Formal Invitation Wording

There are certain etiquette and standard formats of formal invitation wording. 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. Certain etiquette of formal invitation wordings are standardized and need to be followed in every type of 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 formally. For eg. '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'.
• One needs to specifically avoid errors in grammar or spellings. Also abstain from using flowery language in a formal invitation.
• There should be an RSVP of a standard format attached. 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 its a theme based party. Let us have a look at some appropriate formal invitation wordings and wedding invitation etiquette 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 have them custom made from the local printer. Follow these specific formal invitation wording etiquette and you cannot go wrong. The key aspect of a formal invitation is to be very precise and clear.