Invitations that surprise - fun, original and slightly different!

An invitation is the beginning of your moment. Even before the event starts, you set the tone. The way someone receives, opens and experiences the invitation immediately sets the expectation. With a creative, tangible form, you surprise from the very first second and build curiosity even before the date is in the diary. Whether it is an opening, anniversary, business event or staff meeting, a special invitation attracts attention, is kept and makes your meeting that little bit more memorable.

Pop-up House - Stater

For Stater's 20th anniversary celebration, we created a Pop-up House as an invitation, fully in line with their industry. The nod that "the roof is coming off" provided a playful link between form and message, while the invitation also featured a private website with password where invitees could register for the party.

Turning Card - EuroSys

For Business2Beach, EuroSys' inspiring networking event, we developed a Turning Card which perfectly matched the summer beach setting as well as the business nature of the event. By turning the card, the programme and message unfolded step by step, actively involving recipients in the invitation. This interactive invitation immediately set the right tone for an energetic and connecting day at the beach.

BliQje - Slump Catering and Events

For the 30th anniversary of Slump Catering and Events from Bant, we developed a festive BliQje invitationwhich perfectly matched the theme "The Tasty Thirties". The BliQje contained an insert with all event information and a bag of Skittles as a tasty teaser, so the experience started as soon as you opened the letterbox. The combination of shape, surprise and something tasty made for a playful and fitting invitation to an evening full of drinks, snacks, entertainment and fun.

Bottle mail - Nobel Biocare

For the Nobel Biocare Autumn Symposium, we developed a special Message in a Bottle as an invitation, perfectly fitting the theme a 'leap of faith' and the location the Floating Pavilion in Rotterdam. The bottle served not only as an original eye-catcher, but also as complete mailing packaging, fitted with an address sticker and filled with a detailed invitation that clearly explained the scientific programme, the theme 'applied innovation' and the registration information.

Five frequently asked questions around invitations

A good invitation always raises questions. Below we answer the most frequently asked questions, so you know exactly what to look out for when organising and sending your invitation.

When do you send out an event invitation?

The timing of an invitation determines attendance. For corporate events, openings or anniversaries, the invitation is usually sent six to eight weeks in advance. For larger events or exclusive meetings, this can even be 10 to 12 weeks. The aim is for the date to be booked in the calendar in good time, without forgetting the moment again. Are you working with a save-the-date? Then you can announce earlier and send the official invitation with the full programme later.

How do you make an invitation really stand out?

Standing out starts with form and experience. A standard card is more likely to be put away than an interactive or tactile invitation. Think of a surprising shape, a original mail or a packaging that arouses curiosity. Personalisation also helps: when someone sees that the invitation is meant especially for them, engagement immediately increases. The goal is for the recipient not only to read, but also to experience.

At a minimum, what should be in a good invitation?

A strong invitation always contains the basic information: date, time, location and a clear sign-up option. In addition, context is important. Why is the event being organised? What does it offer the invitee? In business meetings, the programme or theme is often decisive. Make sure the information is clearly structured and that the call-to-action is clearly visible.

Do you choose digital or physical invitations?

It depends on the target audience and the purpose of the event. A digital invitation is quick and efficient. A physical invitation creates more attention and experience. For exclusive events, anniversaries or brand activations, physical often has more impact. It literally stays on the table and is less likely to be forgotten. In some cases, a combination of both is ideal.

How do you increase event registrations?

Clarity and convenience are essential. Make registration easy, e.g. via a personal link or QR code. Specifically mention the added value of attending. It is also possible to offer something sweet or a gift voucher send along with the invitation, as a bonus. If necessary, also work with reminders or a subtle follow-up. The more personal and relevant the invitation, the more likely someone will actually come.