With so many things on your wedding to-do list, save the dates may seem like one more task to check off. But save the dates can be a fun way to begin solidifying your wedding style. They’re one of the first completed visuals for your wedding, as well as your guests’ first glimpse of what’s in store. In short, the save the date is when things start getting REAL. 

While there are a few guidelines for crafting your save the date, it’s also one of the more flexible aspects of your wedding. In part 1 of this save the date series, we’ll cover why these little cards are important, the basic wording, and when to send them. 

Sending a save the date when you’re already planning a formal invitation may seem redundant. But there are several ways a save the date can lay the groundwork for a successful event.

a. Top of Mind: You’re putting months of work into your wedding, possibly more than a year. So you want as many guests to attend as possible, right? Save the dates give your guests a heads up early on so that they won’t schedule anything on your big day. If you mail your save the dates, guests can stick theirs on the refrigerator as a physical reminder.

b. Courtesy: Your guests may have to travel for your wedding. Even if they don’t, they may have to rearrange work schedules or hire childcare. Giving them months to plan is a sign that you respect their time and effort.

c. Time Saver: If guests have your date in hand, then they won’t constantly ask you for a reminder.  

Save the dates can be simple in their wording. All you need is a polite request to save the date, your names, your date, and your location. Most also include the words “formal invitation to follow” at the bottom. As long as you have this basic info, you’re guests will be well informed! 

But you can also use this as an opportunity to showcase your personality. Having a fun, laid back wedding? Come up with a cute phrase like “We’ve saved you a seat, so please save our date!” or “We can’t say ‘I do’ without you!” The phrasing will give your guests an idea of the level of formality.

The best thing about save the dates is that they’re flexible. Keep it short and simple or make it fun and unique!   

The straight-forward answer is 6-8 months, which means you should start planning a month or two before that. (Even earlier if you want a custom design.) If you’re having a destination wedding or a lot of guests will need to travel, then aim closer to the eight months mark. This will give people plenty of time to request vacation and make travel arrangements. You can also send them sooner if you like. But if you’re planning a long engagement, don’t send the save the dates more than a year in advance, as guests may confuse the year.

Save the dates can be a fun mini project to grow excitement for your wedding. In part 2, we’ll talk about design options and the beneficial groundwork your save the dates can do for you.