When to Send: Save the Date Strategies for Your Big Day

12/29/2024

When to send out wedding save the dates reddit


The age-old question of when to send out wedding save-the-dates!

According to Reddit users, here are some general guidelines on when to send out wedding save-the-dates:

1. **6-12 months before the wedding**: This is a common range mentioned by many Redditors. It gives guests plenty of time to clear their schedules and make travel arrangements.
2. **9-18 months before the wedding**: Some users suggest sending save-the-dates even earlier, especially if you're having an out-of-town wedding or want to give guests extra notice.
3. **When you've got a lot of out-of-towners coming**: If many of your guests will be traveling from afar, it's best to send save-the-dates well in advance (6-12 months) to ensure they can make the necessary arrangements.

Some Reddit users also shared their own experiences and tips:

* Send save-the-dates as soon as you've set a firm date for your wedding.
* Consider sending them out with a "save-the-date" card, which includes all the essential details (date, time, location) and leaves the formal invitation for later.
* Make sure to include an RSVP deadline on your save-the-dates to give guests a sense of urgency.

Remember that every couple is different, and what works for one may not work for another. Ultimately, choose a timeline that feels right for you and your partner, considering factors like guest list size, travel requirements, and personal preferences.

Sources:

* Reddit threads: "When should I send out wedding save-the-dates?" (r/weddingplanning) and "How far in advance do people usually send out save-the-dates?" (r/AskReddit)
* Wedding planning websites and blogs: The Knot, Brides, and Martha Stewart Weddings


When to send wedding invitations


Sending out wedding invitations at the right time is crucial to ensure your guests have ample time to clear their schedules and make travel arrangements. Here are some general guidelines:

**When to Send Wedding Invitations:**

1. **6-8 months before the wedding**: If you're planning a destination wedding, formal event, or expecting a large guest list (more than 100), it's recommended to send out invitations this far in advance.
2. **4-6 months before the wedding**: For a local or intimate gathering with fewer guests (less than 50), you can start sending out invitations around 4-6 months prior.
3. **3-4 months before the wedding**: If you're having a smaller, more casual celebration (less than 20 guests), you can get away with sending invites 3-4 months in advance.

**When to Send Wedding Invitations Based on Your Guest List:**

1. **Local Guests**: For local guests, you can send out invitations 2-3 months before the wedding.
2. **Out-of-Town Guests**: For out-of-town guests, allow 6-8 weeks for them to make travel arrangements and plan their trip.
3. **Destination Wedding**: For destination weddings, consider sending out invitations 9-12 months in advance to give guests ample time to book flights and accommodations.

**Additional Tips:**

1. **Include a reply deadline**: Make sure to include a reply deadline on your invitation to ensure you receive RSVPs well in advance.
2. **Send save-the-dates first (optional)**: If you want to give your guests an early heads-up about the wedding, consider sending out save-the-date cards 6-12 months before the big day.
3. **Be mindful of holidays and peak travel seasons**: Avoid sending invitations during peak travel seasons (e.g., summer, holidays) or around major events that might affect your guests' availability.

Remember to tailor your invitation timing to your specific wedding plans, guest list, and preferences. Happy planning!


When to send save the dates and invitations


Timing is everything when it comes to sending out save-the-dates and invitations. Here are some general guidelines:

**Save-the-Dates:**

* Send out save-the-dates 6-12 months before the wedding date, depending on the formality of your event.
* If you're having a destination wedding or a large-scale event, consider sending save-the-dates even earlier (12-18 months).
* Use save-the-dates to give your guests an early heads up about the wedding date and location. You can also include some basic details like the type of celebration (e.g., "A Formal Wedding Celebration") and any important dates (e.g., "Wedding Weekend: [Date]").
* Keep save-the-dates simple, casual, and low-key. They're meant to be a gentle reminder rather than an invitation in itself.

**Invitations:**

* Send out formal invitations 2-3 months before the wedding date.
* For a smaller, more intimate gathering or a weekday wedding, you might send out invites 1-2 months prior.
* Make sure your invitations include all the essential details:
+ Wedding date and time
+ Location (with address)
+ Dress code (if applicable)
+ RSVP information (phone number, email, or online response system)
* Consider sending out "paperless" digital invitations if you're having an online-only celebration or want to reduce waste.

**When to Send Invitations:**

* If you're having a morning wedding, send invitations 2-3 months prior.
* For an evening wedding, send invites 1-2 months ahead of time.
* If you have a lot of out-of-town guests, consider sending invitations 3-4 months before the wedding date to give them ample time to plan travel and accommodations.

**Additional Tips:**

* Make sure to coordinate your save-the-dates and invitations with your wedding website (if you're having one). This will help ensure that all the details are consistent across platforms.
* Don't forget to include a response deadline on your invitations. This will help you track RSVPs and plan accordingly for your big day.

Remember, these are general guidelines, and the best approach will depend on your unique wedding plans and preferences.


When to send out save the dates for destination wedding


When it comes to sending out save-the-dates for a destination wedding, there are a few things to consider:

1. **Timing:** For a destination wedding, you'll want to give your guests more notice than usual, as they'll need to plan their travel and accommodations. A good rule of thumb is to send out save-the-dates 6-12 months before the wedding date.
2. **Invitation timeline:** While save-the-dates are meant to be a heads-up for the wedding, you'll still want to send out formal invitations about 3-4 months before the big day. So, plan accordingly!
3. **Destination-specific details:** If your destination is particularly far-flung or requires special planning (e.g., international travel), consider including some additional information on the save-the-date, such as:
* A rough outline of the itinerary for guests
* Suggestions for accommodations and travel options
* Any necessary travel documents or visas required

Here are some general guidelines:

**For a domestic destination wedding:**

* Send out save-the-dates 6-9 months before the wedding date.
* Include details on accommodations, transportation, and activities.

**For an international destination wedding:**

* Send out save-the-dates 12-15 months before the wedding date (yes, that's a long time in advance!).
* Provide more detailed information on travel requirements, accommodations, and activities to help guests plan their trip.

**Example timeline:**

* 12-15 months before the wedding: Send out save-the-dates with basic details (date, location, and a brief description of the celebration).
* 9-12 months before the wedding: Share more information on accommodations, transportation, and activities.
* 3-4 months before the wedding: Send out formal invitations with all the juicy details.

Remember to check with your venue or planner for specific guidelines on save-the-date timing and content.


When do you send out save the dates for a birthday party


Save the dates are typically sent out 6-12 months in advance of the event, depending on the type and size of the celebration. For a birthday party, you can consider sending out save the dates 2-3 months before the party.

Here's a general guideline:

* For a small gathering (less than 20 people): Send out save the dates 1-2 months in advance.
* For a medium-sized gathering (20-50 people): Send out save the dates 2-3 months in advance.
* For a large gathering (more than 50 people) or an elaborate party: Send out save the dates 4-6 months in advance.

Keep in mind that if you're having a milestone birthday celebration, such as a 30th, 40th, or 50th, it's common to send out save the dates 3-6 months in advance to give guests ample time to clear their schedules and make travel arrangements (if necessary).

When deciding when to send out save the dates for your birthday party, consider the following factors:

1. Guest list: If you have a large or far-flung guest list, it's best to send out save the dates earlier to ensure they can attend.
2. Party details: If there are specific travel arrangements (e.g., flights or hotel bookings) that guests need to make, it's best to give them plenty of notice.
3. Timing: Avoid sending out save the dates too close to the party date, as this might lead to last-minute cancellations or changes.

Remember to include essential details in your save the dates, such as:

* Date and time of the party
* Location (including address and any necessary directions)
* A brief description of the celebration
* RSVP information (if applicable)

By sending out save the dates at the right time, you'll give your guests plenty of notice to clear their schedules and get excited for your special day!


Save the dates wedding


Save-the-dates! A great way to get your guests excited and prepared for your special day. Here's what you need to know:

**What is a save-the-date?**
A save-the-date (also known as an STD) is a notification sent to your friends and family before sending out formal wedding invitations. Its purpose is to give them advance notice of the upcoming wedding, so they can clear their schedules and make travel arrangements if needed.

**When should you send out save-the-dates?**
Typically, you'll want to send out save-the-dates 6-12 months before your wedding date. This allows guests enough time to make necessary plans and travel arrangements without feeling rushed or surprised.

**How do I create a save-the-date?**
You can design your own save-the-date using:

1. Paper: Create a custom design on paper, including the essential details (your names, wedding date, location, and a brief message).
2. Digital: Design an e-card or digital invitation with the same information.
3. Online platforms: Use online services like Evite, Canva, or Smilebox to create and send save-the-dates.

**What should I include on my save-the-date?**
Keep it simple and sweet:

1. Your names
2. Wedding date
3. Location (city or venue)
4. A brief message expressing your excitement for the wedding
5. Any necessary details, such as a website for more information or RSVP instructions

**Do I need to send formal invitations after sending save-the-dates?**
Yes! After sending out save-the-dates, you'll still need to send formal wedding invitations (usually 2-3 months before the wedding) with all the essential details. The save-the-date is just a heads-up, while the formal invitation provides more information and RSVP instructions.

**Tips and variations:**

* Consider adding a photo or illustration to make your save-the-date more personalized.
* You can also include a dress code or accommodation note on your save-the-date.
* If you're having a destination wedding, send out save-the-dates earlier (12-18 months) to give guests ample time to plan their travel.

By sending out save-the-dates, you'll create anticipation and excitement for your special day.


Is 2 years too early to send save the dates


Sending out save the dates two years in advance is a topic of debate among wedding planners and etiquette experts. While some argue that it's never too early to share the excitement with loved ones, others think it's premature and might come across as too eager or even presumptuous.

Here are some pros and cons to consider:

**Pros:**

1. **Early planning**: If you're planning a destination wedding, a summer wedding, or a peak-season wedding, sending out save the dates early can help ensure that your guests have ample time to make travel arrangements.
2. **Family and friends**: For those with large families or tight-knit friend groups, sending out save the dates early allows them to make accommodations for their loved ones who might need to take time off work or make other arrangements.
3. **Special requests**: If you have guests with special needs (e.g., mobility issues) or require specific accommodations, giving them advance notice can help ensure that they're able to attend and enjoy the celebration.

**Cons:**

1. **Unnecessary stress**: Sending out save the dates two years in advance might create unnecessary stress for your guests, especially if they have to make long-term travel arrangements or commit to attending a wedding that's still 24 months away.
2. **Changes are likely**: Two years is a long time, and circumstances can change quickly. You may need to adjust your guest list, venue, date, or even cancel the wedding altogether. This could lead to unnecessary disappointment for your guests.
3. **Lack of clarity**: Sending out save the dates so early might raise more questions than answers. Guests might be unsure about the details, such as the exact date, location, or format (e.g., formal, casual).

Ultimately, whether two years is too early to send save the dates depends on your specific situation and preferences. If you're planning a destination wedding, summer wedding, or have special requests, sending out save the dates early might be justified. However, if you're having a local wedding or prefer a more traditional approach, waiting 12-18 months might be a better strategy.

Remember to always keep in mind your guests' needs and preferences when deciding on an invitation timeline. It's essential to strike a balance between giving them enough notice and avoiding unnecessary stress or uncertainty.


When to send save the dates reddit


When it comes to sending out "save the dates," there are some general guidelines and best practices that you can follow, especially when it comes to timing. Here's a summary of what experts and Reddit users have shared on this topic:

**Timing is everything:**

* Typically, save-the-date notifications should be sent out 6-12 months before the wedding date.
* If you're having a destination wedding or a larger event with many guests traveling from afar, consider sending save-the-dates even earlier (9-18 months) to give people ample time to plan and book travel arrangements.
* For more local weddings, 3-6 months might be sufficient.

**When to send:**

* Some couples like to send out save-the-dates immediately after the engagement, while others prefer to wait until they have a solidified guest list or venue confirmed. There's no one-size-fits-all approach here!
* Consider sending save-the-dates when you've:
+ Booked your venue and vendors.
+ Decided on a date (or at least a range of dates).
+ Started planning the overall aesthetic or theme of your wedding.

**Reddit's take:**

* In a Reddit thread on "When to Send Out Save-the-Dates," users shared their experiences and opinions. Some common themes emerged:
+ Many couples found that sending save-the-dates too early (e.g., before they'd finalized plans) resulted in unnecessary stress and confusion.
+ Others reported that waiting too long to send save-the-dates meant they might not give guests enough notice, leading to RSVPs that are incomplete or late.
+ Some users suggested a "soft" approach: sending out save-the-dates with a casual tone, acknowledging that plans are still evolving, and asking guests to hold the date for now.

**Tips and takeaways:**

* Be considerate of your guests' time and schedules. Give them enough notice to plan and make travel arrangements.
* Keep in mind that save-the-dates are not formal invitations; they're more like a heads-up or a "heads-down" (to use Reddit lingo).
* Be prepared for some people to misinterpret the save-the-date as an official invitation, so be sure to clarify your plans and expectations.

Remember, there's no one "right" way to send out save-the-dates. The key is to find a balance between giving guests enough notice and not overwhelming them with too much information or too early in the planning process.