Save The Dates: To Match Or Not To Match Wedding Colors?

There's no requirement for save-the-date cards to match your wedding colours. In fact, it's common for them to be different, as they're often sent out before the wedding's colour scheme has been decided. Save-the-date cards are usually more casual than wedding invitations, and they're a chance to be creative and playful. However, some couples do prefer to match their save-the-date cards to their wedding colours, and this can be a good way to build anticipation for the big day.

Save-the-date cards are casual and usually contain one or two pieces of key information

Save-the-date cards can be a great way to showcase the couple's personalities and get guests excited for the occasion. They can be playful, quirky, or creative, and don't have to be too formal. For example, they can be designed as magnets, or in the style of a newspaper article. They can also include engagement photos, or photos of the couple with their pets.

While it's not necessary, some couples may prefer to have their save-the-date cards match their wedding invitations. This can create a cohesive and coordinated look for the wedding stationery. However, it's not required by etiquette experts, and guests are unlikely to notice or care whether the save-the-date cards match the wedding colours or theme. Ultimately, the decision is up to the couple and what they prefer.

Wedding invitations are more formal and fill in the blanks on venue address, ceremony time, dress code and theme

Wedding invitations are more formal than save-the-date cards and are used to fill in the blanks on venue address, ceremony time, dress code and theme. While it is not necessary for save-the-date cards and wedding invitations to have matching designs or colours, they can be coordinated if desired.

The venue address should be included on the wedding invitation, unless the wedding is taking place at the host's home. In this case, the street address is not required, but the city and state should be included. If the ceremony and reception are held in the same location, the invitation can simply state "reception to follow". If the reception is at a different venue, the location should be included beneath the ceremony details or on a separate reception card.

The time of the ceremony should also be included on the wedding invitation. It is not considered good etiquette to put an earlier time on the invitation than the actual start time. The use of "o'clock" or "half after five o'clock" is preferred over numerals for formal weddings.

The dress code can be included on the bottom of the invitation or on a separate details card. Examples of dress codes include "black tie", "cocktail attire" or "dress casual". If the dress code is not explicitly stated, the invitation design can provide clues as to the formality of the event.

The theme of the wedding can be outlined or hinted at on the invitation. This could be done through the use of specific colours or motifs.

Save-the-date cards can be playful and creative

Save-the-date cards are usually sent 9-12 months before the wedding date, and it's common for couples to be unsure of their wedding theme at this stage. This means that save-the-date cards don't have to match the colour scheme of the wedding, and can be playful and creative.

Save-the-date cards are typically casual, so have fun with them! They can be playful and creative, and are a great way to show off your personality. Play with colours, motifs, or fonts to create something that will get your guests excited for the occasion.

For example, you could choose a unique design that shares details about when you and your partner were born, when you met, and when you got engaged. Or, you could opt for a fun format, like a magnet or a postcard, or include a joke or a cute story about your relationship.

You can also use save-the-date cards to introduce yourselves as a couple to guests who might know you from your childhood. This is a great opportunity to showcase your relationship in a unique and interesting way.

Remember, save-the-date cards are just a quick way to let guests know about your upcoming wedding and to keep their calendars clear, so don't stress too much about matching a specific colour scheme.

It's common for save-the-date cards and wedding invitations to be at odds with each other design-wise

When it comes to wedding planning, there are many decisions to be made, and one of the first is choosing the perfect stationery for "save the date" cards and wedding invitations. While some couples opt for matching designs, it is not a requirement, and it is common for these two types of wedding stationery to be at odds with each other design-wise. Here are some reasons why:

Creative Freedom and Fun

Save-the-date cards are typically sent out 9-12 months before the wedding, and they serve as an early announcement to give guests a heads-up about the wedding date and location. As they are one of the first items on the wedding planning checklist, it is expected that the couple might not have finalised their wedding theme, colour scheme, or venue at this stage. Save-the-date cards provide an opportunity to be creative and have fun with the design, reflecting the couple's personalities. They are usually more casual and playful, and there is no expectation for them to match the formal invitations that come later.

Changing Minds and Flexibility

It is not uncommon for couples to change their minds about their wedding theme, colour palette, or overall aesthetic vision. By choosing a save-the-date design that is different from the wedding invitations, couples allow themselves the flexibility to make changes down the road without worrying about everything matching. This is especially relevant since save-the-date cards are often sent out months in advance, leaving room for changes in plans or inspiration.

Emphasising the Occasion

While save-the-date cards are lighthearted and playful, wedding invitations are the more formal follow-up. Wedding invitations are typically more elegant and sophisticated, filling in the details about the venue, time, dress code, and theme of the wedding. This shift in design tone from the save-the-date to the invitation helps build anticipation and emphasises the importance of the occasion.

Practical Considerations

In practical terms, there is no rule that save-the-date cards and wedding invitations must match. Etiquette experts agree that it is perfectly acceptable for them to be different, and guests will not be surprised by this. Additionally, save-the-date cards are often kept on the fridge or displayed for a few months, while wedding invitations are usually kept as more of a keepsake, so having two distinct designs can add to the excitement and anticipation of the wedding.

In conclusion, it is common and expected for save-the-date cards and wedding invitations to differ in design. Couples should feel free to embrace their creativity and flexibility when choosing their wedding stationery, as it is an opportunity to showcase their personalities and set the tone for their special day.

You can choose a save-the-date card design that fits your wedding theme

Save-the-date cards are typically sent 9-12 months before the wedding date, and it's possible that you won't have your wedding theme or style nailed down by then. If you're not ready to match your save-the-date card to your wedding theme, you can choose a simple style. A simple photo save-the-date card is super affordable and beautiful. You can add a photo and update the custom text to create a save-the-date card that matches any wedding style.

If you have a vision for your wedding style, you can match all your wedding stationery to create a flawless presentation. For example, if you're planning a rustic wedding, you can choose a save-the-date card with rustic details. If you're planning a vintage-style wedding, you might opt for a vintage postcard with rustic details. Or, if you're planning a formal wedding, you might choose a formal save-the-date card design that echoes your elegant wedding day.

You can also use save-the-date cards as a way to showcase your personality. Since they are typically pretty casual compared to wedding invitations, you can have fun with them. Play with colours, motifs, or fonts to create something that will get your guests excited for the occasion.

If you know what you want, picking out everything at once for a perfect match is a great way to take control of your wedding planning. You can follow a similar style, tone, or theme across your save-the-date cards, wedding invites, and other matching cards.

Frequently asked questions