We get asked questions all the time surrounding the topic of Wedding RSVPs etiquette and we’re here to put your mind at ease when it comes to your wedding invitations and what you need to know about gathering replies from your guests. Just because you are thinking about your wedding every moment doesn’t mean that it’s a top priority for your guests and that’s okay. We have all the insider tips you need when it comes to your RSVP’s and how to handle guests that don’t follow directions.
When should we make the deadline for the Wedding RSVPs?
The deadline for your RSVP date should be about four weeks before your wedding date. This will allow enough time for you to get your final head count to the caterer (usually about one to two weeks before) and to finalize your seating chart.
Whimsy Wedding Tip: If you are sending your RSVPs out via snail mail, set the RSVP date a week before you actually need them. Most guests have a habit of postmarking their responses the day it says they are due instead of a couple days before hand.
What should we include on our RSVP card?
Be as specific as possible. Let your guests know exactly how to reply so as to not leave any questions unanswered. If you’d like them to email their Wedding RSVPs, say so on the invites along with any other information that you need from them and don’t forget to include the email address. If you’ve included a RSVP card that they need to send back, be clear on what the deadline is and which boxes they need to check for meals or any other details.
Whimsy Wedding Tip: Number your RSVP cards and assign each number to a guests name in an excel spreadsheet. This way, if a guest sends the RSVP card back but forgets to fill in their name or is missing any other information, you’ll know exactly who it belongs to and who to contact.
What if not all of my guests use email?
Give options. Grandma may not be as likely to email her response as some of your younger guests. When in doubt include a mailable reply card with the online RSVP information. Make it easy on your guests by giving them permission to RSVP anyway that they’d like as long as you keep track of all the incoming messages and supply everyone with accurate information.
Whimsy Wedding Tip: If you are collecting your Wedding RSVPs by mail, be sure to include a pre-addressed and pre-stamped envelope for your guests to return their RSVP card. This will make it easier on them and on you.
Can we use our wedding website to collect our RSVPs?
A wedding website is another great way to collect and keep track of your RSVPs – include the directions on your invitation and make sure your site is setup properly.
Whimsy Wedding Tip: Stay on top of your Wedding RSVPs by logging into your wedding website weekly to make sure that everything is working and being accurately accounted for. The last thing you want is to be calling all of your guests at the last minute to confirm that they are attending.
What if people forget to RSVP?
This happens. A lot. Whether they forgot, misplaced the card or it got lost in the mail – give them a break. As you are keeping track of your Wedding RSVPs it’s okay to follow up with guests that may need a gentle reminder that the RSVP date is quickly approaching. A short and sweet email is a great way to reach out and let them know how excited you are to share your big day with them.
Whimsy Wedding Tip: Plan ahead. Don’t wait until the day before you need to give your final count to your caterer. Keep your guests contact information in an organized spreadsheet so that you can quickly reach out to them ahead of time so that there is no need to panic.
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