Guests
RSVP
The guest's reply confirming attendance. From French 'répondez s'il vous plaît' — 'please reply'.
RSVPs are typically collected 4-5 weeks before the wedding, with a reply-by date 4 weeks ahead. Many couples now collect RSVPs digitally on their wedding website, but mailed reply cards still produce the highest reply rate from older guests.
Plan to chase 20-30% of guests for their reply — that's normal, not a failure. Always include a meal selection question if your reception is plated. Your venue and caterer need the final headcount about 10-14 days out.
Related terms
Save the Date
A pre-invitation card sent 6-8 months before the wedding letting guests block the date on their calendar.
Wedding Website
A central web page with the couple's story, schedule, venue details, RSVP form, and registry links.
Plus-One
An invitation that allows the guest to bring a date or partner.