If you are writing to the Royals for the 1st time (or want a refresher on the basics) check out our "How To" tab. This post will only cover the specifics for writing to the Denmark Royals for the Abdication/Accession.
And remember, International Mail requires extra postage! Check with your local post office for the correct amount.
Who to write to?
For something like this I usually just write to the person the event is for, not extended family. (But, I might mention the abdication/accession in my letter to an extended family member for another occasion. I.e. If I wrote for Princess Marie's birthday in February, I might mention the abdication/accession.)
For this occasion I will probably write two letters: - King Frederik & Queen Mary - congratulating them on Frederik's accession and wishing them the best in their new role.
- Queen Margrethe - Thanking her for her years of service and wishing her the best in her retirement.
As their mail is handled by two different offices, I would avoid putting mail to Frederik & Mary and Margrethe in the same envelope.
- King Frederik & Queen Mary - congratulating them on Frederik's accession and wishing them the best in their new role.
- Queen Margrethe - Thanking her for her years of service and wishing her the best in her retirement.
Where to write?
Postboks 21431256 København KDENMARK
When to write?
Personally, for things like this, I like to write after the event, so I can mentioned something that happened in my letter.
What to Write?
I very often get asked this question. The answer is, write whatever you feel like writing about. There is no one right answer. As long as you are being respectful and thoughtful, it is hard to go wrong.
You can send a letter or a card, either is perfectly fine.
You don't need to write something long and elaborate. You can keep it simple and just give your congratulations or best wishes. Or, if you want you can write something longer, keep your letter to 1-page max.
You can talk about:
- The Abdication
- Your thoughts on Queen Margrethe's Reign
- Favorite moment
- Best wishes for the future
- Thank for Service
- The Accession
- What it means for you
- What you are doing to mark the event
- What you like best about the ceremony/ or are looking forward to
- Best wishes for the future
- What work they do that you particularly admire
- Etc.
How to Style the Royals
How you refer to the royals depends on how formal you wish to be:
| Who | Envelope #1 | Envelope #2 | "Dear _," #1 | "Dear _," #2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| King Frederik | HM The King | King Frederik | Your Majesty | King Frederik |
| Queen Mary | HM The Queen | Queen Mary | Your Majesty | Queen Mary |
| Frederik and Mary | TM The King & Queen | King Frederik & Queen Mary | Your Majesties | King Frederik & Queen Mary |
| Queen Margrethe | HM Queen Margrethe II | HM Queen Margrethe | Your Majesty | Queen Margrethe |
You do not need to send a gift or make a donation.
But if you feel moved to, the Royals always prefer well-wishers to make a donation to a charity instead of sending a gift. You can mention your charitable donation in your letter and include some information about the organization. Here are some patronages with international branches, as that may be easier for people.
- Margrethe's Charities
- Given her love of art, I would recommend any local art program or art museums
- Frederik's Charities
- Save the Children
- Red Cross
- Mary's Charities
- United Nations Population fund
- World Wildlife Fund
What to Expect in Reply?
As this is a historic event, it is hard to say what exactly we will get in reply. Or if there even will be a reply for well-wishers. But if they do reply, I would expect a rather plain card with no photo.
Q&A
Any Questions?
