How to Write a Letter to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II: A Comprehensive Guide

While the world mourns the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the tradition of writing letters to the Royal Family remains a poignant way to express condolences, share sentiments, or mark significant occasions. Although direct correspondence to the late Queen is no longer possible, understanding the proper protocol and etiquette for writing to the Royal Household is a valuable skill and a way to connect with the institution she served with such dedication. This guide, though focused on the late Queen as a reference point, offers information applicable to writing to other members of the Royal Family. We will explore the specifics of crafting a letter, addressing the envelope correctly, and understanding what to expect after you’ve sent it. Let’s delve into the world of royal correspondence.

Understanding the Purpose of Your Letter

Before you even pick up a pen (or start typing), it’s crucial to consider the reason for writing. This will significantly influence the tone, content, and formality of your letter. Here are some common reasons why people might write to the Royal Family, along with adjustments to make for a posthumous context:

• Condolences: In the wake of the Queen’s passing, expressing your condolences to the Royal Family is a heartfelt gesture. These letters often include personal reflections on the Queen’s life and legacy, highlighting the impact she had on individuals and the world.
• Acknowledgement of significant occasions: These could include notable anniversaries of the Royal Family’s past, or important national events that touched the late Queen and their family during her reign.
• General Well Wishes: While direct well wishes to Her Majesty are now past, letters of support and encouragement to other members of the Royal Family are always appreciated.
• Personal Experiences: Many people wish to share personal stories of how the Queen or her family has affected them positively. You may wish to share an anecdote that demonstrates her legacy.
• Requests or Inquiries: While less common for the monarch, if you had a legitimate question for her office in the past, you might now contact the new King’s private secretaries. However, understand that they will not answer on a personal basis on such matters.

It is important to acknowledge that the Royal Household receives a vast amount of mail. They are unlikely to enter into a personal correspondance with every individual writer. Keep your expectations realistic. Your letter will be read by a member of the staff and a standard thank you note or acknowledgement is the most likely outcome.

Step-by-Step Guide to Writing Your Letter

Now, let’s break down the process of writing your letter into manageable steps:

Step 1: Choosing the Right Stationery

While there’s no strict rule, selecting appropriate stationery enhances the presentation of your letter. Opt for good-quality paper, preferably white or cream. Avoid brightly colored or heavily patterned papers. A single sheet of A4 or standard letter paper size is ideal. Consider using matching envelopes for a polished look. A simple, elegant letterhead is acceptable, but avoid any design that is too ornate or casual. Hand-written letters on good quality paper are best in this type of communication.

Step 2: Starting with the Correct Address

This is perhaps the most crucial aspect of formal correspondence. Even when you are sending messages in memory of the Queen, her legacy should be treated with reverence and formal address.

For letters acknowledging her passing:

The best address is simply:
The Royal Household,
Buckingham Palace,
London SW1A 1AA
United Kingdom.

For letters to other members of the Royal Family: The address will be the same as above, however, you will need to amend the salutation to indicate that person. These are detailed below.

Step 3: Writing the Salutation

The salutation is the formal greeting at the beginning of your letter. Here’s the traditional approach for addressing members of the Royal Family:

• Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II (Posthumously): While no longer applicable for direct correspondence, it’s beneficial to understand the correct forms of address for historical reference. It was always “Your Majesty” or “Madam” in the salutation. The correct form of address was “To Her Majesty The Queen”.
• His Majesty King Charles III: “Your Majesty” or “Sir” is used in the salutation. The full address should be used in the outside of the envelope. In the text of the letter, you would use the name in third person. For example, “His Majesty”.
• Her Majesty The Queen Consort: The salutation would be “Your Majesty” or “Madam”. You would then reference “Her Majesty” in the third person in the body of the letter.
• Other members of the Royal Family: Members of the Royal Family (e.g., Prince William, Princess Catherine) are addressed by their titles. For example, “Your Royal Highness” followed by their name. In the text you may use “His Royal Highness” or “Her Royal Highness”.

Example Salutations:

• For the King: “Your Majesty” or “Sir”
• For The Queen Consort: “Your Majesty” or “Madam”
• For Prince William: “Your Royal Highness,” or “Sir”.
• For Princess Catherine: “Your Royal Highness,” or “Madam”.

Do not use titles like Mr, Mrs or Ms. Avoid addressing them by their first names. If you are unsure, it is always best to use “Your Royal Highness” followed by their name and title.

Step 4: Crafting the Body of Your Letter

The body of your letter is where you express your thoughts and feelings. Here are some tips to ensure clarity and respect:

• Start with a Respectful Opening: Begin with a brief, polite introduction stating your name and the reason for writing. For example: “Your Majesty, I am writing to express my deepest condolences on the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.”
• Be Concise and Clear: Get to the point without being abrupt. Avoid overly long sentences and paragraphs. It’s best to keep your letter to one page, or two pages at a maximum.
• Express Your Sentiments Sincerely: Whether you’re offering condolences or sharing a personal story, ensure your feelings are conveyed authentically. Avoid overly emotional language or hyperbole. Do not express political opinions or beliefs, or matters that are not related to the Royal Family.
• Use Respectful Language: Maintain a formal tone throughout the letter. Avoid slang, contractions, or overly casual language.
• Be Specific: If you’re sharing a story, provide specific details to make it more impactful.
• Offer a Positive Perspective: When writing about a specific occasion or in reference to the Queen, focus on positive aspects and her legacy.

Example Body Paragraph (Condolences):

“I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Her remarkable dedication to the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth over so many years has been an inspiration to me and to millions around the world. I will always remember her grace, strength, and unwavering sense of duty. She will be missed by so many”

Example Body Paragraph (Well wishes):

“Your Royal Highness, I am writing to offer my sincerest wishes for continued good health and happiness. I deeply admire the work you do and I wish you every success in the future.”

Step 5: Concluding Your Letter

Your closing should be as respectful and formal as your opening. Here are some suitable options:

• For the King or The Queen Consort: “I remain, Your Majesty’s most humble and obedient servant,” or “I have the honour to remain, Your Majesty’s most humble and obedient servant” is appropriate.
• For other members of the Royal Family: “I remain, Your Royal Highness’s most humble and obedient servant,” is suitable. You may also use “With respectful wishes, I remain,” or “With my sincere and loyal regards,”.

Always end with your full name, written below the closing statement. Do not use your first name only.

Step 6: Proofreading

Before sealing your letter, proofread it carefully for any errors in grammar, spelling, or punctuation. A letter to the Royal Family should be error-free. It may be helpful to have someone else read over the letter to check for anything you may have missed. It is best to re-write the letter in its entirety if there are amendments required. It will look far more professional than if the letter has edits made within the text.

Step 7: Preparing the Envelope

Address the envelope clearly and accurately. Use the same address as you used in the body of the letter. The correct address is:

The Royal Household,
Buckingham Palace,
London SW1A 1AA
United Kingdom.

Ensure you use a high quality envelope. Write your full name and address on the back of the envelope in case the post office has difficulty delivering the letter.

Step 8: Sending Your Letter

Mail your letter through your local postal service. For international mail, be sure to use the correct postage. It’s best to send it using tracked mail so that you have confirmation of delivery.

What to Expect After Sending Your Letter

It is important to have realistic expectations. The Royal Household receives a vast amount of mail every day. While they try to respond to as many letters as possible, it is not always possible to receive a personal reply. Here’s what you might typically expect:

• Acknowledgement Card: The most common response is a standard acknowledgement card, typically a printed card with a signature or message from a staff member. This is not a personal response from the Royal Family. These cards will often be sent some time after you send your letter. Do not expect to have a quick response, and be mindful there may be a backlog of mail to be responded to.
• A Typed Letter: In some rare circumstances, you may receive a typed letter. These letters will usually be addressed from a member of staff at the Palace, such as a private secretary.
• No Response: Due to the sheer volume of mail, you may not receive any acknowledgement. However, it is still possible that your letter was read by a member of the household staff.

It’s essential to be patient and understand that the Royal Household is busy. It is not personal if you do not receive an answer.

Important Considerations

• Avoid Sending Gifts: Sending gifts is not necessary or appropriate when writing to the Royal Family. Your letter is the gift.
• Be Respectful: Remember that the Royal Family represents an institution and must be treated with respect and reverence. Avoid gossip, or negative remarks.
• Be Authentic: Let your sincerity shine through in your letter. Do not attempt to write in an overly formal manner that does not reflect your own style.
• Confidentiality: Your letter will be treated as confidential, as would any information that may be sent to you by the Royal Household. This is unlikely, but always bear in mind you should not share any correspondence with third parties.

A Final Thought

Writing to the Royal Family, even in a time of mourning, is a timeless tradition. By following these guidelines, you can craft a respectful and meaningful letter that conveys your sentiments appropriately. Remember, the act of writing is often more meaningful than the response you receive. Your letter will be a small part of the tapestry of remembrance and acknowledgement of the dedication and service of the Royal Family. It is a way to show your respect and admiration, and to remember the life of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.