Guest Etiquette: RSVP

Hey everyone! I'm sorry that we've been such horrible bloggers...I really have no excuse. In an effort to get better at it I've decided to do a "Guest Etiquette" series on the blog. Many brides have questions about etiquette relating to their wedding but I have realized that many guests are unaware that there is etiquette guidelines for them to follow as well. I have several topics in mind that I'll post about in the coming weeks so keep checking back :-)

Guest RSVPs

So every time a guest gets an invitation to a wedding there will be a little reply card enclosed with a pre-stamped return envelope. While it seems obvious that, YES, you should return that RSVP, it's all too common for people to just not return them. So, for those of you that think it's not a big deal if the couple doesn't get your 1 or 2 person reply then let me shed some light for you :-) For every person that DOES send that RSVP card back there's about 5 that DO NOT....if you do the math, that comes to ALOT of missing RSVPs.

The truth is, that RSVP card is so that the couple can get an accurate headcount for their wedding. The headcount is a very crucial element for the success of any wedding. The headcount not only is necessary for the caterer to ensure that there's plenty of food, but, it also affects the number of chairs needed which, in turn, affects the number of tables needed which, in turn, affects how many centerpieces are needed, etc.....it goes on and on. All of these elements have to do with $$$$. If you RSVP and don't attend then the couple is still paying for your seat, your meal, your plate, your flatware, your napkin, et.. On the contrary, if you don't RSVP and do attend then the couple is then billed after the event for all of the "extras" that were needed to accommodate the larger than expected guest attendance.

There will also be a due date on the RSVP card. The due date isn't just randomly chosen. Instead, that due date is directly related to when that final headcount is due to their caterer, bartender, etc. so it is important for every guest to make note and mail in the RSVP accordingly.

Now, I don't deny the fact that sometimes unexpected things come up and you might have RSVP'd to a wedding and are no longer able to make it. In that case, it's proper etiquette to inform the couple so that the head count can be adjusted. The same is true if the due date for the RSVP has passed and you realized you forgot to reply...simply inform the couple whether you will or will not be attending. Believe me, I tell all of my clients to CALL everyone who didn't RSVP by the due date so that we can ensure the most accurate head count possible. So, you see, if you don't call them they will be calling you :-)

I could go on and on but my main point is this: RSVP!!!! Furthermore, RSVP by the due date provided on the card. By doing these 2 things you will be saving both the couple and their hard-working Wedding Coordinator a heap of stress.

I hope this information is helpful....leave some feedback and let me know if there's an etiquette topic in particular you'd like me to post about. Check back later this week for "Guest Etiquette: Ceremony Arrival Time"