How Long Before Wedding Should I Send a Wedding Response Card

Wedding responses ensure there is food and drink for all guests.

Timing is Everything

The bride and groom will use the response cards to tell their caterer and their wedding site coordinator how many people will be attending. This impacts things from the size of the cake and the meal that is being served at the reception to how many chairs or even where the wedding is held. The sooner you submit your response card, the sooner they can make those important decisions.

Life is Complicated

You may not know whether or not you will be able to attend or even how many people will be attending with you. If you can put off making a decision until closer to the date, you will have a better idea of the numbers and ability to attend.

Bottom Line

Etiquette says it is best to respond as soon as possible, even if it is only to respectfully decline the invitation. "Your most important obligation as a guest is to respond to the invitation immediately, especially if you are unable to attend," Emily Post says. "At the very least, it allows your host and hostess enough time to give an accurate count to the caterer."

References

• The Knot: How to be a Great Wedding Guest
• Emily Post: Weddings -- Guests