Many a times, you must have got wedding cards or invitation cards for other events that mentions an abbreviation or a separate RSVP card. Ever wondered as to what RSVP stands for? This is basically an acronym for a French phrase “Respondez S'il Vous Plait”. Literally translated, it means ‘Respond If You Please’. Basically it is a warm request from the sender of the invitation asking for a reply. Some take it as a suggestion to the person who is invited to reply back if they feel like, but that is not the case.
RSVP Etiquette
Some people send a separate RSVP card along with the invitation card. Be kind and responsible, fill out the card and send it as soon as possible. The event has been planned meticulously by the invitee and probably has spent a lot of money for it. A simple response from you, can a long way in letting that person know whether to expect you or not or do any extra arrangements. It is basic etiquette to reply back to that person. If a separate card is not given, the contact information like phone number, e-mail, etc. is given just below the event itinerary. Make sure you call up that person and respond.
How Does it Help
Filling out an RSVP card will be of help to not the organizer, but you too. Usually, you can mention a condition or suggestion that you would like to get included, on a personal basis. Check out the advantages of RSVP:
- Gives the host an idea as to how many people will be attending and can make arrangements accordingly.
- If the event requires the guests to put up in a hotel, sending an RSVP card will help them book a separate room for you and not rush or share a room in the last moment.
- You may also include additional information if you are planning to bring along a friend or your kids and request them to make extra arrangements. For this, RSVP is very helpful.
