Rsvp Etiquette: Addressing Cards For Wedding Guests

Wedding RSVP cards are an important part of the wedding invitation suite. They are usually included in the same envelope as the wedding invitations and are placed on top. They are accompanied by addressed and stamped return envelopes, making it easy for guests to respond. The RSVP cards should be ordered at the same time as the wedding invitations to ensure they are mailed together. The deadline for RSVPs is typically set around four weeks before the wedding date, giving the couple enough time to finalise the details with vendors. The RSVP card should include a blank line for guests to write their names, the RSVP deadline, a yes or no attendance line, and an entrée selection if necessary. The return address on the RSVP envelope can be that of the couple, wedding planner, or anyone else responsible for collecting the responses.

Include a blank line for guests to write their names

Including a blank line for guests to write their names is a crucial aspect of wedding RSVP cards. This simple yet significant detail serves multiple purposes and helps ensure a smooth planning process for the couple's big day. Here are some insights and instructions on why and how to include a blank line for names on wedding RSVP cards:

The Importance of a Blank Line for Guest Names

The blank line for guest names is the first thing that should be included on RSVP cards. This line serves as a prompt for guests to provide their names, guaranteeing that the couple knows who will be attending. It also aids in correctly spelling guests' names on items such as seating charts or place cards. This is especially important for formal weddings, where proper honorifics (Mr., Mrs., Ms., or Miss) are used. By including the letter "M" at the start of the line, guests are subtly guided to include their appropriate title.

Tips for Implementing the Blank Line

When creating the blank line for names, consider the following suggestions:

• Use "M" as a cue: On formal RSVP cards, it is customary to write "M" at the beginning of the line. This indicates that guests should include their honorifics (Mr., Mrs., Ms., or Miss) before their names.
• Provide enough space: Ensure that the blank line is long enough for guests to write their full names, especially if they have longer names or titles.
• Consider additional guests: If you are inviting guests with a plus-one or children, you may want to leave extra space for them to include those names as well.
• Number your RSVP cards: To avoid confusion, consider numbering your RSVP cards and keeping a corresponding list. This helps in tracking responses and identifying any missing names.
• Guide guests with formatting: If desired, you can provide subtle formatting guidance below the blank line. For example, you could include "{Name}" or indicate the expected format, such as "Mr. John Smith."

Benefits of the Blank Line for Guest Names

In addition to gathering essential information, the blank line for guest names offers several advantages:

• Reducing confusion: Guests are given a clear prompt to provide their names, reducing the likelihood of confusion or missing information.
• Encouraging timely responses: By providing a dedicated space for names, guests are more likely to respond promptly and completely, aiding in the planning process.
• Personalizing the experience: Including guests' names on the RSVP card adds a personal touch, making guests feel valued and involved in the celebration.
• Facilitating accurate planning: With clear name information, the couple can more effectively plan seating arrangements, place settings, and other details that rely on an accurate guest list.

In conclusion, including a blank line for guests to write their names on wedding RSVP cards is a fundamental step in the wedding planning process. It ensures that the couple receives the information they need to create a seamless and personalized experience for their guests. By following these tips and guidelines, couples can effectively gather guest information and take a significant step toward their dream wedding.

Set an RSVP deadline

Setting an RSVP deadline is an important part of wedding planning. It helps you finalise the guest list and make necessary arrangements, such as seating and catering. Here are some tips to consider when setting an RSVP deadline:

Timing is crucial

It is recommended that your RSVP deadline be set at least four weeks before the wedding, and no later than two weeks prior to the big day. This gives you a buffer to chase up any late responses and finalise numbers with your caterers and venue. Sending out invitations eight weeks before the wedding is also advisable, giving your guests ample time to respond.

Be mindful of your vendors' needs

Your caterers and venue will need a final headcount one to two weeks before the wedding. Be sure to ask them for a firm date, then set your RSVP deadline two weeks before that. This will give you enough time to confirm numbers and make any necessary adjustments.

Consider sending out 'save the dates'

If you're planning a destination wedding or a wedding during a busy travel period, it's a good idea to send out 'save the dates' as early as possible. This gives your guests a heads-up to mark their calendars and make travel arrangements. You can then send the official invitations closer to the wedding, with an RSVP deadline of around four to five weeks before.

Be prepared to chase late responses

Despite your best efforts, there may be guests who don't respond by the deadline. It is perfectly acceptable to follow up with these guests via phone, text, or email. You can also send a friendly reminder to all guests a week or two before the deadline to increase the chances of a timely response.

Be clear and direct

When following up with guests who haven't responded, be straightforward and direct. Ask them if they received the invitation and if they plan to attend. If they're unsure, request that they get back to you within 24 hours, explaining that you need to provide final numbers to your caterers.

Remember, setting the right RSVP deadline is crucial to finalising the details of your wedding. It ensures you have an accurate headcount and can make the necessary arrangements to accommodate all your guests.

Include an attendance line

When creating your RSVP cards, it is important to make it as easy as possible for your guests to respond, and an attendance line is a key part of this. This line will allow your guests to indicate whether they are able to attend your wedding or not. Here are some tips and suggestions for including an attendance line on your RSVP cards:

Firstly, you should word your attendance line clearly and concisely. A simple "Will attend:" or "Able to attend:" is direct and leaves no room for confusion. You could also include a similar line for those who cannot make it, such as "Unable to attend:" This gives a clear indication of the purpose of the response and makes it easy for guests to provide their answer.

You should also leave enough space for your guests to write their response. If it is a simple yes or no question, provide a blank line with enough room for a few words. If you are expecting a numerical response, such as the number of people attending, be sure to include a longer blank space or a small box that can accommodate a few digits.

Another option is to include a pre-printed tick box or check-off system. For example, you could have two boxes side by side, one saying "Will attend" and the other "Will not attend", with a small box next to each for guests to mark their response. This system can make it very clear and easy for guests to respond and eliminates any potential confusion over unclear handwriting.

If you have a lot of information you need your guests to respond to, you could also consider a multiple-choice or fill-in-the-blank style response card. For example, you could have a blank line for guests to fill in the number of people attending, with a pre-printed "out of" and the total number of invited guests. This ensures all the necessary information is provided in a clear and organized manner.

Finally, remember to include a deadline for responses. A simple "Kindly respond by [date]" will do the trick. This ensures that you receive all responses in a timely manner and can help with your wedding planning and organizing.

Provide meal options

Providing meal options on your RSVP cards is a great way to ensure that your guests' dietary needs are met and that there is minimal food waste. Here are some tips and suggestions for including meal options on your RSVP cards:

Wording and Formatting

You can include a section on your RSVP card for guests to indicate their meal preferences. This could be in the form of checkboxes, a fill-in-the-blank line, or a request for guests to initial or write their names next to their chosen option. Here is an example:

"Please indicate your meal preference by checking the appropriate box:

[_] Chicken

[_] Beef

[_] Fish

[_] Vegetarian"

If you have finalized your wedding menu, you can include more details on each menu option. For example, instead of simply "Chicken," you could specify "Roasted Herb-Crusted Chicken." This will help your guests make a more informed decision about their meal choice.

Online RSVP

If you are using an online RSVP system or wedding website, you can easily include meal options by creating additional fields for guests to select their preferences. This method also allows guests to provide more detailed information about any dietary restrictions or allergies.

Multiple Guests per Household

If you are inviting multiple guests from the same household, you may want to provide separate RSVP cards for each guest to ensure that you receive their individual meal preferences. Alternatively, you can include a line for each guest on the RSVP card, with space for them to indicate their meal choice. Here is an example:

"Please write the name of each guest next to their meal choice:

Guest 1: [Name] ______________ [Meal choice] ______________

Guest 2: [Name] ______________ [Meal choice] ______________"

Special Dietary Restrictions

In addition to providing meal options, it is a good idea to include a section on your RSVP card for guests to indicate any food allergies or dietary restrictions. This will help you and your caterer ensure that everyone can enjoy the meal on your big day. Here is an example:

"Please advise of any food allergies or dietary restrictions: ______________________"

By including meal options on your RSVP cards, you can make informed decisions about the quantity of each dish to order and ensure that your guests' needs are accommodated.

Add a special request line

Adding a special request line to your RSVP cards is a great way to inject your personality and style into your wedding stationery. It's also a fun way to connect with your guests and get them involved in your celebrations. Here are some ideas for special request lines:

• Song Requests: Ask your guests to request their favourite songs to create the perfect wedding playlist. You could say something like, "Get us dancing! Song requests:" or "Songs to get us grooving:"
• Drink Preferences: If you want to stock your bar with your guests' favourite drinks, add a line like, "Our drink of choice to celebrate:" or "Cheers! Our drink of choice is:"
• Favourite Memories: Include a line for guests to share their favourite memories of the couple, such as, "Our favourite memory of the happy couple:" or "A moment to remember:"
• Relationship Advice: Ask your guests for their words of wisdom with a line like, "Advice for a long and happy marriage:" or "Wisdom for the newlyweds:"
• Date Ideas: If you want some fun and unique date ideas for your future anniversaries, add a line that says, "Date night ideas for the future:" or "Adventures to come:"
• Personalised Messages: Give your guests the option to leave a personalised message with a request line like, "A special note for the happy couple:" or "Share your well wishes:"

Remember, the special request line is a great opportunity to add a unique and creative touch to your RSVP cards, so feel free to get inventive and choose something that reflects your personality and wedding theme!

Frequently asked questions