What Should Be On Save The Dates? A Complete Guide

What Should Be On Save The Dates? Save the dates are the exciting first glimpse into your wedding, and savewhere.net is here to help you craft the perfect one! Save the dates are your initial opportunity to inform your guests about your upcoming celebration, therefore, including key details is essential. They should capture your style and provide essential information, all while keeping things concise and engaging. Let’s explore what details need to be on your save the date and how savewhere.net can help you save money while planning your wedding!

1. Why Are Save The Dates Important?

Save the dates are important as they give your guests advance notice to prepare for your wedding. They are especially crucial for destination weddings or weddings that require significant travel. Save the dates ensure higher attendance rates and allow guests to make necessary arrangements ahead of time.

Advance Notice: According to a survey by The Knot, 92% of couples send save the dates to give their guests ample time to plan.
Travel Arrangements: For destination weddings, guests often need to book flights and accommodations well in advance.
Higher Attendance: Early notification leads to better attendance, ensuring more of your loved ones can celebrate with you.
Accommodation Planning: Save the dates allow guests to look into hotels or other lodging options.
Save Money: savewhere.net can assist you in finding discounts on accommodations and travel arrangements.

2. What Are The Essential Elements To Include On Your Save The Dates?

Your save the date should include your names, the date, the location (city or region), and a note that an invitation will follow. Including these basic elements helps guests prepare without overwhelming them with details.

Couple’s Names: This is essential for identifying who is getting married.
Wedding Date: Clearly state the date so guests can mark their calendars.
Location: Mentioning the city or region helps guests with travel planning.
“Invitation to Follow”: This manages expectations and prevents confusion.
savewhere.net Tip: Look for cost-effective ways to design and print your save the dates.

3. What Are Creative Ways To Include Your Names On Save The Dates?

Including your names in a creative way can add a personal touch to your save the date cards. You can use your first names only for a casual feel or include your full names for a more formal announcement. Monograms or unique fonts can also make your names stand out.

First Names Only: “Save the Date: Jane & John”.
Full Names: “Save the Date for the wedding of Jane Doe and John Smith”.
Monograms: Use a monogram with your initials for an elegant touch.
Unique Fonts: Choose fonts that reflect your wedding style.
savewhere.net Suggestion: Explore budget-friendly design tools for creating personalized monograms.

4. How Do You Clearly Display The Wedding Date On Save The Dates?

Clearly displaying the wedding date is crucial to prevent any confusion. Use a format that is easily readable, such as “Month Day, Year.” If your wedding spans multiple days, specify the date range.

Standard Format: “Save the Date: October 26, 2024”.
Date Range: “Save the Date: October 26-28, 2024”.
Numeric Format: “Save the Date: 10.26.2024” (ensure clarity depending on your audience).
Weekend Of: “Save the Date: Weekend of October 26, 2024”.
savewhere.net Tip: Use templates to ensure a clear and visually appealing date display.

5. What Level Of Location Detail Is Needed On Save The Dates?

You don’t need to have the exact venue booked when sending out save the dates. Providing the city or region is sufficient. This allows guests to start planning their travel and accommodations.

City Only: “Save the Date: Atlanta, Georgia”.
Region Only: “Save the Date: Napa Valley, California”.
City and State: “Save the Date: Austin, Texas”.
General Area: “Save the Date: The Hamptons, New York”.
savewhere.net Suggestion: Use savewhere.net to find affordable accommodation options in the specified location.

6. Why Is “Invitation To Follow” Important On Save The Dates?

Including “Invitation to Follow” on your save the date cards manages your guests’ expectations. It assures them that they will receive a formal invitation with more details about the wedding, such as the venue, timings, and RSVP information.

Manages Expectations: Guests know more details are coming.
Prevents Confusion: Avoids guests assuming the save the date is the actual invitation.
Clear Communication: Sets the stage for subsequent wedding communications.
Polite Reminder: Acts as a gentle reminder that more information is on the way.
savewhere.net Tip: Include a wedding website link for guests who want more immediate information.

7. What Are The Pros And Cons Of Including A Photo On Your Save The Dates?

Including a photo on your save the date can add a personal touch, making your guests feel more connected. However, it’s not essential. Some pros include adding a visual element and showcasing your personality. Cons might include added cost and the pressure to choose the perfect photo.

Pros:
- Personal Touch: Allows guests to see the couple.
- Visual Appeal: Makes the save the date more engaging.
- Showcases Personality: Reflects the couple’s style.
Cons:
- Added Cost: Professional photos can be expensive.
- Decision Pressure: Choosing the right photo can be stressful.
- Not Essential: Save the dates can be beautiful without a photo.
savewhere.net Suggestion: Look for affordable photography options or use a candid, high-quality photo.

8. How Can A Wedding Website Enhance Your Save The Dates?

Including your wedding website on your save the date allows you to share additional details with your guests, such as your love story, accommodation options, and online RSVP. It’s a convenient way to keep everyone informed.

Central Information Hub: Guests can find all wedding-related details in one place.
Accommodation Options: Share recommended hotels and booking information.
Online RSVP: Simplifies the RSVP process.
Additional Photos: Showcase more engagement photos.
savewhere.net Tip: Find discounts on website hosting and design tools through savewhere.net.

9. Should You Include An RSVP Option On Your Save The Dates?

Including an RSVP option on your save the date is generally not necessary. The primary purpose of a save the date is to inform guests of the date and location. Save the RSVP for the formal invitation.

Not Necessary: Save the dates are for advance notice, not RSVPs.
Formal Invitation: RSVPs are typically handled with the formal invitation.
Wedding Website Exception: You can direct guests to RSVP on your website if you prefer.
Simplify Planning: Reduces early planning complexities.
savewhere.net Suggestion: Use savewhere.net to manage your guest list and RSVPs efficiently later on.

10. How Do You Word Your Save The Dates To Reflect Your Wedding Style?

The wording on your save the dates should reflect the overall style and tone of your wedding. Whether you’re going for a formal, casual, or themed wedding, your save the date should give guests a hint of what to expect.

Formal: “Save the Date for the marriage of…”
Casual: “Save the Date! We’re getting married!”
Themed: Incorporate theme-related language and imagery.
Personal: Use language that reflects your personalities.
savewhere.net Tip: Get inspired by various save the date templates to find the perfect tone.

11. What Are Some Examples Of Different Wording Styles For Save The Dates?

Here are several examples of different wording styles for save the date cards:

Direct and Casual:
- Save the Date
- Emily and David are getting married
- July 20, 2024 | Asheville, NC
- Details to follow
Formal and Elegant:
- Save the Date
- for the wedding of
- Emily Grace and David Michael
- July 20, 2024
- Asheville, North Carolina
- Formal invitation to follow
Understated and Friendly:
- Save the date
- Emily & David
- are tying the knot
- July 20, 2024
- Asheville, NC
- Invitation to follow
Minimalist:
- Save our date
- Emily + David
- July 20, 2024
- Asheville, NC
- Details to follow
Chatty and Bright:
- We’re getting married
- Be sure to save our date:
- July 20, 2024
- Asheville, NC
- We can’t wait to see you there
Lead with the date:
- 07/20/24
- Keep this date free for the wedding of
- Emily and David
- Asheville, NC
- RSVP at EmilyandDavidforever.com
savewhere.net Suggestion: Mix and match elements from these examples to create your perfect wording.

12. How Do You Make Save The Dates Inclusive And Considerate?

When crafting your save the dates, ensure that the language and design are inclusive and considerate of all your guests. This includes being mindful of different backgrounds, abilities, and relationships.

Gender-Neutral Language: Avoid gendered terms if unsure of guests’ preferences.
Accessibility: Ensure the design is accessible to people with visual impairments.
Inclusive Wording: Acknowledge diverse family structures.
Respectful Tone: Use a tone that is welcoming to everyone.
savewhere.net Tip: Provide a contact for accessibility requests on your wedding website.

13. What Are The Best Ways To Save Money On Save The Dates?

Planning a wedding can be expensive, so saving money on save the dates is a smart move. Here are some strategies to cut costs without sacrificing style:

DIY Designs: Use online tools to create your own designs.
Digital Save The Dates: Send save the dates via email.
Print at Home: Print your save the dates on high-quality paper at home.
Simple Designs: Opt for minimalist designs to reduce printing costs.
savewhere.net Recommendation: Find exclusive discounts on printing services at savewhere.net.

14. Can Digital Save The Dates Be As Effective As Physical Ones?

Digital save the dates can be just as effective as physical ones, especially with today’s technology. They are cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and allow for creative designs and interactive elements.

Cost-Effective: No printing or postage costs.
Environmentally Friendly: Reduces paper waste.
Creative Designs: Incorporate GIFs, videos, and interactive elements.
Immediate Delivery: Guests receive the save the date instantly.
savewhere.net Suggestion: Use email marketing tools to track delivery and open rates.

15. How Early Should You Send Out Save The Dates?

The timing of sending out save the dates depends on the type of wedding you’re having. For local weddings, send them out 4-6 months in advance. For destination weddings, send them out 8-12 months in advance.

Local Weddings: 4-6 months in advance.
Destination Weddings: 8-12 months in advance.
Holiday Weddings: 9-12 months in advance.
Give Guests Time: Allows guests to plan accordingly.
savewhere.net Recommendation: Create a timeline using savewhere.net’s planning tools to stay organized.

16. What Is The Best Way To Collect Addresses For Save The Dates?

Collecting addresses can be a daunting task. Using online address collection tools can simplify the process and ensure accuracy.

Online Forms: Create an online form for guests to fill out.
Spreadsheet: Use a spreadsheet to organize addresses.
Address Collection Services: Use services that automate address collection.
Social Media: Ask guests to send their addresses via social media.
savewhere.net Tip: Use savewhere.net to find affordable address collection services.

17. How Do You Handle Changes After Sending Out Save The Dates?

Sometimes, wedding plans change after sending out save the dates. In such cases, it’s important to communicate any changes to your guests as soon as possible.

Communicate Quickly: Inform guests of any changes promptly.
Wedding Website: Update your wedding website with the latest information.
Email Updates: Send out email updates to all guests.
Personal Calls: Make personal calls for significant changes.
savewhere.net Suggestion: Use savewhere.net to send mass emails and manage communication.

18. What Are Some Unique Design Ideas For Save The Dates?

Your save the dates can be a creative expression of your personality and wedding theme. Here are some unique design ideas to consider:

Passport Save The Dates: For destination weddings.
Movie Ticket Save The Dates: For movie-themed weddings.
Puzzle Save The Dates: Guests assemble the puzzle to reveal the details.
Seed Packet Save The Dates: Eco-friendly and symbolic of growth.
savewhere.net Inspiration: Explore design templates on savewhere.net for inspiration.

19. How Do You Ensure Your Save The Dates Stand Out?

To make your save the dates memorable, focus on unique design elements, personalized wording, and high-quality materials.

Unique Designs: Use creative layouts and themes.
Personalized Wording: Reflect your personalities and love story.
High-Quality Materials: Choose premium paper or unique materials.
Interactive Elements: Incorporate elements that engage guests.
savewhere.net Tip: Find affordable design and printing services at savewhere.net.

20. What Are Some Common Mistakes To Avoid On Save The Dates?

Avoiding common mistakes can save you from potential embarrassment and confusion. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Incorrect Dates: Double-check the date for accuracy.
Misspelled Names: Verify the spelling of all names.
Insufficient Information: Include all essential details.
Poor Design: Avoid cluttered or confusing designs.
savewhere.net Checklist: Use savewhere.net’s checklist to ensure your save the dates are perfect.

21. How Can Savewhere.Net Help With Your Wedding Planning?

Savewhere.net offers a variety of resources to help you plan your wedding on a budget. From finding discounts on venues and vendors to providing tools for managing your guest list and budget, savewhere.net is your go-to resource.

Discounts on Venues: Find affordable wedding venues in your area.
Vendor Deals: Get exclusive deals on photographers, caterers, and more.
Guest List Management: Easily manage your guest list and RSVPs.
Budgeting Tools: Track your wedding expenses and stay on budget.
Address: 100 Peachtree St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303, United States
Phone: +1 (404) 656-2000
Website: savewhere.net

22. How Do You Track Expenses Related To Save The Dates?

Tracking expenses is crucial for staying within your wedding budget. Use budgeting tools or spreadsheets to monitor your spending on save the dates.

Budgeting Apps: Use apps like Mint or Personal Capital.
Spreadsheets: Create a spreadsheet to track all expenses.
Receipt Tracking: Keep all receipts for expense tracking.
Allocate Budget: Set a specific budget for save the dates.
savewhere.net Tip: Use savewhere.net’s budgeting tools to track your wedding expenses.

23. What Are The Legal Considerations For Save The Dates?

While save the dates are generally informal, it’s important to be aware of any legal considerations, especially if you’re including specific terms or conditions.

Contractual Agreements: Ensure any agreements with vendors are legally sound.
Privacy Policies: Be mindful of privacy policies when collecting guest information.
Liability: Understand liability issues for events held on your property.
Permits: Obtain necessary permits for events.
Disclaimer: This is not legal advice, consult with a legal professional.

24. How Do You Create A Cohesive Wedding Theme From Save The Dates To The Wedding Day?

Creating a cohesive wedding theme involves carrying design elements, colors, and wording from your save the dates through to your wedding day.

Consistent Design: Use the same fonts, colors, and design elements.
Themed Wording: Incorporate theme-related language throughout.
Matching Décor: Coordinate your wedding décor with your save the date design.
Personal Touches: Add personal touches that reflect your style.
savewhere.net Inspiration: Get inspiration for cohesive wedding themes on savewhere.net.

25. What Are Some Environmentally Friendly Options For Save The Dates?

For eco-conscious couples, there are several environmentally friendly options for save the dates:

Digital Save The Dates: Reduce paper waste by sending electronic save the dates.
Recycled Paper: Use recycled paper for printed save the dates.
Seed Paper: Send save the dates made from seed paper that guests can plant.
Sustainable Inks: Use soy-based or other sustainable inks.
savewhere.net Suggestion: Find eco-friendly printing services at savewhere.net.

26. How Do Cultural Traditions Influence Save The Date Design?

Cultural traditions can significantly influence save the date design. Incorporating cultural elements can add a meaningful touch to your save the dates.

Traditional Motifs: Use traditional patterns and symbols.
Cultural Colors: Incorporate colors that are significant in your culture.
Language: Include wording in your native language.
Religious Symbols: Add religious symbols that are relevant to your faith.
savewhere.net Inspiration: Explore culturally inspired design templates on savewhere.net.

27. What Role Do Trends Play In Save The Date Design?

While it’s important to stay true to your personal style, keeping an eye on current trends can inspire fresh and innovative designs for your save the dates.

Modern Fonts: Use trendy fonts for a contemporary look.
Minimalist Designs: Opt for clean and simple designs.
Bold Colors: Incorporate bold and vibrant colors.
Interactive Elements: Add interactive elements like QR codes.
savewhere.net Trends: Stay updated on the latest wedding trends with savewhere.net.

28. What Are The Key Differences Between Save The Dates And Wedding Invitations?

Understanding the key differences between save the dates and wedding invitations will help you create appropriate and effective communications.

Purpose: Save the dates give advance notice; invitations provide detailed information.
Timing: Save the dates are sent earlier than invitations.
Content: Save the dates include basic details; invitations include comprehensive details.
Formality: Save the dates are generally less formal than invitations.
savewhere.net Guide: Consult savewhere.net’s guide on wedding stationery for more information.

29. How Do You Deal With Save The Date Etiquette For Divorced Parents?

Navigating save the date etiquette for divorced parents requires sensitivity and careful planning.

Separate Mailings: Send separate save the dates to each household.
Neutral Wording: Use neutral wording that doesn’t favor one parent over the other.
Address Both Parents: If possible, address both parents on the save the date.
Consider Relationships: Consider your relationships with each parent when deciding on wording.
savewhere.net Advice: Get advice on wedding etiquette from savewhere.net’s expert consultants.

30. What Are Some Creative Ways To Personalize Your Save The Dates?

Personalizing your save the dates adds a special touch that reflects your unique relationship.

Handwritten Notes: Add handwritten notes to each save the date.
Personal Photos: Use photos that are meaningful to you as a couple.
Custom Artwork: Commission custom artwork that reflects your style.
Unique Materials: Use unusual materials like wood or metal.
savewhere.net Ideas: Find creative personalization ideas on savewhere.net.

31. How Do You Handle Save The Dates For Destination Weddings?

Destination weddings require careful planning and clear communication with your guests.

Early Notification: Send save the dates 8-12 months in advance.
Location Details: Provide as much information as possible about the destination.
Accommodation Options: Include recommended hotels and booking information.
Travel Tips: Offer travel tips and advice for getting to the destination.
savewhere.net Resources: Find destination wedding resources on savewhere.net.

32. What Are The Implications Of Covid-19 On Save The Date Planning?

The Covid-19 pandemic has added new considerations to save the date planning.

Flexibility: Be prepared to change your plans if necessary.
Clear Communication: Communicate any changes to your guests promptly.
Safety Measures: Inform guests of any safety measures that will be in place.
Virtual Options: Consider virtual options for guests who cannot attend in person.
savewhere.net Support: Get support for planning a wedding during Covid-19 from savewhere.net.

33. How Do You Choose The Right Font For Your Save The Dates?

Choosing the right font is crucial for creating a visually appealing and readable save the date.

Readability: Choose a font that is easy to read.
Style: Select a font that matches your wedding style.
Legibility: Ensure the font is legible in different sizes.
Pairing: Pair fonts that complement each other.
savewhere.net Recommendations: Find font recommendations on savewhere.net.

34. What Are The Best Paper Types For Printed Save The Dates?

The type of paper you choose can significantly impact the look and feel of your save the dates.

Matte Paper: For a classic and understated look.
Glossy Paper: For a modern and vibrant look.
Recycled Paper: For an eco-friendly option.
Linen Paper: For a textured and elegant look.
savewhere.net Options: Explore paper options on savewhere.net.

35. How Do You Choose The Right Size For Your Save The Dates?

Choosing the right size for your save the dates ensures they are visually appealing and easy to handle.

Standard Sizes: Common sizes include 4×6 inches and 5×7 inches.
Custom Sizes: Consider custom sizes for a unique look.
Envelopes: Ensure the size fits standard envelope sizes.
Postage: Check postage costs for different sizes.
savewhere.net Guide: Consult savewhere.net’s guide on save the date sizes.

36. What Are Some Tips For Addressing Save The Dates?

Addressing save the dates correctly ensures they reach your guests and reflect proper etiquette.

Full Names: Use full names when possible.
Correct Titles: Use correct titles (e.g., Mr., Ms., Dr.).
Accurate Addresses: Verify addresses for accuracy.
Formal vs. Informal: Choose formal or informal addressing based on your relationship with the guest.
savewhere.net Advice: Get addressing advice from savewhere.net’s etiquette experts.

37. How Do You Handle Plus-Ones On Save The Dates?

Handling plus-ones on save the dates requires clear communication and consideration.

“And Guest”: Use “and Guest” if the guest is allowed to bring a plus-one.
Specific Names: Include the specific names of both guests if known.
Relationship Status: Consider the relationship status of your guests when deciding on plus-ones.
Budget: Consider your budget when determining the number of plus-ones.
savewhere.net Planning: Plan your guest list and plus-ones using savewhere.net’s tools.

38. What Are Some Creative Alternatives To Traditional Save The Dates?

If you’re looking for something different, here are some creative alternatives to traditional save the dates:

Magnets: Send save the date magnets that guests can display on their refrigerators.
Coasters: Send save the date coasters that guests can use at home.
Bookmarks: Send save the date bookmarks that guests can use while reading.
Ornaments: Send save the date ornaments that guests can hang on their Christmas trees.
savewhere.net Ideas: Find more creative save the date ideas on savewhere.net.

By following these tips and utilizing the resources at savewhere.net, you can create save the dates that are both informative and stylish, setting the perfect tone for your upcoming wedding while saving money. Remember, the goal is to give your guests the essential information they need while reflecting your personal style and wedding theme.

FAQ: What Should Be On Save The Dates

What is the purpose of a save the date?
- The main purpose of a save the date is to give your guests advance notice of your wedding, allowing them to plan accordingly, especially if they need to travel. Save the dates are a friendly heads-up!
Is it necessary to send save the dates?
- While not mandatory, save the dates are highly recommended, especially for destination weddings or weddings with many out-of-town guests. It is a courtesy to your guests to give them plenty of time to make arrangements.
What information should be included on a save the date?
- Essential information includes the couple’s names, the wedding date, the city or region where the wedding will take place, and a note that an invitation will follow. Keep it concise and informative!
Should I include my wedding website on the save the date?
- Yes, including your wedding website is a great way to provide additional information such as accommodation options, travel tips, and your love story. It’s a convenient resource for your guests.
When should I send out save the dates?
- For local weddings, send save the dates 4-6 months in advance. For destination or holiday weddings, send them 8-12 months in advance to give guests ample time to plan.
Can I send digital save the dates instead of printed ones?
- Absolutely! Digital save the dates are a cost-effective and eco-friendly option. They can be just as effective as printed ones, especially with today’s technology.
What if I have to change the date after sending out save the dates?
- Communicate any changes to your guests as soon as possible. Update your wedding website, send out email updates, and make personal calls for significant changes. Honesty and transparency are key!
How can I save money on save the dates?
- Consider DIY designs, digital save the dates, printing at home, and opting for simple designs to reduce costs. Savewhere.net can also help you find exclusive discounts on printing services!
Is it appropriate to include registry information on the save the date?
- No, it is generally not considered proper etiquette to include registry information on the save the save-the-date cards. Save this for the wedding invitation or your wedding website.
How do I handle addressing save the dates to families with children?
- Address the save the date to the parents by name (e.g., “Mr. and Mrs. John Smith”). If you are only inviting the parents, specify “adults only” on the invitation to follow.

Ready to create stunning and budget-friendly save the dates? Visit savewhere.net today to explore our exclusive deals, creative ideas, and expert advice! Start planning your dream wedding and saving money now!