When the holiday season rolls around, chances are you’re invited to more festive parties than you can count on one hand. You might even be hosting a soiree of your own or planning a company-wide holiday party. When it comes to filling your winter calendar, follow these invitation and RSVP etiquette guidelines. Holidays are stressful, so be polite and courteous to your friends that are treating you!
Set a Firm Date
If you’re having a party, make sure you include an RSVP date. The date should be at least two weeks out from the party date, so you have time to plan your menu or prepare or order your food. People get inundated with plans during the holiday season, so give them as much notice in advance as you can. This ensures that your guests will be able to make it to your affair. The invitation should also indicate whether your guests are welcome to bring a date or friend.
If you’re counting on a caterer, remember that they will be busier than usual during the holiday season and may require a deposit for a firm number of guests. If this is the case, let all your friends know about the deadline in the invite.
Once the RSVP date has come and gone, it’s okay to reach out to guests who haven’t yet responded. You can even use technology and create a Facebook event or group chat so guests can feel free to throw out questions and confirm their plans with you.
Note Dietary Considerations
Make a note of your theme or menu on the invitation and ask guests to indicate any dietary considerations when they RSVP. That way, you can make sure you’ll have a variety of foods to accommodate guests who are vegan, eat gluten-free, or adhere to other restrictions. If you’re not sure and no one has reached out, you should still try to keep a variety of options on hand in case.
Dress to Impress
If you want your guests to adhere to a specific dress code, make sure you clearly convey what to wear on the invitation. Whether it’s holiday festive or ball-gown glam, everyone wants to be sure they have dressed appropriately. If you’re not sure what to wear when invited to a party, ask the host if he or she has a specific dress code in mind.
Bring a Gift
If you’re attending an event in someone’s home, a host gift is always an appropriate gesture. The present doesn’t need to be over the top. Homemade holiday treats or a nice bottle of wine are two popular choices. If you’re an excellent baker or cook it may even be appropriate to bring an aptly-decorated sugar treat.
Engage Your Guests By Renting a Photo Booth
A Photo Booth is a great addition to any type of event. It will allow your guests to loosen up and have fun while making memories with friends and family. You can even mention the inclusion of your photo booth on your invitations to excite your guests even more. A Cut Above Photo Booth can take care of this for you, leaving you one less thing to worry about. With an affordable variety of fun and interactive options, your event will be a hit with your party-goers. Contact us today to create unforgettable memories, and maybe even next year’s Christmas Card.