There is no question that a standard invite can look snazzy and will do the job of getting the party goers to the venue on time. A simple card can tie in with the party theme and is quick and simple to produce. I like designing and creating my own, but if you're a bit computer or crafty challenged, there are many Etsy stores that will do a fine job for you. Three favourites are:
Pink Creative Invites
Peppertowne
Little Bulldog Design
Plus there are loads of free invite printables about the place. Google 'free party invitation printables' and for other ideas and inspiration do check out :
Our blogging mate Simoney has Kids Party Invites
Browse through the printables round up at the fabulous How About Orange
Kellie often includes party invites in her Friday Freebies at 74 Lime Lane
Kate at picklebums also does some lovely free printables that include some invites.
However.
HOWEVER.
A standard card is one thing. An imaginative, amazing party invitation is quite another. It will set the scene and turn the sleep-countdown on weeks before the party. More than that, it shows that your children's party is all about the actual children and I'm all about that. Peeking at some (very beautiful) party scenes here and there, I've noticed that there can be a tendency for 'stylishness' to overtake the childish fun... and we can't have that!
If you're going to come up with something original that will stand out in the crowd, you've got to let your imagination go a bit wild and grow leg hair. Settle on your theme and then grab ideas from as many places as you can (Pinterest again comes up trumps for collecting all those grabs in one place and wedding sites are the absolute biz for clever ideas!). It goes without saying that you should be thinking about the party and the invitations at least three months out from the party. That gives you lots of time to settle on an idea and then let your imagination fly!
Here are some great leaping off points...
Packaging
You can package a standard invitation or add a little something in such a way that it takes it to another level.
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Tickets
Using a ticket style for the invite suggests a marvellous journey is in store and the party goer can bring it along on the day to gain 'admittance', making them feel extra special.
Journals
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Cut-outs
Cut-outs can take an invitation to the next level and are really easy to do. You start with a good idea...
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Wow Factor
All you really need is a fun concept and you can work it in so many ways. We are only limited by our imaginations... and time, yes, time. And sometimes money... and time.
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I gotta wrap this up, I could be here all day.
If you can handle it, there is even more party invite inspiration on my Party On Down: Invite pinboard (yes, I have a pinboard devoted exclusively to party invitations... we all have our, ahem, things). And don't forget to let me know if there is a particular theme you want to explore as we move along in our party posts.
Next time: Food
[Main pic is courtesy of Oh Happy Day where there is a printable and tutorial on how to create these fabulous Pop! invites. Oh happy day, indeed.]