How Early to Send Out Save the Dates: A Comprehensive Guide
Planning a wedding is an exciting yet overwhelming task, and one of the first steps in the process is deciding when to send out save the dates. Save the dates are a formal announcement that invites guests to mark their calendars for the upcoming wedding. The timing of sending out these cards can greatly impact the overall wedding planning experience. So, how early should you send out save the dates? Let’s explore this topic in detail.
Why Send Out Save the Dates?
Before diving into the timing, it’s important to understand the purpose of save the dates. These cards serve several key functions:
1. Informing Guests: Save the dates provide guests with the essential information about the wedding, such as the date, time, and location.
2. Reserving Dates: By sending out save the dates early, you give your guests ample time to reserve their dates and make any necessary travel arrangements.
3. Setting Expectations: Save the dates help set the tone for the wedding and provide guests with a glimpse of the celebration to come.
When to Send Out Save the Dates
The ideal time to send out save the dates is typically about six to eight months before the wedding date. This timeline allows guests to:
1. Plan Ahead: With six to eight months’ notice, guests can plan their schedules and make any necessary travel arrangements.
2. RSVP: By this time, you should have received RSVPs from most of your guests, allowing you to finalize your guest list and make any necessary adjustments.
3. Order Invitations: Ordering invitations in advance ensures that you have enough time to address and mail them to guests.
However, there are some exceptions to this general guideline:
1. Shorter Engagement: If you have a shorter engagement, you may need to send out save the dates even earlier, around three to four months before the wedding.
2. Destination Weddings: For destination weddings, it’s best to send out save the dates as soon as possible, ideally six to eight months in advance, to allow guests sufficient time to plan their travel.
3. Large Guest List: If you have a large guest list, sending out save the dates earlier can help streamline the RSVP process and ensure that you have enough time to address and mail invitations.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the best time to send out save the dates is typically six to eight months before the wedding. This timeline allows guests to plan ahead, RSVP, and make any necessary travel arrangements. However, it’s important to consider your unique circumstances, such as engagement length, destination, and guest list size, when determining the ideal timing for sending out save the dates. By following this guide, you can ensure that your guests are well-informed and prepared for your special day.
