The First Birthday Party Invitation In History

Birthday parties have been around for a long time! From the ancient Egyptians celebrating the birth of their gods, to the ancient Romans having feasts in honour of an affluent man’s birthday.

Naturally, people needed to know where and who to go to for a birthday. Therefore, they needed an invitation. Assumedly, it was word of mouth which was the dominant invitation method.

However, some written invitations were sent out.

The picture above features the very first written birthday invitation in history! It was written by Claudia Severa, wife of Roman Commander Aelius Brocchus in 100AD.

Here is the translation from the British Museum:

“Claudia Severa to her Lepidina, greetings. On the third day before the Ides of  September, sister, for the day of the celebration of my birthday, I give you a warm invitation to make sure that you come to us, to make the day more enjoyable for me by your arrival. Give my greetings to your Cerealis. My Aelius and my little son send their greetings, I shall expect you, sister. Farewell, sister, my dearest soul, as I hope to prosper, and hail.”

Ancient Romans were known for their lavish feasts, so it’s likely this birthday party had a HUGE banquet. That sounds like a great party, just like the childrens birthday parties we offer at Wannabees. They are all inclusive and we have packages for all budgets and needs.