Invitations and Thank-You Notes

Invitations

• Name(s) of the host(s)
• Invitation phrase
• Type of event
• Reason for the event
• Date and time
• Location
• RSVP instructions

Addressing Envelopes

• Write out place names: Use “Street” rather than “St.” (and so on) and write out full state names.
• Include all invitees: Indicate exactly who is invited. If inviting children, include their names in the address.
• Include all titles: If an invitee is a medical doctor, ambassador, or holds any title, include the title in the invitation. If not, use “Mr.” or “Ms.” or simply write out the invitee’s full name.
• Couples: The man’s name is written first, followed by the woman’s. Use the woman’s maiden name if she uses it instead of her husband’s name.

Responding to Invitations

• RSVP promptly: Unless otherwise specified, respond via phone or email for a casual invitation or in writing for a more formal event. For a formal event such as a wedding, respond in writing even if you have already told the host that you will come.
• No uninvited guests: If your host wants you to bring someone, they will indicate that you may do so. Otherwise, come alone.
• No elaborate excuses: “Thank you very much for the invitation, but because of a previous engagement, I won’t be able to attend” is enough. Never lie.
• Children: Bring children only if they’ve been specifically invited. If you can’t find a sitter, stay home.

Thank-You Notes

• If you were given a gift, mention it specifically and say how you are using it.
• If you received hospitality of some sort, express your gratitude and mention something about the experience.

When to Write a Thank-You Note

• When you receive a gift
• When you’ve stayed overnight at someone’s house
• When someone has hosted an event in your honor
• When someone has interviewed you for a job
• When you’ve been someone’s guest at a dinner party