Write the invitation

When people need to know what this is, what to wear, and whether to eat first.

Write an invitation that answers what guests will otherwise have to ask.

It must contain, in this order:
1. What the event is and whose it is.
2. When it starts, and when it ends. Giving an end time is a kindness.
3. Where, with enough detail to find it, including which door, floor or room.
4. What to expect: whether there is food and whether it is a meal, whether there is a bar, what to wear, whether children are included, whether to bring anything.
5. How and by when to reply.

Match the tone to the event. A dinner for eight and a christening do not read the same. Keep it short enough to read on a phone without scrolling twice.

Give me two versions: one for a card or a formal send, one for a message or group chat. Do not invent details I have not supplied: leave a clear gap instead.

The event, date, place and any practicalities:

Cards, toasts and notes. The words that go with it: card messages, toasts, thank-yous, condolences and invitations.