Birthday Party Invitations Have Changed With the Times

There was a time when one had to think about invitations to special events months in advance. It took time to go to the printers, look through books and books of styles, papers, prints, fonts and the lead-time to have them printed and mailed. Then of course, there is always waiting for the RSVP’s so that you can get a full head count so you can plan for catering, food, drinks and all the other things that go into planning a party.

Today, you can still do all of those things, however there are new tools in your arsenal that has changed it all. Those tools include the home computer, your personal printer and the Internet. You can still choose to do it the old-fashioned way and go to a formal printer to have it done. If you are having a formal event or if you are just too busy to take the time to do it yourself, it is a great option. For those who have the time, and who are even the slightest bit artistically inclined, designing and printing your invitations from home is a fabulous option.

Not only is it much less expensive then having a professional company doing it for you, but you can personalize your invitations to match everything about your party. You can obtain a variety of papers or card stocks, many of which are available in a variety of colors and textures. You can also find one that suits the theme of your party, or even design one that specifically fits the theme of your party and personalize every aspect of the invitation.

Unlike the days of old, you can also add your email address or friends’ social networking site to the invitation so that people can keep in touch with you about your party via the Internet.

Some types of invitations are traditional fold over cards, with a RSVP tucked inside. These require two stamps for each invitation. One should be placed on a pre-addressed envelope that is stamped so that the invitee simply has to check off the yes or no box and drop it in the mail coming back to the party planners. This is perfect if you must have a specific head count. You can also print out a “flyer” type of invitation. This format is rather informal and is a basically a notice that says this party is happening at this time, this location and lays out any theme or dress codes (or costumes) that will be part of the theme.

For an informal announcement, make the notifications by email or other Internet method. Mass text messages can also be sent – if the party has been planned at the last minute or to notify anyone of last minute changes or updates. There are as many invitation ideas as there are party ideas.