when to send wedding invitations
Wedding invitations are typically sent 6 to 8 weeks before the wedding date to give guests enough time to RSVP and make arrangements. For destination weddings, holidays, or events requiring travel, send them 8 to 12 weeks in advance. If using save-the-date cards, mail those 6 to 8 months ahead to allow guests to plan early. Always consider factors like guest proximity and peak seasons when deciding the timeline.
when do you send out save the dates for a birthday party
Save the dates for a birthday party are not as common as for weddings, but if you're hosting a large or special event, it's best to send them out 2 to 6 months in advance. This gives guests enough time to mark their calendars, especially for milestone birthdays or events requiring travel. Always consider the party's scale and your guests' availability when deciding.
when do you send out wedding invitations with rsvp
Wedding invitations with RSVP are typically sent 6 to 8 weeks before the wedding date. For destination weddings or holidays, send them 8 to 12 weeks in advance. Set the RSVP deadline for 2 to 3 weeks before the wedding to allow time for responses and planning.
when to send save the dates and invitations
Save-the-dates are typically sent 6 to 12 months before the event, especially for weddings or events requiring travel, to give guests early notice for planning. Invitations should be sent 6 to 8 weeks before the event to allow time for RSVPs and arrangements, though for destination events, send them 8 to 12 weeks in advance. Always consider the event type, guest location, and any holidays that might affect timing.
when should you send out wedding invitations if no save the dates
Send wedding invitations 8-12 weeks before the wedding if no save-the-dates have been sent, to give guests enough time to RSVP and make travel or other arrangements, especially for destination or holiday weddings. For local events, 6-8 weeks may suffice, but earlier is better to avoid conflicts.
when to send out save the dates for destination wedding
For a destination wedding, send out save the dates 8-12 months in advance. This timeline allows guests ample time to arrange travel, secure accommodations, obtain visas if needed, and plan time off work, especially for international locations. If the wedding falls during peak travel seasons or at a popular destination, aim for the earlier end of that range to avoid conflicts and help guests lock in better deals. Factors like the wedding date and guest demographics can influence this, so consider sending them even sooner if necessary. Always follow up with formal invitations 3-6 months before the event.
do you have to send save the dates
Sending save the dates is not mandatory, but it's a helpful practice for events like weddings or large gatherings. They give guests early notice of the date, allowing them to make travel or scheduling arrangements without committing to a formal invitation. If your event is far in advance or requires significant planning from attendees, it's often recommended to send them 6-8 months ahead. However, you can skip them if your guest list is small or the event is local. Ultimately, it's up to you based on your needs.
what is a save-the-date vs invitation
A save-the-date is a preliminary announcement sent well in advance, typically 6-12 months before an event like a wedding, to notify recipients of the date and encourage them to reserve it in their calendars. It often includes basic details but is not a formal invitation and does not require an immediate response.
An invitation is the official notice sent closer to the event, usually 6-8 weeks beforehand, that formally requests attendance and provides comprehensive information such as the exact time, location, dress code, RSVP instructions, and any additional details.
The key differences are that a save-the-date serves to alert people early and hold their spot, while an invitation confirms the event details and extends a formal welcome.