Whether you’re having an open house or a graduation party, the following information takes the mystery out of
who to invite and when.

Open House
An open house is an “everyone’s invited” party. Tell your friends, relatives, neighbors, the graduate’s friends,
parent’s friends, whomever.
Invitation cards for your open house can either be inserted in your announcements or mailed separately. Send
your invitations via first class mail, approximately 14 days prior to the event.

Graduation Parties
Graduation parties are for close friends, acquaintances and special guests.
The graduate and the parents should decide together whether to invite children of close friends and
relatives. If you choose to invite them, address invitations to Mr. and Mrs. John Doe and Family.
In general, it’s best to invite a lot of people. This is a major milestone for the graduate. Don't leave
people out. Start with your holiday card list. Add your neighbors, the graduate’s friends, friends’
parents, extended family, favorite teachers or coaches from over the years, coworkers of both the parents
and the graduate.
Graduation party invitations should be mailed separately from graduation announcements.
Remember to give your invited guests the option not to bring a gift.
Make it clear in the invitation whether or not a meal is planned, especially if the party is in the evening.
Enclose directions or an easy-to-read map to help guests find your house.
Always hand address graduation party invitations.
Mail party invitations out early so your guests can reserve time for your special celebration.
If you wish to know who is attending, include “RSVP” and your phone number. Or you may write
“Regrets Only” and your phone number, which indicates only those who cannot attend should call.