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Guest list & etiquette: RSVPs and chasing replies

Set the deadline three to four weeks before the wedding and chase missing replies personally.

The key points

  • Deadline 3–4 weeks before
  • Collect meals and dietary needs
  • A friendly reminder a week before
  • Final numbers to the caterer

Read more about rsvps and chasing replies

A minimal monogrammed invitation suite on soft linenGuests & invitationsWhen to send save-the-dates and invitations (with an exact calculator)

Quick answers

When should the RSVP deadline be?

Three to four weeks before the wedding. Check your caterer’s final-number deadline and work back from it.

Guests & invitationsAll questions

What goes on the RSVP card?

The reply-by date, a line for names, accept and decline options and meal choices if needed. Many couples now send guests to their wedding website instead.

Guests & invitationsAll questions

When should the RSVP be due?

Three to four weeks before the wedding.

Guests & invitationsAll questions

How do you handle dietary restrictions at a wedding?

Ask on the RSVP, give the caterer a named list, and ask how they mark and serve special meals.

Reception, food & musicAll questions

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