Today’s blog post is all about RSVP cards. Sure, you know what an RSVP card is. But do you know when guests should RSVP by? Should you have them pick a meal? Should you include a QR code? Do you even need an RSVP card? Let’s get into it!
Related: When should I send wedding invitations?
1. Let’s start off with the basics: What exactly is an RSVP card?
RSVP stands for “répondez, s’il vous plaît,” which means “please respond” in French. You are giving your guests this card so they can respond yes or no to your wedding. Then, you know how many guests to expect and how much food, drinks, etc. to order. RSVP card formatting can vary depending on your wedding and the formality.
2. Should you have guests pick a meal?
If you are doing a plated dinner, you should give your guests their food options so they can select which meal they want. You can have a spot for them to initial next to their food choice. If you are having a buffet-style dinner or a more informal BBQ, then you don’t need them to specify anything!
3. On that note, you can also include a space for them to specify any dietary restrictions or allergies.
4. How do I take control of my guest list numbers?
There are 2 ways you can choose to have your guests RSVP. You can leave it open-ended so they can tell you how many people are going to your wedding, or you can tell them that you have reserved a certain number of seats for them. This is a great way to control your guest list or to make sure no kids are invited! This is also where they would write if they are bringing a plus one.
5. When should they RSVP by?
Usually, we have recommended for your guests to RSVP 3-4 weeks before the wedding date. Things have been changing lately with COVID and some venues want guests to RSVP earlier so really, default to what your venue wants. They may need more time to secure the amount of food and drinks for your wedding.
6. Where should we write the RSVP by date?
You should 100% give your guests a clear deadline. Don’t leave this open-ended! We like to include the RSVP by date right below the main headline.
7. Should you include a stamp and an envelope?
You want to make it as easy as possible for your guests to RSVP so you should definitely include an envelope with a stamp that is addressed to the person in charge of the guest list (usually the couple or maybe the maid of honor). That way, all your guests need to do is fill out the RSVP card, seal the envelope, and put it in their mailbox!
8. What if you are an eco-conscious couple?
You can include a QR code for your guests to RSVP online, that way you don’t need to include a stamp or an envelope. This is also more budget-friendly. This is not the traditional and formal way to do RSVPs but a ton of couples are opting for this.
9. What if I have multiple events?
We can include a line for guests to RSVP to different events, like welcome drinks, or a goodbye brunch. That way you know how many guests are showing up to each event.
10. Do we need to stick to traditional wording?
Absolutely not! We love it when guests word their RSVP cards in a cute or themey way. It shows your personalities and it’s always a fun surprise for guests when they see that.
So, that’s it! Let me know if you have any other questions. And if you’re interested in chatting with me about your very own invitations, click here to schedule a free consultation!
