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     Your Invitations  |
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perfect timing
There's something luxurious about looking forward to a great party. For that reason, coupled with the fact that everyone is overbooked these days, send invitations well in advance. Compile your guest list at least six weeks before the party date. To encourage plenty of lively interaction, invite friends from different areas of your life, some who have met and some who haven't and blend couples with single people. Mixing guest of different ages, and even generations, can also enrich the group dynamic. For small parties mail invitation so that guests receive them two weeks in advance. For a formal occasion or a big bash, send invitations four weeks in advance.
the invitations
You can spend days, even weeks, envisioning a wonderful party. But it isn't official until you invite the guests. You can do this in a variety of ways. Whatever the format, all invitations server the same purpose: They set the tone for a celebration and provide guests with all the information they need. They get everyone excited for a good time!
The kind of party you want to give helps you choose the invitations with same feel and level of formality. If it's a very casual occasion, like a dinner party with close friends or drinks to toast a friend's promotion, a phone call is perfectly appropriate. If you want to tell a large number of people about a last minute gathering in your home invite them by e-mail. For a more organized or formal events written invitations are in order. The easiest method is to send traditional fill-in-the-blank invitations. These days, plenty of stationary companies offer chic, well-designed styles customized for all kinds of occasions. Another even more classic choice is to write the information on a high-quality note card - a personalized card is ideal. Custom-printed invitations, which you order at a stationery or department store, or online, up the style quotient and are exciting to receive. These are most commonly used to celebrate a birthday, anniversary, engagement or shower. Engraved or letterpress invitations signify an extremely fancy party and a posh setting and are typically reserved for weddings.
The reason for the party: Be as specific as possible. If the occasion is a friend's birthday, write something such as "Please join us for cake and champagne to celebrate Jenny's 21st."
The date and time: For most parties, especially dinners, a starting time is sufficient. If you want guests to leave at a certain time, include an ending time. This is most appropriate for early cocktail parties, showers, brunches and kids' parties.
The location: If you're inviting people who have never been to your home, include a map and/or directions.
An RSVP line: Include a phone number and/or e-mail address so people can tell you whether or not they will attend. If you don't hear from someone and the party is a few days away, follow up with a phone call.
Any other relevant information: If it's a surprise, say so on the invitation. If it's a wedding or baby shower , include registry information. Unless it's a costume party don't dictate a dress code.
