Planning a wedding, a milestone birthday, or a special celebration? Congratulations! As you dive into the exciting details, one of the first things to consider is letting your loved ones know the date. That’s where “save the dates” come in your guests need a heads-up!
These little cards or emails are a fantastic way to ensure your favorite people can mark their calendars. But, getting the timing just right is important. Send them too early, and they might be forgotten; too late, and travel plans could already be set. Let’s explore the best time to send those important notices!
When to Send Out Save the Dates
Generally, aim to send out your save the dates 6-8 months before your event. This gives guests ample time to make arrangements, especially if travel is involved. If your event is during a popular holiday season, consider sending them closer to the 8-month mark.
For destination weddings, or events requiring international travel, bump that timeline up to 8-12 months. This allows your guests to snag affordable flights, secure passports, and plan vacation time accordingly. The more notice, the better received your save the date will be.
If you’re having a smaller, more local affair, you might be able to get away with sending save the dates closer to the 4-6 month mark. However, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and give your guests plenty of advance notice, no one wants to miss the celebration.
Consider when youll be sending out your official invitations as well. Save the dates are a pre-cursor to the formal invite. The sweet spot is usually around 2-3 months before the event. This ensures that guests have all the important information they need, after initial notice.
Dont forget to factor in the time it takes to design, print, and address your save the dates! This might add a few weeks to your timeline. Consider ordering them well in advance and setting aside a dedicated evening to assemble and prepare them for mailing.
Now that you know when to send out save the dates, it’s time to brainstorm designs and gather addresses. Think about your event’s theme and let that inspire your style. Happy planning, and get ready to celebrate with all your loved ones by your side, stress-free!