Retirement party invitation templates

Start with the retiree’s name and a line about their career, such as their years of service or what they will be remembered for. Then give the date, time, venue, host and a reply-by date. Mention a group gift or open mic if there is one, and keep the tone warm and celebratory.

Send them three to four weeks before the party. If you are inviting former colleagues, clients or family from out of town, give five to six weeks or send a save the date first. Ask for replies about a week before, so you can confirm catering and seating.

At work, it is often the retiree’s manager, team or the HR or office team. A family celebration is usually hosted by a spouse or grown-up children. Sometimes there are both: a short send-off at work and a larger party at home. The invitation should name who is hosting each one.

Only if you know the retiree would enjoy it. Many people want to invite their own friends, plan what to wear and prepare a few words, so a party they know about is often kinder. If it is a surprise, say so clearly at the top of the invitation and give a contact who is not the retiree.