How many people usually RSVP to a wedding?

There is no fixed number, but typically around 80 to 90 percent of invited guests will RSVP. This varies with your guest list, date, and how you invite people. Expect some declines, especially for evening-only or destination weddings.

Your final count depends on several things. Close family and wedding party members almost always come. Friends and colleagues may decline if they live far away, have childcare costs, or face work commitments. Summer Saturdays and bank holiday weekends often get more acceptances, while weekday weddings or those over school holidays may see more declines.

You will also get a few people who simply forget to reply. Plan to chase them politely after your RSVP date. A small number may not reply at all, and you may need to call them. It is normal to have a handful of no-shows on the day, even after they have accepted. Caterers usually ask for your final numbers a week or two before the wedding, so you can adjust then.

If you are worried about numbers, send invitations with a clear RSVP date and a reminder. Many couples find that around 10 to 20 percent of guests decline, but this is only a rough guide. Your own experience may differ, and that is fine.