Turn an RSVP list into a final headcount. COUNTIF tallies the “Yes” responses, and SUMIF totals the party sizes — including plus-ones — for the number you give the caterer.
The example
Yeses with party sizes summed.
| A | B | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Item | Value |
| 2 | Yes invites | 85 |
| 3 | Attending (w/ guests) | → 132 |
The formula
The formula:
How it works
How it works:
COUNTIF(rsvp, "Yes")counts the invitations that accepted.SUMIF(rsvp, "Yes", party_size)totals the actual headcount with plus-ones and family.- Track pending replies with
COUNTIF(rsvp, "")to chase stragglers. - Forecast a likely final count by assuming a response rate on the no-replies.
Counting invites ≠ counting guests. 85 accepted invitations can mean 130+ people once plus-ones and children are included. Always give the caterer the SUMIF of party sizes, not the COUNTIF of Yeses — under-counting here is the classic way to run short on plates and chairs.
Try it: interactive demo
Yes invites and average party size.
Variations
Count of acceptances
Invites, not guests:
Pending replies
Chase these:
Declined
Regrets:
Pitfalls & errors
Sum party size. Give caterers headcount (SUMIF), not invite count (COUNTIF).
Consistent answers. "Yes" must be spelled the same for COUNTIF/SUMIF.
Chase blanks. Non-responses need follow-up before the final count.
Practice workbook
Frequently asked questions
How do I count wedding guests from RSVPs in Excel?
How do I count just the acceptances?
How do I find who hasn't replied?
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