Is this REALLY the norm?

[DaliceNelson1169]

Okay, I asked a similar question around my daughter's birthday last year, but it's that time of year again and I am (again) incredulous. 9 kids from her preschool are invited to her 5th birthday party. We are having it at our house, this Saturday. Of the 9, a whopping 3 have RSVPed. I put reminders to the parents in the kids' cubbies this morning.My question is: WHY don't people RSVP anymore? When did this become okay? Also, does a no-call mean they are or are not coming. Last year 3 didn't call (even with reminders sent home) and those 3 did NOT come, but I do know that some people feel that RSVPs are regrets-only, so maybe they are coming?Sorry to seem so anal retentive about this but I need to know how many prizes to get, how much food, etc. and I am really surprised about the lack of common courtesy. I KNOW all about being busy, but I always find time to make a phone call./rant

[pregnantwith3duenov21]

Its called common courtesy and they need to know when to use it............You are right to be upset.

[msmama7780]

I couldn't agree with you more, and I don't understand why people don't RSVP these days either.All we can do is be courteous enough to RSVP when we are requested to, and raise our children to know that this is the right thing to do!

[RebeccaC0319]

I completely understand how you feel! For our daughter we invited over 20 children - from her pre-k, the after school day care and family and friends... up until about a week before maybe 5-8 had RSVP'd and there were still people that called the night before... and we had it at a place and had entertainment coming, food, etc to plan for... even some FAMILY did not bother calling! :PI always try to RSVP the same week my kids receive an invite, and put it on the calendar right away if we're going. It takes what? 5 minutes? Less!

[Betsy3208]

It seems to have become normal and I am just as disgusted as you by it. For our second borns first party we had a total of about 50 people invited, with only 9 or 10 confirming one way or the other. For his second birthday a few weeks ago, 30 invited with even less confirming. Some showed, some didn't. Too much aggravation. I think I'll keep a list of those that actually call and until he is old enough to make his own list, that's the list I will use. Seriosuly far too much wasted time and money for the inconsideration.

[menotyou1413]

I had the same problem with my sons party. Although, we had it at his school, so I'm assuming parents didn't RSVP because I was supposed to know that their kids would be at school.Anywho, I think it is very rude. I would plan on having enougth food, goodies bags, etc. for all the kids invited.When they show up at your house, you could say something like "Oh, Johnny (or whatever the child's name is), I didn't know you'd be here" Hopefully, the parents get the point!!!Good luck with the party PS-glad to see your back on-line, haven't seen you for awhile, hope all is well

[SavedbyGrace]

why don't you just call each parent?

[LilBit3203554]

I know what you mean. I'm getting married this September. Aside from my mom, dad and brother, only one of my relatives have RSVP'd. I am going to have to make phone calls to get a head count.What's with the thumbs down? Oh well.My point is just that it does seem to be common these days that people don't respond.

[Another8671]

Well, now that you've experienced this twice, next year you have to make it your job (unfortunately) to get replies. Instead of putting "RSVP 555-8585", you have to word it more clearly. "Please let us know whether or not you'll attend" or something to your satisfaction.As for this year, I've had similar situations, and what I've done in the past is simply call the people in question and ask them outright, while cleverly reminding them that they neglected to RSVP as they should have.Good luck.

[Nina8660]

That drives me crazy too! It only takes 1 minute of your time to call and RSVP. At my sons 2 and 3 year birthday party, we invited the kids in his class from daycare also. Both times, only a few came and RSVPed. Of the ones that didn't show up, they never did call to RSVP. I think when preparing for food, goodie bags, etc, I would have enough for 1 extra. I've learned the ones that don't call most likely will not show up.