How to Write an Invitation

An invitation can speak volumes about the occasion itself--make sure your invites send the right message before they go in the mail. A professional invite can be more encouraging to the invitee, even if they don't want to attend.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Before you write an invitation, decide on the tone, voice and level of formality, based on the event itself. This will dictate whether you hand-write the cards or have them printed, and whether you choose a preprinted or personalized invitation.
2. Choose the type of invite you want, and order or buy a few more than you think you'll need. This will permit you to add some guests to your list at the last minute, if necessary. For small parties, you may want to hand-write the invitations on stationery or blank cards. For large gatherings, consider ordering printed invitations.
3. Determine the wording of your invite based on the level of formality. For example, a formal invitation might say, 'Dr. and Mrs. Stanley request the pleasure of your company,' whereas a more casual note might say, 'Please join us.'
4. Include the names of the host and/or hostess, as well as the place (with street address), time, date and purpose of the occasion, even if it's a simple get-together.
5. Make sure to add RSVP information at the bottom of the invite if you need to know who will be attending; for example, 'RSVP' followed by your telephone number.
6. Include a respond-by date on a formal invitation so you can get an accurate head count in time to adjust the amount of food, number of place settings and room size. For a wedding, charity function or other formal event, consider including a response card and a stamped, self-addressed envelope inside the envelope containing your invite.
7. Mail invitations three weeks before most events, four weeks before a formal affair and three months before a wedding, to allow for airline reservations. For events held during the December holidays, send invitations around Thanksgiving.

Tips & Warnings

• Use the kind of RSVP method that best serves the occasion: a response card for a head count, a telephone number for expediency, or an e-mail address if you know that the invitees use e-mail.
• Large dinner parties, debuts, receptions and weddings call for written invitations.
• Count out those who don't respond, but be prepared in case a few non-responders show up.
• Printing invitations costs much more but is worthwhile if you are planning a formal or large event: they save time and tell the recipient 'this is an important occasion.'
• For less formal occasions, consider using social planning Web sites, such as www.evite.com, to send electronic invitations.
• Consider making a theme invitation using such items as travel postcards, photographs and envelopes studded with confetti for a casual, festive occasion. Scrap-booking stores and websites are filled with personalizing potential.
• Anything that can be hand-written, can also be typed into a computer. Using word processing programs, clip art, paint programs and a color printer, who can personalize and print invites at home for casual occasions.
• Include directions on any invite if the invitees aren't familiar with your location, and always include directions to a wedding and/or wedding reception.