How to Encourage Your Guests to RSVP

If you are planning a wedding, you may have already realized, collecting RSVPs is stressful. Collecting RSVPs is arguably the most stressful part because you do not have any control over it. In most cases you send out your A list first and then play the waiting game for a NO to begin sending your B list invitations. Each day you don’t get an RSVP, the clock ticks on your B list, on your catering numbers, rentals, bar count, party favors… the list goes on. If you have not experienced this yet, do not worry, you will but hopefully by then you are equipped to kindly collect RSVPs and be prepared for the stress.

Here are 3 tips to help you collect the RSVPs for your big day and hopefully ease your stress.

1.       You invited your “special people” first

Let’s be honest – the people on your A list are the closest to you and your partner and you want them there but if they cannot make it, there are other people you would also like to invite. For these close people, create a templated text message expressing your love for them and how you invited your special people first. By adding the word “first” you are telling them they were important to you and your partner but there are other people you would also like to invite. In your text include how you are excited to share your special day with them. This reinstates the importance these people have in your life and for your wedding.

2.       Create a “Close Friends” list on Instagram

If you have an Instagram account, add your un-RSVPed wedding guests to your “Close Friends” list and post an RSVP QR code to your story only visible to your Close Friends list. Add a clever caption to keep it lighthearted, “Can’t wait to get down and boogie on [insert wedding day].” You can also add a Countdown Widget to your post that Instagram users can save and be notified as the event gets closer. No one will be able to see who is included in this list or who views this. That information is private to only the account user.

3.       Set out RSVP cards at precursor events

At your bridal shower, bachelorette/bachelor party, set out printed RSVP QR codes. Have them scattered pleasantly throughout the event. Your guests will see them and be prompted to RSVPed right then and there. Many times, guests do not RSVP right away because they get distracted by other things in their lives. At the precursor parties, there are no distractions. The party is meant to celebrate the couple and the wedding.

Inevitably life gets in the way and people have conflicts but when you are planning a wedding you need to know as soon as possible if someone cannot make it. Gently asking for RSVPs should not be tabu – in fact, you may find most of your guests will be understanding to your request. When you are asking your guests to RSVP, remember to keep it sentimental and light hearted. Planning a wedding can be stressful, but it does not have to be. Enjoy the process and soak up every moment – it only happens once!

*This photo was captured by Leaf Wedding Photography