RSVP etiquette

[MsIcySparks]

Hi, everyone!

I just have a quick question, and it would help a lot if you could help me out with this one.

I love to throw parties, and always ask for an RSVP - wether the invited person is coming or not. And, as usual, less than half the people have actually given me a definate answer by the RSVP date. I have to start buying for the party and I need to know how many people are coming so I don't end up without enough food. I hate having to go chase everyone down, but obviously I have to. Is there a proper way to go about this?

[jamesglewisf]

I just hosted a party with about 65 people. I was having it catered, so this was a big issue for me also.

Basically, about 3-4 days before you need to know the answer, start calling or emailing people who haven't responded. Be very polite. Explain that you need a head-count for food purposes. If they apologize for not RSVPing, be gracious and say that you understand how busy things can get.

Here is some additional information:
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/northwestlife/2001806722_rsvp07.html
http://www.scholastic.com/familymatters/parentguides/birthday/partyetiquette.htm
http://www.twincities.com/mld/pioneerpress/living/7404388.htm

[Alec]

It frustrates me beyond belief that people don't have the common courtesy to RSVP when it is requested. {smash}

[Grimey]

Throwing catered parties is difficult. You feel kind of desperate because you don't want to waste money on food, but it is very embarrassing to run out of food also.

So on the other side of the story, what is the proper etiquette to follow if you forgot to RSVP, but you really intended to go? Do you call and tell them you won't be able to come? Do you call and tell them that you forgot to RSVP, but you really want to come so you'll stay away from the food? What do you do?