Sending ​Party Invitations

It's party time! Here are some tips to help you get prepared and include the most helpful information. Whether it's a graduation, birthday, Sunday brunch, or a formal dinner party that requires guests to dress up, follow these simple guidelines.

STEP 1: KNOW WHEN TO MAIL

3-6 weeks prior to an informal party (e.g. birthday). 
4-6 weeks prior to a formal party (e.g. black tie).
6-12 weeks for wedding invitations.  (more on that here)
Lead time: Once you know your party date and your mailing date, plan 3-6 additional weeks time for design and any adjustments to the design you'd like to make, as well as printing, and envelope addressing. Ask us about turn-around time on your project, as complexity may vary. (Wedding invitations may require 8-12 weeks time from planning to addressing.)

STEP 2: BASIC INFORMATION ALL INVITATIONS SHOULD INCLUDE

• Who is doing the inviting
• The purpose of the party
• Date
• Start and end times
• Location
• Recommended guest attire, if necessary
• Any other special instructions, such as: gift registries or "no gifts, please"
• RSVP information, if you need a head count for planning purposes such as catering. Be sure to welcome a plus one, if you want.

STEP 3: GATHER AND PLAN

Gather the party details shown above, and then let us (your stationery designers) help you with the layout to present the invitation with a tone that matches the event, and in the most attractive way possible. Then, put together your guest list, so you have an idea of how many invitations you'll need once the final design is approved.

STEP 4: MEASURE TWICE, PRINT ONCE

Whether you use professionally made invitations or you DIY, make sure you proofread them before sending. And remember, pobody's nerfect, so don't beat yourself up if you miss a detail. Just remember to focus on the party, and create positive vibes.

P.S. 
Ever wondered how to interpret the "R.S.V.P" request?

RSVP: "RSVP" represents the French phrase, "Répondez s'il vous plaît." It means "please respond." Other phrases that can be used are, "Kindly respond," or simply, "Please respond." Set a deadline for no more than three or four weeks after the invitation is received. If you receive a formal invitation with a request to respond with a call or an RSVP card, you should reply promptly (the same day, if possible) so that the host can make necessary arrangements such as meals.

RSVP Regrets Only: It means that a response is not necessary, unless indicated. Some people find this term confusing, and aren't sure whether or not to respond, so using it is not suggested.