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 during peak travel seasons, send them 8 to 12 weeks in advance. If you're using save-the-date cards, these should go out 6 to 8 months ahead to help guests plan early. Consider factors like the RSVP deadline, which is usually 2 to 3 weeks before the wedding, and any guest travel requirements when deciding on timing.
save the dates
Save the dates are preliminary announcements used primarily for events like weddings, parties, or conferences. They inform invitees of the date and sometimes the location well in advance—often 6-12 months ahead—so people can reserve the time in their schedules before receiving the full invitation. Typically sent via cards, emails, or digital platforms, they include essential details like the event date, a brief message, and contact information, but not full specifics like dress code or RSVP details. This helps reduce conflicts and ensures higher attendance.
when do you send out wedding invitations with rsvp
Wedding invitations with RSVP are typically sent 6 to 8 weeks before the wedding date. The RSVP deadline is usually set for 2 to 4 weeks before the event to allow time for responses and planning. For destination weddings, send them 8 to 12 weeks in advance.
when to send save the dates
Save the dates for events like weddings should typically be sent 6 to 8 months in advance to give guests ample time to plan. For destination weddings or large gatherings, send them 8 to 12 months ahead to accommodate travel arrangements. Factors like holidays, popular dates, or guest availability may require earlier sending. Always follow up with formal invitations 6 to 8 weeks before the event.
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 used for a larger or more planned event, they are typically sent 1 to 3 months in advance to give guests enough time to arrange their schedules. For smaller parties, regular invitations sent 2 to 4 weeks ahead are often sufficient.
what is a save-the-date vs invitation
A save-the-date is a preliminary notice sent to inform guests about the date of an upcoming event, such as a wedding, allowing them to reserve the date in their schedules. It is typically sent 6-12 months in advance and includes only basic information like the date and possibly a photo or brief message, but it is not a formal invitation.
An invitation is a formal request for guests to attend the event, providing complete details such as the exact time, location, dress code, RSVP instructions, and any other relevant information. It is usually sent 6-8 weeks before the event.
The key differences are that a save-the-date serves to alert guests early and secure their availability, while an invitation confirms the event details and officially extends the invitation.
save the date cards
Save the date cards are preliminary announcements for events, most commonly weddings, sent to guests well in advance to notify them of the date and encourage them to reserve it in their schedules. They are typically mailed 6 to 12 months before the event and include essential details such as the date, time, location, and a brief message like "Save the date." This helps guests plan around conflicts before receiving the full invitation. Designs often feature simple, elegant graphics that may align with the event's theme, and they can be customized through online services, print shops, or DIY methods. Key etiquette includes sending them only to those likely to be invited and following up with formal invitations later.
when should you send out wedding invitations if no save the dates
If you didn't send save-the-dates, send wedding invitations 8 to 12 weeks before the wedding date. This gives guests enough time to receive the invitation, check their schedules, make travel arrangements if needed, and RSVP, which is typically due 3 to 4 weeks before the event. For destination weddings or holidays, consider sending them even earlier, around 12 weeks out, to accommodate planning.