How to Reply

A reply to a formal invitation is properly written on a double sheet of fine, white notepaper - not on an informal, a printed card, or decorated stationery. It is written in the third person, with the wording and spacing similar to that on the engraved invitation. It is not necessary to repeat the name of the couple, but you should mention the time and date to show that you have understood them correctly. A typical formal acceptance reads:

Mr. And Mrs. David Mott Orr accept with pleasure the invitation of

Mr. And Mrs. John Carr Blake

to the wedding reception of their daughter

Saturday, the first of April at half after four o’clock

Fairfield Country Club

All suggested guidelines for behaviour in attendance reprinted from the New and Revised Bride’s Book of Etiquette, copyright 1948