One of the initial tasks you’ll encounter in planning your wedding is sending out save-the-dates. Save the Dates help you announce your upcoming nuptials in style and ensure that your loved ones mark their calendars for the big day. Naturally, as you approach this project, you may find yourself with more questions than answers. Don’t worry, we’ve got answers.
What’s the difference between Save the Dates and Invitations?
Let’s start by distinguishing between save-the-dates and wedding invitations. While both communicate your wedding date to guests, they serve distinct purposes. Save-the-dates are sent out earlier than invitations and are usually more concise and smaller in size. They simply inform guests of the date and request them to mark it on their calendars. As the name suggests, it’s a friendly prompt for guests to reserve the date!
What information do we include in our Save the Date?
While save the dates are less formal than wedding invitations, they should still include essential information to help your guests plan ahead. Be sure to include the date of your wedding, the location (if it’s already finalized), and a brief message announcing your upcoming nuptials. You can also include a link to your wedding website for additional details and updates.
Do we need to send Save the Dates?
The short answer is no. However, we recommend sending Save the Dates for several reasons. Family and friends will appreciate the heads-up so they can avoid scheduling something else on your big day. Plus, Save the Dates are a great way to get everyone excited about your wedding.
When do I send Save the Dates?
For a local wedding, it’s recommended to send out save-the-date cards about six to eight months before your special day. Following this timeline, wedding invitations should be dispatched approximately eight weeks prior to the wedding day. This early notice allows guests to make necessary arrangements, from travel plans to budgeting, and even arranging for time off work or childcare. Providing ample time ensures your loved ones can join in the celebration without any last-minute stress.
And what about destination weddings or those planned around major holidays? For these occasions, it’s best to extend the notice period by sending save-the-dates nine months to a year in advance. In fact, once you’ve secured your venue and set up your wedding website (along with any hotel room blocks), it’s a great idea to send out those save-the-dates as soon as possible. Your guests will appreciate the extra time to organize their travel arrangements, book flights, and secure accommodations, ensuring they can fully participate in your joyous celebration. After all, who wouldn’t welcome a little extra time to plan for such a momentous occasion?
Who receives a Save the Date?
Only send Save the Dates to guests who are definite invitees to your wedding. Avoid mailing save-the-dates to individuals on your B-list, as sending them a save-the-date creates an obligation to extend a wedding invitation. By adhering to this guideline, you maintain transparency and courtesy in your guest list management, ensuring that each recipient of a Save the Date receives a formal invitation to your special day.
What should I do before sending Save the Dates?
Before sending out your save-the-dates, it’s essential to have your wedding website up and running smoothly. Ensure that you’ve organized hotel blocks for your guests and have begun assembling your wedding registry. This preparation is particularly important in case any early-bird guests decide to book accommodations and send gifts ahead of time. While other sections of your website, such as the “How We Met” story or bios of your wedding party, may still be under construction, focusing on these crucial pages will greatly assist your guests in their planning process.
In Conclusion
With these considerations in mind, you’re well-equipped to embark on this joyous journey, surrounded by the love and support of your cherished friends and family. Happy planning, and here’s to a celebration filled with unforgettable moments and cherished memories!
Cheers to love, laughter, and happily ever after!
Michelle
