How to invite your neighbors to your party

Step 2 Create invitations

If you've never done anything but say hi and sort of chat with your neighbors, then you should prepare a formal, friendly written invitation.

A week or so in advance of your party, stop by a local store and pick up some neutral looking blank cards. (You should know how many you need based on the invitation list you made.) Since your neighbors are probably just as worried about you being a whack job as you are worried about them being a party foul, you should ensure that your invitation card and message is as respectable and non-threatening as possible. Avoid cards featuring kittens, puppies, weaponry, nudity and anything with too much overt personality. Go for a safe card that says, "we are completely normal, thoughtful people." No scrawled notes on notebook paper or post-its.

Use a notebook to write a draft of your invitation before you start writing on your cards. Indulge in some comfort eating or drinking as you do this to loosen up your pen.

For neighbors whose names you don't know, try this message (for a housewarming party):
"Dear Neighbor,

We're writing to invite you to our housewarming party: (Date, time, location)

We're almost moved in, and so we're having friends over to celebrate. Hope you'll stop by!

Sincerely,
(Your names)

P.S. (Short note telling them who you are, assuming you've met before. For example, "Kit was the woman who did the trick-or-treat set up, in case you're wondering who we are.")"

For neighbors who you know by name, try this message (for housewarming party):
"Dear (Names),

We're writing to invite you to our housewarming party: (Date, time).

We're almost moved in, and so we're having some friends over to celebrate. Hope you'll stop by!

Sincerely,
(Your names)"

Finally, if you don't like to be surprised by the turn-out at your parties, or need the final attendance number for food and drink purposes, you can include your e-mail or phone number and ask them to RSVP.