Invitations

Invitations are the first peak into your party and that is why it is important to pick the right invite. Think about the kind of party you want whether it is casual, carefree or formal. If you want to tell a large group of people about your 4th of July backyard BBQ then it is fine to send an invite via e-mail. However if you want to invite a small amount of people to a dinner party then an e-mail invite would not fit the intimate feel of your party. A handwritten invite on a note card would be more appropriate. Some people shy away from the traditional ready made cards where you can fill in your party information because they feel it is not personal enough, however with all of the unique, chic, modern and whimsical invitites available these days you can usually find one that is perfect for your party and the internet gives you the opportunity to add your specific information prior to printing them so you have a custom invitation for any occasion.

When you are filling in or writing out your invitations you will want to include:

The reason for the party

It is very important that you share who the party is for and the reason for the party. This will also give your guests an idea of the theme of the party. Whether it is cocktail and appetizers or a formal dinner party make sure you share that on the invitation.

Date and time

Unless you are having a cocktail party where the food will be served throughout the party you will want to have a specific time you want your guests to arrive. If you are having a dinner party then it is important that your guests are there in time for dinner. Most invites now a days also has an end time which can be very helpful for kid's birthday parties where you want the parents to come pick them up from the party. If your party is for a graduate and you know you are going to have a lot of people come over then maybe put different times on your invites prior to sending them out so you do not have an abundance of people showing up all at the same time. It gives your graduate time to mingle with all of their guests.

Location, Location, Location

If you are inviting guests who have never been to your home or your party is being held somewhere other than your home then you will want to be specific as to where they party is being held and enclose a small map and directions to ensure your guests get to your party on time and relaxed.

RSVP

Include the phone number or e-mail of the host or hostess. If you need a number of guests prior to the party and you have not heard from everyone it is fine to follow up with a phone call.

Any other information

This section is the catch all. If it is a bridal or baby shower share include the registry information. If you are having a halloween costume party and you want your guests to dress up here is where you will share with them. Any information that is relevant to the party that you need to share with the guest prior to the party make sure you add it to the invites.