What is the correct way to write RSVP?

RSVP is always written in capital letters without full stops or punctuation between the letters. It stands for the French phrase répondez s'il vous plaît, which means please reply. On a wedding invitation, place the RSVP line clearly, usually near the bottom, and include a specific date by which you need the guest to respond.

You can write it as RSVP, or if you prefer a fuller phrase, you might write Please reply by. Both are acceptable. Avoid writing R.S.V.P. with full stops, as that is outdated. The important thing is that the request is clear and the deadline is easy to spot.

If you are sending digital invites or a wedding website, you can simply use RSVP in the same way. For a formal printed invitation, keep the style consistent with the rest of the card. You do not need to translate the phrase, but if you want to be extra clear, you can write RSVP, please reply by followed by the date.