Destination: Invitation

Do I need to send a formal invitation? This is the question for the ages, the answers are still not cut and dry. Formal invitations are for formal parties and wedding receptions. Thanksgiving should fall into this category but somehow it really doesn't. The true answer to the invitation question is what do you feel is best for your guests? I find my family is perfectly happy with an email invitation. Many feel it necessary to make a formal announcement or people will not think it a serious party. Maybe without an invitation it would be a hoax?

If you need everyone to dress up in their finest and attend your dinner in black tie, an invitation stating this is undeniably necessary. Leaf paper inside to keep the ink from smudging, formal print and text, and make sure to mention that it is a black tie affair. Most family gatherings are very casual affairs and without proper notification it will most likely be treated as such. Oh, and you can't forget the reply card and save the date postcard! That might be a little over the top, but to each their own desires.

I am a crafty kind of person, so when I want to sent invitations I want to make it fun, just to lighten the spirit. Not everyone I know has email and sometimes a phone call is just a bit too casual. A fun invitation is the perfect way to tell them you are having a party and that they are welcome to attend. For those who wish to have a little fun with their invites, make a turkey shaped card that says "I'm glad I'm greetin' instead of being eaten!" or some other silly phrase. A male pilgrim's hat is quite simple and fun and easy for kids to help with. Just cut a square frame in yellow, a white band and the hat shape in black. Another fun idea is to crinkle up aluminum foil, unwrap it and lay it on a piece of cardboard. Stretch cling wrap over the foil and secure it all in the back. You can cover this taping job with the actual information of your invitation printed on cardstock and glued in place. Draw a cornucopia or turkey or pilgrim and Indian village, or whatever takes your fancy, in permanent marker (marker board markers work best). It's a sparkly picture your guests will love and can use for decoration as well. Whatever you choose to do it will be the right choice for you. Don't let anyone tell you different; and remember, it's a party, have fun!