Is it necessary to include an RSVP with my wedding invitation?
You do not have to include an RSVP card if you do not want to, but it is wise to include one. There are many advantages to including an RSVP. First of all, it will help you obtain an accurate count of the number of guests you will be serving. The caterer will need to have this count. In addition, you do not want to be paying for food for people who do not show up. Even if you are making the food yourself, it is helpful to know how much food your should prepare.
Having an accurate count of your guests will also help you order the right number of favors and properly prepare seating arrangements. You might also use your RSVP cards to determine whether or not you can invite additional guests. For example, some brides have an “A” list and a “B” list of guests. The guests on the A list are those you definitely want to invite, such as close friends and family. The guests on the B list are those you would like to invite, but you cannot afford to or you do not have the space for them. If a person on the A list is unable to attend, you can invite someone else from your B list. If you send your initial invitations out early enough, such as five to six weeks before the wedding, you will have plenty of time to receive your RSVP cards back and to invite guests from your B list if space becomes available.