Rescheduling Your Wedding: Changing Dates On Invitations

Changing the date on a wedding invitation is a sensitive issue. The COVID-19 pandemic has forced many couples to postpone their weddings and send out change-the-date cards. It's important to inform your guests as soon as possible, and there are various ways to do this, from sending an email or text to mailing a physical card or even sending a digital version of your invitation with the new date. You can also update your wedding website to keep guests informed. When announcing a date change, it's a good idea to include a personal note and to be sympathetic to your guests' circumstances.

Communicating a date change to guests

Communicating a date change to your wedding guests can be a stressful task, but there are several ways to make the process easier. Here are some tips to help you navigate this challenging situation:

Informing Your Guests

It is essential to inform your guests about the date change as soon as possible. Be transparent and let them know that you are still eager for them to join the celebration on the new date. If you already have your stationer booked, check if they offer "change-the-date" designs or the option to create a digital version of your original invitation with the updated information.

Sending Out Notices

You can send out "change-the-date" cards, which are similar to "save-the-date" cards, to inform guests of the new wedding date. These cards are typically mailed out to guests who have received a "save-the-date" or a formal invitation. Be clear and concise in your wording, and include the new date, time, and location. If there are any changes to other details, such as the venue or dress code, be sure to mention them as well. You can also include a personal note wishing your guests well.

Using Digital Platforms

Consider using digital platforms such as email, WhatsApp, or text messages to communicate the date change. This option is more budget-friendly and eco-friendly. It also eliminates the hassle of gathering everyone's addresses, especially if people have moved recently. Digital platforms can also provide read receipts, so you know when your guests have received the information.

Updating Your Wedding Website

While your "change-the-date" notices are on their way, update your wedding website with the new details. This will keep your guests informed and allow them to refer to the website for any further updates or changes. Encourage your guests to check the website regularly for the latest information.

Requesting RSVPs Again

If you have already sent out original invitations and started collecting RSVPs, you will need to request RSVPs again for the new date. Some guests may not be able to make it, and others may have concerns about attending large gatherings due to health and safety reasons. Give your guests ample time to respond, considering the ever-changing circumstances.

Sample Wording for "Change-the-Date" Notices

• "We changed our date and can't wait to celebrate! Please join us on our new date, December 5th, 2021."
• "Love cannot be cancelled! We are getting married a little later than planned on July 5th, 2021."
• "What matters is our love – not the date! Due to the current situation, we are postponing our wedding to December 5th, 2021. We are looking forward to celebrating with all of you!"

Save-the-date cards

The minimum information to include on a save-the-date card is the couple's names and the wedding date. Most people also include the location, usually the city and state, and an indication that a formal invitation will follow. However, you can also include:

• The wedding website or social media page
• Travel and accommodation information, such as hotel details and transportation options
• Your wedding hashtag

If you've had to change your wedding date, you can send out "change-the-date" cards. These have become more common due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and it's recommended to send them out as soon as possible, especially if guests will need to rebook travel. You can also send a quick email or text to guests with the updated information and include a personal note.

Change-the-date card designs

Change-the-date cards are a great way to inform your guests about a change of plans and get them excited about your new wedding date. Here are some design ideas to consider:

Modern and Minimalist Designs:

• Opt for a simple and elegant design with a modern calligraphy font. Play with different font styles and sizes to create a visually appealing layout.
• Go for a minimalist look with a neutral colour palette, such as beige, ivory, or sage green. Add a touch of gold or rose gold foil for a hint of luxury.
• Try a modern abstract design with watercolour elements or geometric shapes. This can add a unique and creative touch to your cards.

Floral and Botanical Themes:

• Floral designs are always a popular choice for wedding stationery. Consider a watercolour floral wreath or a simple floral border.
• Botanical themes are also on-trend, featuring eucalyptus, olive branches, or wildflowers. These designs bring a natural and organic feel to your cards.
• For a bolder statement, try a floral deco design with vibrant colours and gold accents.

Personalised and Customisable Options:

• Include a photo of you and your partner to add a personal touch. This could be an engagement photo or a favourite snapshot from your relationship.
• Use online tools and platforms to customise your cards. Change the font, colour palette, and text to match your wedding theme and personality.
• Some websites offer complimentary design services to help you create your perfect change-the-date cards.

Practical Considerations:

• Consider including practical information such as hotel accommodations, discount codes, or travel details, especially for destination weddings.
• Add a link to your wedding website, gift registry, or honeymoon fund to provide guests with additional resources.
• Choose from printable cards or online digital formats, depending on your preference and budget.

Wording and tone

When it comes to the wording and tone of your wedding invitations, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, the level of formality you wish to convey will dictate the style of your invitation.

Formal Wording

The biggest hallmark of formal wording on wedding invitations is that everything is spelled out. Specifically, the date and time should be written out in full, avoiding numerals. Additionally, you should use the full names of the hosts and include the middle names of the individuals getting married. Here is an example:

> Mr. and Mrs. John L. Smith request the pleasure of your company at the marriage of their son Jack Alexander to Mason Jacob Kim Saturday, the seventeenth of August, two thousand twenty-four, at half after four at [venue name and address]. Reception to follow.

Casual Wording

For a more casual wedding, the request to attend can be more conversational, and numerals are typically used for the date and time. Here is an example:

> Jack Alexander Smith & Mason Jacob Kim invite you to share in their joy at their wedding. Saturday, August 17, 2024, at 4:30 in the afternoon at [venue name and address]. Reception to follow.

Change the Date Wording

In the unfortunate circumstance that you need to postpone your wedding, it is important to inform your guests as soon as possible. While you may be tempted to send this information electronically, experts recommend sending a physical "change-the-date" card to match the formality of the original invitation. Here are some wording examples:

> "We changed our date and can't wait to celebrate! Please join us on our new date, December 5th, 2021."

>

> "Love cannot be cancelled! We are getting married a little later than planned on July 5th, 2021."

>

> "We just don't want to celebrate without you! Therefore, we postpone our wedding to July 5th, 2021."

General Tips

Regardless of the tone you choose, there are a few key elements that should be included in your wedding invitations:

• The request to come to the wedding
• The names of the couple
• Reception information, including the date, time, and location
• Dress code (optional)

Remember to be concise, consider the host(s), and match the formality of the wording to the style of your wedding.

Sending methods

There are several ways to inform your guests about a change of date, ranging from formal to informal. Here are some options to consider:

• Physical Change-the-Date Cards: Sending a physical card is considered the formal and traditional way to inform your guests about the new date. Many retailers and stationers offer "change-the-date" designs, or you can include an insert with your original stationery if the rest of the details remain the same. Sending a physical card can be more costly and time-consuming, but it adds a personal touch and can be a cheeky and uplifting surprise for your guests.
• Email or Text: Sending an email or text message is a quick and efficient way to notify your guests, especially if you want to share the updated information as soon as it's confirmed. This method is less formal but ensures your guests receive the information promptly, which is essential if travel arrangements are involved.
• Wedding Website: Keeping your wedding website up to date is crucial, especially during uncertain times. Encouraging your guests to check the website for the latest information on dates, times, locations, and accommodation is a great way to keep everyone informed. This method ensures that all your guests have access to the same information simultaneously.
• Social Media Platforms: Platforms like WhatsApp or other messaging services can be used for a less formal approach. This method is useful if you want to send a quick message to a large number of guests simultaneously. However, it may not be suitable for guests who are not familiar with such platforms.
• E-Invites: Electronic invitations, or e-vites, are a budget-friendly and eco-friendly alternative to physical invitations. They can be just as stylish and allow you to convey your design vision digitally. Online invitation services also simplify the RSVP process for both the couple and their guests. Popular websites for digital wedding invitations include Greenvelope, Evite, Paperless Post, Bliss & Bone, and Riley & Grey.

Regardless of the sending method you choose, it is essential to inform your guests about the change of date as soon as possible, especially if they need to rebook travel arrangements. Aim to send out the new date information at least six to eight weeks before the new date, just as you would with an invitation.

Frequently asked questions