The Ultimate Guide to Sending Save the Dates: Timing, Methods, and Design

The question is popped, the answer is yes, all the friends, family, and relatives have been informed of the big news … you’re getting married! But before you start fretting over seating charts and whether Aunt Carol will judge your dance moves, it's time to spread the word with the most fab Save the Dates!

Imagine sending out a little sneak peek of your wedding day wrapped in an envelope – that's your Save the Date! It's like the movie trailer that gets everyone talking before the blockbuster release. Keep scrolling to get the lowdown on creating Save the Dates that'll have your friends and family buzzing with excitement and circling your special day in their planners with a heart!

What is the etiquette for save-the-date for a wedding?

Sending save the dates is all about giving your guests a considerate heads-up! Make sure to include the essentials: your names, the wedding date, and the location, and send them out 6-8 months before the big day (a little earlier if it's a destination wedding). And hey, it's totally fine to let your personality shine— again, think of your save the date cards as a teaser trailer for the main event!

Other Save the Date Events: Birthdays, Graduation & More

While we're chatting about weddings here, the same rules do generally apply for other events, like a big birthday bash you want your friends and family to save the date for, or even other big life milestones like graduation parties and celebrations! You can even send save the dates for other wedding event announcements like bachelorette parties and bridal showers.

How long before a wedding should you send save the dates?

Well, think of it as giving your guests a head start to clear their schedules for your epic celebration. You want to send those babies out about 6 months in advance. If you’re planning a destination wedding (hello, romantic beach getaway!), aim for 8-12 months so folks can prep their passports and book their flights.

Destination Wedding Save the Dates

Exchanging vows on a sun-drenched beach or a scenic mountaintop? Save the dates for destination weddings should hit mailboxes a bit sooner. Aim for 8-12 months in advance. These cards will serve as the first official invitation to what promises to be an unforgettable part of your love story, allowing guests to handle their travel arrangements well ahead of time.

Local Wedding Save the Dates

For those whose love story will be celebrated closer to home, sending save the dates at 4-6 months before the wedding allows local guests to plan without the added stress of travel and accommodation booking. This consideration is particularly appreciated for events such as a bridal shower or a milestone birthday that may be scheduled near the big day.

How to Send Save the Dates

Snail Mail Magic:

Let’s go old-school and kick it with a classic - mailed save the dates, baby! Picture it: your guests are flipping through the usual bills and ads, and then bam! They find your epic save the date nestled in their mail pile. It's like finding a hidden Easter egg, but instead of chocolate, they get to see your smiling faces beaming up at them from a photo. It's personal, it's a little throwback, and hey, it gives that mailbox a break from junk mail!

Digital Save the Dates

Go green and sling those save the dates straight into the digital world with an email or e-vite that zings. Jazz up that e-vite with the cutest, funniest, or most adorable engagement pic you snapped. It’s like hitting "send" on a little bit of happiness. Bonus points for not confusing Grandma, though—make that link as big and as obvious as you can to make sure everyone knows where to click!

The Combo Move!

Can't decide between the charm of paper or the speed of pixels? Fuse 'em together and give your guests the ultimate save-the-date combo! Add a QR code alongside your fridge-worthy card, and bam – they’re teleported to your wedding wonderland website with a quick scan.Who says you can’t have your wedding cake and eat it too? 🍰

How to Create Save the Dates

Get ready to put the 'awe' in 'save the date' card design (I know that's not how it's spelled!)I– it's not just a card, it's the opening act to your wedding's main event! Think of this as the charming teaser trailer that has your guests counting down the days. Time to unleash your inner artist on platforms like Canva, or tumble down the Pinterest rabbit hole for inspos that'll have your card screaming 'You can't miss this party!'. Your save the date is gonna be so you, and so fun, it might just earn a spot on the fridge way past the big day!

How much is a save-the-date?

The cost can vary, but you can keep it low-key or go all out, depending on your budget. Paper cards can range from $1 to $5 each, and if you’re adding snazzy elements like photos or custom designs, the price may inch up. Going digital? That can save you some dollars (and trees), with some online services offering free templates or minimal fees. Fun fact, our pack of 20 cards is only $1.99/card ... and ready the same day!

Whose name goes first on save the dates?

Traditionally, it’s the bride’s name first (ladies first, after all!). So it’d be like “Jane & John are tying the knot.” But, hey, it’s 2023—do what feels right for you! If you prefer “John & Jane” or even a fun nickname mashup like "J&J", go for it! Your day, your rules! 🎉

What to Include in Save the Dates

The most essential information on a save the date card is, of course, the date itself, so don't forget to add that in to start off. Start by displaying the names of the couple, the date of the wedding, and the location, so that people know the 5 Ws! Add a personal flair with a lovely photo, and if possible, a hint of the celebration to come, be it an elegant reception, a casual backyard party, or a low-key gathering.

Feel free to stick on return address labels so that people know where the card is coming from, or you can even print out the address labels for your invitees, save yourself some hand cramps!

What kind of Save the Dates to send?

Cards vs Magnets: What Should You Choose for Save the Dates?

Alright, folks—it's showdown time: save the date cards versus magnets! Which one will steal the show? Let's break it down.

Magnets are a new option for save the dates, to make sure all your guests have the date in plain sight on their fridge! However, this option can cost a bit more than a traditional card.

Cards are the classic option, dating back to who knows when! This cheaper option is a better price point, but does have a little less of the ✨wow factor✨ versus the magnet.

Save the Date Designs

This about your wedding theme: are you a boho bride? Or more in your rustic wedding era? Whatever it is, make sure your save the date design matches your theme! Your wedding invitations should follow suit, as for all of the other paper and sign options in your wedding stationary!

It's the best way to get guests excited about your theme and the big day from the very first print!

The additional details will come later with the formal invitations, but think of this as the teaser that gets everyone excited! It's your moment to spark curiosity and anticipation for a day that's all about celebrating love, laughter, and, above all, the happy couple! So, send it with love and let the countdown to your special day begin. Congrats!