytime.” Choosing among these often depends on whether the setting is formal, casual, or somewhere in between.

How do you thank someone for their time on a phone call?

A short follow-up email or text works well: “Thank you for your time on the call earlier. I appreciate you talking through the details with me, especially on such short notice.” Keeping it brief matches the informal nature of most phone conversations.

What is the definition of gratitude?

Gratitude is the recognition and appreciation of something valuable that someone has given you, whether that’s time, effort, kindness, or support. It typically involves both an internal feeling of thankfulness and an outward expression of it, such as a thank-you message or gesture.

What are the different types of thank you messages?

Thank you messages generally fall into a few categories: professional (interviews, meetings, business support), personal (friends, family, partners), social (thanking someone for a fun event or gathering), and formal written notes (cards, letters, or emails for milestone occasions like graduations or weddings). The tone and length usually shift depending on which category applies.

How do you thank someone for a great time after a get-together?

Keep it warm and a little casual: “Thank you for the great time last night, I had such a good time catching up and I’m already looking forward to doing it again.” If a group was involved, a shared message or social media post works well too.

How do you thank people for birthday wishes?

A single collective message works well for the general wave of birthday wishes: “Thank you so much to everyone who sent birthday wishes, I’m grateful to have so many kind people in my life.” For close friends or family who called or wrote a personal note, a short individual reply feels warmer than folding them into the group thank you.

How do you thank a customer for their business?

Acknowledge that they had options and chose you specifically: “Thank you for your business and for trusting us with [product/service]. We know you had choices, and we’re grateful you chose to work with us.” Small businesses often reinforce this with a handwritten card or a small discount for future purchases.

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