For most weddings, the ideal timeframe for guests to RSVP is 3-4 weeks before your wedding date. This timeframe offers several benefits:

A wonderful idea to add to the RSVP would be to ask for the person’s favorite dance song!
This wonderful credit shout out, goes to my friend Mel Minitor from Aiken Bridal and LightStream LSWeddinDJ in Aiken SC....
In adding a person‘s favorite song to the RSVP that you received back, will only help create the night to be a beautiful inclusion of your wonderful guests!

The list of song requests can be given to the DJ or band prior to the reception.

RSVP enough time for guests: It gives guests sufficient time to plan for travel, childcare, or other arrangements they might need to make to attend.

Finalizing details: It allows you ample time to finalize details with vendors like your caterer who often require a final headcount closer to the wedding date.

Not too soon or late: It strikes a balance between giving guests enough time without sending invitations so early that guests might forget about them.

However, there are some circumstances where you might need to adjust this timeframe:

Destination weddings: If your wedding requires guests to travel, consider setting the RSVP deadline 2 months before the wedding. This gives them more time to book flights and accommodations.

Short notice invitations: In rare cases, you might send invitations with a shorter timeframe due to unforeseen circumstances. If so, politely explain the situation on the invitation and set a reasonable deadline (e.g., 2 weeks) considering the shorter notice.

On your invitation, make sure to clearly state the RSVP deadline using the phrase "RSVP by" followed by the date. You can include this information on the reply card or online RSVP platform you're using… (and don’t forget to include the favorite song!)