STATIONERY 101
Digital rsvps vs traditional cards
what works best?
Picture this: You’ve planned the ultimate western destination wedding—maybe it’s a chic ranch in Texas, a rustic lodge in Montana, or a breathtaking ceremony in front of the Tetons. Your invitations? Flawless. You mail them out, pop some champagne, and wait for the RSVPs to roll in…
But here’s the million-dollar question: Did you make RSVPing too easy? Or not easy enough?
Some people swear by traditional RSVP cards—because obviously a handwritten response feels more thoughtful and elegant. Others say digital RSVPs are the way to go—because who even uses a mailbox anymore?
So which one actually works? Let’s break it down.
The Case for Traditional RSVP Cards: Because Paper is Forever
If you’re the kind of bride who gets butterflies over handmade paper, letterpress printing, and wax seals, I already know what team you’re on. Traditional RSVP cards are classic, timeless, and let’s be real—they just hit different.
Why Traditional
RSVP Cards Work:
✔ They Set the Tone – A printed RSVP card isn’t just a piece of paper; it’s an experience. It tells your guests that this wedding is going to be something special.
✔ Perfect for Older Guests – You know your great-aunt and your grandparents aren’t scanning a QR code. A physical RSVP makes it easy for everyone to reply.
✔ Cohesive Invitation Suite Vibes – If you’re investing in custom wedding invitations, don’t skimp on the RSVP card! It completes the look and makes your suite feel polished.
✔ Easy to Gather Extra Info – Need guests to select a meal option? Add a plus-one? A paper RSVP card makes it simple.
The Downsides to
Traditional RSVP Cards:
X Some guests will forget to mail them back. (Looking at you, groomsmen.)
X Extra costs for printing & postage. (Because let’s be real, stamps aren’t free.)
X Tracking responses = you, manually counting cards like a 19th-century mail clerk.
.
The Case for Digital RSVPs: Because It’s 2025, Y’all
Let’s be honest—most people book their flights, order groceries, and even RSVP to birthday parties from their phones. A digital RSVP is easy, fast, and perfect for a destination wedding where guests are already planning travel.
Why Digital RSVPs Work:
✔ Instant Gratification – Guests can RSVP in seconds, no stamps or snail mail required.
✔ Effortless for Busy Guests – Whether they’re juggling work, travel, or just never check their mailbox, a digital RSVP makes responding quick and easy.
✔ Real-Time Tracking – Instead of waiting by the mailbox, you can see RSVP responses immediately in a spreadsheet, app, or wedding website.
The Downsides to Digital RSVPs:
X Lacks the formality and elegance of a classic RSVP card.
X Some guests may struggle with technology.
X People will open the RSVP link, say “I’ll do it later,” and then completely forget.
.
Final Verdict: What’s Right for You?
If you want to keep things luxurious and traditional, go for printed RSVP cards and give guests that full invitation experience.
If you want stress-free tracking and instant responses, digital RSVPs are a game-changer (especially for destination weddings!).
But honestly? Doing both could be the move for you! Want to know what that looks like? Need the perfect RSVP cards for your western wedding? Let’s create something as unforgettable as your big day. Click [here] to get started!
Experience the Anna Howe Design Difference
If you feel overwhelmed by the task of wedding invitations and choosing the right print mehod, we have good news: we’re here to help! With so much already on your plate in the wedding planning process, we exist to take the stress of design, timeline, etiquette, and production of your save the dates, invitations, and day-of paper goods off the table. AHD clients get one-on-one access to a designer to hold your hand through every step of the process as well as unlimited proofs until every single detail is perfect! If this sounds like something you’d be into, we’d love to hear from you! Fill out the form here to get started today!
Ready to work together on your dream invitations?
The first step is to fill out the inquiry form. You’ll get a no-strings-attached estimate back within 3 business days!
