Why You Should Expect More “Yes” RSVPs (and Tips to Handle It!)

As regulations change and allow for more and more weddings and celebrations to take place, many couples are experiencing a “post-COVID rush” of “yes” RSVPs to their weddings, which can feel overwhelming after months of postponements, micro-weddings, and intimate elopements! We teamed up with Be Inspired PR to grab input from wedding industry professionals on why so many guests are jumping at the chance to attend weddings – and how to handle the influx of RSVPs to ensure everyone can celebrate with you!

Planner: Alston Mayger Events; Photographer: Amanda Vaelynn Photography; Floral: Jodi Iverson Florals

More people are excited to mingle and celebrate!

“As we slowly come out of COVID shutdowns and the holidays, one thing rings true…people are ready to party. Whether near or far, you can expect many more of your guests to reply “yes” than in years past. Typically, we guesstimate 80% of invited guests will show to a wedding, but in 2022, I expect that to come in closer to 90-95%. Even with simple holiday parties or weddings, so many more people are excited to mingle and celebrate. They have been cooped up, they have missed special moments and celebrations and fully intend to make up for it in 2022. So, invite away, but expect and plan for more than just your nearest and dearest to show!” – Nora Sheils, Founder Bridal Bliss + Co-Founder Rock Paper Coin

Planner: Alston Mayger Events; Photographer: Amanda Vaelynn Photography; Floral: Jodi Iverson Florals; Venue: Bridal Veil Lodge; Rentals: Lily & Cane

Remember: find a venue that supports a FULL guest count.

“I always tell all of my couples, find the venue that supports your guest count. We should never be assuming that a certain percentage of guests won’t attend, COVID times or otherwise. To press the easy button on planning, always expect 100% attendance. It’s so much easier to fill vacant space with more floral or a chic lounge than it is to squeeze another guest dining table in.” – Ashley Lachney, Owner of Alston Mayger Events

Planner: Infinite Events; Photographer: Jaimee Morse Photography

Make sure to have guests secure hotel rooms ASAP. 

“Make sure you book your hotel room blocks as early as possible and alert your guest to make their accommodations soon. If you are having a destination wedding in a quaint town, there might only be a few options available. Having them secured before you send out your save the dates is key here. This will give them a piece of mind and get in before the influx of people.” – Erica Trombetti, Infinite Events

Planner: Bridal Bliss; Photographer: Ellie Asher Photography

If you’re planning a destination wedding with a full guest count, consider online planning services. 

“Everyone wants to travel again, to see friends and distant family, hug, dance and celebrate each other, so odds are you’ll be receiving more “yes” RSVPs than you might initially imagine. To help you plan that perfect destination wedding for yourselves and your guests, use WedBrilliant! Share details about your various wedding needs and you’ll receive custom bids from vendors who work in that location. Take a look at what they’re proposing, check them out and schedule a time to meet with them virtually. Let WedBrilliant do the heavy lifting so all you have to do is pick the right team of vendors to make your destination wedding dreams come true!” – Melissa Wilmot, founder & CEO, WedBrilliant

Planner: Feathered Arrow Events; Photographer: The Sandas Photography

If more people RSVP than you expected, have a backup plan for ways to save money.

“Even in a post COVID rush, numbers with weddings are fluctuating up and down. We’re seeing a lot of guest counts still drop due to infections. However, if more people RSVP than you expected, have a backup plan for ways to save money. For example, maybe you cut back on what you offer at the bar or forgo some additional signage pieces that might cost extra money. There’s always a way to cut back, you just have to be okay with it if you really want those extra guests present!” – Kari Dirksen, CEO + Lead Planner, Feathered Arrow Events