RSVP versus Regrets

As an event planner, I am seeing a growing trend in hosts that do not receive proper notice from guests as to whether they will attend an event or not. With the amount of planning that goes into events and conferences, the least we could do as attendees is respond when asked. Perhaps people have forgotten the rules of responding so I would like to provide mini reminder.

Generally, on invitations there is one of two phrases:

1. Regrets Only; or

2. R.S.V.P.

"Regrets Only" means that if you will not be able to attend then you should inform the host; otherwise you will be assumed to attend.

RSVP is from a French phrase "Répondez s'il vous plait" meaning "please respond." This indicates that you should contact the host to accept or decline the invitation.

When a host plans an event, having the exact head count can really be an important detail in the planning process. It can determine seating charts, catering charges, printed materials and much more.

Another item to note on the invitation is the date in which the host would like your response by. The date on the invitation is the deadline in which the invitation should be back to the host - not the day you should put it in the mail. It seems like a small detail however the date is important because many catering and rental companies require final numbers by a certain date. After that date the host could be held financially responsible for the contracted number.

Recently, I have heard several excuses as to why someone did not give notice of their attendance. An example, "one person won't make a difference." However, if everyone thought that way there would never be enough seats or meals at any event. So with this article I hope that you will be reminded of the meaning of being a courteous guest and responding on time!