Why Is It Important To RSVP?
RSVP is important for any type of invitation. It plays a critical role in making an event successful. While it actually encourages the guests to attend the ceremony, it also helps the organizer chalk out things beforehand. Replying to invitations is a must and showcases good manners as well certainly. After receiving the invitation, you must either accept it or decline it. Letting the host know shows your courtesy towards them. It will also help the wedding planner or coordinator to arrange themed chairs and décor for the ceremony accordingly. The space of the venue, food, and wait staff need to be arranged beforehand. On the other hand, arriving at the ceremony unexpectedly is uncalled for – as your host may have a tough time arranging seats for you. The number of invitees will help the host arrange a spacious venue and plan for a bigger budget. Thus, taking note of RSVP and responding to it is an absolute requirement. The standard practice to reply to the request of RSVP should be duly maintained by every guest. Because, the host can invite other guests as well if you do not wish to attend. They can consider the guests whom they might have kept in the ‘may be’ category. In the same way, if you wish to attend their ceremony and be a part of it, you should let them know. This will help them make proper arrangements beforehand. The RSVP also benefits the guests in various ways. Responding to RSVP can help the host identify your food selection (vegetarian or non-vegetarian).
When To RSVP?
It is very frustrating to keep a note of the guests who are coming to the ceremony and who is not. RSVP is basic politeness that everyone should follow. The host also has some responsibilities to send the invitation to the guests much prior to the ceremony. Preferably, the RSVP should be sent to the invitees at least six weeks before the occasion. This minimum duration is required for the guests to plan accordingly. The guests can either decide to put off the invitation or plan to attend it. It is definitely not desired to ignore RSVP. While the host might get responses immediately, some guests might delay it until the last minute. The host can give the guests a grace period as well. Even if they don’t reply, they can count them out. The host can also give options to their guests – to encourage them to respond. Giving options like replying in the chain mail or listing a phone number can help. Additionally, if you have received an invitation through email, you need to RSVP through chain mail. If it is an enclosed card, you need to reply accordingly. You can also decline the invitation by simply calling the host up. If the invitation doesn’t have RSVP mentioned on the card, you needn’t reply. However, you can always show your genuine nature and inform them personally that you cannot attend. You also might be in a situation where you may not be able to decide immediately if you can attend the ceremony. In that case, inform your host and let them know that your plans might change.
What If Your Plans Change?
If your plans change, make sure to inform the host the minute you know you will not be able to attend. Don’t wait for the great day to arrive, as all preparations would have been made beforehand. You should definitely inform the couple of not attending the wedding due to unprecedented circumstances. Do not make it complicated at all. Explain your genuine reason. The host will definitely understand.
RSVP Wording Etiquette
You always need to be extra careful when it comes to RSVP. Few basic rules are required to be followed. Be formal as well as creative. Here are some simple techniques to keep your response simple yet elegant.
Consider formality
Whether it is a wedding invitation or engagement, as a courtesy, address the cards and keep them formal. They should match the theme of the ceremony. The style of the card should justly align with politeness.
Make it unique
You don’t want your response to be monotonous. Replace the expected lines with something exclusive. For example, ’accept with pleasure’ can be replaced with ’I’ll be there to set the dance floor on fire’, or ’declines with regret’ can be replaced with ’will bless them from far’. Keep the tone soft and well-mannered.
Keep it short and snippy
Don’t panic to find the right words for the RSVP. Reply with short, simple messages. You do not intend to write an essay, do you? Simple and short messages like ‘We accept your invitation with great pleasure,’ or ‘We elatedly look forward to attending the ceremony with great delight,’ can work wonders.
Decline with politeness
If you cannot attend the event, keep your justification to the point. Explain the situation in polite words – but don’t overdo it. Examples like ‘unable to attend the ceremony due to unavoidable circumstances,’ or ‘best wishes for your day, blessings on the way’, can be quite courteous and polite.
Does the bride fill out the RSVP card? Whether it is a dinner party with friends or a wedding for hundreds of people, rsvping ensures that everyone involved knows exactly who’s coming and is able to plan accordingly. RSVP demands a reply and it is your duty as an invitee to respond. RSVP are traditional ways and not meant for tech-savvy invitees. In the days of technological advancement, replying via email and social networks may gain precedence. Tick the appropriate boxes and read the invitation thoroughly. Be mindful in terms of wording etiquette, and you are all set to go! No, the RSVP card is only for guests. Does RSVP mean respond either way? Yes, RSVP means you have to inform them either way – whether you plan to attend or not. Is it correct to say “Please RSVP”? No. RSVP means “please respond.” So, saying “please” along with RSVP is redundant. Should I put stamps on my RSVP cards? Yes, if you are giving your guests an RSVP card, you must put a stamp on it. You must also provide additional stamps for your guests to mail the RSVPs back to you.
