Awards night invitation templates

Send a save the date two to three months ahead, and the formal invitation six to eight weeks before the evening. Ask for replies two to three weeks before, because the seating plan, dietary needs and the caterer’s final numbers all depend on them. Send a reminder with practical details a few days before.

Black tie is formal evening dress: a tuxedo or dinner jacket with a bow tie, or a floor-length gown or an elegant formal dress. Smart traditional or cultural formal wear is also appropriate. If you would accept a dark suit, write “black tie optional” instead.

Open with the host and the name of the awards, for example “The board of Brightwater invites you to the annual Excellence Awards.” Then give the date, programme times, venue, dress code and a reply-by date. Add whether a guest is included and a contact for questions about tables or access.

Write to nominees personally, congratulating them on the nomination and naming the category. Give the date, times, venue and dress code, say how many guests they may bring, and whether winners will be asked to speak. Tell them if they will be seated together, and give a contact for questions.