RSVP card and online RSVP wording generator

Your RSVP wording should be simple and kind. Guests need to know what to reply by, who to reply to, and what information you need. A clear reply-by date helps you plan catering and seating. State it plainly, for example 'Please reply by [date]'.

Include meal choices if you are serving a seated meal. Offer a few clear options and ask guests to tick or write their choice. Ask about dietary needs too, so everyone can eat safely. You might add a line for song requests if you want ideas for the playlist. Keep it short so guests can answer quickly.

Send reply cards with your invitations, or open your online RSVP around the same time. Give guests enough time to check their diaries and speak to household members. A reply-by date of six to eight weeks before the wedding is common. This leaves you time to finalise numbers with your venue and caterer.

• Put the date on both the card and the online page.
• Mention whether children are invited if your guest list is adults only.
• Remind guests to reply even if they cannot attend.

Use polite language but avoid confusing phrases. Say 'please reply by' rather than 'kindly respond no later than'. Make the reply-by date easy to find. If you use an online form, keep the questions to the ones you truly need.

• Ask for names exactly as you want them on place cards.
• Include a dietary needs question if you serve a meal.
• Offer a phone or email address for guests who prefer to reply by post or in person.