Your wedding day is one of the most special occasions in your life. It’s a celebration of love, commitment and the beginning of a new journey together. And as you plan every detail, the RSVP card plays a crucial role in setting the tone for your big day. It’s the first glimpse your guests will have of the event and the wording you choose can create excitement and anticipation.
What are RSVP Cards and Why They Matter?
RSVP cards are small cards that accompany your wedding invitations. They allow your guests to respond and let you know if they’ll be attending your wedding or not. This simple card might seem like a minor detail, but it’s actually an essential tool for planning purposes. Knowing an accurate guest count helps you make informed decisions about seating arrangements, catering and other important aspects of your big day.
Title
The title typically states “RSVP” or some variation like “Kindly Reply” or “Response Card.” This clearly indicates that the card is for guests to respond with their attendance.
Reply By Date
Most RSVP cards will specify a date or timeline by which guests need to reply, such as “Reply by June 1st” or “RSVP by the 15th.” This gives a clear deadline for responses to be received, allowing the couple to get an accurate headcount.
Guest Names
RSVP cards usually have a line or blank space for guests to write their names. This helps identify exactly who is responding from that household or invitation. It may say something like “M_______” or “Guest Name(s).”
Reply Options
There is typically a way for guests to select whether they will attend or not – either a line to write “Accepts” or “Declines,” or a box/line to check “Will Attend” or “Will Not Attend.” Some cards get creative with fun phrasing like “Can’t Wait!” versus “Over the Rainbow.”
Additional Details
Depending on the needs, RSVP cards may include additional sections like:
- Line to indicate number of guests in their party attending
- Option to select an entree choice
- Space for song requests or dietary restrictions
- Area for well-wishes/messages for the couple
Crafting the Perfect RSVP Card Wording
The wording on your RSVP card should reflect the overall style and tone of your wedding. Whether you’re going for a formal, traditional vibe or a more modern, laid back feel, the language you use can set the stage. Think about the atmosphere you want to create and choose wording that matches that vision.
Traditional RSVP Card Wording Examples
Formal and Elegant Approaches If you’re planning a classic, formal wedding, traditional wording is a great choice. These examples capture the timeless elegance of a traditional celebration:
“The honor of your presence is requested at the marriage of…” “Kindly reply by [date] to allow us to make the necessary preparations.”
Adding a Touch of Whimsy and Personality While traditional wording is lovely, you can also add a touch of personality to make it your own. A playful phrase or a nod to your shared interests can make your RSVP card stand out:
“Can’t wait to celebrate our love with you! Kindly respond by [date].” “A night of music, laughter, and love awaits. RSVP to join the fun!”
Contemporary RSVP Card Wording Ideas
Fun and Playful Phrasing For a more modern, casual wedding, consider using lighthearted, playful language. These examples are perfect for couples who want to showcase their fun, relaxed personalities:
“Ready to party with us? Let us know if you’ll be there!” “It won’t be the same without you. RSVP and save your spot!”
Reflecting Your Unique Love Story Your RSVP card is also an opportunity to share a glimpse of your love story. Use wording that captures the essence of your relationship and how you met:
“From coffee dates to ‘I do’ – join us as we say yes to forever!” “Our adventure continues, and we’d love for you to be part of it. RSVP soon!”
“Ready to party? Let us know you’ll be there!”
“Join the celebration of our love story. RSVP today!”
“Our journey continues with you by our side. Save your spot!”
“It’s going down! Don’t miss our epic love fest. RSVP required.”
Cultural and Themed RSVP Card Wording
If you’re planning a cultural or traditional wedding, consider incorporating elements of your heritage into the RSVP card wording. This can be a beautiful way to honor your roots and share them with your guests:
“Celebrate the union of two hearts, two families, and two cultures. RSVP enclosed.” “Let us come together in the joyous tradition of [cultural tradition]. RSVP to share in our happiness.”
Incorporating Your Wedding Theme If your wedding has a specific theme, like a destination or a favorite hobby, incorporate that into your RSVP card wording. This adds a fun, personalized touch and gets your guests excited about the theme:
“Join us for a night under the stars as we say ‘I do’ in [destination]. RSVP to secure your spot!” “Our love for [hobby] brought us together, and we can’t wait to celebrate with you. RSVP now!”
“Let love reign at our enchanting fairy tale wedding. Accept this invitation.”
“Discover eternal amor at our Spanish romance-themed celebration. Confirma tu asistencia.”
“Two cultures, one love. Join our festive Indian wedding. RSVP now.”
“Celebrate Southwestern love under the desert stars. Y’all come, ya hear?”
Meal Choices and Dietary Restrictions on RSVP Cards
Keeping it Simple and Clear When it comes to requesting meal choices or dietary restrictions, it’s best to keep the wording simple and straightforward. Your guests will appreciate the clarity:
“Please indicate your meal preference: [options]” “Kindly note any dietary restrictions in the space provided.”
Creative Ways to Request Meal Preferences If you want to add a bit of personality, you can get creative with how you phrase the meal request. Just make sure the instructions are still easy to understand:
“What’s your favorite dish? Let us know so we can make sure it’s on the menu!” “We’ll be serving up a feast of love and laughter. Special dietary needs? Just let us know!”
Including Children and Family on RSVP Cards
Welcoming Little Ones If children are welcome at your wedding, make sure to mention that on the RSVP card. This way, guests with kids will know they can bring their little ones along:
“We can’t wait to celebrate with your whole family! Let us know how many kiddos will be joining.” “Our big day just wouldn’t be the same without the laughter of little ones. RSVP for your whole crew!”
Addressing Family Units If you’re inviting guests as a family unit, you can use wording that acknowledges that. This makes it clear that the whole family is invited and can respond together:
“The Smith Family is cordially invited to celebrate with us. RSVP for your family.” “We can’t wait to party with the Jones clan! RSVP for your entire crew.”
“Let’s make it a family affair! RSVP for kids too.”
“Babies and all are welcome to our wedding bash. Include kiddo count.”
“The more the merrier! RSVP with your whole crew.”
“Celebrating our new family all together. List family members attending.”
RSVP Card Wording for Destination Weddings
Setting the Scene for Your Tropical Paradise If you’re having a destination wedding, use the RSVP card wording to get your guests excited about the location. Paint a picture of the beautiful setting and make them eager to join you:
“Join us for a week of sun, sand, and eternal love in [destination]!” “Our love story continues in the tropical paradise of [location]. RSVP to be a part of it!”
Capturing the Essence of Your Adventure For adventurous couples, use wording that captures the spirit of exploration and adventure. This will get your guests pumped for the exciting destination wedding:
“Let’s embark on the adventure of a lifetime together in [destination]!” “Our next great adventure? Saying ‘I do’ in the heart of [location]. RSVP to join the journey!”
“Toes in the sand, say ‘I do’ from an island paradise. RSVP for your beach escape.”
“Leave Your Ordinary Life Behind: RSVP for Our Tropical ‘I Do’s’.”
“Rosa, Rosa, Rosa – Join Us In Spain For Eternal Romance! Contesta Por Favor.”
“A Scottish Fairytale Awaits – RSVP For Our Highlands Celebration.”
Online RSVP Card Wording and Etiquette
Embracing Modern Technology In today’s digital age, many couples opt for online RSVP options. If you’re going this route, make sure your wording is clear and provides all the necessary information:
“RSVP for our big day by visiting [website] and entering the provided code.” “Let us know you’ll be there! RSVP online at [link] by [date].”
Crafting Compelling Online Responses You can also use the online RSVP process to get a little creative and have some fun with your guests. Just make sure the instructions are still easy to follow:
“Can’t wait to celebrate with you! RSVP online and let us know your favorite dance move.” “RSVP at [link] and share a piece of marriage advice for the soon-to-be newlyweds!”
RSVP Card Wording for Postponed or Rescheduled Weddings
Gracefully Handling the Unexpected Sometimes, life happens, and weddings need to be postponed or rescheduled. If you find yourself in this situation, use wording that gracefully acknowledges the change while still conveying excitement for the new date:
“Our journey to ‘I do’ has taken an unexpected turn, but our love remains strong. RSVP for our new date: [date].” “Love isn’t canceled, just postponed. We can’t wait to celebrate with you on [new date]!”
Keeping Your Guests in the Loop If you need to make any changes or updates to your wedding plans, be sure to communicate that clearly on your RSVP cards. This way, your guests will have the most up-to-date information:
“Please note: Our wedding has been rescheduled to [new date]. RSVP again to confirm your attendance.” “Due to unforeseen circumstances, we’ve had to make some changes. RSVP for our updated wedding details.”
FAQs and Pro Tips for RSVP Card Wording
Addressing Common Concerns As you craft your RSVP card wording, you might have some questions or concerns. Here are some common FAQs and tips to help you out:
“What if I want to include a dress code or other special instructions?” You can absolutely include any additional details or instructions on your RSVP card. Just keep the wording clear and concise.
How do I word the RSVP card if I’m having an adults-only wedding?
For an adults-only celebration, you can use wording like:
“This celebration is for adults only. RSVP for the number of guests aged 21 and over attending.”
Or more simply:
“Adult reception, please RSVP accordingly.”
The key is to be clear but polite in communicating that children will not be able to attend. You could also phrase it more positively:
“Let’s toast to love! This adults-only party allows you to celebrate without restless little ones.”
“Join us for an elegant evening of cocktails and dancing – adults only please. RSVP with guest count.”
If you want to soften the “adults-only” wording, you can say:
“Due to venue policies, we’re unable to accommodate children at this event. Please RSVP with number of adult guests attending.”
The most important thing is to get the message across clearly on the RSVP card so guests understand the situation from the start and can make arrangements if needed. A short, polite note is usually the best approach.
Insider Advice from Wedding Planners As an experienced wedding planner, I’ve seen countless couples stress over RSVP card wording. Here are some insider tips to make the process smoother:
“Keep it simple. Guests appreciate clear, straightforward wording that leaves no room for confusion.”
“Don’t be afraid to have fun with it! The RSVP card sets the tone, so use wording that reflects you as a couple.”
“If you’re having a destination wedding, use vivid language to get guests excited about the location.”
“For themed weddings, incorporate elements of the theme into the RSVP wording for a cohesive look.”
RSVP Card Design Ideas
Coordinating with Your Wedding Stationery Your RSVP card should coordinate with the overall design and style of your wedding stationery. This creates a cohesive, polished look that ties everything together beautifully.
- Match the paper stock, fonts, and colors to your invitations for a seamless aesthetic.
- Consider using the same design motifs or patterns from your invitations on the RSVP cards.
- Incorporating Personal Touches Don’t be afraid to get creative and make your RSVP cards truly your own! Personal touches can make them extra special and memorable.
- Include a favorite quote, song lyric, or inside joke that has meaning for you as a couple.
- Use photographs of you and your partner for a fun, personalized touch.
- Get creative with the shape or size of the RSVP card to make it stand out.
Making Your RSVP Cards Memorable
Your RSVP cards are more than just a formality – they set the tone for your wedding day and give your guests a glimpse into the celebration to come. By choosing wording that reflects your personalities and relationship, you can make them truly memorable and get your guests excited for the big day. Whether you go for classic elegance, playful whimsy or cultural tradition, the perfect RSVP wording is out there waiting for you. So have fun with it, get creative and craft cards that capture the essence of your love story. Your guests will appreciate the thought and care you’ve put into every detail and it will make your wedding day that much more special.
