When you’re planning a wedding, one of the first things you’ll want to do after choosing your date and venue is let your guests know. Enter: Save the Date cards. These little announcements are the first glimpse your guests get of your wedding plans, but what exactly are they, and how do you use them? Let’s break it down.
What are Save the Date Cards?
Save the Date cards are pre-invitation notices sent to your wedding guests to let them know about your upcoming wedding date and location. They act as a heads-up so your guests can mark their calendars, plan time off work, and make travel arrangements if needed.
Think of them as your wedding’s “coming soon” announcement before the official invitations arrive.
Why Are Save the Dates Important?
Save the Dates are especially useful if:
- You’re having a destination wedding.
- Many of your guests will be traveling from out of town.
- Your wedding falls on a holiday weekend or peak season.
- You want to give guests plenty of notice to plan and budget.
When Should You Send Save the Dates?
- Destination Weddings: 8-12 months before the wedding.
- Local Weddings: 6-8 months before the wedding.
Sending them too early might cause guests to forget, and sending them too late might leave them scrambling to adjust their schedules.
What Information Should Be Included on Save the Dates?
Save the Dates are simple and to the point. Include:
- Your Names (e.g., Emma & Jake)
- The Wedding Date (e.g., June 15, 2025)
- The Location (e.g., Chicago, IL)
- A Note Saying ‘Formal Invitation to Follow’
- (Optional) Wedding Website URL for early details
Do Save the Dates Have to Match the Wedding Theme?
Not necessarily! While some couples like to match their Save the Date cards to their overall wedding theme, others prefer a more casual or creative style. It’s entirely up to you.
Digital vs. Printed Save the Dates
- Printed Cards: Traditional, elegant, and can double as keepsakes.
- Digital Save the Dates: Eco-friendly, cost-effective, and perfect for tech-savvy guests.
Both options are valid—it just depends on your preference and budget.
Save the Date Etiquette Tips
- Only send Save the Dates to guests you are 100% sure you’re inviting.
- Make them clear and easy to read.
- Include your wedding website if you have one.
- Follow up with formal invitations closer to the wedding.
Fun Ideas for Save the Dates
- Magnet Cards: A fun, functional reminder.
- Photo Cards: Showcase your engagement photos.
- Custom Illustrations: A unique artistic touch.
- QR Code Links: Direct guests to your wedding website.
Final Thoughts
Save the Date cards set the stage for your wedding and give guests the time they need to prepare. Whether you go digital or stick with traditional printed cards, the most important thing is to send them early and include all the essential details.
So go ahead—pick your style, set your date, and let your guests mark their calendars for your big day!
