An invitation is both decoration and information. If the information is missing, the decoration does not help.
The facts every invitation needs
- Who is inviting, and the occasion
- Date and day of the week
- Start time, and end time if relevant
- Venue, with a landmark or map link
- How to confirm, with a name and phone number
- Dress code or entry fee, if any
Wording
Keep it warm and short. One line of welcome, then the facts. In multilingual communities, a second language line is a nice touch, but have it checked by a fluent reader.
Design choices
- Use two or three colours that suit the event.
- Put the event name in the largest type.
- Keep dates and venue high contrast so they are easy to find.
Print or WhatsApp?
Printed cards suit weddings and formal events. A digital invitation is quick for birthdays and get-togethers. Often you need both: ask for a print version and a phone-sized version of the same design.
Timing
Send invitations early enough for people to plan: a few weeks for large functions, and a week or so for small gatherings. Send a reminder the day before.
Proofread
Check the date, day, time and phone number against each other before you approve. It is the most common mistake on printed cards.
See our Invitation Card Design service.
