Let's Get Acquainted: How to Graciously Invite Guests Into Your Home

Hospitality doesn't begin when your guests walk through the door. It begins long before that - with the invitation. The words you use, the way you extend the offer, and the heart behind it all communicate far more than just the date and time of your gathering.

Invite with warmth and match the invitation to the occasion

Casual event? A simple text will be perfect. A celebratory party? An email with party details will be great. A memorable occasion or special event? Consider making the invitation special as well. A written invitation is a gift you give the invitee. Here are some examples:

1. Last-minute dinner, bonfire, or casual get-together invitation (via text) -

"Hey (name)! We're pulling together a casual evening this Friday - good food, easy conversation, nothing fancy. Come as you are. We'd love to have you join us around (time) at my place. Can you make it?

2. Party invitation (via email) -

Subject line ideas:

• "You've invited - let's celebrate together!"

• "Save the date for good food & great company."

• "Gather with us - party at (Host's name or place)"

Email body:

Dear friends,

We’re excited to gather with you for an evening of celebration, laughter, and connection!

When: (day of the week, date & time)

Where: (Address or venue)

What to expect: Plenty of food, music, and conversation — just bring yourself

(and maybe your dancing shoes!).

Please let us know if you can join us — we’d love to set a place for you at the table.

With joy,

(Your Name)

3. Formal invitation (via mail) -

Front of card (simple):

"You are warmly invited to gather"

Inside of card:

Please join us for an evening of hospitality and celebration

Saturday, the fourteenth of September

at six-thirty in the evening

(venue name or address)

Dinner and conversation to follow

Kindly reply by (date)

(RSVP details)

With joy,

(Host(s) name(s))

Small Bites, Big Impact

Inviting people is one piece; welcoming them once they arrive is another.  One of the easiest ways to start an evening on the right note it to offer a small bite as soon as your guests walk in.  It doesn’t have to be fancy – just something to hold in their hand while they settle in and mingle.

Here is an easy go-to small bite:

Mini Crostini Three Ways

·      Classic Tomato & Basil:  Fresh cherry tomatoes, basil, a drizzle of balsamic

·      Smoked Salmon & Cream Cheese:  Topped with a sprinkle of dill

·      Hummus and Roasted Red Pepper:  Colorful, healthy, and hearty

How to Make:

1.      Slice a baguette into thin rounds

2.     Brush lightly with olive oil

3.     Toast until golden

4.     Add your toppings of choice

Serve them on a pretty board or platter, and watch your guests light up.  These small bites may look impressive, but they come together in almost no time.  Even better?  They give guests something to do with their hands, which makes those first few minutes of conversation flow much easier.

The Heart Behind It All

At its core, a gracious invitation is really about one thing: extending belonging.  You’re not just saying, “Come eat at my house.”  You’re saying, “I want to share life with you.  I want you here.”

Hospitality starts with the invite. Which style feels most like you?

• Text
• Email
• Handwritten note