Tuesday, January 3, 2017

Prince Albert & Princess Charlene of Monaco - Christmas Reply (2016)

A reply arrived today, while I was away on holiday. The reply is similar to their previous Christmas replies. They did get this out faster than previous years, by 1-2 weeks.  

One thing I have always said is Monaco has the nicest quality replies. You can't see it in the picture, but this envelope is actually sparkly if you hold it to the light just right. The Monaco Royals have very beautiful envelopes, in a variety of colors and textures. Usually, they pick an envelope that matches the color and texture of the letter or card they are sending. 

The stamp on this reply is of Enrico Caruso, a famous Italian opera singer  (1873 – 1921). Enrico Caruso performed all over the world, including Monaco. The stamp was released in March 2016. The Postmark says "Joyeuses Fetes," which is French for "Happy Holidays." 


Inside is a card. The front features the couple's joint monogram in red and a lovely family photo that was taken in early December at the palace.

And again it's really nice quality. It is heavy paper, that sparkles in the light. The photo isn't printed on, rather it glued onto the front. This allows them to have the heavy paper, while also have a very nice quality photo. 



On the inside of the card is a message, in 3 languages: French, English and Monegasque. They change up the message each year. At the bottom of the card is Albert and Charlene's signatures. They are printed on, and the same ones they have been using for years.  

  

The card reads: 
May the joy and peace of the holiday season be with you in this New Year 2017.
Albert de Monaco                   Charlene de Monaco