RSVP deadline calculator
Pick your event and its date to get the day to send invitations, when to remind people, and the RSVP date to put on the invitation.
Your birthday party timeline
- Sat, Apr 24, 2027 Send invitations
- Wed, May 5, 2027 Remind anyone who hasn’t replied
- Sat, May 8, 2027 RSVP deadline
- Sat, May 15, 2027 Birthday party
Put this on the invitation
Kindly reply by Saturday, May 8.
When to send invitations, by occasion
The calculator uses these starting points. Each occasion page has more on timing, wording and what to include.
| Event | Send invitations | RSVP deadline | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wedding | 8 weeks before | 4 weeks before | Save-the-dates 6–12 months out, invitations 6–8 weeks before. |
| Baby shower | 5 weeks before | 10 days before | Replies 1–2 weeks ahead so food and favors can be confirmed. |
| Bridal shower | 5 weeks before | 2 weeks before | Invitations 4–6 weeks before. |
| Engagement party | 5 weeks before | 10 days before | Invitations 3–6 weeks before. |
| Anniversary party | 4 weeks before | 10 days before | Allow 6 weeks for a milestone or when guests travel. |
| Birthday party | 3 weeks before | 1 weeks before | Invitations 2–3 weeks before. |
| Kids’ birthday party | 3 weeks before | 6 days before | Earlier replies help if the venue charges per child. |
| Graduation party | 4 weeks before | 1 weeks before | Send 4–6 weeks ahead in May and June, when every family picks the same weekend. |
| Holiday party | about 4 weeks before | 10 days before | Send 4–6 weeks ahead for December dates. |
| Work event | 6 weeks before | 10 days before | Client events and conferences need more notice; match the venue's final-count deadline. |
| Cocktail party | 3 weeks before | 1 weeks before | Invitations 2–4 weeks before. |
| Casual party | about 3 weeks before | 5 days before | Invitations 2–3 weeks before. |
| Dinner party | 2 weeks before | 4 days before | Replies a few days ahead so you can shop. |
| Brunch | 10 days before | 3 days before | Earlier replies if the restaurant needs a booking. |
RSVP deadline questions
How far before the event should the RSVP deadline be?
A common rule is about a week before a birthday or casual party, 1–2 weeks before a shower or work event, and 3–4 weeks before a wedding. If a caterer or venue needs final numbers, set the RSVP date a couple of days before their deadline so you have time to follow up.
When should I send a reminder to guests who haven't replied?
Most hosts send one reminder about three days before the RSVP deadline. It catches people who meant to reply and forgot, without feeling pushy. A second nudge the day after the deadline is fine for anyone still missing when you need a headcount.
Do I need save-the-dates?
They're customary for weddings, sent 6–12 months ahead, and helpful for any event where many guests travel. For most parties and showers, an invitation sent with enough notice does the same job.
What date format should I use for the RSVP line?
Include the weekday and the date, such as "Kindly reply by Saturday, April 17." The weekday makes the deadline easier to remember and avoids confusion between date formats for international guests.
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