“I received all of my RSVPs before the due date!” - said no host… ever. This can be one of the most frustrating parts of planning an event. The dreaded RSVPs. Most people don’t have a clue about catering guarantees, place cards, seating charts, favors, etc., and the need to know who’s coming and who’s not. It’s important to mentally prepare yourself for the fact that not everyone will respond, even those who are planning to go.

There are things however that you can do to increase your odds of success.

Be very clear on your invitation that you need an RSVP.

Make it easy for guests to reply. If sending through the mail, make sure to include a stamped, self addressed envelope.

Mail your invitations out 6-8 weeks before the event. The response date should be 3-4 weeks before the event, and this will be based on the caterer. Most caterers require a guarantee 1-2 weeks prior.

Uncle Sam has trained us that as long as it’s postmarked by the due date, it’s not late.

Wait until 3 days after the due date, then be prepared to give a little nudge to those who haven’t responded. It is perfectly acceptable to call, text or email to find out if someone is coming. This will be the only way to get an accurate guest count.

Resign yourself that you will never hear back from everyone. That’s ok. Get as many responses as you can.