It's that time of year again where your mailbox is filled with invitations from friends and family to celebrate their birthdays. And when you receive an invitation, the first thing you need to do is respond. But, what's the best way to RSVP to a birthday party?

Don't worry, because we have got you covered. In this post, we will walk you through everything you need to know about responding to a birthday party invitation.

What does RSVP Mean?

First lets look at what RSVP actually means. It's a French acronym that stands for "répondez s'il vous plaît," which roughly translates to "please respond." And let's be real, responding to an invitation is like a social law.

We all know that person who never RSVPs, and it's just like, come on, dude. So the next time you see that little "RSVP" at the bottom of your invite, remember that it's not just a suggestion. It's your chance to let your host know if you're coming or not, and to show them some good old-fashioned manners while you're at it.

Steps for Responding to RSVP

Replying to an RSVP is not difficult but if you are unsure, here are some steps to help you.

Step 1: Read the invitation carefully

Before you respond to an invitation, make sure you read it carefully to ensure you have all the information you need. This includes the date, time, location, dress code, and any requests from the host. Once you have read the invitation, you will be able to make an informed decision on whether you can attend or not.

Step 2: Respond by the deadline

After reviewing the invitation, it's important to RSVP by the deadline provided. This will help the host plan for the number of guests attending and make sure there's enough food and drinks for everyone. So, make sure to mark the date on your calendar and respond promptly.

Step 3: RSVP using the preferred method

The invitation will indicate the preferred RSVP method, which could be via email, phone, or text. Make sure to follow the instructions provided by the host. If they prefer a phone call, make sure to give them a call. If they prefer an email, send them an email. Whatever the method of communication, make sure to respond promptly.

Step 4: Be clear when responding

When responding to the invitation, make sure to be clear and concise. State your name, whether you will be attending or not, and let the host know if you will be bringing a guest. Don't forget to thank the host for inviting you to their special day. 

Step 5: Follow-up if necessary

If you don't receive a confirmation from the host after you RSVP, don't hesitate to follow up with them. They may have missed your response, or it may have gotten lost in their inbox. A friendly reminder won't hurt.

That’s our step-by-step guide on how to RSVP to a birthday party. It may seem straightforward, but it's important to follow these steps to ensure the host is well-prepared for their special day. And don't forget to have fun at the party!

Ways you can RSVP

To RSVP is the responsible and polite thing to do, but the good news is, there are tons of ways to do it! You can go old-school and send a paper RSVP card, or opt for a quick and easy text message. Or pick up the phone and give the host a call. There's no right or wrong way to RSVP, as long as you let the host know if you will be there or not.

• Physical invitation - If you received a physical invitation you will usually find an RSVP spot on the card. Fill it out with your name, let them know if you're attending, and return it before the deadline. Speedy response helps the host make accurate arrangements.
• Online invitation - Click the link provided to RSVP. It's super easy! Make sure you reply quickly so the host can count you in.
• Phone call - Pick up the phone and give the host a call. Let them know who you are, if you'll be attending, and whether or not you're bringing a guest.
• Text message - Texting is one of the quickest ways to get your RSVP in! Just shoot your host a quick text and let them know if you're coming or not.
• In person- Sometimes the best way to RSVP is in person. If you're invited to a party at someone’s house, you can simply let them know in person whether you'll be joining the festivities or not. It's a great way to avoid the technological hassle and get some face time in with your host!

When to RSVP

Try to RSVP as soon as possible but definitely before the deadline. Your hosts need to know how many guests to expect and make party plans accordingly. Keep an eye out for the RSVP deadline on your invitation and respond before then. If you can't make it happen by that date, get in touch with the host and give them a heads up.

Sample Wording for RSVP

If you are not sure what to write in your RSVP, here are some sample ideas you can use. 

Yes I can attend

• "Hi, Thanks for inviting us to your birthday party! We are excited to come and celebrate. See you there!"
• "Hello, We received the invitation for your Graduation party. We would love to attend and have fun with everyone. Thank you!"
• "Hi, I am thrilled to be invited to your party on Saturday. I will be there and can't wait for the celebrations. See you soon!"
• "Hello, Just wanted to let you know that both us us will be able to come to birthday party. We are looking forward to it and are excited to join in the fun!"
• "Hi, Thank you for the invitation. James and I are so excited to attend your 21st Birthday party and can't wait to celebrate with you."
• Hi, Just wanted to let you know that I’ll be able to make it to your birthday party on Saturday. I am looking forward to it.
• Hi, Thank you for the invitation to your sweet sixteen party. I/we would love to attend.
• Hi, This is [your child’s name] Mom, thank you for the invitation to Sophie's birthday party on Saturday. [your child’s name] can’t wait to attend.

Can Not Attend

There will be times when you are unable to attend a party. Make sure you RSVP early to let your host know.

• "Hi, Thank you for inviting us to your 60th Birthday party. Unfortunately, we won't be able to attend. We appreciate the invitation and hope you have a fantastic celebration!"
• "Hello, I received the invitation for your 80th birthday party. I am sorry but I won't be able to attend this time. Thank you for the invitation, and I hope you have an amazing day!"
• "Hi, Thank you for for inviting us to your baby shower. Unfortunately, I have a prior commitment on that day and won't be able to join the celebration. Wishing you a wonderful celebration!"
• "Hi, Just wanted to let you know that we won't be able to attend your tea party. We appreciate the invitation and hope everyone has a fantastic time. Thank you!"
• Thank you for the invitation, unfortunately I can not attend your 30th Birthday party on Saturday. I hope you have a fun night!
• Thank you so much for inviting me to your birthday party but I am sorry that I won’t be able to make it. Happy Birthday and have a wonderful time!
• Hi, Thanks for the invitation, your cocktail party sounds like so much fun. I would love to celebrate with you but unfortunately I can not attend. Hope you have a great party!
• I wish I could be there to celebrate this day with you, but unfortunately I can not attend the party on Saturday.
• Thank you so much for the invitation. I am sorry but I will not be able to come to your 50th Birthday party. I hope the day goes well and would love to catch up with you another time.
• I’m sorry to let you know this but I won’t be able to make it to your birthday party on Sunday. Thank you so much for inviting me.

Not Sure if you can Attend

If you are unsure if you can attend, it is a good idea to still let your host know.

• Hi,Thank you for inviting us to your pool party! We would love to attend but are not entirely sure of our plans yet. We appreciate the invitation and will let you know as soon as possible.
• "Hello, Thank you for the invitation to your engagement party. Unfortunately, we have a scheduling conflict, but we're trying to rearrange things. We will let you know as soon as we have a definite answer. Thanks again!"
• "Hi, We appreciate the invitation for Lucy's 13th birthday bowling party. We're currently working out our plans and are uncertain if Emma will be able to attend. We'll get back to you with a confirmed response soon. Thank you for understanding!"
• "Hi, We wanted to express our gratitude for inviting us to your retirement party. Unfortunately, we have a conflicting event, but we're trying to figure out a solution. We'll keep you updated as soon as we can. Thank you!"

How to Cancel a Yes RSVP

Oh no! You said yes to that party, but now you can't go. These things happen, maybe you can't get a babysitter, or perhaps your child is not feeling well. Don't worry, canceling your yes RSVP is easier than ever.

The first step is to reach out to the host and let them know that you won't be able to make it. Be sure to apologize for any inconvenience and thank them for inviting you. If the event has a RSVP system through a website or app, log in and update your attendance status.

It's important to cancel as soon as possible so the host has time to adjust their plans accordingly. And don't worry, they won't be mad - life happens and sometimes plans change.

How to RSVP After the Due Date

So, we all know life can get a little crazy sometimes and before we know it, the RSVP deadline has already come and gone. But don't worry, you can still let the host know if you're coming or not.

First things first, reach out to them ASAP and apologize for missing the deadline. Show them some love and let them know how excited you are for the event. Then, ask if there's still room for you to attend. Some parties, especially those at hired venues, have set guest limits so your host may have already confirmed the guest number.

If there is room for you, fantastic! If not, don't take it personally and maybe offer to meet up with the host for a drink or a bite another time. Remember, it's always better to communicate and be upfront and honest.

When it comes to completing an RSVP for a party, it is important to remember that the process is simple and does not take long. You can do it through many digital methods, such as email, text message, or an online form.

It's also perfectly acceptable to send your response the old-fashioned way via snail mail. No matter what method you choose be sure to confirm your attendance as soon as possible so that the host knows how many people to expect.