Invitation Basics
Create invitations that suit your theme and let your guests know what kind of party they'll be attending. You might want to send your party details on a balloon, paper fan, ticket, postcard, napkin, travel brochure, diaper, baseball card, party hat, wine label, puzzle, magazine ad, or a page from a book-whatever fits your theme. You could put confetti in the envelopes so it sprinkles out when the invitations are opened.

Be sure to read over your guest list a few times to see that you haven't omitted anyone. Include on your invitation the following information:

• Date (and day)
  
• Time (starting and ending)
  
• Place (include directions or a map)
  
• Occasion (birthday, retirement, or shower)
  
• Party details ("It's a surprise!" or "The shower has a kitchen
• theme.")
  
• Attire (black tie, casual, or costumes)
  
• RSVP (include a date, phone number and/or email address)

If your party is very formal, send out your invitations three to four weeks before the event. If it's more casual, two weeks in advance is about right.