RSVP Wording Examples by Style
Match your RSVP card tone to your invitation style. Click each example to see the full template.
Traditional Formal
Classic wording for formal weddings
The favour of a reply is requested by the fifteenth of September M_____________________ ___ accepts with pleasure ___ declines with regret Number attending: ___
Tips for this style:
- Use 'favour' (British spelling) for ultra-formal
- M___ line for guests to write their names
- Handwritten responses expected
Meal Choice Wording
If you're offering meal options, here's how to word them clearly on your RSVP.
Standard Meal Options
Please select your entrée: ○ Filet Mignon ○ Herb-Crusted Salmon ○ Vegetarian Risotto Dietary restrictions: ___________
Buffet/Family Style
We'll be serving a family-style dinner. Please note any dietary restrictions or allergies: _________________________________
Multiple Guests with Choices
Guest 1: _____________ Meal: ○ Beef ○ Fish ○ Veg Guest 2: _____________ Meal: ○ Beef ○ Fish ○ Veg Dietary needs: _____________________
Pro Tip
Always include a dietary restrictions line, even with buffets. Food allergies are serious, and guests appreciate being asked rather than having to reach out separately.
Special Situations & Wording
Tricky RSVP situations require careful wording. Here's how to handle them.
Adults Only
We have reserved ___ seat(s) in your honor.
By specifying exact seats, you make it clear children aren't included without being harsh. Don't write 'No children' on RSVPs.
Plus One Allowed
___ of 2 seats will be filled or Guest name: _______________
If you're giving someone a plus one, make it clear on the RSVP. They should be able to write their guest's name.
No Plus One
We have reserved 1 seat in your honor. Name: _______________
Only include the invited guest's name. Don't include 'and guest' or space for additional names.
Asking About Kids
Will children be attending? ○ Yes, ___ children ○ No Children's meal needed? ○ Yes ○ No
If kids ARE welcome, explicitly ask. Include children's meal options if your caterer offers them.
Song Requests
Song that will get you on the dance floor: _______________
Optional but fun! Helps your DJ/band plan and gets guests excited. Keep it to one line.
Destination Wedding
○ We'll be there! Arriving: _____ Departing: _____ ○ We'll celebrate from afar
Knowing arrival/departure helps with welcome events and transportation planning.
Online RSVP Tips
More couples are moving to online RSVPs-they're easier to track, eco-friendly, and eliminate lost mail and illegible handwriting. According to Brides magazine, over 60% of couples now use digital RSVPs either exclusively or alongside paper cards.
What to Include in Your Online RSVP:
- Guest name lookup or entry
- Attending / Not attending buttons
- Number in party (if plus ones allowed)
- Meal selection dropdown
- Dietary restrictions text field
- Song request (optional, fun!)
- Email confirmation after submit
- Mobile-friendly design
Common RSVP Mistakes to Avoid
Setting deadline too close to wedding
Not including return postage
Confusing wording about plus ones
No way to indicate dietary needs
Forgetting to number the RSVPs
No follow-up plan for non-responders
RSVP Deadline Guide
| Wedding Type | RSVP Deadline | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Local Wedding | 2-3 weeks before | Standard timing for final counts |
| Out-of-Town Guests | 3-4 weeks before | Allows time for travel booking |
| Destination Wedding | 4-6 weeks before | International travel needs advance planning |
| Holiday Weekend | 4 weeks before | Competing plans need early confirmation |
The Follow-Up Plan
Plan to follow up 2-3 days after your deadline. Text or call-email often gets ignored. Keep it light: "Hey! Just finalizing numbers-will you be able to make it to the wedding?"
Frequently Asked Questions
Collect RSVPs the Easy Way
Skip the spreadsheet chaos. Our built-in RSVP system tracks responses automatically, sends reminders, and syncs with your guest list and seating chart.