Is it tacky to raffle a reward for a prompt RSVP?

I think this is pretty hilarious. It wouldn't offend me. But it depends on your event and your guests if "hilarious" is the vibe you're going for.

We think it's a GREAT idea! Instead of a gift card, how about a gift of "opportunity" so it doesn't cost you extra?

1. Special dance to their favorite song

2. Special photo with you and hubby

3. They get to go to the buffet FIRST, or they are first in line for cake.

4. They are seated in a special place at the ceremony or they get a good table at the reception.

We played at a wedding reception dinner where guests were seated according to when their RSVP's came in. Those who came in early were seated at the front, near the head table and dance floor, and had two bottles of wine on the table. They were served first.

Those who responded later got tables in the middle, further away, and only one bottle of wine for the table.

The folks who didn't RSVP but just showed up got seated at the very, very back tables. No wine for them! Serves them right - they got served last, and we felt they were lucky to get any food at all, since they didn't have the decency to RSVP.

good luck!

Haha first one returned got flowers. it has been a standing joke between us and it just happened to be her so I sent her flowers.

That idea cracks me up. I have never heard of anything like that. I am not sure that it will get people to respond any sooner The people that tend to lag are the people that would most likely lag for a raffle as well.

@Cindy - I like the one where they get to go to the buffet line first!

I hate it. How about just inviting people who really want to come without having to be bribed to let you know?

If people would just RSVP instead is assuming you will know, that would be different. But seriously, that is a really inventive idea. I do like the served first prize. It sounds like it would really work.

I wouldn't do it.

This is a pretty common thing at bridal showers here in Ontario (almost everyone I've been to has done this) but instead of a gift card it's usually a housewares type of gift (being as it's a shower, not wedding). I can say I've never heard of doing this for a wedding though, and that I would agree about the type of gift given. I like the "first in line at the buffet" idea...if you are having a formal event though I don't think it would work.

I like the idea. I say go for it. I think a gift certificate to your favorite restaurant is better than a gift card.

I agree with RayRay....

I say go ahead! It's your day. I would do maybe a gift card for the bride and grooms favorite place to eat, or something yins enjoy so its more about yins, Not just money. I'm doing something like this for my reception. We're giving every table a camera and a list of things to photograph. Whoever takes the photo then checks it off and signs there name. Then whoever gets the absolute best photo will receive a gift in there thank you card. So I love your idea!