15 Great RSVP Wording Examples For Your Next Event

Your RSVP response wording can help subtly set the tone for your event well before the big day

Event planning involves a lot of etiquette considerations, no matter how formal or informal the occasion. From the design of your online invitations to the dress code, the menu you design to the decor, there are norms and “golden rules” to consider for every aspect of wedding planning. Your RSVP response wording is no different! While more and more event hosts have shifted to using online RSVP forms, event management websites, and other less traditional methods of event planning, your corporate event, reunion, or wedding RSVP wording is still often expected to reflect some traditional elements that long pre-date online event management.

But why should you care about such a small detail when you have so many other things to plan? Why is worth taking a minute to choose the right RSVP response wording? Here are just a few reasons:

• You can communicate the tone of your event this way. By choosing formal RSVP wording as opposed to more casual RSVP response wording, you can subtly let your guests know what to expect at the event itself.
• Clear RSVP wording makes it easier to avoid incorrect or mistaken responses, which can lead to unnecessary event planning headaches.
• You don’t need to worry about putting too much thought into crafting your own RSVP card wording. There are plenty of acceptable and traditional examples for you to borrow as your own.

RSVP Wording Examples

Now that we know why RSVP wording is such an often overlooked but important detail, here are 15 great response card wording examples for you to use as you’d like. We’ve divided them into traditional and more clever/modern categories to give you some options that can fit any event, no matter how formal or informal.

Depending on the type of event you’re hosting, different RSVP wording may be more appropriate. Below are examples of traditional and casual/modern RSVP responses, along with recommendations for when to use each:

Traditional RSVP Wording

Best for: Formal events like weddings, black-tie galas, and milestone celebrations.

• Accepts with pleasure / Declines with regrets: Ideal for weddings or formal dinners where you want to maintain elegance.
• Graciously accepts / Regretfully declines: Suitable for corporate events, galas, or charity functions where respect and formality are key.
• Will attend / Unable to attend: A straightforward and versatile option for traditional, yet less formal gatherings like family reunions or anniversary parties.
• Happily accepts / Sadly declines: Perfect for events where you want to maintain a formal tone but with a touch of warmth.

Casual/Fun/Modern RSVP Wording

Best for: Informal gatherings like casual parties, birthdays, or corporate team-building events.

• Will be there, will not be square / Won’t be there, which means I’m square: Great for playful parties, such as a friend’s birthday or a themed celebration.
• Let’s do it! / Can’t do it: Ideal for casual, low-key events like backyard barbecues or informal get-togethers.
• Yaaaaas! / Nooooooo!: Perfect for parties or bachelorette events where humor and fun are the focus.
• 🙂 / 🙁: Simple, quirky, and easy for informal settings like a baby shower or office party.
• Let’s party / Party on without me: Suitable for relaxed celebrations like engagement parties, holiday gatherings, or milestone birthdays.