How To Work Invitations

Wedding invitation with colorful flowers

Invitations are a tricky thing, whether they are for a wedding, dinner party or gala. Keep up on the latest etiquette to ensure you do not break any basic rules and embarrass yourself in front of your friends or family members. If you have received an invitation to an event, this simple guide should tell you how to best handle the associated responsibilities

I am invited

Once you receive the invitation in the mail, you should consider whether or not you can attend the event and RSVP. Generally, the invitation tells you how to respond. For weddings, the invitation generally includes an RSVP card that you can mail back in. Other invitations may request that you RSVP by email or phone. Try to respond as soon as possible, within three days of receiving the invitation.

Many invitations have a date listed by which the host needs a response. It is a good idea to respond far before this date so that the host can give final counts to caterers and other hired help.

Can I bring a guest?

If the invitation says "plus one," then you may bring one guest with you to the event. This is considered proper on wedding invitations, but is not always the case with galas, dinner parties and other functions. If you have been offered a plus one, always make sure you RSVP for two if you plan on bringing a guest. If you are not offered a plus one, do not even think about asking. It is terribly impolite to ask to invite a guest.

Receiving an invitation in the mail is always exciting. It means a fun event is coming up and you have a chance to attend. Make sure to follow these basic rules when you reply so everyone can have a great time.

If you are not offered a plus one, do not even think about asking