Rsvping To A Wedding: Email Etiquette Guide

RSVPing to a wedding invitation by email is a fairly straightforward process, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you're being a thoughtful guest. Firstly, only respond by email if that is the couple's requested method of RSVP. If they've asked for a response by post or through a wedding website, be sure to follow their instructions. When responding by email, use the address provided on the invitation, even if you have a different one saved. It's likely that they've created a dedicated email address to keep track of responses. Respond promptly and politely, and include your full name and the total number of guests attending. If you're unable to attend, it's still considered good etiquette to send a short note of regret. You can include a reason for not attending, especially if you're close with the couple, but this is optional.

RSVP promptly and correctly

RSVPing promptly and correctly is one of the best ways to help out the happy couple. Here are some tips to ensure you do it right:

Respond as soon as possible

Responding to a wedding invitation can be one of your first duties as a wedding guest. It is important to respond as soon as possible, even before the due date. This is because the couple will use your response to finalise their numbers, create a seating plan and confirm their budget.

Follow the couple's instructions

Make sure you read the invitation carefully and follow the steps outlined by the couple. For example, if they have requested that you RSVP via their wedding website, don't send them a text. If they've asked for the full name of your plus one, don't use a nickname. It's important to follow the instructions provided to avoid confusion or extra work for the couple.

Don't request a plus one

If your invitation doesn't include the words "and Guest" or "+1" after your name, it's safe to assume you haven't been offered a plus one. In this case, don't ask the couple if you can bring a guest. Due to budget and venue restrictions, it may not be viable to offer plus ones to single guests.

Don't substitute your plus one

If your invitation includes the name of your partner but they are unable to attend, don't invite another guest in their place. If a name has been specified, it's because the couple wants that particular person to be there.

Only RSVP if you're 100% sure

Once you respond, the couple will slot you into the seating chart, pay for your meal and make other arrangements. So, if you're not totally sure you can make it yet, hold off from responding until you are sure.

Be mindful of kids

If the couple has specified that the wedding is a child-free event, it's important to respect their decision.

RSVP by email

If the couple has asked you to RSVP via email, respond using the same kind of message you would for a blank RSVP card. Don't forget to use (and double-check) the correct email address provided on the invitation. Many couples will create a separate email address for their RSVPs to keep all of the responses in one place.

Include all details

When responding to a wedding invitation by email, it's important to include all the details requested by the host. This ensures that the couple can finalise their guest list, seating plan, and budget before the big day. Here are some key details you should include in your email RSVP:

Full Name(s)

Include the full name(s) of each guest attending. If the invitation includes a "+1" or specifies "and Guest", you can bring a plus-one. In this case, provide the full name of your guest. It is not appropriate to substitute your plus-one for someone else if they are unable to attend.

Response (Attending or Not Attending)

Clearly state whether you are accepting or declining the invitation. It is considered polite to respond with a definitive "yes" or "no", rather than just a simple "yes" or "no". You can also express your response in a more formal or creative way, depending on the tone of the invitation and your relationship with the couple.

Total Number of Guests Attending

Provide the total number of guests who will be attending, including yourself. This helps the couple finalise numbers for catering and other arrangements.

Entree Selection and Dietary Restrictions

If requested, include your entree selection or any dietary restrictions. You may also be asked to initial your choice next to each meal option to make it clear which guest has selected which meal.

Mailing Address

Provide your mailing address if requested. This is often required for the couple to send out thank-you cards or other wedding-related correspondence.

Special Requests or Additional Information

The couple may request additional information, such as song requests, drink preferences, or marriage advice. Respond to any special prompts included in the invitation.

"Dear [Couple's Names],

Thank you for inviting us to celebrate your special day. We are delighted to accept your kind invitation and look forward to attending the wedding on [date].

The following guests will be attending:

[List the names of all attendees, including yourself]

Regarding the meal options, we would prefer the vegetarian option.

We are excited to share this happy occasion with you and send our best wishes.

Sincerely,

[Your Name(s)]"

Remember to respond promptly and follow any specific instructions provided by the couple to make the RSVP process smooth and stress-free for them.

Respond with a short and sweet message

Responding to a wedding invitation via email can be done in a few simple steps. Firstly, check the invitation for RSVP instructions and only respond by email if that is the couple's request. It is important to respond using the email address provided and to double-check for typos.

When responding, it is best to keep your reply short and sweet. Simply let the couple know whether or not you will be attending, and include any other details they have requested, such as dietary requirements or meal choices. It is also polite to express gratitude and to be positive in your response, even if you are unable to attend.

> "Dear [Couple's Names],

> Thank you for inviting us to celebrate with you. We are happy to accept your invitation to the wedding day and the rehearsal. We would both prefer fish for our entree choice.

> Looking forward to the big day!

> Warmly,

> [Your Names]"

If you are unable to attend, a short note is still considered good etiquette. Here is an example:

> "Dear [Couple's Names],

> Thank you for inviting us to celebrate with you. We regret that we will not be able to attend your wedding on [Date]. Best wishes,

> [Your Names]"

It is important to respond as soon as possible, to give the couple enough time to plan and prepare for their guests.

Follow the couple's instructions

When responding to a wedding invitation, it's important to follow the couple's instructions to ensure your attendance at the wedding. Here are some detailed tips to help you navigate the RSVP process:

Respond Promptly

It is important to respond to a wedding invitation as soon as possible, even before the due date if you can. This helps the couple finalise their numbers, create a seating plan, and confirm their budget. It is also considerate to respond promptly so that the couple doesn't have to chase you for a response. Remember that late RSVPs can lead to you not having a seat or meal at the wedding, as vendors require a final headcount by a certain date.

Use the Couple's Preferred RSVP Method

If the couple has requested that you RSVP via their wedding website, email, or phone, be sure to follow their instructions. If they have provided an RSVP card and pre-addressed envelope, use that method to respond. Many couples create a dedicated email address for their wedding to keep track of responses, so be sure to use the correct email address.

Include All Requested Information

When responding, be sure to include all the information requested by the couple. This typically includes your full name, your response (attending or not attending), the total number of guests attending, and any entree selections or special prompts requested by the couple. If you have any dietary restrictions or allergies, be sure to mention them clearly so that the caterers can accommodate your needs.

Follow Formatting Guidelines

If the couple has provided an RSVP card with a pre-printed template, follow the formatting outlined on the card. This may include using proper titles (Mr., Mrs., Ms., Miss) and writing your full name to avoid confusion, especially at large weddings. If the RSVP card includes "just for fun" questions, be sure to answer them! The couple wants to involve you in their celebration.

Be Mindful of Plus Ones

If your invitation includes the words "and Guest" or "+1" after your name, then you have been allocated a plus one. If your invitation doesn't include these words, it's safe to assume you haven't been offered a plus one. Don't ask the couple if you can bring a guest, as budget and venue restrictions may not allow for it. If your partner's name is specified on the invitation but they are unable to attend, don't substitute them with another guest. The couple has specified that particular person because they want them to attend.

Be Considerate with Children

If the couple has specified that the wedding is a child-free event, it's important to respect their decision. Don't ask for an exception unless you have a newborn, in which case the couple will likely be understanding.

Decline Gracefully

If you are unable to attend the wedding, inform the couple promptly and politely. Express your gratitude for the invitation, explain your reason for declining, and offer your regrets. It is still important to send a wedding gift, even if you cannot attend. You may also want to send a thoughtful gift if you are unable to attend as a gesture of support and congratulations.

Don't forget to include your name(s)

When responding to a wedding invitation, it's important to remember that your name should be included in your RSVP. This is true regardless of whether you're responding by email, a dedicated wedding website, or a physical card. Here are some tips to ensure your name is included correctly:

The Importance of Including Your Name

Including your name in your RSVP is crucial for the couple's planning process. It helps them finalise the seating plan, ensure accurate meal preparations, and create place cards or personalised favours. It also allows them to address you properly and ensures you're included in their special day.

Formatting Your Name

When writing your name, it's essential to follow the formatting requested by the couple. If the invitation is formal, it may include a capital "M" at the beginning of the line, indicating that you should include your proper title (Mr., Mrs., Ms., or Miss) before your name. For example, "Mrs Sally Smith". If the invitation is informal, you can use your first and last name, such as "Sally and Harry Smith".

Responding for a Group

If you're responding on behalf of a group, be sure to include the total number of attendees along with their names. This helps the couple plan accordingly and ensure they have enough space and resources for everyone. For example, "The following 4 people will be attending: David Smith, Rebecca Smith, Junior Smith, and Michelle Smith".

Matching the Tone of the Invitation

When writing your response, consider the tone of the invitation and your relationship with the couple. If the invitation is formal, your response should also be formal and polite. For instance, "Mr. and Mrs. Smith accept with pleasure your kind invitation for Saturday, the 18th of August". On the other hand, if the invitation is informal, your response can be more casual and friendly, such as "Thank you for your invitation! We will happily be attending. Looking forward to it. Love, Sally and Harry Smith".

Double-Checking Your Response

Before sending your RSVP, take a moment to double-check that your name is included and formatted correctly. This simple step can help avoid confusion and ensure smooth planning for the couple.

Frequently asked questions