Regrets or Directions
555-1212 (their phone number)

I take it that means Regrets only, right? So, there is no need to call if we are going, right?

I did think about calling to see what we could bring in the way of food but we are going to be out that day, and I don't want to have to rearrange things to bring something special she would like. I'd hate to offer and then have to say no to something. I would rather just make in advance and bring a hostess gift (like some bread or cookies). If it makes any difference, I hardly know her.

So, do I need to call???? Thanks.

Second, I have to admit, I have never really talked to this woman before and I'm not even sure she knows who I am. She is a parent of a child in my kid's class and I guess I just don't feel comfortable calling her if it's not needed. I wouldln't think twice if it were a friend or relative. It's just a strange predicament for me, and I wanted to make sure I was understanding the invitation correctly.

Thanks for your advice.

"Regrets or Directions" almost implies to me that she does want a call if you're coming -- she expects those who ARE coming to call for directions.

I'm not sure I understand your hesitancy. She may not know you but assuming she addressed the invitations, you're surely on her list. Sort of like when you give a shower, bridal or baby, you might not know all the people the bride/mother-to-be has invited, but you have a list of their names so you can check off the RSVPs.

I think I'd call and say, Hi, this is carla35. I wanted to thank you for your invitation and let you know that mr. carla35 and I will attend. We look forward to seeing you.

Nothing confusing about that.

I have to admit, I never use it. I much prefer to know my invitations are received.

I really don't think she expects everyone to call for the "directions" -- do people still do that with the inventions of "driving directions"? This is a school related party and we all live in like a one or two mile radius of the school...almost everyone knows every neighborhood and street around here. I would feel absolutely stupid asking for directions.

I guess it wouldn't really hurt to call. But, I'm just leaning away from it. I really don't want to have to offer to bring anything and if I call would feel compelled to. And, I think this is the same family that had a pool party years back that sent home a flyer with my son about the party. We couldn't go, so I called to tell her, and she acted like I was odd for calling to tell her we couldn't make it.

I guess I'm not after what's the "best" thing to do, I just want to make sure I'm not doing the "wrong" thing by not calling.

Thanks again; I don't usually have so much trouble with RSVPing!

emily post, the "authority" on etiquette states:

1. RSVP
From the French, it means "Répondez, s’il vous plaît," or, "Please reply." This little code has been around for a long time and it’s definitely telling you that your hosts want to know if you are attending. Reply promptly, within a day or two of receiving an invitation.

2. How do I respond? Reply in the manner indicated on the invitation.

RSVP and no response card: a handwritten response to the host at the return address on the envelope.
Response Card: fill in and reply by the date indicated and return in the enclosed envelope.
RSVP with phone number: telephone and make sure to speak in person – answering machines can be unreliable.
RSVP with email: you may accept or decline electronically.
Regrets only: reply only if you cannot attend. If your host doesn’t hear from you, he is expecting you!
No reply requested? Unusual, but it is always polite to let someone know your intentions. A phone call would be sufficient.

enjoy the party!
maryanne