How do you respond to an RSVP card?
Jackson Reed
Updated on February 07, 2026
Wedding RSVP Etiquette for How to Fill Out a Response Card
- Include full names.
- Write legibly.
- Don’t include the names of uninvited guests.
- If filling out entrée options, write down the initials of each guest next to the option they want.
- Send out the RSVP card ASAP.
How do RSVP cards work?
Your guests are technically supposed to fill in the rest of the line to write their own names “Mr. and Mrs. This RSVP card shows the traditional approach of adding an “M” with a line next to it for the guests to fill in their names when they reply!
Who should RSVP cards be returned to?
Also, the return address used should be that of the person(s) whom you’ve designated to receive response cards, be it your parents or you (traditionally, whoever is hosting the wedding handles response cards). Don’t forget that the RSVP envelope should also be printed with this address (and should include postage).
What do you put after M on RSVP?
M _______________________________ The letter M is simply the beginning of the person’s title — Mr., Miss, Mrs. and Ms. — which would then be followed by the person’s name.
What does M mean on RSVP?
In keeping with more formal wedding tradition, the line is here as a way to kickstart your reply. The “M” stands for the first letter of the title you prefer to go by, be it Mr., Mrs., Ms., or Miss.
How much time do you give guests to RSVP to a wedding?
Assuming you’ve sent your invitations out in time (at least six to eight weeks before your wedding), then give your guests four or five weeks to RSVP. This is plenty of time for people to figure out if they want/are able to attend your wedding, as well as figure out any necessary travel arrangements.
Should I put stamps on my RSVP cards?
Not Putting a Stamp on the RSVP Envelope If you want your guests to mail back an RSVP card, make sure the envelope is pre-addressed and includes a stamp. But asking your guests to pay to reply (even if it’s just a single stamp) is an etiquette no-no.
When do RSVP cards need to be returned?
Have your RSVP due date be two to three weeks prior to the wedding. Your caterer will want a head count at least one week before the reception, and you’ll need a few days to get in touch with people who you haven’t heard from.
Do you put RSVP card inside envelope?
Invitation with RSVP Card Insert the response card under the flap of its included envelope, not inside it. The response card should be inserted on top of the invitation. Reply envelopes should be addressed and include a stamp.
How do you write a RSVP message?
Hi [Name], Thank you for your invitation to [event] on [date]. Unfortunately, I will not be able to attend the event. I appreciate your invitation and hope to have the opportunity to attend next year.
How to send an RSVP card to a guest?
Identify the person (or couple) that will be responsible for collecting, tracking, and generally organizing your invitation RSVPs, and address the response card envelopes to that person’s preferred mailing address. If you want your guests to actually put your RSVP card in the mail, then offer them the courtesy of a pre-stamped envelope.
What should I do if someone does not reply to my RSVP?
Give your invitees a grace period after the RSVP reply date. It should usually be about 7 days after the requested reply dates. If anyone on your guest list fails to contact you after the grace period, you can give them a call or send them an email. Be gracious.
What happens if you cancel a RSVP for an event?
If something better or more interesting comes along after you’ve agreed to attend the first event, too bad. Canceling an RSVP without a good reason is bad form and rude, so if you do this, don’t expect the host ever to invite you to anything again.
Do you have to send RSVP memos in the mail?
If you sent Save-the-Date memos in the mail, you should also mail out your RSVP invitations. Brides traditionally mail RSVP invitations through the post office. But these days, more and more brides are opting to send RSVPs by email. Regardless of how you send, if you’re having a wedding reception, your RSVPs should be concise.