Responding To A Wedding Invitation: The Proper Way

When you receive a wedding invitation, it's important to respond promptly and accurately. The couple will be finalising their plans and confirming numbers with caterers, so it's crucial to let them know as soon as possible if you can attend or not. Traditionally, this would be done by sending a handwritten note on personal stationery, but nowadays, it's more common to respond via email or a wedding website. If the invitation includes an RSVP card, make sure to fill it out clearly, including your name, the number of guests, and any dietary restrictions. It's also a nice touch to add a personal note of excitement or well wishes for the couple. Whether you're accepting or declining, be considerate and send your response as soon as you can – it's an important part of wedding etiquette!

Include your name and the number of guests attending

When it comes to wedding invitations, your first move is likely to be ripping open the envelope and taking in the gorgeous stationery. But don't forget about that small, critical piece: the RSVP card. This little card is incredibly important for the couple, as it helps them nail down their number of attendees, confirm an accurate headcount for the caterer, and make sure their guest count aligns with their plans.

• Include your full name: Weddings are often formal events, and it's customary to address people by their full names on place cards and escort cards. If the name on the invitation isn't accurate, use the reply card to provide your preferred full name. If there's only an initial ("M") next to a blank line, fill in the card with the correct honorific, followed by your full name and that of your guest.
• Specify the number of guests: If you've been given a plus-one, indicate the number of people in your party—presumably one or two—and write in their full name(s). The couple needs this information for seating charts and place cards.
• Indicate dietary restrictions: Use the RSVP card to share any dietary restrictions or allergies. This will help the couple accommodate your needs and ensure you don't go hungry at their wedding.
• Be clear about children: If you plan to bring children, check the invitation suite for any indication of an adults-only wedding. If children are allowed, write their first names on the RSVP card if there's room, or indicate that you're bringing them in the space asking for the number of attendees.
• Respond promptly: As a guest, your first duty is to respond to the invitation promptly. Check your schedule, consult with anyone else included in your invitation, and make your response as soon as possible. This is important because if you can't make it, the couple will have time to invite someone else in your place.
• Be considerate: If you've been invited as a wedding guest, it's because the couple wants to celebrate with you. If you can't attend, it's considerate to reach out personally to let them know, in addition to sending in the RSVP card.

Remember, the couple is relying on your response to finalise their plans, so be sure to include all the necessary information and send it back as soon as you can.

Respond promptly

When responding to a wedding invitation, it is important to respond promptly. This helps the couple keep track of their guest list, which is often a stressful part of the wedding planning process. It also allows them to finalise their plans, such as confirming the number of attendees with their caterer and making sure their guest count aligns with their original plans.

If you have been sent an RSVP card, send it back as soon as possible. Check your calendar, finalise your plans, and post the reply card without delay. If you have been given a plus one, decide whether you will be bringing a guest and include their full name on the card. It is also a good idea to specify any dietary restrictions you may have.

If there is no RSVP card, you can respond in writing or by email. Your reply should be brief and sincere, and based on the formality of the invitation. If you are accepting the invitation, you could write something like:

> "Dear [Couple's Names],

>

> [Partner's Name] and I are delighted to accept your invitation to attend [Name/s of Person/s Getting Married] wedding on [Date]. We look forward to sharing in your special day."

If you are unable to attend, you could write:

> "Dear [Couple's Names],

>

> I am so sorry that I can't join you for your wedding on [Date]. I have to be in [Location] on business, but you will both be in my thoughts on your special day. Love to you both."

If you have accepted the invitation but are then unable to attend, it is important to let the couple know as soon as possible.

Disclose any dietary restrictions

When it comes to wedding planning, it's important to consider your guests' dietary needs and restrictions to ensure that everyone has a positive and inclusive experience. Here are some instructive and focused guidelines on how to address "Disclose any dietary restrictions" in your wedding invitations:

Include a Line about Dietary Restrictions

It is crucial to explicitly mention dietary restrictions on your wedding invitation. This can be done on the RSVP card or alongside the RSVP information. A simple and effective wording such as, "Please let us know if you have any dietary restrictions or requirements," is both polite and clear. This shows your guests that you care about their needs and are willing to accommodate them, making them feel valued and included.

Follow Up with Guests

After receiving the RSVPs, it is a good practice to follow up with guests who have indicated dietary restrictions. Contact them to confirm the specific details of their restrictions. This allows you to work closely with your caterer or venue to provide suitable alternatives that cater to their needs, whether they are allergies, intolerances, or personal preferences. Remember that every guest's dietary needs are unique, so be accommodating and understanding.

Provide Options and Accommodations

When planning your wedding menu, consider providing a variety of options that cater to common dietary restrictions. For example, offer vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, nut-free, and Kosher choices. If you're serving a buffet, ensure that there are plenty of dishes that accommodate different dietary needs, and clearly label these dishes to make it easier for guests to find suitable options.

Communicate with Your Caterer or Venue

Choose a caterer or venue that is accommodating and flexible when it comes to dietary restrictions. Communicate with them about how they typically accommodate dietary restrictions. Provide them with ample notice and specific details about your guests' dietary needs to ensure they can prepare accordingly.

Avoid Cross-Contamination

If you have guests with food allergies or celiac disease, it is crucial to avoid cross-contamination. Keep dishes well separated to prevent accidental ingestion of allergens. If you are self-catering, take the proper precautions to avoid cross-contamination during the cooking process.

Label All Dishes and Ingredients

Labelling dishes that are appropriate for different dietary restrictions is extremely helpful for your guests. Be thorough in your labelling, listing all ingredients, so guests can make informed choices. This is especially important for guests with severe allergies or specific dietary needs.

Trust Your Guests

While it's important to provide options and accommodations, you don't need to hold your guests' hands through the process. Your guests are used to navigating their dietary restrictions in their daily lives, so trust that they can make decisions about what to eat at your wedding. Communicate the options clearly, and they will make choices that align with their needs.

Remember, the key to successfully accommodating dietary restrictions is effective communication. By including a line about dietary restrictions on your invitations, following up with guests, providing a variety of options, and working closely with your caterer or venue, you can ensure that all your guests feel taken care of and included in your special day.

Write a personal note to the couple

When responding to a wedding invitation, it's important to respond promptly. Check your schedule and decide if you want to bring a guest if you've been offered a "+1". If you can't make it, let the couple know as soon as possible so they can invite someone else.

When writing a personal note to the couple, it should be brief but sincere. Here are some examples:

> Dear [Couple], We are so happy for you both and are delighted to accept your invitation to your wedding on [date]. We can't wait to celebrate this special day with you! Love, [Your Name(s)]

> Dear [Couple], Thank you so much for inviting us to share in your special day. Unfortunately, we won't be able to attend your wedding on [date] as we will be out of town. We are so sorry to miss it, and we wish you both all the best. Congratulations! Love, [Your Name(s)]

> Dear [Couple], Rob and I are honoured to accept your invitation to your wedding on [date]. We are so happy for you both! We can't wait to celebrate with you. Yours sincerely, [Your Name]

> Dear [Couple], I am so thrilled to be able to share in your joy on your wedding day! I am delighted to accept your invitation and can't wait to celebrate this special occasion with you both. With love, [Your Name]

Send a handwritten response

Sending a handwritten response to a wedding invitation is a beautiful way to leave an impression on the hosts. It shows that you are excited about their big day and appreciate the effort they have put into the invitation. Here are some tips on how to respond to a wedding invitation with a handwritten note:

The Importance of a Handwritten Response

A handwritten response is a more personal and thoughtful way to reply to a wedding invitation. It demonstrates your enthusiasm for the event and can be a delightful keepsake for the couple. While modern technology has simplified the response process, a handwritten note is a chance to express your well-wishes and excitement for the wedding.

Respond Promptly

It is important to respond to a wedding invitation promptly, whether you are accepting or declining the invitation. This allows the couple to finalise their plans, including catering and seating arrangements. Check your calendar and make your decision as soon as possible to avoid causing unnecessary stress to the couple.

Include All the Necessary Information

When writing your response, be sure to include all the relevant information. This includes the number of guests attending, the names of those attending, and any dietary restrictions or allergies. This information is crucial for the couple's planning, so be sure to provide it clearly and accurately.

Match the Tone and Formality of the Invitation

When writing your handwritten response, consider the style and formality of the wedding invitation. If the invitation is formal, such as a black-tie event, your response should also be formal and written in the third person. On the other hand, if the invitation is more casual, you can be more informal and personal in your response.

Add a Personal Touch

A handwritten response is a great opportunity to add a personal touch. Include a brief note expressing your excitement and well-wishes for the couple. You can also add a touch of humour if appropriate. This will make your response stand out and show the couple that you care about their special day.

Example Responses

"Dear [Couple's Names],

[Partner's Name] and I are delighted to accept your invitation to attend your wedding on [date]. We look forward to sharing in your special day and celebrating with you both.

With love and excitement,

[Your Names]"

"Dear [Couple's Names],

It is with great sadness that we must decline your kind invitation to your wedding on [date]. Unfortunately, we will be out of town during that time. Please know that we will be thinking of you and wishing you all the best on your special day.

With regret and warm wishes,

[Your Names]"

Remember to use proper etiquette, include all the necessary information, and respond in a timely manner. Your handwritten response will be a wonderful addition to the couple's wedding preparations and a cherished keepsake of their happy event.

Frequently asked questions