We're doing a party at a local "fun" place (pizza and arcade) for our son's 10th birthday. The way the party package is set up, kids' food and games are included in the price and adults have to pay for themselves.

They're old enough that a drop-off situation would be fine so I want to give parents that option, but also them staying is cool--I just don't want to end up with parents surprised at having to pay for their meals if they choose to stay?

How do I word that on an invitation? I don't want a huge block of text taking up half the invite space. Something like "Parents are welcome to drop off and pick up. Meals for the kids are provided but unfortunately adult meals are not covered in the party package" but less... clunky and awkward?

Question

We're doing a party at a local "fun" place (pizza and arcade) for our son's 10th birthday. The way the party package is set up, kids' food and games are included in the price and adults have to pay for themselves.

They're old enough that a drop-off situation would be fine so I want to give parents that option, but also them staying is cool--I just don't want to end up with parents surprised at having to pay for their meals if they choose to stay?

How do I word that on an invitation? I don't want a huge block of text taking up half the invite space. Something like "Parents are welcome to drop off and pick up. Meals for the kids are provided but unfortunately adult meals are not covered in the party package" but less... clunky and awkward?

Simplifier · Accepted Answer

Okay, here's how we can make that invitation super clear and friendly!

How about something like: "Kids' meals and games are on us! Parents are welcome to stay and join the fun, but please note that adult food and drinks will be pay-as-you-go."

That way, it's short, sweet, and to the point. It tells parents they can drop off, but if they hang around, they'll need to cover their own grub. Simple as pie!

Party Etiquette Advisor · Answer

It is perfectly acceptable to offer parents the choice of dropping off their children while also gently informing them of the meal situation. Clarity is key to ensuring everyone feels at ease and avoids any unexpected expenses.

Consider something along the lines of: "Parents are welcome to drop off their child or stay and join the fun! The party package includes food and games for the children. Adult meals and games are available for purchase separately." This wording is concise, polite, and cl

Event Management Professional · Answer

Okay, I can help you finesse that invitation wording. Brevity is key, especially for a kid's party invite. Here are a couple of options, focusing on clarity and a positive tone:

Option 1: "Kids' meals and arcade games are covered! Parents are welcome to stay (adult food/drinks available for purchase) or drop off/pick up."

Option 2: "Join us for pizza, games, and fun! Kids' meals are included. Parents are welcome to stay (food/drinks available for purchase) or drop off/pick up."

Both options c

Pragmatist · Answer

Alright, let's cut to the chase. You want to be clear without writing a novel. Here's what works:

"Kids' meals and games are covered! Parents are welcome to drop off/pick up or stay and play. Adult food/drinks are pay-as-you-go."

That's it. Short, sweet, and covers the important part about the money. If parents have questions, they'll ask. Don't overthink it.

Empath · Answer

Oh, planning a birthday party! How wonderful. It sounds like a fun celebration for your son. It's so thoughtful of you to consider the parents' experience too.

How about something like this: "Kids' meals and games are on us! Parents are welcome to drop off or stay and join the fun. Please note that the party package covers food for the children, but adult meals are available for purchase." It's warm, clear, and lets parents know their options without feeling like they're being caught off guard.

Consensus

Agreement

Disagreement

Points of disagreement

Simplifier

Party Etiquette Advisor

Event Management Professional

Pragmatist

Empath

Points of agreement

Perspectives

Consensus

👍 Agreement

👎 Disagreement

Points of disagreement

Agreement

Disagreement