How Do I Politely Say “Adults Only” on an Invitation?
The most polite way to say “Adults Only” on an invitation is to use a warm, gentle phrase such as “We respectfully request an adults-only celebration.” Whether you're hosting an elegant dinner party, a chic cocktail evening, or a formal wedding, it can feel a little awkward figuring out how to say “no kids, please” without sounding harsh. Good news: there are many gracious, thoughtful, and even creative ways to phrase it.
Adding a gentle adults-only note helps guests plan comfortably and prevents last-minute confusion, which is why phrasing it warmly makes such a difference.
Short answer: Use soft, respectful wording and place your adults-only note on the invitation itself or on a coordinating details card, RSVP card, or event website.
Below, you’ll find polite wording options for every type of event—formal, casual, whimsical, and everything in between—plus tips on where to place the note on your invitation.
And remember: our elegant event invitation designs include customizable wording sections, so you can seamlessly add your adults-only message in a refined, beautifully balanced way.
Where to Place Your Adults-Only Message
Depending on how subtle or clear you want to be, here are a few tasteful placement options:
On the invitation
Add a discreet line at the bottom or near the event details.
On a details card
Perfect for weddings or formal events when you want the main invite to remain clean and minimal.
On your RSVP card
A gentle prompt like “Number of adults attending” signals the policy without directly stating it.
On your event website (for weddings)
Include the note on the FAQ or event information page to reinforce expectations.
No matter where you place it, the key is clarity paired with kindness.
This Seafood Soirée stationery suite beautifully reinforces the elevated, adults-only tone of your event. The deep green marble pattern paired with gold accents creates a luxurious, ocean-inspired aesthetic ideal for sophisticated gatherings—corporate dinners, charity fundraisers, gala nights, or upscale cocktail parties. Explore the featured design here: Seafood Soirée Invitation Card.
With coordinated pieces including invitations, save-the-date cards, RSVP cards, details inserts, thank-you cards, ticket cards, and favor tags, you can communicate every detail with clarity and grace. This also makes it easy to include your adults-only message in multiple places:
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Add a simple line on the invitation such as “We respectfully request an adults-only celebration.”
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Add a gentle “Adults-Only Event” line on the RSVP card.
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Place a formal note such as “We respectfully request an adults-only celebration” on the details card.
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Or keep it subtle with RSVP wording like “Number of adults attending.”
The cohesive design ensures your message feels elegant and intentional—perfect for setting expectations long before the event begins.
10+ Polite “Adults Only” Wording Options
Classic & Formal
These work beautifully for weddings, galas, charity events, or black-tie affairs.
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“We respectfully request an adults-only celebration.”
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“This event is intended for adults only. Thank you for understanding.”
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“Please join us for an adults-only evening of celebration.”
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“This celebration is designed for adults — we look forward to sharing an elegant evening with you.”
Modern & Minimal
Short, stylish, and to the point—perfect for contemporary invitations.
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“Adults Only Event.”
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“An adults-only evening.”
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“Adults only, please.”
Casual & Friendly
Ideal for birthday dinners, engagement parties, housewarmings, or backyard events.
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“We love your little ones, but this night is just for the grown-ups.”
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“A kid-free night—come relax and enjoy!”
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“Date night mode: ON. Adults only.”
Elegant & Warm
Graceful wording that maintains a luxurious tone.
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“To ensure a relaxed and refined experience, our celebration will be adults only.”
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“We kindly request an adults-only guest list to maintain an intimate atmosphere.”
Unique or Creative
Great for themed parties, cocktail nights, or hosts who like personality in their wording.
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“Let’s keep this one classy—grown-ups only, please.”
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“This evening is designed for adults. We hope you enjoy a night out!”
Lighthearted or Playful
Perfect for personality-filled events where guests expect a fun tone.
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“Call the babysitter—this celebration is adults only!”
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“Leave the kiddos at home and bring your dancing shoes!”
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“Tonight, we party like grown-ups. Adults only!”
Polite RSVP Cue (Subtle but Clear)
A more delicate way to signal the policy.
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“Number of adults attending: ____.”
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“Seats reserved for ___ adult(s).”
Quick Tips for Keeping It Polite
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Lead with warmth, not rules.
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Say it once—but clearly.
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Avoid blunt wording like “no kids allowed.”
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Provide context when appropriate (e.g., space limitations, late evening event).
Tips for Communicating the Adults-Only Policy Gracefully
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Be consistent: Use the same messaging on the invitation, RSVP card, and event website.
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Keep your tone aligned with your event: Formal event = formal wording; casual event = casual wording.
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Clarity is kindness: Avoid ambiguity. Polite wording prevents confusion and last-minute questions.
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Use the design to support the message: Elegant typography or clean minimal layouts help carry a refined tone.
Which Wording Should I Choose?
Choosing the right adults-only wording depends on the tone of your event:
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Use formal phrasing for weddings, black-tie celebrations, galas, or elegant dinner parties.
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Use friendly or playful wording for birthdays, engagement parties, backyard events, or casual gatherings.
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Use a subtle RSVP cue if you prefer not to say it directly.
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Place the message on the invitation for maximum clarity, or on a details or RSVP card if you want the main design to stay minimal and clean.
Saying “adults only” doesn’t have to feel awkward or uncomfortable—when phrased thoughtfully, it comes across as clear, respectful, and completely appropriate. Whether your event is elegant and formal or relaxed and modern, there’s a courteous wording style that fits your tone perfectly.
With the right phrasing and beautifully coordinated stationery, you can communicate your adults-only policy gracefully while creating an inviting first impression for your celebration. If you need help crafting wording, matching designs, or customizing your event details, we’re here to make your planning feel seamless and stylish.
Explore our invitations at Claudia Owen.
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