how do i phrase it?

[bubbles4920]

im wanting a special birthday party next year and need to start sending out invitations. quite a few will be to previous work colleagues. im gonna put them in with christmas cards and send them to the workplace for them to be handed out sealed individually. how should i word the invitation so that they dont tell someone about it in case they arent invited?!! im thinking on the lines of putting on the bottom ' please show discretion as i do not wish to offend' but im sure there must be more of a set phrase than this. any ideas?

[Octavius]

Well they are going to find out sometime!

If you are wishing to exclude a particular person then I wouldn't hide the fact as word will get around anyway.

I think what you suggest is fine, but those who are not invited will be offended, if not now then later.

[NiceCupOfTea]

If it is a previous workplace, from the way you phrased your question I'm gathering you don't see the people who work there on a regular basis anymore. Therefore I wouldn't worry too much about offending people. If you no longer see them, they won't be too offended as a) they are probably not inviting you to their parties either and b) you won't see them so you'll avoid all embarrassment anyway.

If you do still see everyone, can you not just have a private word in the ear of those who are going to your party?

[bubbles4920]

basically i dont want an ex of mine turning up if he hears about it. he gets tanked up then gatecrashes and it could be embarassing if you see what i mean. so how do i word it??!! im sure some with sort of question others discreetly if they were one of the group i was in. i will send invites in with xmas cards so i need to know what to say pdq now!

[bubbles4920]

and no, i dont see the people now as ive moved area.