RSVPs might seem like a small part of wedding planning, but getting them right makes a big difference to your final headcount, your budget, and your stress levels. Here’s how I’d recommend handling RSVPs from start to finish.
Make it easy for everyone
I always say the golden rule of RSVPs is simple: make it easy, both for you and for your guests.
If you’re going digital, use the free weddingsonline wedding planning app to keep track of your wedding guests and their RSVPs – it really is a game changer.
If you’d rather guests respond by post, include a pre-stamped, pre-addressed envelope in your invitation. All your guests need to do then is fill in the card and pop it in the nearest post box.
Be direct about what you need
Don’t leave guests guessing. Tell them exactly what you’d like them to do, whether that’s replying by email, filling in a card, or confirming a meal choice. The clearer your instructions, the fewer follow-up messages you’ll need to send.
Get your timing right
Timing is everything with RSVPs. Give guests too long and your invitation might get forgotten about. Give them too little and you’ll be the one under pressure.
My general rule of thumb is to send invitations around six weeks before the wedding, with an RSVP date roughly three weeks out. That gives guests plenty of time to respond, and gives you a proper window to chase anyone who’s gone quiet before you need to confirm final numbers with your venue or caterer. This timeline works well if you’ve already sent out a Save The Date.
Top tip: pick a round number for your RSVP date, like the 10th or the 20th. It’s easier for guests to remember and easier for you to keep track of.
Make it fun
A little personality goes a long way. Instead of a plain “yes” or “no” box, try something like “Heck yes!” or “See you on the dance floor!”. You could even ask guests to share their favourite song or their best piece of marriage advice. It’s a small touch that makes replying feel like part of the celebration, not a chore.
One thing to avoid
A friend of mine was once invited to a wedding a good four hour drive away. Underneath the details on the invitation was a line asking guests to buy a gift worth the same as their dinner cost. I can’t stress this enough: don’t do this. If you’d like to point guests towards a registry or the option of a financial gift, that’s exactly what your wedding website is for. Attaching a specific price tag to your invitation is never the way to go.
Getting your RSVP process right sets the tone for the whole day, so it’s worth taking the time to plan it properly from the start.
