What to include on your wedding RSVP cards

Clients often ask what to include on their wedding RSVP cards and whilst their primary function is to communicate who is attending the celebrations, there’s definitely room for a little creativity! I’ve put together a list of suggestions if you are struggling for ideas:

1. Name(s)

   It’s really important that you leave a blank line for guests to write their name(s). Be sure to copy these details exactly when compiling lists for seating charts to ensure spellings are all correct.

   If you are super organised then create a spread sheet with the names of everyone who you’ve invited and write corresponding numbers in pencil on the bottom corner of your RSVP cards. That way if someone replies without writing their name(s) you’ll still know who it is.

2. Accepts / Declines

   Most couples opt for a tick box or delete as appropriate format for this information. Traditionally this would be written as; accepts with pleasure, declines with regret, but if you are having a more casual wedding there’s an opportunity to personalise the language to better reflects you as a couple.

3. Dietary Requirements

   Another essential piece of information for your RSVP cards. Be sure to communicate this to your caterers and remember they may need a paper copy of your seating chart indicating dietary requirements to ensure everyone receives the correct meal.

4. RSVP deadline

   This needs to be clearly visible to ensure everyone gets back to you on time. I’d recommend giving guests at least a month to rsvp to your invitation, so bear this in mind when deciding on the date you will mail your invites. If you need help with your dates take a look at my Stationery Timeline.

5. How to RSVP

   Guests typically rsvp by mail, phone, email or wedding website. Be sure to include these details and if you are asking guests to mail their rsvp remember to include a self addressed envelope - a stamp is a nice touch if your budget allows.

   Now for the more light hearted suggestions …

6. Favourite Song

   Often written as, I \ We’ll dance if you play … This is a fun way to plan the music for your evening reception and ensures everyone is on the dance floor!

7. Advice for the married couple

   This can be fun for you to read in private, or you can give the cards to your best man/woman so that the most heartwarming/funniest advice can be read out during the speeches.