Wedding Stationery Wording Samples and Tips

Now that you know how to word your wedding invitation, it’s time to move on to the next piece in your invitation suite: the RSVP card!

When it comes to wedding planning, collecting RSVPs is one of the key steps that makes everything else fall into place. After all, you can’t finalize seating arrangements or give the caterer a headcount without knowing who’s coming! But what exactly should you include on your RSVP card, and how should you word it? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll go over all the must-have details for your RSVP cards, plus some wording examples to make them feel perfectly suited to your style.

RSVP Card Wording

Traditionally, no rsvp card was included (or a blank card was used) with an invitation— guests knew they were expected to respond to the host as to whether they would attend the event. These days it’s common to include a response card (along with a stamped and addressed envelope).

The wording you choose depends on what type f response you require from your guest: how many people will attend, the meal choice they prefer, or you may also want to find out who will attend another wedding event that same weekend, e.g. a welcome dinner or farewell brunch.

You may also want to consider assigning a number to each guest and lightly marking that number on the rsvp card in case a card is returned with an illegible name, or no name at all!

1. TITLE

RSVP is an abbreviation for the French term “répondez s’il vous plait” which translates to “please reply”. (it’s redundant to put “please” or “kindly” before “RSVP” so skip it, or use “please reply”) If you used the old English spelling of “honour” on your invite, use the corresponding “favour” here.

2. Reply By Date

Make sure to include a response deadline for your guests. It’s traditionally three to four weeks before your event, but you may want to adjust the date if you need to give your venue or caterer a headcount earlier. TIP: An earlier RSVP date also gives you more time to plan out your day of stationery so you’re not rushing to finish it at the last minute.

3. Guest Names

Include a line for your guests to write their names. Traditionally, an “M” (for Mr., Mrs., Miss, Ms) is included at the start of the line.

4. Reply Options

Provide a check box or line so your guests can note if they will or will not attend. Keep it simple with “accept” and “decline” or add personality with creative wording (more on this below).

5. Meal Choices

If you’re offering menu options, add space for guests to choose their meal. This can be a simple checkmark next to each option or space to write initials for each choice. You might also ask guests to list any food allergies. Small icons indicating the meal choices are a popular option too!

6. Other Events

If you’re hosting additional events on your wedding weekend (like a welcome party the night before, or a farewell brunch the next day), you can ask guests to RSVP for those events on your wedding reply card.

 

Traditional RSVP Card Wording Samples

The following wording samples would be perfect for a traditional or formal wedding.

 

ONLINE RSVP CARD WORDING

While it’s not a traditional option, more and more couples are offering guests an option to RSVP online via their wedding website. In this case, you’ll still want to include a card with instructions regarding how guests can RSVP online. TIP: consider using a QR code for guests to scan so they can access your website without typing in a long URL. Always make sure to include the full site address in case a guest has trouble with the QR code.

ONLINE RSVP Card Wording Samples

The following wording samples would be perfect for couples using an online RSVP and offering guests the option to RSVP on their wedding website.

 

 

For a more casual wedding (or if you want to share your sense of humor with your guests) there are lots of “fun” wording alternatives.

 

Crafting the Perfect RSVP Card

RSVP cards may seem like a small detail, but they play a huge role in helping you plan the wedding of your dreams. By including the essentials and adding a touch of personality, you’re setting yourself up for a smooth (and even fun!) RSVP process.

And if you need help finding the perfect wording or designing an RSVP card that matches your style, I’d love to help. From classic to playful, there are so many ways to make this small card something special. Just reach out—I’m here to make sure every detail is as beautiful and thoughtful as your big day!

Next week in The Wedding Stationery Guide, I’ll be sharing wording tips and etiquette advice for the next piece in your wedding stationery suite: the reception card!