Formal Invitation Wording

Writing out invitations yourself helps save a lot of money. Writing formal invitations is also a lot easier than what you think. There is a standard format and etiquette of formal invitation that you need to follow. The sender's and the recipient's name, the occasion for the celebration, date and place are prominently mentioned in formal invitations. One must remember that a formal invitation is written in third person. Let us take a look at the guidelines of writing a formal invitation.

Tips for Writing a Formal Invitation

The following are things to be taken into account when writing a formal invitation.

• The sender's and the recipient's name should be mentioned in the formal way. For e.g., 'Mr. and Mrs. Jack Lawson'. Even the sender's name should be written in a similar, formal fashion.
• The date has to be mentioned in words and not in numbers, for instance, 'Sunday, the fifth of August'. Even the year, if mentioned, has to be written in words, like 'two thousand and nine'.
• You need to specifically avoid errors in grammar or spellings in the party invitation wording. You should also abstain from using flowery language in a formal invitation.
• There should be an RSVP of a standard format attached with the invitation. If children are not invited, mention it formally by saying that it will be an 'adult reception'.
• The return address should always be of the host. It is advisable to mention only one contact number to avoid confusion.

In case of weddings invitations, bridal showers, baby shower invitations and birthday invitations, you will have to mention specifically if it's a theme based party. Let us take a look at some examples of appropriate formal invitations for certain occasions. Along with the invitation, you need to attach an RSVP, whose standard format is given at the end.

Formal Wedding Invitation Wording

(name of the bride's parents) invite you to celebrate with them the marriage of their daughter, (name of bride) to (name of groom) on (date) at (place)

The pleasure of your company is requested as (name of bride) and (name of groom) exchange marriage vows on (date) at (place)

Formal Bridal Shower Invitation Wording

(the hosts) request the pleasure of your presence for a Bridal Shower honoring (name of would-be-bride) on (date) at (place)

(the hosts) cordially invite you to the Bridal Shower honoring (name of bride-to-be) on (date) at (place)

Formal Baby Shower Invitation Wording

(recipient's name) are invited to rejoice with the (host's name) as they welcome (baby's name) to their family (date)- (place)-

Let us get together to celebrate the arrival of (baby's name) (date)- (place)-

Formal Birthday Invitation Wording

Please join us in celebrating (person's name)'s (add number if you wish) Birthday Hosted by (host's name) on (date) at (place)

(recipient's name) are invited to join (host's name) to celebrate their son/daughter (name)'s Birthday on (date) at (place)

Formal Business Invitation Wording

We esteem your presence for discussion followed by dinner at (place) on (date)

We proudly announce our success (in../at..) Please join us for a celebration with dinner at (place) on (date)

RSVP Format

A reply is requested on/before (date) M__________________________________ Will Attend________ Will Not Attend_______ Number of Adults_______ Number of Children_____

You can make your own invitation cards or can have them custom made from the local printer. If you follow these specific formal invitation wording etiquette, you cannot go wrong. Lastly, note that the key aspect of a formal invitation is to be very precise and clear. Good luck!