nvitations

Email Invitations

While admittedly a bit of an historical anachronism, email invitations get the job done, are quick and tend to generate the least amount of waste. Try being creative with a photo of the birthday person dressed up in appropriate gear (King/Queen, princess, knight, court jester, peasant-be creative!). Or send a picture of an empty gallows with a "wanted" notice attached.

You can also use a more standard form (see below) and either make a paper copy and scan it, or create it electronically using your favourite software.

Be sure to provide a phone number as well as an email address for responses.

Snail-Mail Invitations

For a mailed invitation, use parchment-styled paper (available at most office copy stores-try purchasing it from their copy section so you can buy it by the sheet rather than by the ream). Either use calligraphy or print it with a fancy medieval font. Try illuminating the first letter as the monks used to do. You can do this by making the first letter a double-sized font and make it "outline", then colour it in with markers (or electronically if you have a colour printer).

Use natural looking envelopes, and try sealing it with the King's Royal (wax) Seal. You can do this by melting old peeled crayons in a paper cup (use a microwave and do it in small bursts so you do not burn the wax). Dribble a tiny bit of melted crayon on the flap, wait a moment or two, then push a rubber stamp gently into the wax. A crown or fleur de lis shape works well, or the initial of the birthday person.

The return address can be King Arthur's Court, Camelot, or perhaps, King Charming's Court, Royal Palace or something that matches your party theme.

Hand-Delivered Invitations

For a hand delivered invitation, you can omit the envelopes and roll the invitations into scrolls, either sealing as above, or tying them with ribbon. Try dressing up to deliver them--as a town crier, jester, or lady-in-waiting. Slip in as much "Olde English" as you can--use lots of "ye's, thou's, shall's etc." Have fun with it!

avours

Many of the party favours can be items the guests make or find during the party.

Some ideas include:

• armour, hats, wands, crowns and other costuming provided at the party
• homemade crystal castles (sugar cube castles)
• mini-pumpkin coaches
• decorated Grail (goblet)
• dragon eggs
• homemade catapults made at the party
• chocolate coins in a small canvas bag

hank You Cards

For thank you cards, try and take pictures during the party, either posed, candid or both, and send one with the guest either printed or by email as part of the thank you note.

Some posed pictures might include guests sitting on a throne, as prisoners in the gallows, knights suited in armour, as part of a royal coronation, being knighted or trying on a glass slipper Cinderella-style.