Putting a deadline for the RSVPsIn order to really have a realistic head count, make sure the final deadline is three weeks before the date. The caterers need this number and the seating arrangements can then be established. If they do not respond, then a phone call will help, but better still they can email their confirmation. Giving the guests options means you’re more likely to get a response. For smaller weddings, you can even ask your guests to text. With an organised guest list system, you can easily tick off who’s coming when they text through.Information about your wedding onlineThe easiest way to include this is on the ‘save the date’ card with the couple’s name and website, otherwise you can add a note to the invitation highlighting that there are further details available online.If you choose to only invite adultsMaking it clear to the guests that children will not be included can be a very sensitive area. By addressing your invitees by name and not with the word ‘guest’ that indicates only those individuals. Sometimes, they may reply with the children’s names and in that case it is worth calling them to explain. Alternatively, a polite note on the invite stating the ‘no children’ policy can work. You don’t need to apologise, it’s YOUR day! But the guests will understand...Informing the guests about the dress codeThe solution to this is to simply write the dress code on the invite in the lower right-hand corner with ‘black tie’ or ‘casual attire’. The style and design of the invitation will indicate also whether it is a formal, traditional or casual event. On your website you can be more detailed within the online forum.
If your friend has recently broken up and wants to bring someone elseOn the invite you sent him/her you included the partner that will entitle you to say no because invitations are non-transferable. It would be right to explain that the wedding will be for very close friends and family. Explain also that your other single friends are without dates in case (s)he feels uncomfortable coming solo.Ladies, be careful not to outshine the bride!Remember it is the bride’s day and wearing a bright outfit that may be stunning at the races, will not fit the day and you will lose friends. But it’s also important not to get hung up on this. Wedding attire can often be uncomfortable and you want your guest to happy too.From fashion to invites, start on the right foot for your special day as it will reflect well on the rest of your journey together.
