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The invitation is laid out in such a way that each of the following is on a
separate line—
1. name(s) of the host(s) issuing the invitation

2. the expression ‘request the pleasure of the company of’—

3. the reason for the invitation
4. the time and date of the event
5. venue for the event

6. name of the chief guest (if any)

7. in case of printed cards, the name of the invitee may not figure in the invitation

Here are some guidelines for writing an invitation.
1. The date of issuing the invitation is not mentioned.

2. No punctuation is required at the end of a line.
3. No signature is required at the end of the invitation.

4. The simple present tense is used.

Reply to Formal Invitations (Personal)

Replying to an invitation is essential courtesy—

1. to appreciate the host’s kindness for issuing the invitation.
2. to inform the host whether you will attend or not in order to enable her/him to
make arrangements accordingly.

3. to give a reason for declining the invitation.

Guidelines
1. The layout of a reply is much the same as the invitation itself.

2. Lines may be written in ordinary prose.
3. The language should be formal.

4. The first person singular or plural should be used.
5. No address and date are required.

Here is a sample format for a reply to an invitation.

Sender of Reply (Name)
Express gratitude for invitation
Name of host
Occasion
Delighted to attend/Unable to attend

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