Party Spot - Party Guests: Invitation Dos & Don'ts

What's more exciting than finding an invitation in your mailbox? You know there's fun in store, but before you get your party on, there are a few rules you've got to know. Read on for all the ins and outs of invitation etiquette.

Before the party…

DO look for clues
The first thing to do is read the invite carefully. It should list a day, a time, the type of party it is, and any special requirements. Stuff like "semiformal attire required" or "please attend a church service followed by dinner" are instructions, not suggestions -- and instructions are meant to be followed!

DO RSVP
Most invitations include an RSVP telephone number or email, but if the invitation is on the formal side, this info may not be included, which means you should respond by mail. Whatever the method, it's always important to RSVP. If your host doesn't know how many people are going to show, she has to plan for the maximum number, spending time and money that could be better used on other things.

DO be polite
If you can go, say so and thank your host for inviting you. If you can't go, be sure to thank your host for the invite just the same, apologize for your absence, and include a statement of good wishes.

DON'T ask a zillion questions
Keep in mind that your host and her parents are going to be busy planning her special day, so it's okay to ask one or two quick questions when you confirm your attendance, but calling every five minutes for tips is a big don't.

DO track down more info
If you're really in the dark, talk to other friends or to your parents, and remember that the Internet can be a party-goer's best friend. (You can start by clicking on some of the other links right here on PartySpot.com!)

After the party…

DO send a thank-you
The party was a blast, the guests ate and drank and danced to their hearts content, and the host ended the night with a big smile on her face -- so that's the end of your guest responsibilities, right? Wrong! You should always send a thank-you note when you attend a party.

DO follow their lead
This doesn't mean you need to write a long letter each time you crash at a friend's house for pizza and DVDs, but events that require a lot of planning usually also require an "official" thank you. A good tip is to keep the invitation and follow suit. Did it arrive by snail mail, decked out in ribbons and glitter? Then best to handwrite a note on nice paper and pop it in the mail. Did the invite come as an email? Then send an e-card with cute animation and a note.

DON'T delay too long
Send your thank-you as soon as possible after the event to avoid procrastination. Then you'll be remembered as a chic, classy, respectful guest, and the next time a celebration rolls around, you'll practically be guaranteed an invite!

-- Morgan Brown