DEAR ABBY: My youngest stepdaughter is being married in mid-June. Her father and I are hosting a catered reception following the ceremony. We did the same thing for his other two daughters.
We are requesting that guests RSVP two weeks before the big day. My fear is that people will do what they did for the other girls' weddings -- either fail to RSVP and then show up anyway, or RSVP that they're coming and then not attend.
The first time around, we planned for 100 and only 25 showed up -- causing wasted food and expense. For the next wedding, we planned only for the 40 who RSVP'd their acceptance -- and twice as many showed up! It was awful. Many guests didn't get to eat. How can we guarantee that people will RSVP and then follow through? My husband and I are already going to financial extremes to make this a memorable and happy event. -- STEPMOTHER OF THE BRIDE IN THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST
DEAR STEPMOTHER: Invited guests who have not responded should be called prior to notifying the caterers of the final count. If the task is daunting, several people should do the calling.
It's sad that in this day and age, people do not seem to understand the importance of responding promptly, and following through if they have given their word -- particularly when the affair involves a large financial commitment on the part of the host.