Tips on Writing Invitations
Whether you're planning a New Year's Eve party or bringing together friends and family for a life-changing event like a wedding, the invitations should get your guests in the mood beforehand by making them feel wanted and respected. Some handy tips on writing invitations include being yourself and making the invitation reflect your thoughts, remembering all the details so no one feels confused and following etiquette rules for special occasions so each guest knows they are valued.
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Be Sincere
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If the invitation is for a heartfelt gathering like a wedding, christening or memorial, feel free to write invitation text that reflects your feelings. Bible verses, other religious passages and even poetry is fine if it sets up the mood for the event. Think about the theme: is this formal or casual? Serious or lighthearted? Do you want the event to be filled with joy, or to be thoughtful yet somber? Once you have these ideas set, writing the invitation will come naturally. If you are including any personal thoughts, check your spelling and grammar before setting pen to note card, or type out your invitation greeting in a word processing program like Microsoft Word or OpenOffice to check for grammar, spelling and punctuation issues.
Include the Details
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Think about all the questions your guests may have: when and where the event will be, if they need to bring something with them, if you would like them to RSVP, if they should dress up and what the theme of the occasion will be. Don't forget to list your contact information clearly on the invitation in case they have questions you haven't addressed. If you're inviting someone to your home or a separate location they've never seen before, give clear, specific instructions on how to get there. Informal invitations can even include a small map insert so your guests won't end up frustrated and lost before the event begins.
Remember Etiquette
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Proper etiquette is required on formal invitations and appreciated on informal ones. The wording on the invitation will vary slightly if you're asking people to attend a wedding, for example. If the happy day is hosted by the couple themselves, the invitation will read in first person; if the bride or groom's family is hosting the wedding, the invitation will read from the family's point of view. Write out the time, day, month and year for a formal event; usually, the year is not required for an informal get-together. Remember to add the guests' first names to the invitation itself, although an inner envelope, if included, should list their first and last names. If you plan to allow single invitees to bring a guest, write the phrase 'plus one' or 'and guest' beside their name on the invitation. This gives them the option of coming alone or bringing someone with them without worry.
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