Should I write”dinner included”on a birthday invitation?
On One Hand: Etiquette ConcernsA written invitation traditionally implies the host will pay for the expense of the guests. Thus, you do not need to write “dinner included.” If you want each person to pay his own way, The Emily Post Institute suggests using a phone call to coordinate the birthday party versus sending invitations as a host.On the Other: Guests’ Concerns”An invitation should include all the information a guest needs,” explains Deborah King, founder of Final Touch Finishing School. Hunger or worry regarding the cost of a meal can distract from a guest’s enjoyment of the event. Because of the many themes and formats for birthday parties, do not expect guests to make assumptions. Writing “dinner included” on the birthday invitation will clarify planning and budgeting for the host while setting appropriate expectations for the guests.Bottom LineUnless the birthday party title on the invitation includes the phrase “dinner party,” write “dinner included” on the invitation.
