In other words, the title of this post simply means, RSVP or, please reply. Although I don't know that I should include the word, "simply" because it seems like the task of replying to an invitation is quite the opposite.
An RSVP is to let the host/hostess know if you accept or decline the invitation. In fact, etiquette rules suggest that if you receive a formal, written invitation, you should respond that day. With Evite and Facebook Events being so commonly used, same day replies are not always necessary. Why feel obligated to respond? Well, this is why:
Let's get practical. Parties, gatherings, weddings, etc. all cost money. Obviously, the host would need to know how much food or drinks to provide to ensure there is enough for everyone, or to make sure not to go overboard. I mean, duh. More importantly, if I was nice enough to invite you to a shindig I'm throwing- have enough decency to reply to the invite!
This has been a frequent battle for me, people not sending their RSVP, or not caring enough to commit to their RSVP. Example, I decided to throw my boyfriend a surprise birthday party this year. I sent the Evite out three weeks in advance as to give adequate time for people to commit- or decline. What happened? I found myself reaching out to people I hadn't heard from. That should never happen! To make matters worse, some people I reached out to would tell me, "Yeah, I should be there." Well, you should doesn't mean you will. And in this case, should meant won't.
On the other hand, I had people RSVP right away and was ecstatic! Until, certain people bailed the day of, mere hours before the party and didn't even bother to tell me. They either sent a message through another party-goer or I just didn't hear anything, still expecting them. This was particularly frustrating because it was a surprise party. Meaning, if people were going to just be late, I needed to know, to stall the birthday boy. Or, if they weren't coming at all, I knew the show could go on.
Long story short, I spent money to accommodate those that did RSVP. So to the ones that RSVP'd and didn't show- you're real jerks. Yeah, you. And you owe me money.
Moral of the story- whether you accept or decline, we don't care as long as you let us know your decision!
By the way, we are still throwing our fight party, so if you plan on attending- RSVP to the invite!
Wow, I feel so much better.
