How do you word an invitation to an event where guests pay for their dinner? I received this question from a Sendo user…
Amanda Asks…
“I am planning a small (20 or less) retirement party for my mom at a restaurant but guests will be responsible for paying for their own dinner – how do I indicate this on an invitation?”
When your guests are paying their own way
You’re planning a restaurant gathering, maybe a small celebration, retirement dinner, or milestone birthday, and you’ve decided that guests will be covering their own meals. It’s important to communicate this clearly and politely, so everyone arrives informed and comfortable.
The phrase “No Host”
In event-etiquette terms, this is often referred to as a “No Host” dinner. Some people will recognise the term immediately. Others may not, especially if the gathering is informal. To avoid confusion, you should clarify in your invitation.
Here are some practical invitation phrases you can use:
- “Please join us to celebrate [Name]’s [occasion] at [Restaurant] on [Date] at [Time]. This will be a no-host dinner – each guest will order and pay for their own meal.”
- “You’re invited to a special dinner in honour of [Name] at [Restaurant]. Kindly note that this is a pay-your-own-way event. We look forward to celebrating together!”
- “Let’s gather at [Restaurant] on [Date] at [Time] for [Name]’s [occasion]. Menu and pricing available at [restaurant website]. Please plan to cover your own entrée and beverages.”
- “Celebrate with us! [Name] is turning [age] / retiring / marking [milestone], and we’ll meet at [Restaurant] on [Date] at [Time]. This event will be no host — each guest covers their meal.”
Etiquette & helpful notes
- Mention the restaurant and provide a link to the website. This gives guests the chance to check menus and pricing ahead of time.
- Using phrases like “no-host dinner” or “pay-your-own-way” is better than vague wording.
- For larger gatherings, or if you’ve arranged a set menu, you might say: “Please note: a fixed-priced menu has been arranged; drinks not included.”
- If your event is affordable and intimate, you might opt to cover dessert or welcome drinks to soften the “pay-your‐own‐way” tone and make guests feel appreciated.
- If the invitees include lots of people who will travel or incur additional costs, you may want to mention that travel expenses are not covered and attendance is optional. This shows thoughtfulness and helps avoid awkwardness.
Why this approach works
- It sets clear expectations upfront so guests don’t feel surprised when the check arrives.
- It keeps the budget manageable for hosts who do not want to or cannot cover everyone’s meal.
- It allows attendees to order within their means and avoid last-minute stress.
- It keeps the focus on celebration and togetherness — rather than the expense.
Final checklist for your invitation
✔ Include the host name(s)
✔ State the occasion (birthday, retirement, milestone)
✔ Provide the date, time, venue (restaurant)
✔ Clearly say “each guest will pay for their own meal” or “no host”
✔ Provide a restaurant link or menu info if possible
✔ Mention RSVP details and deadline
✔ Optional: mention if any portion (drinks, dessert) will be covered by the host
Sendo invites are the perfect way to invite your guests and to include “no-host” verbiage. In the example below, I’ve used the Sendo Confetti invitation design template. I have included content at the bottom of my invite to explain the no-host event.
The bottom of this invite states, “No Host – Visit www.(restaurant-name).com for menu and pricing. I’ve made it clear that guests will need to pay for their own food and beverages without looking tacky or getting too deep into details.
Be sure to check out the full line of Sendo Online Party Invitations to host your next event.
