How-to word invitations about cost of meals?

Dear Polite One,

My husband's work-related retirement party will be at a restaurant--employer pays for only current employees. We are allowed to invite others to the party, but I'm at a loss of how to word the invitations, informing them that they will be expected to pay their own check?

Thanks,

Worried Wife

Dear Worried Wife,

This is one of the very few exceptions to the "you invite so you pay" rules. Basically, the reason for the exception is it's organized through the employer.

Contact the restaurant to find out the fee they expect the invited to pay. It is most common for it to be a choice of predetermined entrees. Then you could send out an invitation like: Share in celebrating Sam's retirement at Happy Restaurant, 5 pm, Friday, March 1. Happy Restaurant is offering XX, XX, and XX for $$ per person. Please contact XXX for more information. Hope to see you there.

I would also call each guest to explain why this party is not hosted.

Sincerely,

The Polite One

More by The Polite One

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How do I inform guests of attire, gift request and they pay for meals?

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