Tips for Sending Invites the Right Way
Planning an event, whether it’s an intimate dinner party or a big milestone celebration, starts with one important detail—the invitation. It sets the tone, gives your guests the essential info, and reflects your thoughtfulness as a host. But when should you send it? Who gets a plus one? What’s the polite way to remind guests to RSVP? That’s where a little invitation etiquette can go a long way.
Let’s walk through the dos and don’ts to help you avoid common pitfalls and keep things classy (but never stuffy!).
Send Invitations at the Right Time
Timing really matters when it comes to sending invites. Send them too early and people might forget. Too late? They may already be booked.
Here’s a quick cheat sheet:
- Weddings: 6–8 weeks before the big day (save-the-dates 6–12 months prior if it’s a destination)
- Birthday Parties, Baby Showers, BBQs: 3–4 weeks ahead
- Holiday Gatherings or Dinner Parties: 2–3 weeks in advance
- Last-Minute Get-Togethers: At least a few days' notice (and keep it digital!)
Need help keeping your timeline on track? Digital invitations make scheduling and sending so much easier—and URCordiallyInvited has you covered with gorgeous, customizable designs you can send by text, email, or messenger.
Be Clear and Concise
Think of your invitation as a beautifully wrapped info package. Your guests should instantly know:
- Who the invite is from
- What the event is
- When it’s happening
- Where it’s being held
- RSVP details—and how to reply
If there’s a dress code, parking situation, or BYOB note, include it in a polite “additional info” section.
Want to make it extra simple for your guests to remember? Our Canva-editable invites allow you to personalise every detail and even include handy QR codes or clickable links to maps and itineraries.
Mind the Guest List (and the Plus-Ones)
Invitation etiquette is all about being considerate. If you’re inviting someone with a guest, be clear: add “+ guest” or include their name on the envelope or invite. But if it’s just them, don’t leave it ambiguous.
Also: Kids or no kids? Be upfront in a kind way, like:
“Although we love your little ones, this is an adults-only affair.”
It avoids awkward questions and helps parents plan ahead.
Don’t Forget to Follow Up
We get it—chasing RSVPs isn’t the most fun part of planning. But a friendly nudge never hurts. A quick reminder via text or email a week before your deadline can work wonders.
Digital invitations make this easier, too. While URCordiallyInvited doesn’t track RSVPs, you can add RSVP links or contact info directly in your invite, so responses are just a click away.
Match the Invite to the Mood
A formal black-tie affair deserves an elegant invite. A backyard BBQ? Something bright and fun does the trick. Matching the vibe sets expectations and gets guests excited.
Explore URCordiallyInvited’s curated collections to find just the right fit:
- BBQ Video Invitations: Perfect for relaxed, outdoor celebrations with a fun, festive flair.
- Itinerary Video Evites: Ideal for destination events, hen/stag weekends, or multi-day gatherings. Keep guests in the loop with everything in one stylish video.
Final Thoughts
Good invitation etiquette isn’t about being overly formal—it’s about making your guests feel welcomed, respected, and informed. By sending invites on time, communicating clearly, and choosing the right tone, you’re already halfway to hosting a wonderful event.
And if you want to make that process easier (and prettier), check out URCordiallyInvited for stunning digital invitations that are easy to customise and share.
For more inspiration and helpful planning tips, explore these articles:
- How to Host the Perfect Cozy Autumn Dinner Party – Tips for creating warmth and magic with friends and family.
- What is the Ideal Timeframe for Wedding RSVPs to be Due? We Answer Your Questions. – All about RSVP etiquette, timelines, and polite follow-ups.
