How to Turn down an Invitation Politely
For whatever reason you have to turn down the invitation. Yet you do not want to insult the person who invited you. Use the following strategies for turning down an invitation politely.
Thank the person
First you want them to know that you appreciate that they invited you to their party. Let them know that you are thankful by saying so. Do not go so overboard in this that they think you are acting falsely but be earnest. You might want to thank them even if you wish they had not invited you.
Portray that you wish you could go
No matter what your reason is, you want them to think that you wish you could go. You could be expressive in saying that you feel badly that you will not be able to be there. You can say that you are sorry that you cannot make it.
Explain why you cannot go (if the reason is helpful)
If there is a good reason why you cannot make the event, then say so. They will be much less likely to fault you if you explain that you have to work or were already invited to a party at the same time. If the reason is not good such as you just do not want to go or you would rather watch television instead, then you may just want to leave it that you cannot make it.
Wish them the best
You may want to end by saying that you hope that they have a great time. You can show that you are truly interested. If you will still be getting a gift to some sort of party, then you can mention this, which might help them not feel as bad. You can also ask that they tell you about how great it was when it is over.
You may want to turn down the invitation in person if at all possible. Show them that you are willing to make the time and effort. If you cannot, then you could give them a call. If they sent the invitation via the Internet, then it is okay to respond in like. If they sent out an electronic invitation or e-mail for instance, then you can still include the elements listed above such as thanking them, saying you are sorry that you cannot make it, etc.
Most people dislike having to give their regrets, but it happens to just about everyone. The above tactics can help you portray consideration when giving a negative RSVP.