RSVP wording examples
The response card (or RSVP line) has one job: get an answer and a headcount by a date you can plan around. These wordings do that, from formal to relaxed.
Response card wording
The favour of a reply is requested by the first of May M ______________________ ___ accepts with pleasure ___ declines with regret
Kindly reply by May 1 Name(s) ______________________ ___ Joyfully accepts ___ Regretfully declines Number attending ___ of ___
Please reply by May 1 Name ______________________ ___ Beef ___ Fish ___ Vegetarian Dietary requirements ___________
Can you make it? Name ______________________ ___ Wouldn't miss it ___ Will toast from afar Let us know by May 1
Name ______________________ ___ Can't wait to celebrate ___ Sadly can't make it I promise to dance if you play ___________
We have reserved ___ seats in your honour Please reply by May 1 ___ Accept ___ Decline
Replying online or by text
Scan to RSVP by May 1 or reply to Amara on 07700 900123
Please RSVP online by May 1 amaraandjonah.com
RSVP to Priya by May 8 Text 07700 900456
Regrets only to Sam by July 10
Chasing late replies
Hi Chris! We're finalising numbers for the wedding on June 12. Could you let us know by Friday whether you can make it? No pressure either way. We'd love to have you there.
Hi Chris, our caterer needs final numbers by May 15. Will you be joining us? Just reply yes or no here.
Wording rules worth knowing
- Set the reply-by date three to four weeks before the event; your caterer usually wants final numbers one to two weeks out.
- Write the number of seats reserved (“___ of 2”) to make clear who is invited without an awkward conversation.
- For printed cards, the “M” line is traditional: guests complete it as “Mr.”, “Ms.” or “Mx.”.
- “Regrets only” means only people who can't come reply, which is handy for casual parties but unreliable for catered events.
Questions people ask
What does RSVP mean?
It stands for the French “Répondez s'il vous plaît”, meaning “please reply”. Guests should reply whether or not they can come.
How do I word an RSVP card for adults only?
Show the seats reserved (“We have reserved 2 seats in your honour”) and address the envelope only to the invited adults. You can add “Adults only reception” to the details card if needed.
What do I say to guests who haven't RSVPed?
Send a short, friendly message a few days after the reply-by date, mention the date you need numbers, and make it easy to answer with a yes or no.
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