Words (Core Vocabulary)
- invite / host / guest list / RSVP (please respond) / plus-one
- potluck / BYOB (bring your own beverage) / host gift
- dress code / casual / smart casual / festive
- start time / end time / arrival window
- dietary restrictions / allergies / halal / vegan / gluten-free
- house rules / shoes off / quiet hours / pet-friendly
- venue / backyard / patio / community room / reservation
- reminder / follow-up / thank-you note
Phrases (Invite → RSVP → confirm → host)
Inviting
- We’re having a small get-together on Saturday 6–9 p.m.—would you like to come?
- **It’s a potluck—**feel free to bring a favourite dish (optional).
- Kids welcome; let me know about allergies.
RSVP (accept/decline)
- Thanks for the invite—I’d love to come; I’ll be there around 6.
- I can’t make it this time, but thank you for thinking of me.
- Mind if I bring a plus-one? Totally fine if not.
Confirming details
- Is there a dress code or anything I can bring?
- What’s the buzzer/unit and should we take our shoes off?
Hosting messages
- **So glad you can come—**parking is on 8th, quiet hours after 10.
- We’ll have vegetarian options; feel free to bring something you like.
Contextual Examples (Natural, everyday)
- Invite text: BBQ at ours Sun 3–7—swing by anytime; BYOB; kid-friendly.
- RSVP email: Thanks—count me in; I’ll bring dessert. Any nut allergies?
- Host follow-up: Great to see everyone—thanks for coming! Photos in the shared folder.
Collocations & Phrases (bold the key words)
- send an invite
- RSVP by Friday
- bring a host gift
- share dietary restrictions
- set house rules
- confirm the start/end time
- arrange quiet hours
- follow up with a thank-you note
Canadian Cultural Context (How to sound natural & polite)
- Many homes are shoes-off—ask or check at the door.
- Potlucks are common; host gifts like flowers or treats are appreciated.
- Condo/strata buildings often have quiet hours—hosts may mention them.
Extra Mini-Patterns (plug-and-play)
- Invite: “We’re hosting on Sat 6–9—would you like to come? Casual, kid-friendly.”
- Accept: “Thanks! I’d love to come—I’ll bring a salad.”
- Decline: “Thanks so much—I can’t this time, hope it’s great!”