RSVP

What does RSVP mean?
Repondez, S'il Vous Plait

It's a beautiful French phrase seen on many invitations.

It seems that etiquette has gone out the window because I have seen many posts asking what the proper way to respond is.  I have heard horror stories of people not responding then showing up or people never calling either way.  This leaves to host guessing and wondering.

I have planned quite a few parties in my 30+ years and I have seen a bit of both.  Sometimes it's understandable if plans change and a person who previously said they couldn't come can come.  Sometimes the opposite can happen, especially with young kids!

What is the exact protocol for RSVPing?

Here's what I say:

RSVP if you are going OR not going.  Do not make the host track you down.  Get on the computer or phone and write a message saying "YES, I CAN COME!  THANKS FOR THE INVITE" or "NO, I CANNOT MAKE IT.  THANKS FOR THE INVITE."  

NOT HARD FOLKS.  NOT HARD AT ALL!

We are so "busy" these days that people often say, "Oh, I'm busy and I forgot!"  Ya know, because the person planning the party isn't busy?


Take those two minutes out of life and RSVP if you are going or you are not going by the deadline.