Save-the-Dates 101: Everything You Need to Know
Pop the champagne, you’re engaged! Now that your wedding planning journey is officially beginning, it’s time to get one of the first tasks checked off your wedding planning to-do list: sending out save-the-dates.
Save-the-dates are your guests first glimpse into your wedding and serve as a pre-invitation announcing your wedding date. They help guests mark their calendars, especially if travel is involved. As wedding planners, we often get questions from our couples about what should and shouldn’t be included on their save-the-dates. You don’t want to overload guests with too much information, that’s what the formal invitation is for. Think of your save-the-date as a sneak peek to the vibe of your wedding.
So, what should you include? And just as importantly, what should you leave out? Let’s dive in.
What to Include on Your Save-the-Dates
Keep it simple – Your save-the-date should be clear, concise, and easy to read.
Your names – Typically, only your first names are included, but for a more formal touch, consider adding both your first and last names.
Full wedding date – The exact date so guests can plan accordingly.
Wedding location – City and state (or country, if a destination wedding), but no need for the venue details just yet.
Wedding website URL or QR code – A great way to share additional information without cluttering your card.
Photos from your engagement shoot – While not required, a beautiful engagement photo makes your save-the-date feel even more personal.
“Invitation to follow” line – A simple “formal invitation to follow” lets guests know more details are on the way.
What Not to Include on Your Save-the-Dates
RSVP requests – Save-the-dates are just a heads-up. RSVPs will come with the formal invitation.
Registry information – It’s considered poor etiquette to include your registry on save-the-dates. Instead, link it on your wedding website.
Overly-specific details – Ceremony time, dress code, and color scheme aren’t necessary at this stage, as the details are normally not finalized at this point of the process so you do not want to give guests false information.
Schedule of events – Weekend itineraries and additional wedding events should be shared closer to the big day.
When to Send Your Save-the-Dates
1+ year out – If you’re planning a destination wedding or a wedding during peak season, send save-the-dates at least 12 months in advance so guests can book travel and accommodations.
8+ months out – For local weddings, aim to send save-the-dates 8 to 10 months before the big day.
Other Important Save-the-Date Tips
Send to everyone on your guest list – Once a save-the-date is sent, there’s no turning back. Make sure your guest list is finalized before mailing them out. Remember to only send one save the date per household, and not one per guest!
Order a few extra – Keep some for yourself as a keepsake and for your wedding flatlay photos on the big day. It always looks stunning when incorporated with the invitation suite.
Where to order – We love Zola for wedding stationery. They offer a wide range of customizable templates or an option to upload your own design. You can order five free samples before making a final decision so you know exactly what you're getting before spending hundreds of dollars.
Looking to go the custom route for your wedding stationery?– If you want something uniquely designed, we recommend these talented Southeast-based stationery designers:
Need Help with More Than Just Save-the-Dates?
Wedding planning can feel overwhelming, but that’s where we come in. As professional wedding planners, we help couples stay on track with all the details. From save-the-dates to timelines, vendor coordination, and everything in between. If you’re ready to make your planning process stress-free and enjoyable, let’s chat.
