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RSVP Guide for LDS Brides

One small card… that carries a very big responsibility.

Response cards (or RSVP cards) are traditionally included with each wedding invitation so your guests can let you know whether they’ll be attending—and who’s coming with them. And while they may seem like a tiny detail, they quietly hold everything together behind the scenes.

Your final headcount affects:

• Catering
• Seating arrangements
• Rentals
• And even how smoothly your reception flows

In other words… these little cards help everything fall beautifully into place.

Why RSVP Cards Still Matter (Even for Casual Receptions)

Even if you’re planning a relaxed open house with light refreshments, RSVP cards are still worth considering.

Because while it’s lovely to plan for abundance… no one wants:

• Guests going hungry
• Or five gallons of leftover chicken salad sitting in the fridge

A simple response card helps you prepare wisely—and breathe a little easier as your big day approaches.

Response Card Envelopes

Always include a stamped, self-addressed envelope with each response card.

This is one of those small acts of kindness that makes a big difference.

The easier you make it for guests to respond, the more likely those cards will actually find their way back to you—without needing a gentle follow-up later.

And yes, it’s still considered proper etiquette.

RSVP Card Wording

Response card wording is much more flexible than formal invitation wording, which is a nice little breath of fresh air.

The most important thing to include is:

• A clear deadline (typically 3–4 weeks before the wedding)

From there, you can choose a tone that fits your day.

Formal Response Card Wording

The favor of a reply is requested
by March 11, 2012.

M__________________________
____Accepts ____Regrets
____ Number Attending

Casual Response Card Wording

We look forward to celebrating with you!

____Will attend ____Unable to attend

Kindly mail by June 1, 2012.

Fill-in-the-Blank Response Card Wording

We are _________________ to hear about your upcoming nuptials!
(adjective)

_____________________ is/are ____________________ to say that I/we _____________ attend.
(Your name/names) (adjective) (can/cannot)

Please respond on or before September 20, 2012.

Light & Playful Response Card Wording

Be there or be square—

____ I’ll be there!
____ Sadly, I’m square.

Please let us know by April 17, 2013.

A little personality can be fun—as long as it still feels true to you as a couple.

Meal Options for Catered Receptions

If you’re hosting a plated dinner, you’ll likely offer two or three meal choices, such as:

• Chicken
• Beef
• Vegetarian

In that case, include the options directly on the RSVP card so guests can select their preference.

This makes planning far easier—and keeps your caterer very happy.

Tracking Your RSVP Cards

This is where a little organization goes a long way.

It’s surprisingly common for guests to return their card… without writing their name.

To avoid that moment of “Wait… who is this from?”:

• Assign each guest a number
• Lightly write it on the back of their response card before sending

That way, even if names are forgotten, you’ll still know exactly who responded.

What to Do When Guests Don’t RSVP

It will happen.

No matter how thoughtfully you prepare, a few guests will:

• Forget
• Misplace the card
• Assume they already responded
• Or simply get busy

Wait a few days after your deadline, then reach out kindly.

A simple approach works beautifully:

“I just wanted to make sure you received our invitation. I’m finalizing our guest list—will you be able to make it?”

Keep your tone warm and relaxed—even if you’re quietly feeling a little stressed.

And if you truly can’t reach them?

It’s usually safer to assume they are coming. A little extra food is always better than not enough.

Alternate Ways to RSVP

Today, many couples also offer additional ways to respond, such as:

• Email
• Phone
• Wedding website

This can be especially helpful for busy guests.

However, it’s still best to include a traditional RSVP card as well.

Not everyone is comfortable responding online, and this small step helps ensure every guest feels included and considered.

A Final Thought

When you’re deep in wedding planning, it’s easy to overlook the quiet details.

But response cards are one of those behind-the-scenes helpers that keep everything running smoothly.

They bring clarity, organization, and just a little more peace of mind—so when your day arrives, you can focus on what truly matters:

Being surrounded by the people you love, exactly as planned.