Invitation Etiquette
Once you have learned the protocol for invitation etiquette you will want to send invitations for all of your parties. Your invitation should set the tone for your party.
You can choose an invitation to represent a theme such as western, dance or a pool party. Once you have chosen the type of invitation you want to send, be sure to include all of the vital information. An informal invitation might only require minimal information such as date, time, location, RSVP and phone number.
For a more formal invitation include an opening line such as: Please join us as we celebrate. Spell out the formal names of the hosts and write out the date and time, such as Friday the twentieth of July, Two thousand and seven at Eleven o’clock in the morning. Consider including a response card so your guests may reply in writing.
Other items to consider when sending invitations are:
• How to address your guests on the invitation envelope. Mr. and Mrs., or Dr. and Mrs. If they are not married you will want to address them both on different lines.
• If there are dress requirements, mention them at the bottom left corner of the invitation. For example: Semiformal, Black Tie or Formal
• If they should not bring children include a statement “Adults Only Please”.
• If your guests are to bring their own drinks add BYOB to your invitation.
• If you are requesting that your guest bring a dessert or any other food be sure to note that on the invitation as well.
When your invitations are ready to mail send them at least two to three weeks prior to the party. You will want to give people time to plan and to notify you of their intention to accept or decline your invitation.
