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.
when to send save the dates and invitations
Save-the-dates should be sent 6-8 months in advance for weddings or events requiring travel, or 4-6 months ahead for local events, to give guests early notice for planning. Invitations are typically sent 6-8 weeks before the event, allowing enough time for RSVPs and arrangements, though for larger or destination events, they can go out 2-3 months early. Always consider factors like holidays or guest travel needs when setting timelines.
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.
do you have to send save the dates
Sending save-the-dates is not mandatory, but it's a common courtesy for events like weddings or large gatherings. They give guests early notice of the date, allowing them to plan ahead, especially if travel or scheduling conflicts are involved. While not required, they can help reduce no-shows and show consideration for your invitees. If your event is formal or has a distant date, it's often recommended to send them 6-8 months in advance.
when to send save the dates for destination wedding
For destination weddings, send save the dates 8-12 months in advance to allow guests enough time to plan travel, book accommodations, and request time off work. If the wedding is during a peak travel season or in a remote location, aim for the earlier end of that range to avoid conflicts and ensure better availability. Always include key details like the date, location, and a note about the destination in the save the date card.
when do you send out wedding invitations with rsvp
Wedding invitations with RSVP are typically sent 6 to 8 weeks before the wedding date. This allows guests enough time to receive, respond, and make arrangements. The RSVP deadline on the invitation should be set for 2 to 4 weeks before the wedding to give you time to finalize guest counts and vendor details. For destination weddings or holidays, consider sending them earlier, around 8 to 12 weeks in advance.
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.