How soon should I send out surprise birthday party invitations?

Question

I am throwing a small surprise party for my boyfriend's 30th birthday party July 26. It's going to be at our apartment's community room. I am worried that if I send out the invites too soon that people may forget about the party, but if I send them out too late that people may already have plans!

Also, is it appropriate to ask people to bring a dish to pass? I plan on having a main dish and some snacks and beverages of course, but he has a big family :)

Answer 1

send them out 2 weeks ahead of time . that is what i am doing for a party !  it is appropiate to adk a few people to bring a dish to pass , but don't ask everyone .

Answer 2

send them out about 2 weeks in advance that is usually an appropriate time. about the food thing that would be kind of rude unless you ask someone to help you plan and get food ready.

Answer 3

I would send them out 2 weeks in advance.  I would RSVP, that way you know how much food and drinks to buy.  I don't think I would ask anyone to bring anything unless they offer.  Good luck! M

Answer 4

During the summer months, people's weekends fill up quickly!  Send them out at least a month in advance.   Once they get the invite and let you know they're coming they won't forget!  I wouldn't wait any less, summer weekends fill up quick, I would do it by the at least the 1st of July.  

You can always ask certain people to bring a dish, but I wouldn't put that on the invite.  Can you talk to his family and your family and friends?  I wouldn't ask everyone that you're inviting to bring something, but I would talk to his family and your family and friends to see if they can pitch in and help you.  There's nothing wrong in asking his parents and siblings and your family.

Give them a call and ask, and when other people call you to rsvp, when they ask if they can bring anything, that's your chance!  Ask them if they mind bringing something, just make sure you keep track of who's bringing what so you don't have too many of one thing and nothing of something else.

I hope this helps!

Answer 5

2 weeks in advance.  (Parties near Christmas need 3 weeks though) .... I'd ask some of his family, or really close friends, to bring a dish.......