One of the most frustrating aspects of event planning is when guests don’t respond to an RSVP. Whether they forget or simply don’t prioritize the invitation, this lack of response can leave you in limbo, unsure of how many people will attend. But don’t worry—there are ways to handle non-respondents without losing your cool.

Follow up with a polite reminder. If the RSVP deadline has passed and you haven’t received a response, the first step is to send a polite follow-up message. Use a gentle reminder, such as “We noticed we haven’t received your RSVP yet for [Event Name], and we’d love to know if you’re able to attend.” You can send this reminder via email, text, or even a phone call for a more personal touch.

Set clear expectations. When you initially send your invitations, make sure your guests know how important it is to respond. Include the RSVP deadline and explain that their response will help you finalize important details like seating, catering, and accommodations. If your guests understand the importance of replying on time, they may be more likely to do so.

Offer an easy way to respond. Make it as simple as possible for your guests to RSVP. Use a digital platform like Sonfie, where guests can respond with just a few clicks. If they need to provide additional details (like meal preferences or special requests), ensure that it’s easy to do so, avoiding any friction that might discourage them from responding.

Plan for the unknown. Unfortunately, some people will never respond, no matter how many reminders you send. When planning your event, have a contingency plan in case you’re left with an uncertain guest count. Order a bit more food than you think you’ll need, and leave extra space for seating.

By proactively addressing the issue of non-respondents, you can minimize the disruption and make your planning process a lot smoother.