Looking for a quick and easy way to spread the word about your next event?   Consider holding a Tweetup.  Tweetups are like Meetups (an idea we discussed in Swim, swap, and sweet), except you’re using Twitter to promote your event.

Thing is, a tweetup can get out of hand quickly.   It only takes one person retweeting the location and #freebeer, and your event turns into that house party you had senior year when your parents were on vacation.

That’s where Twtvite comes in.  Twtvite is a free tweetup management tool.  It’s simple to use and comes with several great features:

• RSVP – yes, no, maybe
• Waiting List – manages guest list for full events
• Add to calendar (Google Calendar, Outlook, iCal, Yahoo! Calendar)
• Maps -  shows location of venue
• Printable name tags – based on people who RSVP’d Yes or Maybe
• Comments

Here’s how it works:  Fill out a Twtvite form with your event details and Twitter name.  Don’t forget to add a #hashtag, which makes it easier for the service to see who is tweeting about your event.   After your Twtvite is created, you can tweet the URL or post a message to social sites like Facebook.  People who click on your link will be directed to the invite, where they can RSVP, see who else is going, leave comments, and more.

You can also use Twtvite to find tweetups in your area.   If you’re leery about holding a tweetup or want to see a tweetup before committing, browse your local listings.