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 or events during holidays, send them 8 to 12 weeks in advance to account for travel planning. If you're using save-the-date cards, these should go out 6 to 8 months ahead, especially for out-of-town guests. Factors like the wedding size, guest location, and any related events (such as bridal showers) may influence the timing, so aim for an RSVP deadline 2 to 3 weeks before the wedding to finalize details.
when to send save the dates and invitations
For save-the-dates, send them 6 to 12 months before the event to give guests early notice, especially for weddings, destination events, or holidays. For invitations, send them 6 to 8 weeks in advance to allow time for RSVPs, though you may send them earlier for peak travel seasons or international guests. Always consider the event type and guest locations when deciding exact timing.
when to send out save the dates for destination wedding
For destination weddings, send save the dates 8 to 12 months in advance of the wedding date. This timeframe allows guests to arrange travel, book accommodations, and request time off work, given the extra planning involved. Factors like peak travel seasons or international locations may warrant sending them even earlier, such as 12 to 18 months ahead, to secure better options for everyone. 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 save the dates for a birthday party
Save the dates for a birthday party are not as common as for weddings, but they can be useful for larger or more elaborate events. Generally, send them out 2 to 6 months in advance to give guests enough time to mark their calendars, especially if the party involves travel, special arrangements, or conflicts with holidays. For smaller gatherings, a simple invitation sent 4 to 8 weeks ahead might suffice instead.
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 respond, with the RSVP deadline usually set for 2 to 4 weeks before the event to help with final planning. For destination weddings or holidays, send 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 that time in their schedules. It is typically sent 6-12 months in advance and includes only basic details like the date and possibly a general idea of the event.
An invitation is the formal announcement that provides complete information about the event, including the exact date, time, location, dress code, RSVP details, and any other specifics. It is usually sent 6-8 weeks before the event.
The key differences are that a save-the-date serves to secure the date early with minimal information, while an invitation formally extends the invite and supplies all necessary details for attendance.
do you have to send save the dates
No, you don't have to send save the dates, but they're often recommended for weddings or events planned far in advance to help guests reserve the date on their calendars. It's more of a courtesy than a requirement.
save the date cards
Save the date cards are preliminary announcements used primarily for events like weddings, parties, or conferences to inform guests of the date and basic details well in advance. They are typically sent 4 to 12 months before the event, allowing recipients to reserve the date in their calendars and avoid conflicts. These cards usually include the event's date, time, location, and sometimes a brief note or theme, but not full details like dress code or RSVP information, which are covered in a later formal invitation. They are often designed to match the event's style and can be sent via mail, email, or digital platforms.