Tips To Get Those RSVP’s Rolling In

One of the most common stressors my couples relate to me is that they can’t get their guests to RSVP in a timely fashion. Planning your dream San Luis Obispo wedding in picturesque wine country is not the easiest thing in the world- it takes a lot of time and energy to make these amazing slo weddings happen! My hats off to you!

I understand that organizing the perfect celebration can be both exciting and challenging. I want to help you to get those RSVPs to roll in. Here are some awesome tips from my many years as a slo wedding photographer to ensure that your wedding is a celebration to remember with all your nearest and dearest in attendance.

1. Craft a Charming Invitation to Your San Luis Obispo Wedding

Your wedding invitation sets the tone for the entire event- and it also gives me something beautiful to add to your getting ready flat-lay photos, which are a specialty of mine. I do them for each and every couple to set the tone of your day in your wedding album.

Make sure your invitation reflects the fun and beauty of the wedding day you are planning and gives the guest an idea of what to expect. Use elegant fonts, include stunning visuals of the venue, and clearly outline the details.

A well-crafted invitation, something you have put your time into, is more likely to make a lasting impression and encourage prompt responses, as your guests will take your wedding day seriously. It can reflect your personal style and be as unique as you want- the important thing is it shows your guests that this is an event they need to rsvp to or they will lose their spot at your super fun wedding day. Some of my favorite wedding invitations can be found on Etsy and Minted.

2. Create a User-Friendly RSVP System

Make it easy for your guests to respond by providing multiple ways to RSVP. Include a response card with a pre-addressed, stamped envelope for those who prefer traditional methods. Additionally, set up an online RSVP system for tech-savvy guests who prefer the convenience of digital replies. This flexibility accommodates all preferences and ensures a higher response rate. The Knot offers couples planning a wedding a way to have their guests rsvp online. You can also use email to allow guests to rsvp with the click of a button.

3. Set a Reasonable RSVP Deadline

Give your guests ample time to check their schedules and make arrangements. However, don’t let the deadline linger too far into the future. Set a reasonable RSVP date that allows you to finalize your plans without leaving your guests in limbo. Send out your wedding invites 8 weeks prior to your wedding and give them 4 weeks to rsvp.

4. Gentle Reminders

Life gets busy, and sometimes your guests may need a gentle nudge. Send out friendly reminders a week or two before the RSVP deadline. You can utilize various platforms such as email, text, or social media to send a warm message expressing your excitement about their presence on your special day. A good way to do this is send out an email with personal updates about how things are going, things you guys have been doing as a couple, and what your most excited about for your wedding day. Your guests will love to read about all this and it makes you seem a little less pushy in your remainders to rsvp.

5. Showcase the California Wedding day Experience

Share the excitement of your chosen venue! having a wedding at a california Post enticing photos of the stunning vineyard, the rolling hills, and the charming ambiance on your wedding website and social media. Highlight the unique experiences your guests can look forward to, making them more eager to RSVP to be part of the celebration.

6. Personalized Follow-Ups

For those guests who haven’t responded by the deadline, consider reaching out with a personalized follow-up. A phone call or a thoughtful message expressing how much you would love to have them there can make a significant impact.

7. Ask for their meal choice

Hit them where it counts- their stomach! Just thinking about the mouth watering options at your wedding will get them moving towards letting your know wether they will attend. If you are doing a plated dinner, ask them for their meal choice. Or if you are doing a buffet at your wedding or family style meals, you can make it fun by letting them take a vote on options such as sides or even what will be on the dessert table. Everyone loves to have an opinion.

You could even change this up and let them take a vote on other things like what song for your first dance, what games to play during your reception, or wether to play “baby got back” on the dance floor. Make it fun and your guests will love it.

Planning your San Luis Obispo vineyard wedding is a journey filled with love, excitement, and joy. With these tips, you’re well on your way to ensuring that your guest list is filled with friends and family ready to celebrate with you in the heart of wine country. Here’s to a day filled with love, laughter, and the clinking of glasses amid the vineyards of San Luis Obispo! And if you’re looking for a San Luis Obispo or California based wedding photographer, well, I’ve got you!