Choose Your RSVP Wording

One of the most important parts of sending a wedding invitation (aside from the actual who, what, when, where details of the wedding) is including the RSVP information. You want an accurate headcount of who will (or won’t) be attending your big day to make sure everyone has a seat and is fed. RSVP cards are an opportunity for personalization that is often overlooked. There are infinite ways to give guests the opportunity to say “Yes,” or “No,” and we’ve explored some of our favorites.


FILL-IN-THE-BLANK

Don’t want to give your guests the easy “Yes” or “No” way out? Include a fill-in-the-blank option to make guests think on their feet and give you and your partner a chance to laugh.

Yes, _____________________ (Insert enthusiastic emotion)

No, _____________________ (Insert creative excuse)


BEACH WEDDING

Witty puns are perfect for weddings on the beach, and there are tons of possibilities. When you ask guests if they will be attending, give them the opportunity to respond with some salty(water) humor.

Sea you at the shore.

All tide up that day.


DANCEFLOOR HERO

Worried your guests won’t hit the dance floor at your wedding? Set the tone early by telling family and friends you want to see them on the dancefloor.

See you on the dancefloor.

Will be dancing from my kitchen.


ENTHUSIASTIC

Add some pizazz to your invitation by letting guests tell you exactly how enthusiastic they are, and what exactly they’re enthused about.

Enthusiastically accept.

Regretfully decline

Regretfully accept.

Enthusiastically decline.


OPEN-BAR RELATED

Have guests who like to party-hearty? It’s okay to joke about your open bar with your guests, if you know they can all take the joke. Just maybe send a separate invitation to your grandma.

Open bar? I’ll be there.

Will attend only if there is top shelf liquor available.

My booze at home is better.


HONEST

There are few things more frustrating than guests saying they’ll be in attendance, and then missing the night without any warning. That’s an entire plate wasted which is a shame, especially if you are having a smaller or budget-friendly wedding. Let your guests know that you really want them to take their wedding invitation seriously, but lighten it with a bit of humor.

Yes, I will attend.

No, I will not be able to attend.

Will say I’m not coming but show up anyway.

Will say I’m coming but then change my mind at the last minute with no warning.

Will attend and will bring a date even though my invitation does not say +1 anywhere.


FORMAL

If a classic RSVP response is the best for you, try a standard option that gives guests a “yes,” or “no,” option in a formal voice.

Graciously accept.

Respectfully decline.


No matter how you choose to word your RSVP, there is nothing more important than choosing the wording that is the best fit for the two of you as a couple, and your personality. Keep your audience in mind and do what makes you happy, it’s your day.

By Emily Rochotte

Lisa Purcell