Whether you’re hosting a house party or a cocktail party, the first step to putting your party together is sending out invitations. If you’re ready to start creating your festive Christmas party invitations, this article will guide you through every step of the invitation-making process. Soon, you’ll have your invitations ready to go, and you’ll be able to plan fun Christmas party activities, food, and drinks.
When To Send Invites | How To Write Invites | Invite Wording | Who To Invite | Invite Themes
When To Send Christmas Party Invitations
The holiday season is packed with activities! Everyone is busy attending events and buying holiday gifts for loved ones. Because this time of year is so busy, you’ll want to give your guests plenty of notice to RSVP for the holiday party. This is particularly true if you’re having your party on a weekend. Sending your invitation early will ensure that your guests will be able to attend. Try to send your Christmas party invitations four to six weeks before the party. If your invitations aren’t ready then, you could also consider sending a save the date. This way, guests will know to block the date off on their calendar before they get an official invite.
When you’re choosing an RSVP date, be sure to leave at least a week between the RSVP date and the party itself. This way, you’ll have a good idea of how many guests are coming well in advance of the party. Once your invites are in the mail, you can begin working on other cards you’d like to send out, like your photo Christmas cards.
How To Write Christmas Invitations
When you’re choosing your invitations, pick Christmas cards that fit the theme of your event. Consider sending invites that feature your favorite festive photos. Your Christmas party invitation wording will also change based on what type of Christmas party you’re hosting. No matter which type of party you’re throwing, there’s information you’ll want to include on your cards, like the location, address, time, and RSVP details.
In your Christmas party invitations, there are a number of details you’ll want to provide for your guests. Including this information on your Christmas cards will help prevent any confusion. Here are all the details you’ll want to list in your invitations:
- Event Details: The most important information on your invitation should be the basics—who, what, where, and when. Be sure to clearly include:
- Host’s name(s)
- Party date and time
- Venue (with an address, especially if it’s not a well-known location)
- RSVP instructions (including a deadline and contact information)
- Any special instructions (like parking information or a reminder to bring a gift for a Secret Santa exchange)
- Dress Code or Party Theme: Let your guests know if there’s a specific dress code or theme to prepare for. Is it an ugly sweater party? Should they dress up in holiday formal attire? Whether it’s a casual or formal event, this detail helps guests know how to plan their outfits accordingly.
- Activities and Special Requests: If your party will include specific activities, such as a cookie exchange, Secret Santa, or White Elephant gift exchange, include that in the invitation. Let guests know if they need to bring cookies, a gift, or any other supplies to participate.
- Holiday Spirit: Get festive with your wording! A playful or heartfelt message can set the tone for your party and get your guests excited. Phrases like “Eat, Drink, & Be Merry” or “Join Us for a Holiday Celebration” are perfect for holiday party invitations.
Christmas Party Invitation Wording
Your Christmas party invitation wording will help set the tone for your party, and it will also make your invitation stand out among all the other holiday cards your guests receive. If you’re at a loss for words, here are some ideas to spark your thinking! The ideas are endless for party invite wording, from Ugly Christmas sweater parties to formal soirées.
Formal Holiday Party
“Please join us for an elegant evening of holiday cheer. Let’s raise a glass to the magic of the season with dinner, drinks, and celebration.”
Cookie Exchange Party
“You’re invited to a holiday cookie exchange! Bring your favorite homemade cookies and share sweet treats as we celebrate the season together.”
Office Christmas Party
“Join us for a festive evening of food, drinks, and holiday fun! Let’s celebrate another successful year with our annual company Christmas party.”
Family Holiday Gathering
“The stockings are hung, the tree is lit—now all we need is you! Join us for a family Christmas party full of love, laughter, and holiday spirit.”
Christmas Cocktail Party “Eat, drink, and be merry! Join us for a festive Christmas cocktail party to toast to the season with friends, fun, and holiday spirits.”
White Elephant Gift Exchange
“We’re hosting a White Elephant gift exchange! Bring a wrapped gift (funny, quirky, or sweet!) and get ready for some holiday laughs and surprises.”
Winter Wonderland Theme
“Step into a Winter Wonderland! Join us for a magical Christmas party filled with sparkling lights, delicious treats, and holiday joy.”
Friends-Only Christmas Party
“Let’s deck the halls and have a ball! Join us for a Christmas party with friends—an evening of food, drinks, and festive fun awaits.”
Holiday Pajama Party
“Get cozy and join us for a Christmas Pajama Party! Wear your favorite holiday PJs and enjoy hot cocoa, cookies, and festive fun.”
Gingerbread House Decorating Party
“Let’s build something sweet this holiday season! Join us for a gingerbread house decorating party—it’s going to be a fun and delicious time for all!”
Who To Invite To Your Christmas Party
Before you print out your invitations for a Christmas party, you’ll want to narrow down your guest list. Your guest list will depend on both the space you have and the type of party you’re throwing.
For example, if you’re having a white elephant gift exchange, you’ll probably want to keep the guest list shorter. Or, if you’re having a corporate party at a banquet hall, you might have a larger guest list. Here are some ways to narrow down your guest list:
- If you’re having an office party or a cocktail party, you may not invite kids. If you choose not to, include a line on your holiday cards that says something like: “Please note this is an adults-only party.”
- Alternatively, if you’re throwing a house party with limited space, consider only inviting family and close friends. If you’re worried some friends will be left out, consider suggesting getting together for a smaller dinner where you can celebrate the season and give each other personalized gifts.
- For an office party, if you’re not planning on inviting plus-ones, consider hosting the party during office hours.
Don’t forget thank you cards and a fun holiday gift to thank people for joining!
Christmas Party Invitation Themes
When you’re choosing your invitations, one of the first things you’ll want to decide on is your holiday card theme. Try to choose an invite that fits your Christmas party theme. For example, if you’re having a formal corporate party, go for an elegant theme on your Christmas cards.
Your Christmas party invitations should match the vibe of your event. Whether you’re planning a lighthearted get-together or an elegant holiday soirée, there are plenty of ways to customize your invites to reflect the occasion. Here are some ideas for themes for your holiday party invitations:
Ugly Sweater Party Invitations
Ugly sweater parties are all about fun and festivity, so your invitations should reflect that with bold, colorful designs. Look for invitations that incorporate festive sweaters, funny holiday puns, or quirky illustrations like reindeer in scarves or snowmen with goofy hats. You can even add a photo of yourself or your family in your best (or worst!) holiday attire for a personal touch.
Cookie Exchange Party Invitations
For a cookie exchange, go for a sweet and cozy vibe. Invitations with warm tones, cookie-shaped illustrations, or rustic holiday elements like gingerbread men and candy canes work perfectly. Include instructions for guests to bring a batch of their favorite homemade cookies, and maybe even a recipe card to share!
General Holiday Party Invitations
A traditional holiday party can call for something more versatile and festive. Think classic designs featuring snowflakes, twinkling lights, holly, or Christmas trees. You can opt for something elegant with gold foil and rich colors like red, green, and navy, or keep it lighthearted with playful holiday characters like Santa, reindeer, or elves. These styles work for both family gatherings and holiday celebrations with friends. 
Work Holiday Party Invitations
For office or corporate Christmas parties, it’s important to strike the right balance between festive and professional. Invitations with clean, minimalistic designs—like elegant typography and subtle holiday touches—can maintain a polished look while still embracing the spirit of the season. Add a professional yet cheerful greeting, such as “Join Us for a Festive Evening of Food & Fun.”
Family-Friendly Invitations
If your Christmas party is focused on family fun, choose an invitation design that feels warm and welcoming. Illustrations of holiday stockings, ornaments, or winter scenes create a cozy feel. You can even choose designs with a personal touch, like photo invitations that feature your family’s favorite holiday picture from previous years.
Friends-Only Holiday Invitations
Planning a Christmas gathering with your closest friends? Your invitations can take on a more playful, laid-back tone. Whether it’s a festive pajama party or a casual cocktail night, you can have fun with cheeky holiday sayings or modern holiday themes. Think bright colors, quirky illustrations, or even metallic accents to add some sparkle. 
Related Resources on Christmas Party Invitations
When designing your Christmas party invitations, think of them as the opening act to your celebration. The invitation should not only provide essential details but also set the mood for the entire event. From choosing the right style to including all the necessary information, a well-thought-out invitation will ensure that your holiday party is one to remember. This holiday season, let your Christmas party invitations spread cheer and excitement. Whether it’s a formal family dinner, a cookie exchange with friends, or a fun office party, Shutterfly has a wide range of customizable invitations to suit any occasion. Create yours today and get ready to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year!
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