Save the Dates and Wedding Invitations: When and How to Send Them

One of the best parts of your wedding is having all your favorite people there to celebrate with you. That is why sending your save the dates and wedding invitations at the right time is so important. It ensures everyone has the chance to mark the date and share in the excitement.

These invitations set the tone for your big day, provide all the key details your guests need, and keep you on track. In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know, including when to send save the dates and invitations, popular stationery trends, advice on finding the right suppliers, and tips for managing your guest list with ease.

When to Send Save the Dates and to Whom?

Save the dates are typically sent six to twelve months before your wedding day, with the sweet spot being around eight to twelve months. This gives your guests plenty of time to mark their calendars and make any necessary arrangements, particularly if your wedding is taking place during a busy season or requires travel. 

For destination weddings, sending save the dates closer to the twelve-month mark is especially helpful, as it allows guests to plan flights, book accommodations, and manage their schedules well in advance.

Once your venue and date are confirmed, it is a good time to send out save the dates to your confirmed guest list. These are the people you are certain will be invited, such as close family and friends. As guests start to acknowledge your save the dates, it also helps you gauge attendance early and plan accordingly. 

Be mindful to only send them to those invited to the entire day, as sending save the dates to evening-only guests can cause confusion. This early communication sets the tone for your celebration and ensures your loved ones can join you without added stress.

When to Send Wedding Invitations and to Whom?

The timing of sending your wedding invitations depends on whether you have already sent save the dates. If save the dates were not sent, invitations should go out four to six months before your wedding date. This allows your guests to have enough time to make arrangements and mark their calendars. 

If save the dates were sent, wedding invitations can be sent closer to the wedding, ideally around three months before. Under no circumstances should they be sent with less than six weeks to go, as this leaves little time for guests to respond and for you to finalise your plans.

Wedding invitations should go to everyone on your confirmed guest list, including both day and evening-only guests. Unlike save the dates, which are reserved for full-day attendees, invitations are an opportunity to specify the type of invitation. Whether guests are invited to the ceremony and reception or just the evening celebration, this is where you clearly outline their role in your big day.

Be sure to include all the essential details on your invitations, such as the date, time, venue, dress code, and RSVP instructions. For guests requiring travel or accommodation, consider including helpful information like local hotels or transport options. Proper timing and clear communication make this step smooth and stress-free for everyone involved.

What to Include on Your Save the Dates and Invitations?

Save the dates and invitations serve different purposes, so it is important to include the right details on each. Save the dates should be simple, featuring your names, the wedding date, and the general location. If your venue is finalised, you can include that too. Adding a note like “formal invitation to follow” ensures guests know more details will come later.

Wedding invitations are more detailed. They should include the date, time, and full venue address, along with RSVP instructions and a deadline. You may also want to include a dress code, accommodation recommendations, and information about your gift preferences or meal options. For destination weddings or events with multiple locations, providing clear guidance will help your guests plan without confusion. Thoughtful and complete invitations make it easier for everyone to feel prepared for your special day.

Wedding Stationery and Supplies: Designs, Costs, and Timelines

Your wedding stationery is an essential part of your big day. It reflects your style, provides important details, and sets the tone for your celebration. Many couples love incorporating personal touches like calligraphy, embossing, or eco-friendly materials into their designs, and trends like these are something our suppliers regularly share with us.

With so many options available, it is natural to wonder how much your wedding stationery might cost. Most couples spend between £150 and £600 on save the dates, invitations, and RSVPs for a guest list of around 100. For those opting for bespoke designs, like hand-painted details or luxurious finishes, costs can exceed £1,000. 

To help you plan, here’s a handy timeline to keep your wedding stationery on track:

• 10–12 Months Before: Start thinking about your design and create a wedding website if you’re using one.

• 8–10 Months Before: Finalise your guest list and addresses, then send out your save the dates.

• 4–6 Months Before: Order your wedding invitations with all the key details, like RSVP instructions and meal preferences.

• 2–3 Months Before: Send your invitations and prepare on-the-day items like menus, signage, and table plans.

• 6–7 Weeks Before: Order any last-minute items like place cards or the order of service.

• 1–2 Months After: Wrap things up by sending out thank-you cards to guests and suppliers.

Wedding Invitation and Save the Date Trends

Wedding stationery continues to evolve, offering couples modern solutions alongside timeless traditions. Here are some trends shaping wedding invitations and save the dates:

Eco-Friendly Invitations

Sustainability is increasingly influencing wedding choices, with couples opting for recycled paper, plantable invites, and soy-based inks. These thoughtful options reduce waste while maintaining elegance. 

Digital Invitations

Digital invitations are becoming a favorite for their convenience and cost-effectiveness. They offer instant delivery, easy RSVP tracking, and customisable designs without the environmental impact of printing. Perfect for destination weddings or tech-savvy couples, digital invites are practical and stylish.

A Return to Timeless Traditions

Classic elements like wax seals, calligraphy, and handmade paper are making a comeback for couples seeking a personal, elegant touch. These details bring a sense of charm and refinement to your wedding, creating lasting impressions for your guests.

Hybrid Invitations

One of the most exciting trends is the blend of old and new. Hybrid invitations combine the elegance of physical stationery with the practicality of digital tools. Couples are pairing beautifully crafted paper invitations with QR codes or website links for online RSVPs and additional event details. This approach reduces waste and offers a seamless guest experience while preserving the joy of receiving a tangible invitation.

Tips on Wedding Stationery Preparation

• Always order 10–15% more invitations than your guest list to account for mistakes or last-minute additions.

• Double-check every detail, including dates, times, and addresses, to avoid costly reprints.

• Begin designing and ordering stationery well in advance, especially if you’re opting for custom or handmade designs.

Tips for Writing Invitations

• Ensure the date, time, venue, RSVP instructions, dress code, and any additional information like meal choices or accommodation are clear.

• Match the tone of your invitations to the style of your wedding, whether formal, casual, or themed.

• Clearly outline how and when guests should respond, whether via a website, email, or physical card.

• Avoid overcrowding with unnecessary details. Use a wedding website for FAQs or extra info.

Tips for Sending Invites Through Postage

• Take a fully assembled invite to the post office to determine postage costs before buying stamps.

• Use an inner envelope or bubble wrap to ensure delicate details like wax seals arrive intact.

• Allow extra time for delivery, especially if using second-class stamps or mailing internationally.

Tips for Writing Save the Dates

• Include your names, wedding date, location, and a note like “formal invitation to follow.”

• If you know your venue, include it. For destination weddings, suggest travel details like the nearest airport or hotels.

• Consider including a photo or custom design that reflects your personalities.

• Only send save the dates to confirmed full-day guests to avoid confusion.

Tips for Managing RSVPs

• Include an RSVP date 4–6 weeks before your wedding to allow time for finalising guest numbers.

• Wedding websites or RSVP apps simplify tracking responses and reduce paperwork.

• Reach out to guests who haven’t responded a week before the deadline to confirm their attendance.

The Final Touch to Your Wedding Plans

With your save the dates sent and wedding invitations on their way, you’re now one step closer to your big day. These early preparations help build anticipation and ensure your guests feel informed and excited to celebrate with you. As you look ahead to the special moments, having everything organised with care will make the experience truly memorable.

The Togather network connects you with trusted suppliers who can bring your wedding vision to life. From beautiful floristry and exceptional catering to photography and fun additions like photo booths or bar hire, we help you create a wedding that reflects your style and plans. Share your ideas with us, and we’ll help you craft a celebration you and your guests will cherish forever.