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Event Planning

Wedding Invitations

What Time Do You Put on a Wedding Invite?

Whose name should be placed first on the wedding invitation? Here is the answer you are looking for!

UPDATED ON December 08, 2023
Wedding Invitations

Can You Send Wedding Invitations Too Early?

It really can't hurt to get things done early when you can, but when it comes to wedding invitations, is there such a thing as too early? That's the question we ask in this blog.

UPDATED ON December 08, 2023

How to Handle Birthday Invitations for Twins?

How to Handle Birthday Invitations for Twins?
There are often questions about twins when it comes to invites and cards. How do we allow them to be individuals on their special day? Should they get one present between them or one each? The same goes to birthday party invites; should it be one or two?
The answer depends upon the twins: their age, their interests and their interactions with your child. Every situation is unique! Usually, until the children are in high school, you would invite them both. There are only a few exceptions to this: if the twins are very different and one of them would hate the party, not having anything in common with anyone else in attendance, including their own twin. Another exception would be if the twins are getting older and developing their own friend circles.
In most other instances, not only will your child expect both twins to be invited, but so will the parents of the twins – and indeed, many of the other parents too! Once the decision has been made to invite both twins, if this is the appropriate response, more questions arise.
How to Handle Birthday Invitations for Twins? - Kids Birthday Invitations - Pirate and Princess Ship

Should the twins get one invite between them, or should they each get their own?

In most cases, if in any doubt, err on the side of caution and issue an invitation to each child. This will not only help you to keep track of how many people are coming (doubled up invites can leave catering and party-bags short of one or two) but will help the twins understand that they are individuals in their own right as well as being part of a set of twins. When they are too young to read, the invite is essentially for the parent of the twins, and a single invite for both is fine. Do take the time to chat with the parent or guardian first - communication is key! They may have requirements for their children to be treated as individuals rather than as a pair, and if this is the case, respect their wishes as far as possible.
How to Handle Birthday Invitations for Twins? - Ready to Write Kids Thank You Cards - Fun Party Bear
If the twins are hosting the party, then it is perfectly acceptable for one invite per guest to be sent: duplicates will be costly and can be confusing – although each twin should write a separate thank you note or card to the guests unless they have received a shared gift, in which case, one card, signed by both, is quite acceptable. In all instances, understand that twins are two separate people, and treat them both kindly and as individuals.
How to Write a Letter from Santa to Your Kids

How to Write a Letter from Santa to Your Kids

Did you know that if your children post a letter to Santa using a specific address, they'll get a reply back from the man himself?
There are so many ways to get a response from Santa. Not just Royal Mail's national scheme, but many other smaller businesses that offer their own reply services. But, there's something very special about taking this job for yourself.
Santa is said to know every girl and boy. So, it's only fitting that a letter from Santa should feel personal.

- What to include in a letter from Santa

How to Write a Letter from Santa to Your Kids - Candy Cane Christmas - Official Letter from Santa Claus Featured Product: Candy Cane Christmas - Official Letter from Santa Claus
* Plenty of personalisation
Make sure that your child's name is mentioned throughout their letter from Santa. They need to feel that this letter is really for them.
* Celebrations of achievements
This is a good chance to celebrate your child for who they are. What are a few of their best achievements, that you can mention in the letter? Have they been a good friend to someone? Did they do well in a test or exam? Were you particularly happy with how they helped around the house?
Use your child's letter from Santa to celebrate all that they are, and make them feel valued and loved.
* Gentle reminders
If there's something that your child hasn't been so good at, don't be too blunt in your letter. Remember that this is a magical letter from Santa, not a written lecture.
Take a gentle approach: "My elves told me that you drew all over the walls with the new pens you got for your birthday. I hope that won't happen again."
Many parents choose not to use Santa to bring attention to a child's poor behaviour, but if it's something you want to include then it's important to add it in tactfully. Children should feel happy to receive a letter from Santa, not worried about what he's thinking.
* Factual information
Their letter from Santa should be fun but is also a great chance to teach them some real information. For example, did you know that the reindeer are very good at digging through snow with their hooves, or that a reindeer calf can run faster than an adult man? Turn their letter into a fun and educational document!
* Christmas Eve routine reminders
Close your letter with a reminder of the Christmas routine. "I hope that you'll leave a carrot for my reindeer and that you'll go to bed nice and early. Try to be in bed by 6 pm, so that I have enough time to visit your house". This is your opportunity to set the Christmas Eve house rules, with more authority than you usually have!

- Have fun!

How to Write a Letter from Santa to Your Kids - Vintage Christmas - Official Letter from Santa Claus Featured Product: Vintage Christmas - Official Letter from Santa Claus
When writing your letter from Santa to your kids, have fun and be creative. Christmas letters from Santa can be as magical for you as they are for your little one, and are family traditions to treasure.
How Do You Word a Christening Invitation?

How Do You Word a Christening Invitation?

A cute poem? A lengthy formal paragraph? Something short and sweet? How exactly do you word a christening invitation?

Who Do You Invite to a Christening?

Who Do You Invite to a Christening?

A celebration of your child, and a promise to raise them in faith, a christening is an important celebration. But when you're writing the guest list, who should you invite to the christening?

Do You Send Invitations for a Christening?

Do You Send Invitations for a Christening?

When there's a new baby in the family, you're bound to be excited about the christening. But if you're a first-time parent, you might not be too sure about the correct etiquette in this situation. That's particularly true nowadays when the internet has replaced so much of our traditional communication. Here are some quick tips to ensure that your baby event is handled the right way.

Why send invitations?

Invitations are a nice, personal way of inviting friends and family to celebrate your new baby. A christening is usually a fairly small event, so it's easy to take control of the guest list. The invitation can often become a cherished memento - not only for the baby as he or she grows up, but also for the godparents, grandparents and the rest of the family.
Do You Send Invitations for a Christening? - Christening Invitations - Summer Pastel Flowers - Use Your Own Photo
Choose a design that you like from our selection of boys and girls christening invitations.

What should you write on a christening invitation?

Think about how formal you want the invitations to be. Just like a wedding, you can set the tone of the entire event by choosing a particular level of formality for the invitations.
A more formal invitation should include your names, with no abbreviations and all numbers and dates written out as words:
"Mr and Mrs Stephen Jones request the honour of your presence at the baptism of their daughter Susana.
Saturday, the seventeenth of November at eleven o'clock
Saint Mary's Church, Leatherhead, Surrey"
If you prefer to invite your friends and family in a more informal manner, then your invitation may look completely different:
"Please join us for the baptism of Susana on the 17th of November at 11:00.
St Mary's Church, Leatherhead, Surrey"
Regardless of the level of formality, be sure to leave a space for an RSVP.

How soon should you send invitations to a christening?

Unlike a wedding, a christening usually only has a few weeks' notice, so send the invitations out as soon as your venue is confirmed. If you feel snowed under with the new baby, ask family members or the godparents to help you organise the invitations.

What about invitations for non-religious baby ceremonies?

Some parents are choosing alternative routes to traditional christenings and baptisms, and embracing modern alternatives. Even if you'd rather not have a church ceremony, you can still enjoy a special day for your little one and celebrate their life!
Do You Send Invitations for a Christening? - Naming Ceremony Invitations - Pink Dots Typography
Look at invitations for naming ceremonies to welcome your new baby.
What to Include in a Year 6 Leavers' Book

What to Include in a Year 6 Leavers' Book

There's nothing better than making sure that your children have wonderful memories to look back on and primary school is the perfect time to help them do that. It's a bit sad when it comes to an end, but with a leavers' book, you can ensure that your little ones have lots of good wishes and fond messages to revisit whenever they feel like it. With so many pages, there's tons of space in each one to let your kids leave their mark in the most original way. We've put together a few suggestions to get you started

What Are the Benefits of Using a Desk Planner?

What Are the Benefits of Using a Desk Planner?

In these days of high-tech living, it can be easy to think that we've got it all under control with our multiple gadgets and devices. Sometimes, however, the demands of the modern age can be overwhelming and we realise that we're not quite as organised as we first thought. That's where the desk planner steps in. Both convenient and simple, this item of stationery is perfect for keeping you on task without seeming demanding and complicated.

Stay on track with an immediate view of your week

One of the main benefits of a desk planner is that it allows you to focus on one week at a time. You can glance down and clearly see your plans and requirements for the day during a phone or video call, or in the middle of a work project. You can make a note of all the things you have to do under each day without having to check multiple different sections of a diary or smartphone just to keep yourself on track.
What Are the Benefits of Using a Desk Planner? - Sweet Sherbet Dreams - Desk Planner
Consider opting for the Sweet Sherbet Dreams Desk Planner if you're looking for a subtle, vintage design that will help you to stay organised throughout the working week.

Make a note of important occasions

With a desk planner, there's no need to panic because you've suddenly realised that you've forgotten to buy a birthday gift or turn up for a party. There's a handy section called “don't forget” to make sure that you are always prepared. If you're a busy parent, you can use this part to remind yourself about an upcoming dance recital or school performance.
What Are the Benefits of Using a Desk Planner? - Kids Birthday Invitations - Dinosaur World
If you have a child with a birthday around the corner, you can also make a note to send out a batch of friendly invitations, such as our Dinosaur World Invitations along with other important steps.

Keep on top of your weekend plans

A desk planner allows you to quickly view your weekend commitments so that you don't double book yourself. This is essential for busy families where two adults might be responsible for making plans for the children at different times. You can place the desk planner in your kitchen or home office, allowing everyone to pop over and check it before signing up for events and activities.
What Are the Benefits of Using a Desk Planner? - Got To Dash - Desk Planner
Featured Product: Got To Dash - Desk Planner
You can opt for a bright, colourful version or a subtler, monochrome version, such as the Got To Dash Desk Planner.
For more information about our wide range of desk planners and other essential stationery items, contact us at Dotty About Paper or browse our website.
How to Use Your Desk Planner

How to Use Your Desk Planner

Looking to get more organised? The idea of purchasing a pretty desk planner can be very appealing, but it's essential that you use it properly and avoid letting it sit under your laptop. We've compiled our top 5 tips on how to use a desk planner effectively, so you can avoid ever missing an important appointment again!

1. Plan the week ahead

This may seem obvious, but it's a good idea to sit down at the start of the week and plan your general tasks. Include things such as any appointments you may have, or any small jobs you need to carry out but which could be forgotten easily. That way you can estimate the busyness of each day and be prepared should anything else crop up into the schedule.

2. Use the daily planner

This is where you can add detail! Once you have planned for the week, you can include all your more minor and specific goals using each day on your desk planner. How to Use Your Desk Planner - Sweet Sherbet Dreams - Desk Planner Featured Product: Sweet Sherbet Dreams - Desk Planner The biggest highlight of the daily section is how large the writing space is. If you love to plan ahead, then our desk planners offer plenty of room for you to include everything you may want to achieve that day. From writing down what outfit you want to wear to planning your workouts and meal options, it can mean that you really are prepared for the day ahead.

3. Be specific

When planning your day on the daily pages, it is important to include specific details. Instead of simply writing 'send emails,' you should write the details, such as 'send email to Jess to RSVP to her birthday party.' You'll not only be more likely to complete the task, but you'll also be able to predict how much time you will require to complete the task.

4. Only use one planner

Desk planners are great because they are so large, meaning there's space to keep track of all your tasks. Using more than one planner will confuse your schedule, and you're more likely to miss an appointment or not get a task done. How to Use Your Desk Planner - Pinking Out Loud - Desk PlannerFeatured Product: Pinking Out Loud - Desk Planner Instead, optimise your desk planner by colour-coding for better separation, such as highlighting work tasks in pink and personal tasks in blue.

5. Have a regular planning session

It's very easy to have one very efficient day of planning, and then missing it for a couple of days. You should set a time each day to sit down at your desk planner to check and note down any additional tasks. This may be better to do at the start of the day so you can plan your time wisely. How to Use Your Desk Planner - Be-Leaf In Yourself - Desk Planner Featured Product: Be-Leaf In Yourself - Desk Planner So there you have it! Our top 5 tips to help you use your desk planner effectively. All that's left to do now is purchase your perfect one. Take a look at our colourful range.
Creative Party Invitation Ideas

Creative Party Invitation Ideas

If your birthday is coming up, why not get creative with your invitations? There are so many cool ideas that you can find online. So whether you're having your invites professionally printed, or getting creative, you're sure to find something that suits your party!

Shaped Invitations

At the moment, we are loving shaped invitations. They can be so much fun! If you're having a beach-themed party then why not handcraft some invitations in fun shapes, such as buckets, flip-flops, or waves? There are so many cool ideas available online - take a look!

Tickets

We have also seen a lot of ticket-style invitations, which are super cool. These are perfect for festival, nightclub, or cinema parties, and also make a great memento for guests to keep! Creative Party Invitation Ideas - Movie Night Tickets - Press Print Party Photo credit: Press Print Party Pair with matching wristbands for an on-trend festival vibe!

Jigsaw Puzzle

For big budget birthday parties, why not create your own jigsaw puzzle invitations? This is so much fun, and is sure to be remembered by party guests. Including all of the details is important - don't forget them!

Creative E-card

On the other hand, if you are looking for an affordable option, we recommend to choose an e-card! Whether you're making your invitations on Whatsapp or want to get extra creative, this could be the perfect choice for you. Creative Party Invitation Ideas - Woman using Mobile Phone There are lots of free templates available online.

Still struggling?

If you're still struggling, then why not check out our full range of invitations - we have stationery for so many occasions! Creative Party Invitation Ideas - 40th Birthday Invitations - Striped Peony Pattern Featured Product: 40th Birthday Invitations - Striped Peony Pattern Whether you're after stationery for kids birthdays, adult birthdays, christenings, or engagement parties, you're sure to find what you're after. We hope you have enjoyed this blog, and have thought of some creative ideas for your invitations! Don't forget to check out our other blogs - we have blogs for every occasion.
How to Personalise a Birthday Invitation

How to Personalise a Birthday Invitation

Personalising our birthday invitations is really easy! Follow this simple 5-step guide to find out how:

Find a design

Before getting into the details, go and find your ideal design! At Dotty about Paper, we have designs for any birthday - with invitations for every age or party theme. How to Personalise a Birthday Invitation - 30th Birthday Invitations - Blush Leopard Print Featured Product: 30th Birthday Invitations - Blush Leopard Print Whether you're looking to stay on-trend, or go for something unique, you're sure to find what you're after. Prices start from just 80p for personalised invitations - amazing quality for the money!

Add your wording

Then, add your wording. You can add any unique wording that you would like - get creative! How to Personalise a Birthday Invitation - 30th Birthday Invitations - Sakura Blossom Featured Product: 30th Birthday Invitations - Sakura Blossom Here are some of the main things you need to include: -Your name -The time and location of your party -The dress code -Whether children are invited -What food you will be serving / details about the bar -RSVP Details

Add to basket

Once you're happy with your wording, add your cards to basket. How to Personalise a Birthday Invitation - Foil 30th Birthday Invitations - Sparkly Typography Featured Product: Foil 30th Birthday Invitations - Sparkly Typography

Check your proof

Once we have received your personalised order, we will add all of your wording to your invites and then send you an online proof via email. This gives you the chance to check your invitations before they are sent to print - so useful! How to Personalise a Birthday InvitationYou may want to ask a friend or family member to check over your wording, just to be extra sure.

Confirm

Finally, confirm your order! We will then have your invitations printed and sent to you. How to Personalise a Birthday Invitation - 30th Birthday Invitations - Happy Hour Featured Product: 30th Birthday Invitations - Happy Hour Once you've received them, you can send them out to guests. Whatever your design, guests are sure to love your invitations! We hope you have enjoyed reading this blog, and are excited for ordering your personalised birthday invitations. We have so many other birthday blogs that you may like to read - check them out!
Teacher-Thank-You-Cute-Stationery-Supplies

What to Write in a Card for a Teacher Who Is Leaving

Writing a card for a teacher who is leaving can be tricky. What should you write? How personal should it be?
How to Create Personalised Kids Placemats

How to Create Personalised Kids Placemats

Creating your own personalised placemats is easy! Whether you decide to hand-craft them or buy them fully personalised, it is sure to be a lot of fun. In this blog, we will be telling you how to personalise our kids placemats. Read on to find out more!

Choose your favourite design

First, find a cool shop that sells personalised placemats (like us!). Here at Dotty about Paper, we have a wide range of fun designs that kids of all ages will love. Whether you're after a placemat for a child who's dinosaur-obsessed, loves animals, or is a budding farmer, you're sure to find what you're looking for! We have designs for both boys and girls, as well as gender-neutral styles. How to Create Personalised Kids Placemats - Personalised Kids Placemat - Green Farm Tractor Featured Product: Personalised Kids Placemat - Green Farm Tractor Our personalised placemats have a durable laminate finish, making them perfect for dinner or play time. Simply wipe them down with a damp cloth to clean.

Add your wording

Next, add your unique wording. We recommend to add your child's name, however we can add any wording that suits you - why not get creative? To personalise, simply type your wording into the box on the product page, and we will do the rest - it is so easy! How to Create Personalised Kids Placemats - Personalised Kids Placemat - Cute Safari Animals Featured Product: Personalised Kids Placemat - Cute Safari Animals Once you have fully personalised your placemat, it will be added to your online basket where you can go on to purchase. All of our personalised placemats cost just £9.99 - amazing value for the high quality! Wondering about how to order yours? Check out our guide or get in touch. We hope you have enjoyed this blog, and find your perfect kids placemats! Don't forget to check out our other blogs - we have a blog for everything stationery related, as well as a blog for any occasion.