Your caterer needs numbers. Your seating chart needs names. And somehow, a handful of guests always forget to reply. A clear RSVP card and a sensible plan make the whole process much smoother.
When to set your deadline
Set your RSVP deadline three to four weeks before the wedding. That gives you a week or two to follow up with late replies and still leaves time to confirm final numbers with your venue and caterer. Check your vendor contracts first, since some need final counts earlier.
What to include on the RSVP card
Keep it short and easy to fill in:
- The reply-by date
- A line for guest names
- Accepts and declines options
- Meal choices, if you are offering them
- A space for dietary needs, if you want to collect them
RSVP wording ideas
Formal: The favor of a reply is requested by the first of April.
Modern: Kindly reply by April 1.
Relaxed: Let us know by April 1 if you can make it!
For the reply lines, try fun options like Joyfully accepts and Regretfully declines, or keep it simple with Will attend and Will not attend.
Mail or online?
Mailed RSVP cards are traditional and give older guests an easy way to reply. Include a stamped, addressed envelope or a postcard so it is simple to send back.
Online RSVPs through your wedding website are faster to track. Many couples offer both: an RSVP card for those who prefer mail, plus a website address or QR code on a separate card. Our suites include a matching RSVP card and a wedding website card so you can offer either.
The secret numbering trick
Lightly number the back of each RSVP card in pencil and match it to your guest list. If a card comes back without a name, you’ll still know who sent it.
Plus-ones and children
Write the exact number of seats you’ve reserved on the card, such as We have reserved 2 seats in your honor. It gently tells guests how many people are invited.
Following up
A week after your deadline, reach out to anyone you haven’t heard from. A quick, friendly call or text works best. Assume the card got lost in the mail rather than that the guest forgot.
Keeping track
Use a simple spreadsheet with columns for name, address, number invited, reply, meal choice and gift received. You’ll use the same list for seating and thank-you notes.
A final note
Guests are much more likely to reply on time when the card is clear and easy to fill in. Choose a design with plenty of space, like our Black & Colorful Wildflowers suite, and keep the wording short. A beautiful card that is simple to answer is the best tool you have for getting every reply back on time.
