Invitations for the name-day celebration

A name day — celebrating the saint whose name you share, according to the calendar — is a long tradition in parts of Europe, though it is rarely marked in Britain, where the birthday is the day that counts. You may come across it in families with continental roots, or among friends who simply like the idea of an extra excuse to gather. If you are planning one, it makes a lovely, low-key occasion: flowers, a shared meal and a toast. An online invitation helps you organise it simply.

The format is usually intimate. Close family and friends, 8 to 25 people. Supper at home or at a restaurant, an afternoon tea, sometimes a lunch. A grandparent's or parent's name day is often the chance to bring the whole family together — grandchildren, cousins, and occasionally more distant relatives. By tradition you might bring flowers (for the men too), something sweet, or a small gift.

The invitation should carry the name of the person being celebrated, the date, the time, the venue, an outline of the gathering and, where relevant, a word on gifts. If they would rather not receive presents, it can be put gently ('your company is the only gift we need'). A precise pin to the address — home or restaurant — makes arriving easy. For an intimate gathering an RSVP form is not essential; for a larger one it is useful to know numbers in advance.

The digital format is handy for a family spread across the country — the grandchildren in London, the aunt in Leeds, the brother who has moved abroad. You send the link by WhatsApp to the younger ones and by email to relatives further afield. Replies count themselves, and a Google map guides everyone to the address. Knowing the numbers in advance helps you cater the right amount.