A Guide to Invitation Etiquette

You've made the choice to host a party. Who do you ask now, and how?

It may appear like inviting someone to your event is less significant than the event itself. However, the way in which you extend the invitation gives guests the first clue of what to expect from the party as well as subtle hints on what is expected of them. Since an evite suggests a less formal event than, say, an engraved note card, Betty might assume it's okay to bring her kids (when it is really not) or John might ignore the RSVP. How do you create the atmosphere you want for your event without offending anyone in the process?

How to Invite in Style

Is it acceptable to cross your boss off the list for the annual holiday party? If they haven't responded, can you call them? How do you keep an all-adults-only party to adults only?

Who Should You Invite?

• The fundamental guideline is to feel free to invite anyone you believe will enjoy your party or who you'd like to get to know better. Include individuals from various facets of your life to mix things up.

• If you're unsure about whether to invite a particular person, go ahead and do it. Although you probably won't notice the extra guests, they still may feel left out if they weren't invited.

• Take a look at your guest list and make a note of any common histories or hobbies among your friends to help spark conversation. So that you can introduce them and point out what they have in common.

Tips for Being a Good Guest - How can you get invited back?

• As soon as you get the invitation, please RSVP.

• Attend the event if you accept an invitation.

• Leave uninvited guests at home, including your children, dog, and coworker.

• You should politely decline an invitation if a friend is coming from out of town. Don't put the hostess in an embarrassing situation by asking whether you can bring a guest.

• Don't forget to bring the serving tray, spreader, and cheese knife that the dish requires if the hostess asks you to bring something.