The way you ask for RSVPs sets the tone for how guests will respond. Too formal, and younger guests might procrastinate. Too casual, and older relatives might not take the deadline seriously. For Filipino weddings, where guest lists typically span multiple generations and cultural backgrounds, finding the right balance is essential for maximizing responses.
Your RSVP wording does more than request a response—it communicates the formality of your event, provides essential information, and sets expectations for your guests. Whether you're planning a traditional church wedding with ninongs and ninangs or a modern destination celebration, the right wording helps ensure guests respond promptly and provide the information you need for planning.
Formal and Traditional RSVP Wording
For traditional Filipino weddings with principal sponsors and formal church ceremonies, formal wording conveys the significance of the occasion while respecting cultural norms.
Classic Formal Phrases That Work
Traditional formal wording has stood the test of time because it communicates respect and importance. Consider phrases like: 'The favor of your reply is requested by the fifteenth of September' or 'Kindly respond by September 15, 2025.' These formal requests carry weight with older relatives who appreciate traditional etiquette.
Other effective formal options include: 'Please honor us with your response by [date],' 'We kindly request your reply by [date],' and 'Your presence is requested. Kindly RSVP by [date].' Include your wedding website URL or a phone number for those who prefer traditional response methods.
Bilingual Formal Options
Many Filipino couples include both English and Filipino in their invitations. Formal Filipino phrases include: 'Hinihiling po naming ang inyong sagot sa o bago mag [date]' or 'Mangyaring magpaalam sa o bago mag [date].' This bilingual approach honors both cultural traditions and ensures clarity for all guests.
When using bilingual wording, maintain consistent formality in both languages. A formal English request paired with casual Filipino undermines the cohesive feel of your invitation suite.
Modern and Casual RSVP Wording
Modern Filipino couples often prefer a warmer, more personal approach to RSVP requests. This friendly tone frequently yields faster responses, especially from younger guests.
Warm and Friendly Phrases
Casual wording feels more personal and can reduce the perceived formality barrier that causes some guests to procrastinate. Try phrases like: 'We can't wait to celebrate with you! Please let us know you're coming by September 15' or 'Help us plan the party of a lifetime—RSVP by [date].'
Other warm options include: 'Will you join us? Let us know by [date]!' or 'Save your spot at our celebration—RSVP by [date].' These phrases create excitement while still clearly communicating the deadline.
Playful and Creative Options
For couples with a fun, laid-back style, creative wording can reflect your personality: 'Joyfully accepts / Regretfully declines (circle one and send by [date])' or 'Yes! I'll be there to eat, dance, and celebrate / Sorry, I'll be crying at home while you party.'
Playful wording works best when it matches your overall invitation design and wedding vibe. A formal church wedding with humorous RSVP cards might feel incongruent, while a garden party celebration could carry the playful tone beautifully.
Essential Information to Include
Regardless of formality level, every RSVP request must include certain key information to be effective. Missing any of these elements creates confusion and reduces response rates.
Clear Deadline Communication
Always include a specific deadline date—never vague language like 'as soon as possible' or 'at your earliest convenience.' Guests need a concrete date to put in their calendars. State both the day and date for clarity: 'Please respond by Friday, September 15, 2025.'
Consider adding context for why the deadline matters: 'Please respond by September 15 so we can confirm arrangements with our venue and caterer.' Guests are more likely to prioritize your request when they understand the reason behind the deadline. Most Filipino venues charge P1,500-3,000 per guaranteed guest—explaining this helps guests understand the stakes.
Response Methods and Channels
Make responding as easy as possible by providing multiple options. Include your wedding website URL for digital RSVPs, a phone number for those who prefer calling or texting, and an email address for guests who aren't comfortable with websites.
If using paper RSVP cards with your printed invitations, include a pre-addressed, stamped envelope. The easier you make responding, the higher your response rate will be. For digital invitations, ensure your RSVP link is prominently displayed and works on mobile devices.
What Information to Request
Be clear about what information you need: number of guests attending (specify if plus-ones are included), dietary restrictions, and contact information for follow-ups. Too many fields reduce completion rates, so limit requests to what you actually need.
For formal dinners with assigned seating, you might need meal choices. For buffet-style receptions (common in Filipino weddings), dietary restrictions may be more relevant than specific meal selections. Match your questions to your event style.
RSVP Wording for Destination Weddings
Destination weddings in locations like Boracay, Palawan, Tagaytay, or international venues require special consideration in your RSVP wording to account for travel arrangements.
Extended Response Timelines
For destination weddings, give guests more time to respond—typically 10-12 weeks instead of the standard 6-8 weeks. Guests need time to check work schedules, book flights, and arrange accommodations before committing.
Your RSVP deadline should still be at least 3-4 weeks before the event for vendor coordination, but send invitations earlier to provide that extended response window. A statement like 'Please respond by August 1 to help us coordinate travel arrangements for all guests' acknowledges the additional planning involved.
Requesting Travel-Specific Information
Destination wedding RSVPs often need additional information: arrival and departure dates, interest in group activities or excursions, and whether guests need accommodation recommendations. Consider a two-stage RSVP process: initial attendance confirmation, followed by detailed travel planning.
Include clear information about what you're providing versus what guests need to arrange. 'Accommodation at [resort] is included for confirmed guests. Please book your own flights and let us know your arrival details by [date].'
Digital vs. Paper RSVP Considerations
Your choice of RSVP method affects your wording. Digital and paper responses each have unique considerations for Filipino weddings.
Wording for Digital RSVPs
Digital RSVP requests should be concise with a clear call-to-action. 'RSVP at [yourweddingwebsite.com] by September 15' with a prominent button or link works well. For tech-savvy guests, digital responses are instant and convenient.
Acknowledge that not all guests may be comfortable with online forms. Add a note like: 'Prefer to respond by phone? Call or text [number].' This hybrid approach ensures no guest is excluded while still benefiting from digital tracking.
Wording for Paper RSVPs
Paper RSVP cards allow for elegant formal wording and tactile guest experience. Traditional formats include fill-in-the-blank cards: 'M_______ will ___attend / ___regretfully decline' or checkbox options for cleaner responses.
Include a line for number of guests attending and dietary restrictions. Pre-print the response envelope with your address and add postage—any friction in responding reduces your return rate.
Cultural Considerations for Filipino Weddings
Filipino wedding invitations carry cultural nuances that affect RSVP wording and expectations.
Family Group RSVPs
Filipino invitations often address entire families rather than individuals. Your RSVP wording should accommodate this: 'Please indicate the number of family members attending (maximum of [X] guests).' This prevents confusion about who is invited while allowing families to respond together.
For personalized invitations that specify names, your RSVP confirmation should reflect this: 'We have reserved [X] seats in your honor.' This gently communicates capacity limits while showing you've thoughtfully allocated space for their family.
Principal Sponsor RSVPs
Principal sponsors (ninongs and ninangs) often receive more personalized invitations. Your RSVP request for sponsors might be more personal: 'It would mean the world to us to have you as our ninang. Please confirm your attendance by [date].'
Consider following up personally with principal sponsors rather than relying solely on formal RSVP channels. Their participation is significant enough to warrant a phone call or in-person confirmation.
Effective RSVP wording balances formality with clarity, matching your wedding style while providing guests with everything they need to respond promptly. Whether you choose traditional formal language or modern friendly phrasing, ensure your deadline is clear, response methods are accessible, and requested information is limited to what you actually need.
Remember that your RSVP request is often guests' first impression of your wedding details. Thoughtful wording that reflects your personality and respects your guests' time sets a positive tone for your celebration.
Test your RSVP system before sending invitations—whether digital or paper—to ensure everything works smoothly. A seamless response experience means fewer follow-ups and less stress as your wedding day approaches.