So I sent out the invitations Friday when should I receive a response???

[NotInTheMood]

Feeling nervous that no one is going to come or reply :-( . Ds has invited 14 and it's a swimming pool party for 8-9 year olds.

How far away is the party?

Lots of people are crap at replying even if they want to come.

I usually chase about a week before in a 'can you let me know if your child can make it as I have to on confirm numbers/order food'

My experience is that some reply very quickly (within a few days) and the rest at the last minute (after reminder), and none in between.

It will have been 2wks yesterday had one reply this morning saying they couldn't make it so another 13 to go.

I tend to reply as soon as I get the invite - so I don't forget to do it.

IME it varies a lot though. I always chase when there is a week to go. I use the excuse that I need numbers for the venue or food. Luckily never had anyone just turn up with no reply prior.

When they turn up on the day.....

Into experience, any time, up to and including the day of the party.

Ask ds to ask the children, at that age I would expect them to know and if they say they don't know or are coming then he needs to ask them to tell their parents to reply.