Save the Dates: The ‘Yes’ Heard Around the World
Save the dates officially announce your wedding date and let your guests know that they are invited. The pre-invitation mailing has almost become an expected courtesy.
SAVE THE DATES
With guests often scattered across the country and everyone’s busy schedules to consider, save the dates are a great way to give notice of your special day. Save the dates are especially important for weddings taking place over a holiday weekend or in a busy season. Sometimes it’s necessary for guests to book travel arrangements and accommodations well in advance.
Your save the dates will be the first thing people see regarding the style of your wedding, so give your guests something to talk about! This doesn’t mean your note cards can’t be simple and sophisticated. However, this is your chance to add a touch of something uniquely you, or something that reflects the colors and theme of your wedding day.
If your wedding is local, four to six months of notice before the wedding is ample time for guests to make arrangements to attend. If you’re having a destination wedding, it’s better to let people know further in advance so they can plan accordingly.
For a wedding taking place on a long weekend, save the date cards are a great idea because people tend to make plans ahead of time. If you’re planning your wedding in the middle of summer, six or more months of notice would be appreciated by your guests.
You can always send out more invitations, but you can never take a save the date back.
Remember, a save the date is just the introduction. When addressing to someone who will bring a guest, etiquette says to put that person’s name on the envelope as well. That way, you avoid any confusion as to who is officially invited.
A save the date card is different from a formal wedding invitation in one major way. There is much more room for creativity! Some couples choose cards with photos and simple text. Others include more details, such as the wedding venue, nearby accommodations, and transportation information.
These days, couples are getting creative and choose to send out photos, magnets or even calendars. Just do what you think best represents your style and personality.
This the first official glimpse that people will get into your wedding day. It is up to you to decide what note to strike when starting the celebrations!