Sending Love Ahead: The Complete Guide to Save the Date Etiquette
Congratulations, you’re engaged! As you begin planning your wedding, one of the first steps is to announce your big day to friends and family with save the dates. But before you rush to the printer, it’s important to understand the ins and outs of save the date etiquette. From timing to wording to addressing, we’ve got you covered with everything you need to know in this comprehensive guide.
Timing is Key
Save the dates should be sent out six to eight months before your wedding date, or even earlier if you’re planning a destination wedding or a wedding during peak season. This gives your guests plenty of time to mark their calendars and make any necessary travel arrangements.
Who Gets a Save the Date?
While it’s tempting to send save the dates to everyone you know, it’s important to remember that they’re not formal invitations and they are not the same as announcements. Save the dates should only be sent to the people that you will be inviting to your wedding through sending a formal invitation closer to hte wedding date. Remember, save the dates are meant to give your invited guests a heads up that they will be invited so they can begin making arrangements, especially for those that will need to take time off work or travel.
Keep it Concise
Save the dates should include the basic details of your wedding – the date, the location (city and state is sufficient), and a brief note that a formal invitation will follow. Avoid including registry information or too many details, as save the dates are meant to be a teaser for your formal invitation. You should also avoid including any kind of RSVP on a save the date; remember these are just a heads up to those that will be invited, not any form of formal invitation.
Get Creative with Design
While save the dates should be clear and informative, that doesn’t mean they have to be boring! Have fun with the design and choose a style that reflects the vibe of your wedding. Whether it’s a classic card, a magnet, or a quirky postcard, let your personalities shine through.
Addressing Your Save the Dates
When addressing your save the dates, be sure to use proper etiquette. Handwrite the addresses for a personal touch, and be sure to use titles and full names for formal recipients. If you’re inviting a family, address the envelope to the parents and include the children’s names on the inner envelope.
Electronic Save the Dates
In today’s digital age, electronic save the dates are becoming increasingly popular. While they can be a convenient and eco-friendly option, it’s important to consider your guest list and whether electronic save the dates are appropriate for your audience. If you do opt for electronic save the dates, be sure to follow the same etiquette as you would with paper save the dates. Find digital save the dates at etsy.com/shop/rcpaperie
Follow Up with Formal Invitation
Finally, be sure to follow up your save the dates with formal invitations six to eight weeks before your wedding date. Formal invitations should include all the details of your wedding, including RSVP information, accommodations, and any additional events.
Save the dates are an exciting first step in your wedding planning journey, and getting the etiquette right is key to ensuring a smooth and stress-free process. By following these guidelines, you’ll be well on your way to announcing your big day in style and setting the stage for a celebration to remember.
