What are Reply Cards?
The lowly reply card is often undervalued as just a necessary piece to your invitation suite. This small piece of paper can be a wonderful place to show personality and facilitate fun with your guests.
What is a Reply Card?
A reply card or RSVP is a card in your suite (mailed with the invitation) where guests write their name and let you know whether or not they will be attending your wedding. The guest puts the card in the included envelope and mails it to you by your reply date.
Who gets a Reply Card?
Everyone that receives an invitation should receive a reply card with a stamped envelope so that they can easily mail it back to you. If your guest lives internationally, do not include a stamp on the envelope. They will have to purchase a stamp from their country to mail it.
What information is on a Reply Card?
You definitely need a reply by date (typically 4 to 6 weeks before your wedding date) and your options for attending or not attending. Beyond that, it’s totally up to you! Here are some possibilities:
Meal choices - if you’re having a seated meal, your caterer may offer choices for your guests. This is the place to get an accurate count. Add some personality by using illustrations instead of words for the choices.
Song requests - If you’re having a cover band or DJ this would be a fun way for your guests to request a song… as long as it’s not Brown Eyed Girl.
Ask your guests a question - just for the fun of it! Or maybe you incorporate their answers somehow into the wedding or reception. Be creative. I’ll help.
How do I design Reply Cards?
Usually reply cards are smaller than the invitation (3.5”x5”) and because of their size they may be more simple. But simple doesn’t mean boring! Illustrations can still be incorporated or pops of color to give it some personality. The reply card should coordinate with the rest of the suite and should not look like an afterthought. Wording of the reply card should reflect the formality in wording of the invitation… but I like to break rules so I totally support unique wording like “Fiesta with us in Mexico” or “So.. you’re coming right?”
Anytime you can let your personality as a couple or the vibe of the event shine, I’m all for it. I design reply cards just as thoughtfully as I do the invitation. Your vision should be interpreted through every detail.
Want to know more about invitation suites? Check out these posts: When to Mail Invitations and What are Save the Dates.