Although there's nothing wrong with a paper invitation or thank you note, we like the idea of sending something unusual to increase the anticipation and excitement. Now where do we find mini beach balls in bulk?
The fine folks over at Martha Stewart's Craft Department have been busy sending neat invitations for a previous party and whipping up some rather unusual thank-you notes.
Beach balls when deflated fit in a standard envelope and when inflated reveal all the party information. Kids don't really care about a piece of paper, it's having fun they like, so sending something to goof around with is far more exciting, though not as easy to hang on the refrigerator.
Likewise, small frisbees were sent in cd sleeves with hand punched circles that had been written on by the birthday boy and addressed to each attendee. Both ideas truly set the vibe for a fun filled party. What other small items would work for this purpose? Leave your ideas in the comments below!
• Check out more on the invitations and thank you notes at Martha Stewart
(Image: Martha Stewart Crafts Dept.)

Ercol Bar Stool
This is great! My sister actually sent out frisbee invitations for her sweet sixteen. Everyone had a great time
awesome idea. will definitely be using it.
Oriental Trading Company has them $6 for a dozen: http://www.orientaltrading.com/mini-inflatable-beach-balls-a2-49_226-12-1.fltr?Ntt=beach+balls
Best party invites ever: http://jordanferney.blogspot.com/2011/03/confetti-invitations-template.html
Is it just me or do you think people will just toss the balls away?
A lot of moms I know don't want balls in the house, especially beach balls.
If there is a name/address on them - do you want the balls used outside and that information potentially getting to those you don't know?
What about the waste of the ball when it's done being used - a paper invite gets recycled.
I get that it's a neat idea, but it seems a bit wasteful too.
Frisbees have longer life-spans with parents and get damaged less easily, and with no info on it - makes it a more appealing choice! You can give/sell these when you grow weary of them too.