RSVP stands for répondez s'il vous plaît, French for "please reply". On an invitation it asks you to tell the host whether you can come, ideally by the date given. Reply even if the answer is no, unless the invitation says "regrets only", so the host can plan food, seats and numbers.
What does RSVP stand for?
RSVP comes from the French phrase répondez s'il vous plaît, which means "please reply". It has been used on English invitations for a long time and is now simply read as "let us know if you are coming".
Should you RSVP if you cannot go?
Yes. A clear no is far more useful to a host than silence, because they can release your seat, adjust the order or invite someone else. A short, warm reply is enough.
Thank you so much for inviting me. I am sorry I cannot make it, but I hope you have a wonderful day.
What does "RSVP regrets only" mean?
It means you only need to reply if you cannot come. If you say nothing, the host will assume you are attending. It is less common now, because a headcount based on silence is hard to trust.
What should your RSVP include?
- Your name and a clear yes or no
- The names of anyone else named on the invitation who is coming
- Your meal choice, if the host has asked for one
- Any allergies or dietary needs
- Anything the host has specifically asked about, such as accessibility needs
Do not assume a plus-one or children are invited unless the invitation says so. If you are not sure, ask the host privately before you reply.
What does "RSVP by" a date mean?
It is the latest date the host can wait for your answer, usually because a venue or caterer needs numbers soon after. Reply as soon as you know. If you cannot decide by then, tell the host rather than leaving them to guess.
How do you RSVP online?
Open the link in the invitation, check the details and choose yes, no or maybe. Answer any questions, such as your meal choice, and send. On RSVP Events there is no account or app; guests who give an email address get a private link to change their reply later.
Frequently asked questions
Is it rude not to RSVP?
Most hosts would say yes. Without a reply they cannot plan food, seating or numbers, and they may have to chase you. A quick yes or no, even a late one, is always better than silence.
Can you change your RSVP after replying?
Yes, but tell the host as soon as you know, especially if you are cancelling close to the day. If the invitation was online, use the update link if there is one; otherwise send a short message.
Is it RSVP or R.S.V.P.?
Both are correct. Modern invitations usually write RSVP without full stops. "Please RSVP" is common, even though it technically says "please" twice.