Wedding RSVP Cards: Everything You Need to Know

When planning a wedding, all of the details matter - especially when it comes to RSVP cards. After all, having an accurate guest count affects everything from your seating chart and catering numbers to your overall event cost!

Here at Lily and Roe Co., we understand that a truly memorable wedding is built from the finest details, which is why our RSVP cards are always part of a beautifully curated, cohesive invitation suite.

By choosing RSVP cards (and invitations, and day-of signage!) that seamlessly complement one another, you can set the tone for a sophisticated, stress-free celebration. But how do these cards work, and what needs to be included? Keep reading for everything you need to know about this crucial piece of stationery!

What is an RSVP?

RSVP is an acronym for the French phrase "répondez s'il vous plaît." Directly translated, it means, "Respond if you please" or "Please reply." Although considered an outdated term in France, the acronym RSVP has become common in many English-speaking countries. The abbreviation is used to request that guests confirm their attendance at a given event. 

Digital vs. Mail-In RSVPs

Regardless of the formality of your event or the RSVP method you’ve chosen, you should include an RSVP card in your wedding invitation suite. For a more formal affair, the traditional mail-in RSVP remains a favorite. This involves sending a card and a pre-addressed, stamped return envelope so guests can fill out the card and return it by mail.

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For more casual events, you can opt for a digital RSVP. In this case, the RSVP card will include instructions on how to RSVP online. If you are directing guests to a website to reply, confirm that the URL you shared is accurate. If possible, use a URL shortener, or consider using a QR code. While digital responses can be convenient, remember that some older guests may be more comfortable with a paper reply. 

Card Format 

When it comes to including the right details on your RSVP card, simplicity and clarity are key. A mail-in RSVP card should include space for guests' names, accept or decline lines, space for the number attending, and the deadline for RSVPs.

Traditionally, the card will have an M with a line next to it that acts as a placeholder for a title (Mr., Mrs., etc.) so the guests know where to write their names. If you’re opting for a digital RSVP, the card should include the URL and/or QR code as well as any instructions for using the online system. 

To gather even more helpful details, consider using the RSVP card to request meal selections, note dietary restrictions, or invite guests to recommend a song that keeps the dance floor packed.

RSVP Timeline 

RSVPs are only helpful if they are received in time to make final decisions and head counts. We recommend mailing out invitations 10-12 weeks before your wedding to allow guests ample time to respond.

RSVPs should then be due back 4-6 weeks before your wedding. This will allow you to finalize the seating chart, order the appropriate table settings, and finalize the guest number with your caterer.

RSVP Etiquette

As a guest, the key to RSVP etiquette is responding! Reply as soon as you can, but no later than the deadline indicated on the card. Make sure to include your name and the name of everyone attending on the RSVP card before returning. One of the most frustrating things for a couple to manage is multiple RSVP cards that are returned without a name!

Also, it should go without saying but do not add a plus one if the host has not communicated that you were given a guest. Likewise, if children aren’t included, refrain from bringing them along. Couples carefully curate their guest lists based on the capacity of their venue and their budget, so only the guests clearly listed on the outside of the invitation should be RSVPed for. 

Wedding RSVP Cards by Lily & Roe Co. 

When purchasing wedding invitations from Lily & Roe Co., all of our suites come with the option of a traditional response card and envelope or a website response card. We’ve made it easy to create a clear, concise RSVP card so your guests can let you know if they plan on attending!

If you’re planning a wedding and looking for sophisticated stationery to match your big day, head over to our invitations page to find your perfect match.