What are the alternatives for requesting replies from your guests?

Those in the know, know. The most proper reply should be sent on one's personal stationery, engraved preferred. As a host, you should not have to request the reply as the invitee is aware of their responsibility in acknowledging the invitation.

Recognizing that we are living in the 21st century, the following alternatives are recommended.

Reply cards are the most common way used to make it easy for an invitee to express their plans for attending an event or not. Reply cards simply request: "Please reply by July fifteenth." or "The favour of a reply is requested by the fifteenth of July." It is important to let your guests know when you expect to hear from them. For your busy guests, this option allows them to check off their response:

M_____________________________

Will ______ Attend

Reply cards are essential if you need your guests to make choices prior to the event. For instance, if there is an entree or transportation choice.

Make it convenient for your guests to reply quickly, be sure the reply envelope is addressed to the host and stamped.

For less formal events, including luncheons, tea's or fun celebrations, have your name and phone number printed on the invitation. E-mail is becoming popular for replies as well. Be sure to give the name with the corresponding phone number if there are multiple hostesses. People are more comfortable calling if they know whom they are calling.

Another option to consider is "Regrets Only." We do not recommend this because in the end, you still wonder who, in fact, is planning to attend. If you have to give an exact count to a caterer, this option is very risky.

For those reading this that are replying to an event, please reply on time. Imagine you are the host, wouldn't you want to know who is coming to your special event in time to give your guarantees and make appropriate plans!