Wedding Invitation Etiquette: Filling Out An Rsvp

Filling out an RSVP card for a wedding is a simple task, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure your response is clear and helpful to the couple. Firstly, it's important to respond as soon as possible, ideally within a few days of receiving the invitation. This is not only polite but also allows the couple to plan their big day more efficiently. When filling out the card, start by writing your full name and the name of any guests you are permitted to bring – don't forget this crucial step! Then, indicate whether you will be attending and, if not, provide a brief explanation and perhaps a gift from the couple's registry. If there is an option to choose your meal, be sure to do so and initial your selection. Finally, add any additional notes or well wishes for the couple – they will surely appreciate the thoughtful gesture.

Include your name(s)

Filling out an RSVP card for a wedding is a formal affair, and there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you follow the correct etiquette. Here are some detailed instructions specifically focused on including your name(s) on the RSVP:

Firstly, it is important to write your name exactly as it appears on the envelope of the wedding invitation. This is important for the hosts' planning, as they will use this information for the seating chart and place cards. If the envelope is addressed to you with a specific title, such as "Mr." or "Mrs.", be sure to include this on the RSVP as well. For example, if the envelope is addressed to "Mr. and Mrs. Smith", the RSVP should also be addressed this way.

Secondly, always include your full name, as well as the full name of any additional guests you are permitted to bring. This is crucial, as it helps the hosts finalise the guest list and create place cards for everyone. Write the names clearly, as the hosts will want to ensure they get the spelling correct.

If there is an "M" preceding a blank space on the RSVP card, this indicates that you should include your social title (Mr., Mrs., Ms., Miss) before your full name. For example: "M_ Shawn 'Jay-Z' Carter & Mrs. Beyoncé Knowles-Carter".

If you are bringing a plus-one, it is considered good etiquette to include their full name as well. This is advised even if you have been in a long-term relationship with this person; don't assume the hosts know their name or how to spell it.

Finally, if you are responding on behalf of a group, such as a family, be sure to include the number of people attending. This can be done by writing out the number, rather than using a checkmark, to ensure the hosts have an accurate count.

By following these guidelines, you can be sure that you are providing clear and helpful information to the hosts as they plan their special day.

State whether you're attending

When filling out an RSVP card, it's important to state whether you're attending or not. This is the primary purpose of an RSVP card and allows the couple to finalise their numbers, create a seating plan, and confirm their budget.

If the RSVP card has a pre-printed template, simply fill in the blanks. This will usually include a space to indicate whether you're attending or not, the number of guests, and any dietary requirements. You may also be asked to answer some fun questions, like dance floor requests or marriage advice.

If the RSVP card is blank, write a brief sentence or two to confirm your name(s), attendance/non-attendance, and any other details requested in the RSVP instructions. Here are some examples:

"Mr Harry Smith and Mrs Sally Smith accept with pleasure your kind invitation for Saturday, 21st September."

"Thank you for your invitation, we will both be happily attending! Looking forward to it. Love, Sally and Harry Smith."

"Thank you for your invitation, sadly we are both unable to attend due to other commitments. So sorry we can't be there – wishing you an amazing day! Love, Sally and Harry Smith."

If you're responding via email, it's important to follow the couple's instructions and respond to the email address provided. Here is an example of how to accept an invitation via email:

"Dear [Couple's Names],

Thank you for inviting us to join your wedding celebration. [Partner's Name] and I are happy to accept your invitation to the wedding day and the rehearsal.

In regard to entree choices, [Partner's Name] and I would both prefer fish.

Looking forward to the big day!

Warmly, [Your Names]"

If you need to decline the invitation, it's proper etiquette to respond with a "No" or "Regrets". Here is an example of how to decline via email:

"Dear [Couple's Names],

Thank you so much for inviting us to join you at your upcoming wedding. Unfortunately, we will not be able to attend as we will be out of the country on business that weekend. We are sad to miss this special event and will be celebrating with you from afar on the big day.

Sending our love and best wishes. Congratulations!

With love, [Your Names]"

Remember, it's important to respond promptly and follow the couple's instructions to ensure your seat at the wedding.

Specify the number of guests

When filling out a wedding invitation RSVP, it's important to be clear about the number of guests attending. Here are some tips to ensure your response is accurate and helpful for the happy couple:

It is essential to provide an accurate count of the number of guests who will be attending. This helps the couple with their planning, especially regarding seating arrangements and catering. If the invitation is addressed only to you, assume that you are the only invitee. If you are unsure, it is best to clarify with the couple before filling out the RSVP.

The RSVP card may include a line that says, "_ seats have been reserved in your honour", with a blank space for you to fill in the number of guests. If the card doesn't specify, you can write in the number of guests yourself, ensuring it is clear and easy to understand. For example, you could write, "2 of 2 attending" to indicate that both invitees will be present.

If you have been offered a plus-one, it is polite to include their full name when responding. This helps the couple with their seating plan and ensures they can address your guest properly.

Addressing the Invitation to Families

If the invitation is addressed to a family, the RSVP card may have a line that says, "We have reserved _ seats in your honour", indicating the total number of family members invited. For example, if the invitation is addressed to "The Smith Family", the RSVP card might say, "5 seats have been reserved in your honour".

However, if only some family members are invited, it is essential to be clear about who is and isn't invited. You can address the invitation to specific individuals within the family, such as "Mr and Mrs John Smith, Mr John Smith, and Miss Jane Doe". This ensures that those who are invited know they have a seat reserved, and those who aren't invited are not expecting a seat.

Dealing with Uninvited Guests

Unfortunately, some guests may attempt to bring additional guests who were not included on the invitation. To avoid this, be clear and specific about the number of guests invited and the names of those invited. If you are concerned about uninvited guests, you can utilise your wedding website to communicate any restrictions, such as an adults-only wedding.

Responding in a Timely Manner

Remember that your response is crucial for the couple's planning, so respond by the deadline indicated on the RSVP card. If you miss the deadline, it is essential to contact the couple as soon as possible to provide your response and apologise for the delay.

In summary, when filling out a wedding invitation RSVP, be clear and specific about the number of guests attending. This helps the couple with their planning and ensures that everyone has a seat at the celebration.

Indicate dietary restrictions

When it comes to indicating dietary restrictions on a wedding invitation RSVP, there are a few approaches you can take. Here are some detailed instructions and suggestions to help you navigate this aspect of your wedding planning:

Including a Line for Dietary Restrictions

The most straightforward way to indicate dietary restrictions is to include a dedicated line on the RSVP card. This can be a simple open-ended prompt such as "Please note any dietary restrictions" or "Special dietary requests (only if applicable)". This approach allows guests to describe their specific dietary needs, such as "dairy-free" or "gluten-free".

Providing Specific Options

If you prefer to provide specific options for dietary restrictions, you can list them out and ask guests to select or mark their choices. For example, you could have options like "Vegetarian", "Vegan", "Gluten-free", "Allergies (please specify)", or "Other (please specify)". This approach helps to streamline the process and makes it easier for guests who may not know how to describe their dietary needs.

Combining with Meal Options

If you are offering multiple meal options, you can combine the indication of dietary restrictions with the selection of those options. For example, you could list the meal choices and then add "Other (vegetarian, gluten-free, or other dietary restrictions)". This approach ensures that guests can select their preferred meal while also indicating any necessary dietary adjustments.

Encouraging Direct Communication

In addition to the RSVP card, you can encourage guests to reach out to you directly via phone or email to discuss their dietary restrictions. This is especially useful if you have a complex situation or want to ensure that all needs are met. You can include a simple note on the RSVP card, such as "For special dietary concerns, please contact us at [email address] or [phone number]".

Working with Your Venue or Caterer

Remember that your wedding venue or caterer will play a crucial role in accommodating dietary restrictions. Communicate with them about your guests' needs and work together to create a suitable menu. They are experienced in handling such situations and can provide valuable guidance.

Being Mindful of Guests' Comfort

Lastly, it's important to be mindful of your guests' comfort when addressing dietary restrictions. Some guests may feel hesitant or embarrassed about their dietary needs. Ensure that your wording is inclusive and welcoming. Avoid making a fuss or using labels that might be considered offensive, such as "fussy" or "picky".

By following these instructions and suggestions, you can effectively indicate dietary restrictions on your wedding invitation RSVP, ensuring that all your guests feel included and well-catered for on your special day.

Add well-wishes

Adding well-wishes to a wedding invitation RSVP is a great way to personalise your response and add a thoughtful touch. Here are some tips and examples to help you craft your message:

The Basics of Well-Wishes

When writing your well-wishes, it's important to consider the tone of the invitation and your relationship with the couple. If the invitation is formal, you may want to mirror that formality in your response. For example:

> "Mr Harry Smith and Mrs Sally Smith accept with pleasure your kind invitation for Saturday, 21st September."

If the invitation is more informal, you can be more casual in your response, such as:

> "Thank you for your invitation, we will both be happily attending! Looking forward to it. Love, Sally and Harry Smith."

Adding a Personal Touch

Your well-wishes are a great opportunity to share your excitement and happiness for the couple. You can include a simple message of congratulations and best wishes, such as:

> "Thank you for inviting us to join your wedding celebration. We are happy to accept and look forward to sharing this special day with you."

You can also add a fun request or memory, as prompted by the couple, such as a song request or a favourite memory of the couple. This adds a unique and personalised touch to your response.

Etiquette Tips

When adding well-wishes to your RSVP, here are some important points to keep in mind:

• Respond promptly—It is considered good etiquette to respond to a wedding invitation as soon as possible, preferably before the due date.
• Follow instructions—Pay attention to the couple's requested RSVP method and format. If they provide an RSVP card, use it, and if they request a response via their wedding website, follow those instructions.
• Include your full name—Write out your first and last name to avoid any confusion, especially for larger weddings.
• Be mindful of guest numbers—Only RSVP for those who were invited. If you have been offered a plus-one, include their full name. If you are unable to attend, do not pass on your invitation to someone else.
• Be considerate of the couple's planning—Once you respond, the couple will use that information for seating charts, meal planning, and other arrangements. So, only respond when you are certain you can attend.

Frequently asked questions