Make Your Wedding Rsvp Memorable

When it comes to wedding invites, the M on the RSVP card is where guests write their names, with the letter M designating the first letter of the formal salutation (Mr., Mrs., Miss, or Ms.). It is traditional to use this M line, but some couples may opt for Name(s) instead. It's important to respond promptly to wedding invitations, finalising your plans and sending back the reply card as soon as possible. This is to ensure the couple can provide accurate numbers to their caterer and other vendors, and make necessary arrangements.

Manners and titles: The M on the response card is for Mr., Mrs., Miss or Ms

When responding to a wedding invitation, it is important to follow the proper etiquette, especially when it comes to filling out the response card. The "M" on the response card is an essential aspect of this process and stands for the first letter of the guest's title, such as Mr., Mrs., Ms., or Miss. This traditional format is used to maintain formality and consistency in wedding invitations.

When filling out the response card, guests should write their full names, including their titles, on the line following the "M." For example, "Ms. Jane Smith" is the correct response for a guest attending the wedding alone. It is important to note that "Ms." can be used as a neutral alternative to "Miss", allowing women to identify themselves without drawing attention to their marital status.

The response card should also indicate the number of guests attending the wedding. If only one person was invited, a checkmark or an "X" can be used to signify their acceptance or rejection of the invitation. However, it is important to provide the exact number of guests to help the couple with their planning and budgeting.

In addition to the number of guests, response cards may also include food options for the event. Guests should put their initials next to their food choices to help the couple or caterers prepare the appropriate meals.

It is crucial to respond promptly to a wedding invitation. Guests should check their schedules and consult with anyone else included in the invitation before responding. If unable to attend, it is courteous to decline promptly so that the couple can invite someone else if they wish. Sending the response card on time is essential, as it helps the couple with their planning, including finalising the wedding budget and determining the number of guests to expect.

While the "M" on the response card is a traditional element, modern couples may choose to exclude it to be more inclusive and flexible for their guests. Instead, they can opt for a more generic "Name" or "Name(s)" line, allowing guests to include their titles if they wish.

Meal preferences: Initial your food choice so the couple can tell the caterer

When responding to a wedding invitation, it is important to do so promptly. If you are unable to attend, letting the couple know early on gives them the opportunity to invite someone else.

If the invitation includes an RSVP card, fill it out as clearly as possible. If there is an "M" on the card, this is where you write your title, such as Mr., Mrs., Ms., or Miss. You can then write your full name and the names of any other guests included in the invitation. For example, "Ms. Jane Smith."

Now, on to the meal preferences! If there are meal options, be sure to initial your choice so the caterer knows how many of each meal to prepare. If there are multiple people included in your invitation, each of you should initial your choice. For example, if Ms. Jane Smith is attending with Mr. Adam Smith, and they have different meal preferences, it might look like this:

"Ms. Jane Smith (chicken)"

"Mr. Adam Smith (beef)"

If you have any dietary restrictions or allergies, be sure to let the couple know. You can include this information on the RSVP card or reach out to them directly. It is helpful to include a line on the RSVP card that says something like, "Please let us know if you have any allergies or dietary restrictions." This way, the couple can ensure there are options available that work for everyone.

When indicating your meal preference, be sure to follow the instructions on the RSVP card. If there are specific options listed, choose one and initial it. If there is no specific option that works for you, you may need to reach out to the couple directly to discuss alternatives.

"Chicken" - Initial next to the option provided.

"Vegetarian option, please" - Write this in the space provided, or as instructed on the RSVP card.

"I would prefer a vegan meal. Please let me know if this is possible" - If there is no vegan option listed, you can write this as your preference, and the couple can get back to you.

Mind your manners: Respond as soon as possible, and don't forget to include your name

When responding to a wedding invitation, it is important to mind your manners and respond as soon as possible. This is because the couple uses the number of acceptances to finalise their wedding budget, accounting for the number of guests attending and their meal selections. It is also courteous to let the couple know in advance so that they can invite someone else if you are unable to make it.

When responding, it is important to include your name and the names of anyone else included in your invitation. If there is an "M" on the response card, this stands for the first letter of the title you prefer to go by, such as Mr., Mrs., Ms., or Miss. You should write your name exactly as it was written on the envelope. For example, if the envelope is addressed to "Mr. and Mrs. Smith", the response would be "Mr. and Mrs. Smith". If the envelope includes additional names, such as "Mr. and Mrs. Smith, Maggie and Drew", then the response would be "Mr. and Mrs. Smith, Maggie and Drew".

If you are bringing a plus-one, it is important to include their full name as well. This is true even if you have been in a long-term relationship with your partner; don't assume that the couple knows their name or their gender. For example, if you are bringing your boyfriend, write "Mr. and Mrs. Smith, Maggie and Drew, John Smith".

In addition to including your name, it is also good manners to add a personal touch to your response. This could be a cute congratulatory note, such as "Congratulations! Hope all is well with you!". If you are unable to attend, you can still send your well wishes to the couple. For example, "Dear Sara and Henry, Congratulations on this exciting milestone! We always knew you two were meant to be. Unfortunately, we won't be able to attend, but we will be thinking of you and wish you all the best. Love, Ian and Alana".

Make it meaningful: Add a personal note to your response, expressing excitement and well wishes

When responding to a wedding invitation, it's important to respond promptly and follow any instructions from the couple. This includes using their preferred method of communication, whether it's a printed card, an online form, or an email. Here are some tips for adding a meaningful personal note to your response:

• Express your excitement and well wishes: Let the couple know how delighted you are to be included in their special day. You can write something like, "We are thrilled to be a part of your wedding celebration and can't wait to celebrate this happy occasion with you."
• Share a fond memory: Recall a favourite memory or experience you've shared with the couple. This adds a heartfelt touch to your response. For example, "We still laugh about that time we went hiking and got lost in the woods together. We're so excited to create more joyful memories at your wedding."
• Offer a throwback song request: If the couple has requested a song choice, consider picking a tune that holds a special meaning for you and the couple. It could be a song that reminds them of good times spent together or a tune that reflects their relationship.
• Write a thoughtful message: If you are unable to attend the wedding, it's still important to express your support and well wishes. Let them know they will be in your thoughts, such as, "I am so sorry I can't be there in person, but I will be thinking of you on your special day and wishing you both all the happiness in the world."
• Mention specific details: Personalise your note by referencing specific details about the couple or the wedding. For instance, "I know how much thought and effort you've put into planning this wedding, and I can't wait to see everything come together on the big day. Cheers to your happily ever after!"
• Send a handwritten note: In addition to your formal response, consider sending a separate handwritten note, especially if you are close to the couple. This adds a more personal and heartfelt touch to your well wishes.

Remember to keep your note brief and sincere, and always follow the couple's lead regarding the level of formality they prefer.

Missed opportunity: If you can't attend, it's polite to still respond and send a gift from the registry

When responding to a wedding invitation, it is important to respond promptly, especially if you cannot attend. This gives the couple time to invite someone else if they wish. It is also polite to send a gift from their registry, even if you are not attending. This is not obligatory, but it is a thoughtful gesture, especially if the couple are close friends or family members.

If you are unable to attend, it is still important to respond to the invitation as soon as possible and to follow the couple's instructions. You can respond in writing or by email, depending on the couple's preference. It is also polite to include a brief explanation for your absence if appropriate.

> Dear [Couple's Names],

> Thank you so much for inviting us to join you on your special day. Unfortunately, we will not be able to attend as we will be out of town. We are so sad to miss this important event, and we will be thinking of you and celebrating your marriage from afar.

> Sending our love and best wishes,

> [Your Names]

When it comes to gifts, it is not necessary to spend a lot, especially if you are not attending the wedding. A small gift or a contribution to their honeymoon fund is often appreciated. If you are close to the couple, you may want to consider a more personalized gift that reflects their interests.

Remember, the most important thing is to respond promptly and to let the couple know your decision, whether you are attending or not. This helps them with their planning and ensures they have an accurate headcount for their big day.

Frequently asked questions