How to Use Apple’s Latest ‘Invites’ App for Event Planning

Published on February 10th, 2025

Apple has introduced a new app called Invites, designed to simplify the process of creating and sharing event invitations directly from an iPhone or on the web. With Invites, users can craft personalized event invitations, manage RSVPs, collaborate on Shared Albums, and even curate event playlists. This app serves as Apple’s version of Partiful, the popular invitation platform that was crowned Google Play’s Best App of 2024.

Although creating an event requires an iCloud+ subscription (priced at $0.99 per month), anyone can RSVP, regardless of whether they own an Apple device or have an Apple account. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to create an invitation, add a Shared Album or playlist, and invite guests effortlessly.

How to Create an Event Invitation

Invites allows users to create an event either via the iPhone app or on the web at iCloud.com. The process remains consistent across both platforms:

Step 1: Start Creating Your Event

• On the app: Tap the plus sign (+) in the upper-right corner to create a new event.
• On the web: Click “New Event” in the upper-right corner.

Step 2: Customize the Background

• Tap “Add Background” and choose one of the following options:
  • Photos: Select an image from your gallery.
  • Camera: Capture a new image.
  • Apple’s Pre-set Backgrounds: Choose from a selection of Apple’s designs.
  • Image Playground: Generate AI-powered images (requires an iPhone 15 Pro or later, with Apple Intelligence compatibility).

Step 3: Enter Event Details

• Event Title: Tap to enter your event name and choose a preferred font style.
• Date & Time: Select the start and end times or mark it as an all-day event. Invites will automatically include a weather forecast for the selected date.
• Location: Search for a venue or pick a suggested one. You can also manually name a location (e.g., “Emily’s House”). Apple Maps integration ensures seamless navigation for guests.
• Event Description: Use Apple Intelligence Writing Tools to craft an engaging event description (available on compatible devices).

Step 4: Preview and Finalize

Before sending, tap “Preview” to ensure your invitation looks perfect. Once satisfied, you’re ready to invite your guests.

Also Read: Factors Influencing the iOS App Development Cost

Enhancing Your Event with Shared Albums & Playlists

Apple Invites goes beyond basic RSVPs by offering Shared Albums and Event Playlists to enhance guest engagement.

Shared Albums: Capture and Relive Event Memories

A Shared Album allows guests to contribute photos and videos, creating a collective memory of the event.

• Tap “Create Album” while setting up your invite.
• By default, the album name matches the event title, but you can rename it.
• Guests can upload media, ensuring that everyone has access to captured moments.

Event Playlists: Set the Mood with Music

Create an event soundtrack that guests can contribute to:

• Tap “Add Playlist” when setting up your invitation.
• Guests can add songs before or during the event.
• Requires an Apple Music subscription.
• The playlist will be named after the event but can be renamed.

How to Invite Guests to Your Event

Apple provides flexible invitation options, making it easy to invite guests via different platforms.

Step 1: Choose an Invitation Method

You can invite guests in two ways:

1. Public Link: Share a general invite link that anyone can use.
2. Direct Invitation: Send the invite to specific contacts.

Step 2: Share the Invite

• Tap “Invite Guests.”.
• Choose how to send the invite:
  • Messages or Mail: Send the public link via iMessage or email.
  • Share Link: Use the iOS share sheet to distribute the link via various apps.
  • Copy Link: Manually paste the invitation wherever you choose.
• If sending to specific contacts, tap “Choose a Guest,” search for a name, and send them the invite.

Managing Your Event and Communicating with Guests

Once your event is set, you can keep guests updated with important notes.

Sending Event Updates

If there are any changes, such as a venue switch or weather concerns, you can notify guests easily:

• Select your event.
• Tap “Send a Note.”.
• Type your message and hit “Send Note.”.

This ensures that all guests stay informed without requiring individual follow-ups.

Final Thoughts

Apple Invites is a game-changer for event planning, offering an intuitive and visually appealing way to create and manage invitations. With AI-powered customization, shared media collaboration, and seamless guest communication, Invites makes event organization more engaging than ever. Whether you’re planning a casual get-together, a birthday bash, or a formal gathering, Apple’s Invites app streamlines the process and keeps everyone connected.

So, if you’re an iCloud+ subscriber, it’s time to start planning your next event with Apple Invites and make every celebration memorable!