Grammar Rules for Holiday and Thank You Cards

The apostrophe can be a source of frustration for many and it drives me crazy to see it used incorrectly. It’s really not that big of a deal, but why not just do it right? Grammar errors usually occur when ending out and signing a thank you or holiday card. Below you’ll find tips on correctly signing your cards.

How do I make my last name plural?

Of course you’re excited to sign your shiny last name, your hyphenated, or maybe you’ll sign two names. Regardless, you’re probably super pumped to show friends and family that cute holiday, wedding or engagement picture you took for the card. If you’re signing your name and you need to make it plural, there are some general rules to follow. Be sure to keep reading, because I’ve also added in some tips on making your last name possessive and using the correct your/you’re.

GENERAL RULE
Simply add an s .

EXCEPTION
If your name ends in s, x, z, ch, or sh, add an es.

EXAMPLES
Love, the Andersons
Love, the Joneses
Love, the Smiths
Love, the Foxes
Love, the Johnsons
Love, the Kennedys
Love, the Churches
Love, the Days

When do I use an apostrophe in my name?

Well, that’s a very good question, you use an apostrophe to show possession.
That’s the Andersons’ car.
Let’s go over to the Granda’s house.
The Smith’s dog is so cute.

BONUS LESSON: YOU’RE vs. YOUR

You’re = you are
You’re smart.
You’re pretty.
You’re spelling that wrong.
You’re my favorite.

Your = possession, ownership
Is this your car?
Your jeans are cute!
The coffee shop is on your left.

GRAMMAR HACK
If you’re (you are) confused, break it down and say ‘you are’ and see if it fits. If it doesn’t fit, then it’s your.
You are pretty. YES
Is this you are car? NO