Save The Date And Wedding Invites: To Match Or Not?

Planning a wedding can be stressful, especially when it comes to sending out save-the-dates and wedding invitations. The short answer is that save-the-dates and wedding invites do not have to match. Save-the-dates are typically sent out 6 to 12 months before the wedding date, and they serve as an early announcement of the wedding date and location. They are more casual and do not need to include all the details of the wedding. On the other hand, wedding invitations are more formal and include specific information such as the ceremony time, venue address, and other event details. Couples can choose to have matching stationery for a coordinated look, but it is not necessary. Ultimately, it is up to the couple to decide whether they want their save-the-dates and wedding invites to match, and there is no right or wrong answer.

Save-the-dates and wedding invites don't have to match

Save-the-dates are typically sent 6-12 months before the wedding date, and sometimes even earlier if it's a destination wedding. This gives your guests enough time to book travel and accommodation. The wedding invitation, on the other hand, is sent much later, usually 6-8 weeks before the wedding, and includes the venue information, date and time of the wedding and reception, and any other important details.

Since save-the-dates are sent so far in advance, it's possible that you won't have your wedding theme or style finalized yet. This means that your save-the-dates and wedding invites don't have to match in style or colour palette. In fact, it's a good idea to keep the two separate so that your save-the-dates don't spoil the surprise of your main invites if you have a unique design in mind.

If you're not sure about your wedding style yet, it's best to choose a simple design for your save-the-dates. You can also use save-the-dates as a way to show off your personalities and have fun with them. They are typically pretty casual compared to the wedding invitation.

There are no rules when it comes to matching your save-the-dates and wedding invites, so it's entirely up to you!

Save-the-dates are the little sister to your official invite

Save-the-dates are a good idea if you are having a destination wedding or getting married over a holiday weekend, as they give your guests enough time to book travel and save money. They are also a polite way to ensure your guests don't double-book with another event.

The save-the-date card should include the names of the couple, the city the wedding will take place in, and the wedding date. You can also include a link to your wedding website, which can be updated with more details as the date approaches.

Save-the-dates don't have to match your wedding invitations, but they can be designed to coordinate with your wedding stationery if you wish. If you don't have your wedding theme or style finalized when you send out your save-the-dates, you can choose a simple style or something fun and casual that reflects your personalities.

Send save-the-dates 6-12 months in advance

Sending save-the-date cards is a great way to let guests know your wedding date in advance so they can plan their attendance. It is recommended to send save-the-dates 8 to 12 months before your wedding, and even earlier for a destination wedding. This gives guests enough time to make travel plans, save money, and request time off work. Sending save-the-dates too early, however, can also be a problem as people may forget or it may be too early for them to plan.

When creating your save-the-date cards, it is important to include the following vital information: the fact that you are getting married, your wedding date, and the location (city and state). You may also include your wedding website, but this is not necessary. Be clear about who is invited, and if you know that you want a guest to bring a plus one, add this to the card as well. It is also important to only send save-the-dates to those guests you definitely want to invite to the wedding, as you cannot take it back once it's been sent.

Save-the-date cards do not need to match your wedding invitations. They are considered a separate entity from the rest of your wedding stationery, so you can have fun and inject your personality into the design. You can choose a simple style or match your save-the-date to your wedding invitation for a coordinated look.

Include your names, location, date and a comment on the save-the-date

Save-the-date cards are optional, but they are a good idea if you want to ensure your guests can attend your wedding. They are typically sent four to twelve months before your wedding date, and they give your guests a heads-up that they are invited. This is especially important if you are having a destination wedding or getting married over a holiday weekend.

Your save-the-date cards should include your names, the location, the date, and a comment indicating that a formal invitation will follow. You can also include a link to your wedding website, travel details, and information about plus-ones and children. It is not necessary for your save-the-date cards to match your wedding invitations in style or theme. In fact, it is perfectly acceptable to be creative and have fun with your save-the-date cards. You can include a photo of the happy couple or a drawing of the wedding location.

"Save the date for the wedding of [your names] in [city/town name] on [date]. More details to come!"

"Mark your calendars! [Your names] are getting married in [city/town name] on [date]. Formal invitation to follow."

"You're invited to celebrate the wedding of [your names] in [city/town name] on [date]. Stay tuned for more information."

Remember, the purpose of the save-the-date is to give your guests advanced notice so they can plan to attend your wedding. By including the essential information and sending it out early, you'll be well on your way to ensuring your loved ones can share your special day.

Send invites 8-12 weeks before the wedding

Sending out your wedding invites is an exciting step in the wedding planning process! But it can be tricky to know the best time to send them out. The general rule of thumb is to send your wedding invitations out six to eight weeks before your wedding date. This gives your guests enough time to RSVP and make any necessary travel arrangements.

However, if you're planning a destination wedding or have a large number of international guests, it's a good idea to add a few weeks to this timeline. Aim to send your invites around 12 weeks before your wedding date to give your guests ample time to prepare.

It's also worth noting that you don't want to send your invites too early. While it's a good idea to send your save-the-date cards out 6-12 months in advance, sending your official invitations 4-6 months early may cause them to get lost or for your guests to forget the date.

So, to ensure your guests have all the information they need and to avoid any last-minute stresses, sending your invitations 8-12 weeks before your wedding is ideal. This will give you plenty of time to receive RSVPs and finalise your planning details, such as the seating chart and menu selections.

Happy planning and enjoy your special day!

Frequently asked questions