USVI-On-Line

Why don't people RSVP to parties? I am freaking going crazy and I am about to call them. We have tons of people coming to our party-only one "no" so far-12 familes coming so far--but still haven't heard from everyone. They have had 3 weeks.

When you ask a family-like one with 3 kids- that is 5 people that I need to plan for. I am having to rent tables and chairs! Essentially we are waiting to hear from about 15 people (4 families) since kids are invited and most of them are older now and actually eat.

I asked one "friend" at the bus stop today and she is like " I am not sure, we are supposed to babysit for someone but we are trying to get out of it"..." ha ha ha I am the worst RSVP'er ever"...

No "sorry", no "thank you for inviting me", no embarrassment....as if being the worst RSVPer is something to brag about!

I just don't get it. Freaking rude people-they have obviously never had to plan a party.

What really ticks me off is that these are people that are not really good friends, just neighbors that I see a lot, and I didn't want them to feel left out so I invited them to be nice.

I guess I should just be happy my friends are all coming but right now I am mad and stressed.

They should feel lucky to be invited to the best and funnest party ever!

Can you send an email telling them a specific date after which you will not be accepting any more RSVPs?

It's true, nobody RSVPs anymore...it is so rude. I think people like to see if they are going to get a "better offer."

Good luck with your party! It sounds like a blast.

I'd call them, and nicely, but pointedly, tell them they are one of 4 families you still need to hear from and that you are trying to figure out how much food to buy and how many tables to rent. Give them a deadline to let you know by. For instance, "I have to let the rental company know by Thursday."

Margo-will you call them for me?

Becky- there is no way there is going to be a better offer

Wouldn't that be great if I called saying I'm your "event planner"! LOL!

California Girl wrote:Wouldn't that be great if I called saying I'm your "event planner"! LOL!

love it.

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I throw a pretty large crab fest every summer. This year we had over 30 people. I have gotten it down to a science. Those who are notorious for NOT RSVP'ing are eliminated from the list for the next year. It has taken me 2 years but I've whittled it down to the keepers.

Might sound harsh but I invited 35 people this year and 33 RSVP'd w/in 2 weeks and all showed up.

In my mind if you don't have the courtesy to say yes or no or to pick up the phone and call me and explain the situation regarding your lack of response, then I don't feel the need to be polite to you. People are fast learners when you give them a little harsh medicine.

This is a good question and I think it is an old school type of manners thing. My wife is much better about these kinds of protocols than me -

Ok, we are down to 2 families- one is the rude one (the bad rsvp'er) and then the other family I will give a break because they are Korean and have been here just over a year and do not go to many parties.

I agree Flip Flop- call and say you don't know because...and you will let me know by ....that is so much better than no response. Let me know the situation and that you care enough to pick up the freaking phone.

And I had just said to Ned, no invitation for them next year.

Now Ned wants to invite 2 more new families that we met over the last month that we both hit it off at a party last weekend! Is this CRAZY.

We will be up in the 60's if they were to come.

I do have to say I like them.

We are already screwed, why not.

I never just put RSVP on an invitation, but something like, LOBSTER COUNT NEEDED BY [DATE] or PLEASE LET US KNOW YOU CAN COME BY [DATE]

Also, it really helps if you put an email address down for the response. I *DO* RSVP but hate talking on the phone and much prefer to write a response. And I notice most people RSVP that way, when I give them a choice.

Enjoy your party !

Manners seem to be archaic any more. It's sad. Whatever happened to etiquette lessons? I sound so old, but rude behaviour is just not acceptable, period.

Had our annual Caribbean Party in July. Had over 60 people there - and easily only 20 official rsvps.

It is, for sure, frustrating - don't want to have too much or (for sure) too little food/drink/space.

Common courtesy is gone.

VI

flip-flop wrote:I throw a pretty large crab fest every summer. This year we had over 30 people. I have gotten it down to a science. Those who are notorious for NOT RSVP'ing are eliminated from the list for the next year. It has taken me 2 years but I've whittled it down to the keepers.

Love this. Perfect.

What I find so amazing about this too is that the people I have called/asked today are not even phased-

Like how embarrassing, someone is having a party and inviting YOU, and they are having to call.

I would be SO apologetic if I got that call.

And I used to feel horrible if I replied as late as the last day to reply.

It does teach you how to be a better guest though!