A good invitation tells guests who is hosting, what the occasion is, the date, the start time, the place and how and when to reply. Add one line that sets expectations, such as "dinner at 7.30pm" or "adults only", then make the reply instruction unmissable with a date and a link or QR code.
What must an invitation include?
- Who is hosting
- What the occasion is
- The date
- The start time, and an end time if it matters
- The venue, with the full address
- How and when to reply
If a guest has to message you to find out one of these, the invitation has not finished its job.
How do you say what kind of occasion it is?
"Drinks and canapés from 7pm" and "dinner at 7.30pm" set very different expectations about eating, dressing and leaving. One line saves a dozen questions. Mention dress code only if there is one.
What wording can you borrow?
Please join us for dinner to celebrate Amara's 40th. Saturday 24 October, 7pm, The Garden Room, [address]. Please reply by 10 October.
Forty years, and we would love to celebrate with you. Join us for lunch on Sunday 6 June at 1pm, [venue]. Kindly reply by 16 May.
We would love you to join us for Rosie's christening at St Mary's at 11am on Sunday 25 October, and afterwards for lunch at [venue]. Children are very welcome.
The pleasure of your company is requested at dinner on Friday 3 December at 7.30pm, [venue]. Black tie. Please reply with your menu choice by 12 November.
How do you make the reply instruction stand out?
Put it on its own line at the end, with a date. "Please reply by 10 October" gets answers; "hope you can make it" gets none. A link or QR code works better than an email address, because replying becomes a tap rather than a task.
How do you handle children, plus-ones and gifts?
Say it plainly and kindly. "Adults only, we are afraid" and "no gifts, just your company" are much easier to read on the invitation than to explain on the day.
Planning something more relaxed, like drinks at the pub or a barbecue, where a quick message in the group chat will do? Our sister site Pingle is built for casual get-togethers.
Frequently asked questions
How far in advance should you send a special occasion invitation?
Four to six weeks is common for milestone birthdays and dinners, and longer for weddings or anything that needs travel. Send a save the date first if the event is far ahead.
Should you put an end time on an invitation?
Only if it helps guests plan, such as for an afternoon christening lunch or when a venue closes at a set time.
Is it fine to send an invitation by WhatsApp?
Yes, for most occasions. A link to an invitation page gives guests the full details and a way to reply, without a long message thread.