Formal and Informal invitations and replies

There are two types of letters of invitation:

1. The format letter of invitation
2. The ordinary letter of invitation.

Characteristics of the Formal letter of Invitation:

1. It is written in the third person.
2. There is no signature
3. The address is written at the bottom of the invitation, and the date of writing is not given.
4. The Simple Present Tense is used.
5. The abbreviation R.S.V.P (meaning ‘please reply’) is put at the bottom.
6. The layout of the letter is such that each of the following is in a separate line:

• • • The name (s) given in the invitation:
    • The standard expression-requested the pleasure of the company;
    • The reason for the invitation;
    • The time and date of the event.

Also, read – Message Writing 

Characteristics of the Ordinary (Informal) Letter of Invitation:

1. It is written in the First Person.
2. There is no inside address.
3. The salutation is ‘dear + name.’
4. The complimentary close is ‘Yours Sincerely’.
5. The date of writing is given but the year is omitted.
6. The writer’s address appears in the usual place.
7. Various tenses are used to suit the sense.
8. The letter does not actually ask for a reply, but the last sentence suggests that a reply is expected.

Formal and Informal invitations and replies

Replies:

(i) Formal 

• Acknowledge the invitation.
• Express your thanks in the third person.
• Mention acceptance on a report specifying the valid reason.

(ii) Informal

• Acknowledge the invitation in first, second person.
• Mention acceptance or refusal specifying the reason.
• Use warm and simple language.

Solved Questions/Examples formal and informal invitation and replies

Example – 1

Mrs. and Mr. U.R. Mediratta invite you to the marriage of their daughter to be celebrated on 5th  July, 200…, Write a formal invitation in about 50 words by giving relevant details.

Answer

Example – 2

Writing a formal reply accepting the above invitation.

Answer

152/21 Panchsheel Colony

Sonepat – 132001

25th June, 20…

Mrs. & Mr. R.K. Mittal thank Mrs. & Mr. U.R. Mediratta for inviting at the occasion of the auspicious marriage ceremony of their daughter Suman to be solemnized on the 5th July, 200… We are happy to accept this invitation and will be present there to enjoy the fine time.

sd/-

R.K.Mittal

Example – 3

Indian Air Force is celebrating the 64th Air Force Anniversary. You are a Public Relations Officer. Draft A formal invitation for all retired Air Force Officer. Formal and Informal invitations and replies.

Example – 4 

You are Ankit/Aditi the school Captain of Pratibha Vikas Vidyalaya. You have decided to celebrate “The Grand Parents Day” at school. Draft a formal invitation to be sent to the grandparents of students of your school giving details of the programme, days, date and time, etc.

Answer:

Example – 5

Write out a formal invitation like a card format to be sent to all the parents of your school at the event of Annual Sports Day.

Answer

Example – 6

Ministry of Health, Delhi Government is organising an exhibition on ‘Health Care’ in Pragati Maidan. As a Health Secretary, write an invitation to the people to visit the exhibition. Give relevant details.

Example – 7

Nikhil has come out successful in the I.I.T Entrance Examination. He has decided to throw a party with his friends. Write out an informal invitation giving details of the venue, time and date. Do not exceed 50 words.

Example – 8 

You are Mohan/Molly. You have been invited by the Lions Club to act as one of the judges for a fancy dress competition for children. But due to a previous engagement, you cannot accept this invitation. Write a formal reply to the President of the Clun regretting your inability to accept the invitation. (word limit – 50 words) Formal and Informal invitations and replies.

Example – 9

Suman/Suresh has cleared the Pre-Medical/Pre-Dental entrance examination. The family is elated at the achievement and they decided to have a get-together for all Friends Draft an inform invitation for the get-together.

Answer