When Should We Send Save the Dates?

A crucial part of the wedding planning process is figuring out when to send your save the dates and wedding invitations. Your stationery set the tone for your big day and help guests prepare for the event, especially if it’s a destination wedding. Here’s a detailed timeline to guide you, ensuring that your friends and family have all the information they need to celebrate with you.

Save the Dates: Early Notices for Your Guests

Save the dates are the first official communication you’ll send to your guests. They’re not as detailed as invitations, but they share the essential information: the date and perhaps the location of your wedding. This early notice gives your guests plenty of time to mark their calendars, especially if your wedding requires travel or is in a busy season.

When Should We Send Our Save the Dates?

If your wedding is being held locally to you and your guests, send save the dates about eight months before the wedding. This gives guests ample time to plan without being too early to feel overwhelming.

Destination weddings require more advance notice so guests can make travel arrangements, take time off work, and budget for the trip. Send save the dates around twelve months before the wedding.

Key Tips for Save the Dates

- Include your names, wedding date, and location.

- If you have a wedding website, provide the URL for additional details.

- Make it clear that a formal invitation will follow.

- Avoid sharing too many details—save some surprises for the formal invitation!

Why Timing Matters

Sending your save-the-dates at the right time is about more than just being organised. It shows consideration for your guests’ schedules and helps them plan accordingly. Here’s why timing is crucial:

- The earlier you inform guests, the better chance they have of avoiding conflicts with other plans.

- Advance notice is critical for guests traveling from far away or abroad. Flights, accommodations, and annual leave days often require early planning.

- Sending communications at the right time builds anticipation and keeps your wedding top of mind without overwhelming guests.

Special Considerations for Destination Weddings

Guests attending a destination wedding must coordinate travel, accommodation, and potentially childcare or pet care. These logistics require a longer lead time to plan effectively. Here is a handy timeline guide:

12+ Months Before the Wedding: Send save the dates. Include the destination and encourage guests to book travel and accommodations early.

6-8 Months Before the Wedding: Provide travel information. Share flight recommendations, hotels and details about local attractions on your wedding website.

3-4 Months Before the Wedding: Send formal invitations with all the details.