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 to 12 months in advance for events like weddings, especially if travel or peak seasons are involved, to give guests early notice. Invitations should be sent 6 to 8 weeks before the event to allow time for RSVPs and planning, though for destination events, send them 8 to 12 weeks ahead. Always consider factors like holidays or guest availability when timing these.
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 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. 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.
do you have to send save the dates
Sending save the dates is not strictly required for events like weddings, but it's often recommended. They help guests plan ahead, especially for dates far in the future or events involving travel. If your event is local and invitations can go out in time, you might skip them to save on costs. Ultimately, it depends on your preferences and the event's complexity.
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 sent to inform guests about an upcoming event, such as a wedding, well in advance so they can mark their calendars and make necessary arrangements. They typically include the event date, a brief mention of the type of event, and sometimes the location or a website for more details, but not full invitation specifics like dress code or RSVP information. These cards are usually mailed 6-12 months ahead for major events, allowing time for travel planning. They are often designed with simple, thematic graphics to build excitement and match the event's style, and while not a formal invitation, they help reduce no-shows by securing early commitments from guests.