When we are preparing a party, a birthday or even a wedding, you can send your guests information about the event through formal or informal invitations. The most important difference between the two is that the formal invitation must follow the established etiquette. On this oneHOWTO article we explain the most important features of each type of invitation and then the major difference between formal and informal invitations.
A formal invitation
As we've mentioned earlier, formal invitations follow strict rules that should be followed. They are used in formal events such as cocktails, weddings,etc... Formal invitations should contain and comprise with the following rules and information:
- The logo or initials of the party organizer.
- The invitation should be written in third person
- The full name of the organizer or organizers.
- A neutral tone should be used.
- It provides information about the event. For example, "brunch", "an awards ceremony" or "drinks reception".
- Dates must be written in letters and you should not use abbreviation.
- It ought to explain why the party or event is being held, "to celebrate..." or "to honor..."
- Enter the address, the time and the venue.
- Detail the dress code or the style of dress to be donned by guests. There are several types of clothing, but the most correct attire for a formal party is: semi-formal, formal dress code, black tie...
- Include an RSVP - this elegant abbreviation comes from the French phrase "Répondez, s'il vous plait"; which in English means "Please respond". This is required at parties where you need to know exactly who will come, so you can organize nibbles and other things. You can include a reply card with a phone number. Include a deadline for responses.
An informal invitation
An informal invitation or non-formal invite can take on many different forms and it does not require all the pomp and ceremony of a formal invitation. The important thing to include in non-formal invitations is:
- The sender or event organizer.
- The informal invitation can be written in handwriting
- You can use a warmer, more personal tone.
- The reason for which the event is being held. You can write these using a direct and personal style.
- RSVP for the event. Put your e-mail or phone. Another original way to confirm attendance and one which will help you manage the guests at the event is by using a Doodle.
- Another way to send a non-formal invitation is through a Facebook event.
You can be much more creative with informal invitations, so wreck your brain and think of some original ideas that can make your event more attractive to your possible attendees.
Difference between formal and informal invitations
The formal invitation is much more classical and elegant, with letters, for example, in Times New Roman, with proper punctuation and capital letters. It will also speak to your guests with the highest grade of formality. Formal invitation must be sent by post and you should wait for confirmation by post or by telephone, whereas the informal invitation can be done by e-mail or over the Internet.
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