This article was last updated on 06/09/2026.
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I’ve been designing wedding invitations for over ten years and it’s interesting to see how things have changed over time. In the 2010s, RSVP cards were considered a necessity with every printed invitation suite.
The standard set included the main invitation, a details card, an RSVP card, and a stamped, self-addressed return envelope. This was back when social media was still finding its feet and wedding websites were a newish concept. Now, WeddingWire’s 2020 Newlywed Report found that 79% of couples create a wedding website with RSVP tools while planning their wedding. That digital shift means the RSVP card isn’t carrying the same weight it used to.
So before you add another card to your invitation suite, it’s worth asking the obvious question. Do you actually need RSVP cards? Here’s my take: a standalone card isn’t necessary, but your invitation still needs to state your RSVP date and method somewhere.
When to include an RSVP card
A standalone RSVP card is still nice to include as part of an invitation suite, especially if your wedding leans more formal or traditional. In my experience, most couples I’ve designed for opt to have them but skip the full stamped-envelope version. They usually just get them printed with a QR code or wedding website address.
While most couples skip the mail-back version, it’s worth keeping if a good portion of your guest list is older or less comfortable replying online. A card they can fill in and post back removes the need to go online at all.
Printing RSVP details onto your invitation
If you’re looking to save paper, printing the RSVP details straight onto the invitation or details card skips the need for a standalone card entirely. A QR code, website address, or a simple line of text can sit comfortably alongside your other wedding details.
I’ve noticed this trend grow over the past four years, alongside rising costs of living. More couples are asking for double-sided invitations, with the invitation on one side and details, RSVP information and a QR code on the other. It’s a practical way to fit everything onto fewer pieces of card, without losing anything guests need to know.
Additional costs of printing RSVP cards
Basic RSVP cards start at around USD $1.50 each through print services like VistaPrint. For a 100-guest wedding, that’s an additional minimum cost of $150. Working with a bespoke stationer or choosing a special print finish, like letterpress or foil, pushes the price up further.
If you’re planning to go down the traditional route of asking your guests to fill in the card and post it back, it can add another $100+ for envelopes and stamps.
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If you’re looking to put an invitation suite together, here are a few of our editable templates that include a matching RSVP card if you decide to go that route. Our wedding invitation templates can also be designed double-sided. You can shop the rest of our wedding invitation templates here.
