The Art of the RSVP

As the holidays approach and we start planning and hosting parties… Nothing is more frustrating than the guest who never lets you know if they are coming or not. And we’re not talking about teenagers here… We’re talking about full-blown adults. Typically, that adult would be accompanied by a spouse and/or a handful of children. So I wanted to get my frustrations out by telling you my view of the art of RSVP-ing.

The RSVP originated in France in 1845 and is shorthand for respondez s’il vous plait… English translation: respond if you please. Back then, a formal invitation to an event didn’t require a response unless the invitee was NOT going to attend. Which makes sense when thinking about the party planning process. Every well-thought out party and every thrown-together-last-minute party starts with the same thing… A guest list. EVERYTHING hinges on the number of people attending the party.

For example, if you are serving fried chicken at your party, the proper way to plan is to count three pieces of chicken per person. Of course, you will have that one guy that eats ten pieces… and you will have that mom who shares one piece with her child… and you will have the vegan that is offended by your chicken and won’t touch it. But in the end, there is enough chicken for everyone. Now, let’s look at the price of ordering prepared fried chicken. A local place near me sells our favorite chicken for $1.40 per piece. That works out to be about $4.20 per person. So when a family of five doesn’t show up… or bother to RSVP… You have just cost the host $21.00. And that is JUST the chicken. Don’t get me started on the price of alcoholic beverages, desserts, and side dishes. 

The worst feeling as a host is to have people tell you (only a few days before your event) that they won’t be there. Perhaps these last few generations have lost the social graces that were once not optional in our society. Or… perhaps… we are just lazy.

It literally takes you about 60 seconds to RSVP. So, for the love of all that is holy, pick up the phone and respond as soon as you get the invitation! The art of the RSVP is really something we should all practice until we reach perfection!