How to Write a Wedding Reply Card
Wedding reply cards are typically inserted into the initial invitation. Prior to the use of the reply card, invited guests were expected to contact the couple or their parents to accept or decline the invitation. The use of the reply card makes this process much more efficient and reliable, limiting how much you need to rely upon the guest remembering to RSVP.
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Instructions
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Wording the Reply Card
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1
Decide on the tone of the card. The tone of the reply card should mirror the tone of the invitation and, likewise, the wedding. A laid back wedding may warrant a more casual and even humorous reply card. A formal wedding will require a formal invitation and reply card.
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2
Write the soon-to-be married couple's name at the top of the card. You may want to include contact information as well, in case the invited guest has any questions or concerns that need to be addressed.
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3
Include the purpose of the reply card as well as the date by which you would like a response. It could simply read, "please respond by May 1st." The card could also include a warm and friendly message such as, " we would truly love for you to join us on our special day." Make sure the intent of the card is clear.
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4
Write an "M" on the card followed by a blank line. This is to imply that the guest fill in the salutation with "Mr.," "Mrs.,"Ms." or a combination thereof. You may want to also include the word "guest" followed by a blank line if you are allowing the invitee to bring a date.
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5
Include a check box or line next to the following two phrases; "Accept," or "Regrettably Decline." This will allow the guests to check the appropriate choice and will leave no doubt as to whether they should RSVP even if they don't plan on attending.
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Tips & Warnings
If you intend to have a casual and fun wedding and similar invitation and response card, play with the formalities listed above. Instead of the couple's names, include a nick names or funny phrases such as "Hot Hubby" or "Sexy Young Wife." In the RSVP section, instead of simply "accept" or "decline" include humorous phrases such as "Got my party shoes on" or "Sorry, I'm washing my hair." Mix it up to show your personality.
Failure to include a self-addressed, stamped envelope (SASE) with the reply card may make your response rate lower and slower. Always include a SASE if your budget allows as it will increase the accuracy and timeliness of your guest list.
References
- Photo Credit invitation mariage image by Christophe Thélisson from Fotolia.com
