Confused about how to filling out RSVP cards for weddings and events? This guide explains the meaning of the "M" on response cards, how to fill it out depending on your relationship status, and other important tips.
Introduction
When you receive an invitation to a wedding or special event, one of the most important things to do is to send back your RSVP card. These cards help the couple or event organizer know how many guests to expect and plan accordingly. However, filling out RSVP cards can be confusing, especially if you're not sure what the "M" stands for or how to address guests with different relationship statuses.
In this article, we'll guide you through the process of filling out RSVP cards for weddings and events. We'll explain the meaning of the "M" on response cards, provide examples of how to fill it out depending on your relationship status, and offer other important tips to help make the RSVP process as smooth as possible.
Do I Have to Keep the "M" on My RSVPs?
One of the most common questions couples have about RSVP cards is whether they have to include the "M" on the response cards. The answer is no – you don't have to include the "M" if you don't want to. Instead, you can simply write "Name:" followed by a line for guests to write down their first and last names. This approach can be more inclusive to guests who don't identify with a specific title and can also help avoid any confusion.
However, if you do choose to include the "M" on your RSVP cards, it's important to know what it means and how to address guests properly based on their relationship status. Here are some guidelines to follow:
How to Fill Out the "M" Line as a Guest
For single guests:
If you're attending the wedding alone and you're not married, you can use "Miss" or "Mr." followed by your first and last name. You can also use "Ms." as a neutral alternative to "Miss" or "Mrs." This is a good option if you don't want to call attention to your marital status.
For married couples:
If you're married and share a last name, you can use "Mr. and Mrs." followed by the husband's first and last name. For example, "Mr. and Mrs. John Smith." Alternatively, you can use "Mr. and Mrs." followed by the wife's first and last name, such as "Mr. and Mrs. Jane Smith." This approach is a matter of personal preference.
If you're married but don't share a last name, you can use "Mr." or "Ms." followed by your first and last name. For example, "Mr. John Smith and Ms. Sarah Williams."
For same-sex couples:
If you're a same-sex couple and you share a last name, you can use "Mr. and Mr." or "Mrs. and Mrs." followed by your last name. For example, "Mr. and Mr. Johnson" or "Mrs. and Mrs. Brown."
If you're a same-sex couple and you don't share a last name, you can use "Mr." or "Ms." followed by your first and last name. For example, "Mr. Joe Johnson and Mr. Tom Jackson" or "Ms. Pam Brown and Ms. Mary Miller."
For unmarried couples:
If you're an unmarried couple, you can use "Miss" or "Mr." followed by your first and last name. If you're attending the wedding with your partner, you can include their name on the same line. For example, "Miss Sarah Williams and Mr. Adam Smith."
For guests bringing a plus one: If your invitation includes a plus one, it's important to indicate this on the RSVP card. You can use "Miss" or "Mr." followed by your first and last name, and then write "and guest" or the name of your plus one. For example, "Miss Kelly Jones and guest" or "Mr. Mark Davis and Jane Smith."
Other Important Tips for Filling Out RSVP Cards
- Be sure to respond by the deadline indicated on the invitation. This will help the couple or event organizer plan accordingly and avoid any last-minute surprises.
- If you have any dietary restrictions or other special requests, you can indicate these on the RSVP card or contact the couple or event organizer directly.
- Double-check your response card before sending it back. Make sure you've included all the necessary information and that you've spelled everything correctly.
- If you're unable to attend the wedding or event, it's polite to still send back the RSVP card with your regrets. This will let the couple or event organizer know that you received the invitation and appreciate the gesture.
Conclusion
Filling out RSVP cards for weddings and events doesn't have to be stressful or confusing. By understanding the meaning of the "M" on response cards and following these guidelines, you can easily fill out your RSVP card and help the couple or event organizer plan accordingly. Remember to respond by the deadline indicated on the invitation, double-check your response card before sending it back, and be sure to include any special requests or dietary restrictions. With these tips in mind, you'll be able to navigate the RSVP process with ease and enjoy the celebration to the fullest.
