Summertime is party time. Whether you’re hosting a back-yard barbecue or a fancy boat bash, the right invite can get guests excited for the soiree of the summer. And there are plenty of clever invites that will end up on a guest’s fridge long after the party ends.
– Cookout: The “BBQ” invite from Paper Ink Studio lets guests know what this party is about–food and fun. No watching someone unwrap presents for an hour, just some great grilling. Handwrite the invite, print it on the home computer or let the professionals do the job. The invites, without professional printing, cost $16 for 10 at paperinkstu dio.com.
– Pool party: Have a pool in your back yard? Must be nice. Spread the swimming joy with pool party invites from Kangaroo & Joey. These colorful invites can be printed or handwritten. Available at $11 for a box of 10 at Helanders, 248 Market Square, Lake Forest, 847-234-3900.
– Cocktail party: Aunt Edna is vegan, Uncle Tom has food allergies. Oh, forget it. Planning a menu that satisfies everyone can be too hard. Throw a cocktail party instead and start stylishly with the Cocktail & Shaker invite from Cross-My-Heart. This two-piece card is pre-cut and tied with a ribbon. Costs $18.50 for 10 without personalization at paperstyle.com or call 888-670-5300.
– 4th of July: The sparklers, the balloons and the food. Fourth of July parties are enough work, so there’s no need to turn invitations into a giant chore. The Flag Banner Invites from Robin Maguire are sleek and festive with the basic information already printed. Just fill out your party info and be done with it. Print on a home computer or handwrite. $13 for a box of 10 at cardsupply.com.
– Picnic: Somewhere, a party guest is showing up at a picnic wearing nice, white clothes. Hello, grass stains! Remind guests not to wear stilettos with the BBQ Picnic invites from Dinky Designs. This double-sided invite shows grass, picnic blankets and a grill. Guests should get the dress code loud and clear. Fifty personalized invites cost $115 at paperchicks.com.
