Anyone that works on events will definitely appreciate these reminders on RSVP etiquette by Trish Nicol Agency founder Trish Varker-Miles. Below, she breaks down six rules all guests should follow when invited to any event.  

In the last five years, the RSVP seems to have become optional! Let’s face it, we have all been guilty of not RSVPing properly, myself included, but with brands investing hundreds of thousands into events, it’s pretty important. Here are six pointers on how to do it right. 

What does RSVP mean? 

In the last 10 years, there seems to be a trend where the RSVP has become optional!

RSVP stands for ‘Répondez s'il vous plaît’ in French or “Please respond” in English. 

The RSVP deadline 

The deadline is important, so we can save you a seat at the table or give it to someone else. It helps us to order the correct amount of food and have sufficient time to pack you a goodie bag to take home.

Let your life-threatening dietary requirements be known… 

The RSVP is a chance to let us know of all your unusual dietary requirements. But, they are not an opportunity to air your dislike for cooked pineapple or raw tomato.

Plus 1s

Unless the invite says it’s for you and a guest, it’s just for you. You can ask, however, for a plus one as there may be capacity.

Last-minute cancellations

Sometimes we come down with the flu, a child is sick or we are just exhausted. But unless your fingers have been chopped off, remember to call or message to the host and advise them that you can’t come the morning of the event – especially if it’s a sit down dinner

No shows

The greatest faux pas.