Invitation Etiquette...Do I need to include an RSVP card and return envelope?

[dominiqueamber]

Were having a cruise there or fly there option so I'm not sure about having a travel agent to coordinate that (is that what they typically do? I've never used one) I'm pretty sure i'll know who's comming to the wedding because I'm sure we'll talk on the phone about it many times before we go but I'm more concerned about the AHR so I can plan better...most of my family is young enough for email and fb but not everyone so I was thinking of options - I just hate to waste the stamps because so many times I saw those envelopes go unused because apparently it's too difficult for most people to respond (I think that's why they pay people to do the census door to door - because most people don't mail it in)

[Ellabaja1983]

Dominiqueamber - You are allowing people to go by cruise or by air?  That's a really cool idea!  How are you and your FI getting there?  Typically the TA would coordinate all of the travel for the guests, but that could be interesting to coordinate! 

 

Wilson - It doesn't seem to ever end, but the OOT Bags are fun!  I have enjoyed those so far!

[dominiqueamber]

Yes, On purpose because it's cheaper for most (no passport required & food included)...I want so bad to cruise with my family but it'll be difficult since I need to be hands on... My FH lives in Bahamas so his side will already be there...Then well have an AHR where I'm from in PA...So tell me if this is tacky to have these options please (these are ideas not the actual words I want to use-suggestions welcome)

 

RSVP-

• We'll be there as you exchange vows on the beach (Ceremony)
• Please save us a seat to join the wedding party for dinner (Were going to dinner at a resturant but not paying for everyone)
• We'll be there to celebrate with you and dance the night away ( A mini reception with conch salad, kalik beer and dessert)

 

 

Originally Posted by Ellabaja1983 

Dominiqueamber - You are allowing people to go by cruise or by air?  That's a really cool idea!  How are you and your FI getting there?  Typically the TA would coordinate all of the travel for the guests, but that could be interesting to coordinate! 

 

Wilson - It doesn't seem to ever end, but the OOT Bags are fun!  I have enjoyed those so far!

[dominiqueamber]

Never mind I don't like that...maybe a line that says if you wish to join the bride and grom for dinner please let us know and well save you a seat? I don't want to sound tacky- it's common for guests to pay for dinner in Bahamas and we are having the small reception and another reception back home so I'm trying not to go into debt

[Ellabaja1983]

I like the last one, where you want them to let you know if they are going for dinner.  I think that works best!  However, (this may be a stupid question), but will the guests all know that if they are joining you for dinner that they will have to pay for themselves?

[mochamakes3]

The only reason why I included the traditional RSVP with stamped envelope was because we had so many people that don't use the internet. I think my mom is kind of mad that I put our address on the RSVP and not hers, now everyone will find out that we live together. But I think you should do what's best for your guests. Because it is a DW you are more likely to hear who has booked.

[bmadzia1]

We will not include a 'traditional' RSVP... I will instead print an additional page (on my own to save on invite costs) where we will ask our guests to let us know by phone or email whether they are coming. Something along these lines: We have decided to skip the traditional RSVP cards. When you book your trip, we will take that as your RSVP. We do kindly ask that you let us know by email or telephone that you have booked. This will allow us to notify the hotel/resort of the total number of our guests. "

 

Not as sloppy, but along those lines. It's hard to give people a due date on a trip.  I'm sure there will be several of them who will decide at last minute....

[BeachBridein11]

We were going to skip on the RSVP cards as well, but we will be doing them now so they can submit their entree choice.