Format of invitation and invitation reply

A. FORMAL INVITATIONS

Main Characteristics:

1. A formal invitation is normally a single sentence presentation in third person.
2. Formal invitations are generally printed invitation cards. We use them to invite guests on some auspicious occasion like birthdays, weddings, inauguration of shops, houses, etc.
3. The invitation answers the questions who, whom, when, where, what time and for what, i.e.,
   • the occasion
   • name(s) of the invitee
   • name(s) of the host
   • date, time and venue
4. The other details include name, designation and address of the organiser, sponsor or host or the name(s) of the chief guest or special invitees, in case of an official invitation.
5. Printed formal invitations don’t include the name of the addressee.
6. Invitations to VIP to preside over a function do carry the name of VIP prominently.
7. Length as per CBSE guidelines is limited to 50 words.

B. INFORMAL INVITATIONS

Main Characteristics:
Informal invitations follow the pattern of ordinary personal letters. These letters are written to relatives, friends and acquaintances.

1. These letters are first/second person presentations.
2. Personal feelings and emotions find an expression.
3. The writer’s address is given in the usual place.
4. The salutation is usually “Dear’ plus “Name’.
5. The date of writing is given, but the year is generally omitted.
6. The style and tone are relaxed and informal.
7. Different tenses are used as the sense demands.
8. The complimentary close is: Tours sincerely’.