Save-the-date cards are an essential part of your wedding planning process. They give your guests an early heads-up to mark their calendars and make necessary travel arrangements. However, knowing when and how to send them can be a bit tricky. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the etiquette of sending save-the-dates.

When to Send Save-the-Dates

Timing is crucial when it comes to sending save-the-dates. You want to give your guests enough notice to plan but not so much that they forget about it. Here are some general guidelines:

• Destination Weddings: If you’re having a destination wedding, send save-the-dates 8 to 12 months in advance. This gives your guests ample time to book flights, accommodations, and arrange time off work.
• Local Weddings: For local weddings, aim to send them 6 to 8 months before the wedding. This still allows plenty of time for guests to plan and schedule.
• Holiday Weekends or Busy Seasons: If your wedding falls on a holiday weekend or during a busy season (like summer), consider sending save-the-dates 8 to 10 months in advance to ensure your guests can make the necessary arrangements.

How to Send Save-the-Dates

Save-the-dates can be sent in various ways, but here are some key points to keep in mind:

Format Options

1. Traditional Mail: Physical save-the-date cards are the most traditional and often preferred method. They can be beautifully designed and make a lovely keepsake for your guests.
2. Digital Save-the-Dates: Email save-the-dates are a modern, eco-friendly, and budget-conscious option. They can be just as beautiful and often come with the added convenience of being easily tracked.
3. Hybrid Approach: For a middle ground, you can send digital save-the-dates to your tech-savvy friends and family and physical cards to those who prefer a traditional touch.

Design and Information

• Design: Your save-the-date should reflect your wedding theme and style. Whether it’s elegant, rustic, modern, or whimsical, the design sets the tone for your big day.
• Essential Information: Include the following key details on your save-the-date:
• Your names
• The wedding date
• Location (city and state or country)
• A note that a formal invitation will follow
• Optional: wedding website URL for additional information

Who Should Receive Save-the-Dates

It’s essential to send save-the-dates to everyone you intend to invite to the wedding, including:

• Family members
• Close friends
• Out-of-town guests
• Plus-ones, if you’re allowing them (indicate this clearly on the save-the-date)

Make sure your guest list is finalized before sending out save-the-dates to avoid any potential awkwardness later on.

Save-the-Date Etiquette Tips

1. Proofread Carefully: Double-check all details, including names, dates, and locations, to ensure accuracy.
2. Address Correctly: Use full names and proper titles when addressing your save-the-dates. This adds a touch of formality and respect.
3. Avoid Overloading with Information: Keep the information concise. Save detailed instructions and additional information for the formal invitations or your wedding website.
4. Follow Up with Invitations: Send out your formal wedding invitations about 6 to 8 weeks before the wedding, or 3 months prior for destination weddings. This reaffirms the details and provides RSVP instructions.
5. Stay Consistent: Ensure the style and tone of your save-the-dates align with the rest of your wedding stationery for a cohesive look.

Save-the-dates are a crucial part of your wedding communication, providing guests with important information well in advance. By sending them at the right time and including all necessary details, you can help ensure your loved ones can join you on your special day. Whether you choose traditional mail or a digital option, your save-the-dates will set the stage for the celebrations to come, making sure everyone is as excited as you are about your wedding day.

Caroline Stiers is a Columbus, Ohio wedding photographer, NYC wedding photographer and destination wedding photographer specializing in curating a joyful experience while delivering candid, romantic, emotional imagery with an editorial flare.