Your Wedding Timeline Starts Here: The Save the Date Edition

Your wedding is one of the most exciting milestones, but it often comes with an endless list of decisions. One of the first steps is letting your guests know when and where they need to be for your special day. That is where save the dates come in. These little reminders may seem like a small detail, but they play a big role in ensuring your wedding runs smoothly. The question is, when should you send them? The answer depends on a few factors, but with a simple timeline, you can stay on track and avoid stress.

Save the dates are more than just a formality. They give your guests a heads-up so they can make travel arrangements, book accommodation, and keep your wedding date free. If you are planning a destination wedding or have a lot of guests who will be travelling far, they are essential. Even for a local wedding, they help build excitement and anticipation. They also set the tone for your big day, giving guests a sneak peek into your wedding style.

Many couples wonder if save the dates are really necessary. The short answer is yes! If you want to ensure your loved ones can attend and plan ahead, they are a thoughtful and practical addition to your wedding stationery. They are especially useful if you are getting married during a busy season or during school holidays when people might be making other plans.

Your save the date should be simple and to the point. Unlike your invitations, they do not need every detail about the wedding. Here is what to include:

1. Your names: First names are fine, or you can choose to include last names too so there is no confusion.

2. Wedding date: The most important detail. If you are having a wedding weekend, you can mention that here.

3. Location: The town, city or country where your wedding will take place. You don't have to include the venue yet.

4. A note that a formal invitation will follow: This lets guests know they will receive more details later.

Save the dates may seem like a small part of wedding planning, but they can make a big difference in helping your guests prepare for your special day. By following a simple timeline and avoiding common mistakes, you can ensure your wedding planning feels seamless from the very beginning.

Your wedding is all about celebrating with the people who matter most to you. Giving them plenty of notice means they will be there to share in your joy. After all, the best moments are the ones you get to experience together.

If you are ready to start designing your save the dates, now is the perfect time to bring your vision to life. Whether you want something classic, contemporary, or completely unique, I am here to help create something that feels just right for your day.

Let’s bring beautiful paper to life.

Do I need to send save the dates?

The best time to send save the dates depends on a few things, including your wedding location and the time of year. Here is a simple guide to keep you on track:

Destination Weddings: If your wedding requires travelling abroad, send your save the dates at least 12 months in advance. Guests will need extra time to arrange flights, book hotels, and request time off work.

Local Weddings: If your wedding is closer to home, once your date and venue are locked in, it’s never too early! Ideally, aim for 9-12 months before the wedding.

Short Engagements: If you are planning a wedding in less than six months, send save the dates as soon as possible. 

When to Send Save the Dates

What to Include in Your Save the Dates

One of the biggest mistakes couples make is sending save the dates before finalising the guest list. Once you send them, there is no turning back. You cannot uninvite someone later. Before you send them, make sure you have a clear idea of who is on your list.

If you are still debating between inviting a few extra people, hold off until you are sure. It is better to send fewer save the dates than to have to explain later why someone received one but not an invitation.

Finalising Your Guest List Before Sending Save the Dates

Your save the dates are the first glimpse of your wedding style, so take the time to choose a design that reflects your vision. Whether you want something classic and understated or modern and playful, your save the dates should feel like you.

Consider the colours, fonts, and layout that will tie into your wedding invitations and on-the-day stationery. The best designs feel effortless and refined. The benefit of working with a stationer is that we can help create a design that aligns with the overall aesthetic of your wedding. Paper choice is just as important. High-quality card stock adds a tactile element that elevates the design. 

Designing Your Save the Dates

There are a few common mistakes couples make when sending save the dates. Avoid these, and you will be on the right track:

Sending Too Early or Too Late: If you send them too early, guests might forget about them. If you send them too late, they may have already made other plans. Stick to the recommended timelines.

Including Too Much Information: Save the dates are not invitations. They do not need to include the venue, dress code, or registry details. Keep it simple.

Not Clarifying Who is Invited: If you are not inviting children or plus-ones, make sure this is clear from the start. You can address save the dates on the envelope only to those invited.

Forgetting to Collect Updated Addresses: Before posting your save the dates, check with family and friends to make sure you have their current addresses.

Common Mistakes to Avoid