Be In Love Designs

Ah, yes. That is the question. So many brides now days are cutting costs where ever they can, and with their invitations, its no exception. The biggest trend we are seeing with RSVPs is that brides no longer want to use them. They are throwing tradition out the window in favor of a modern day, technological solution : the telephone and Internet.

Many brides are signing up for free wedding websites that allow their guests to respond directly on that site. Instead of sending an rsvp, they are including a line on the invitation that reads "please rsvp by going to {insert website here} or by calling {insert phone number}."

Other brides do not even care if they request an RSVP at all. I have had several brides tell me they know exactly who's coming and they is no need to ask.

I find the trend pretty startling. Being a stickler for details, I would go crazy not knowing who is planning on attending. (And I assume plated dinner choices have gone out the window because they don't need to know what everyone wants to eat.)

We do still have some traditional brides that want all the pieces. (Thank you, ladies!) In fact, its funny to hear a bride say, "I printed the address on the response envelope and stamped it for my guests, so they better respond!" My thinking exactly. What a perfect wedding world it would be if everyone responded in a timely manner.

For those wanting to take it a step further, we were given this helpful tip about sending RSVPs. Number the back of each one according to your list. This way you know exactly who hasn't responded as well as know who responded when their handwriting is hard to read.

If you are scared of extra guests attending the wedding (which is another growing trend since couples want to cut costs and not pay for a date you picked up in a bar last night!), is to write in the number of guests on the RSVP before sending them out. This can be tricky if not all of the party can attend, but it will clearly state who you are allowing to attend.

So Internet, telephone, postcard, card or nothing at all. The options have definitely changed for wedding responses. What is the best solution for you? When in doubt, put it on paper.