Invitations,
whether formal or casual, are far more than a simple request for the company of
a guest at a celebratory occasion; it offers guests a sneak peek of what’s to
come! From the wording to the inserts, the overall presentation of an
invitation gives potential guests visual clues as to what to expect – and what
may be expected of them. Whether you’re throwing an informal birthday bash or
elegant charity fundraiser, here are common do’s and don’ts of invitation
etiquette.
DO Send Invitations in a Timely
Manner – When it comes to
formal events such as weddings, invitations should be sent six to eight weeks
in advance, especially if travel may be
involved for some guests. For more casual get-togethers, invites can be sent
two to four weeks in advance.
DON’T Forget a Full Address –
Regardless of what type of event it is, make sure the invitation lists the full
address of the party location: street address, city, and state and if
applicable, the name of the venue
DON’T Invite Guests Who
Aren’t Invited to the Whole Shebang - If the party is a precursor to a larger event, don’t invite anyone you
would not invite to both events. In other words, it is not appropriate to
invite someone to a bridal shower or engagement party if you do not plan on
inviting them to the wedding.
DO Indicate if “Plus One” is
Appropriate – If you would
like single friends and family members to bring a guest, make sure you list
“and Guest” with the invitee’s name: “John Smith and Guest.” If just the
guest’s name is listed, then it is implied that extra guests are not
appropriate. Do make an effort to find out the names of your guests’
significant others (such as a fiancée or serious girlfriend) so you can list
his or her name on the invitation as well.
DO Indicate Dress Code – While dress code may not be an issue for
casual celebrations, if the event is more formal, it is entirely appropriate to
place dress code information on the bottom of the invitation. Common phrases
used to indicate a dress code “Black Tie”, “Cocktail Attire”, or “Semi-Formal
Attire.” If it’s a themed event, you can also request that form of dress (e.g.
“Western attire”).
DON’T Forget the R.S.V.P. – If you need an approximate head count
(often necessary to ensure sufficient catering), make sure you include a
R.S.V.P. option on or in the invitation. For a formal event, consider including
a separate R.S.V.P. card that indicates the number of guests attending and is
mailed back to the host or hostess. More casual events often call for something
as simple as listing a telephone number or email address guests can use to
R.S.V.P.
By: Megan Loberg, A Memory Lane Event
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