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The Etiquette of Response Cards

The etiquette of response cards is not as obvious as everyone may think. Many people, especially the bride and groom, think it is a very simple process - a guest receives the invitation, decides if he or she will attend the event, and sends back the provided response card (usually stamped and self-addressed). However, this simple procedure is overlooked by many prospective wedding guests who wait till the very last minute to send back their response cards.

In years past, response cards were unnecessary as it was forma etiquette for people to RSVP on their own, promptly. Years ago, when someone was invited to a formal event, such as a wedding, there was no self-addressed, stamped envelope. In fact, people didn't even need response cards. It was common courtesy to reply to a written invitation on their own stationary offering congratulations and whether or not they would be attending the event. Once the telephone became a prominent part of life, people would often RSVP for casual events over the phone and via the response card for more formal events.

The etiquette of response cards not only refers to actually providing a response or RSVP to the hosts of an event, but also to what the response card will say. First and foremost, it is important to understand that there is no truly correct way to word a response card. There are certain styles that are better suited for formal weddings, weddings with very tight guest lists, and more casual weddings. Depending on your wedding, you may allow invited guests to bring a partner to accompany them or not. It all boils down to how you word the response card. For those weddings with a very tight guest list, a simple statement at the bottom of the response card such as "Invited guest only please." Is a great way to word your response card properly without being brazen.

When dealing with response cards, there are many different tricks on how to deal with them. Remember, for the most part, many people fill their names in on the response card but may not have award-winning penmanship. For this, it is wise to inconspicuously number the back of the card as it corresponds to the guest list, to ensure you have accurate data. For the ease of receiving responses to your wedding, you may want to include not only a self-addressed stamped envelope with the response card, but to include your phone number and email address as well.

When designing the layout of your wedding response cards, just remember that there is no definite right or wrong way to do so. You may word the response card any way you like and organize your guest lists in any way that you like. Just as long as you are comfortable and pleased with the response cards, they will be fine for your wedding!