When Should Wedding Save The Dates Go Out? Typically, you should send wedding save the dates out 8 to 12 months before your wedding, and savewhere.net is here to ensure you get it right, helping your guests save money on travel and accommodation. This timeline ensures your loved ones have plenty of time to plan, save, and make arrangements. Discover how to perfectly time your save the dates, ensuring a stress-free and budget-friendly experience for everyone involved with event planning, wedding budget, and wedding invitations.
1. Why Timing Your Wedding Save The Dates Is Crucial
Sending out wedding save the dates at the right time is more than just a formality; it’s a thoughtful gesture that significantly impacts your guests’ ability to attend and enjoy your special day. By understanding the key reasons behind this timing, you can ensure a smoother, more inclusive, and ultimately more memorable wedding experience.
1.1. Adequate Planning Time for Guests
Giving your guests ample notice allows them to plan effectively. This is particularly important for those who need to travel long distances or have busy schedules.
- Travel Arrangements: Guests can book flights and accommodations early, often securing better deals and availability. According to a recent survey by the U.S. Travel Association, booking flights at least three months in advance can result in significant savings.
- Time Off Work: Early notice allows guests to request time off from work without causing disruption to their employers or facing potential conflicts.
- Childcare Arrangements: Parents need time to arrange childcare, especially if they plan to travel. Knowing the date well in advance helps them secure reliable and trustworthy caregivers.
1.2. Budgeting and Saving
Attending a wedding can be a significant expense for guests. Providing early notice gives them the opportunity to budget and save accordingly.
- Accommodation Costs: Guests can explore various accommodation options, from budget-friendly hotels to vacation rentals, and spread out the costs over several months. Savewhere.net offers resources for finding the best deals on hotels and accommodations in various locations.
- Travel Expenses: Early booking of flights and transportation can lead to substantial savings. Guests can also take advantage of travel rewards programs and discounts.
- Gift Purchases: Guests can plan their gift purchases without feeling rushed, allowing them to find meaningful and affordable options.
- Personal Expenses: Attending a wedding often involves additional expenses like new outfits, salon appointments, and other personal preparations. Early notice allows guests to budget for these costs without straining their finances.
1.3. Destination Weddings and Holiday Weekends
For destination weddings or weddings held on holiday weekends, the timing of save the dates becomes even more critical.
- Destination Weddings: Guests attending destination weddings need more time to plan international travel, secure passports and visas, and arrange for any necessary vaccinations.
- Holiday Weekends: Holiday weekends are popular travel times, which means flights and accommodations tend to book up quickly and prices can be higher. Sending save the dates well in advance ensures guests can secure their arrangements before they become too expensive or unavailable.
1.4. Avoiding Conflicts
Life is full of commitments, and your guests may already have other events or obligations on their calendars.
- Prior Commitments: Early notice allows guests to check their calendars and avoid potential conflicts with other weddings, family reunions, vacations, or important events.
- Work Schedules: Some professions require employees to book time off well in advance. Providing early notice allows guests to plan around their work schedules without facing potential conflicts.
1.5. Setting the Tone and Building Excitement
Save the dates are not just practical; they also serve as a way to set the tone for your wedding and build excitement among your guests.
- Creating Anticipation: A well-designed and timely save the date can create a sense of anticipation and excitement for your wedding.
- Sharing Your Vision: Save the dates can offer a glimpse into your wedding theme, style, and overall vision, helping guests get a sense of what to expect.
- Personal Touch: Adding a personal touch, such as a handwritten note or a special photo, can make your guests feel valued and appreciated.
1.6. Savewhere.net: Your Partner in Wedding Planning
Savewhere.net is dedicated to helping you and your guests save money and plan effectively for your wedding. By providing resources for finding the best deals on travel, accommodations, and other wedding-related expenses, Savewhere.net ensures that everyone can enjoy your special day without breaking the bank. Check out Savewhere.net for the latest tips and tricks on wedding planning and budgeting.
2. General Timeline: When to Send Save The Dates
Determining the right time to send out your wedding save the dates involves considering several factors to ensure your guests have ample time to plan. Here’s a detailed timeline to guide you:
2.1. The 8-12 Month Rule
As a general guideline, aim to send your save the dates 8 to 12 months before your wedding date. This timeline strikes a balance between giving guests enough notice and avoiding the risk of them forgetting about the event.
- Eight Months: Sending save the dates eight months in advance is suitable for local weddings where most guests live nearby and travel is minimal.
- Twelve Months: Sending save the dates twelve months in advance is ideal for destination weddings, weddings held on holiday weekends, or weddings with many out-of-town guests.
2.2. Factors Affecting the Timeline
Several factors can influence whether you should send your save the dates closer to the 8-month mark or the 12-month mark.
- Destination Weddings: If you’re planning a destination wedding, sending save the dates 12 months in advance is highly recommended. This gives guests ample time to plan international travel, secure passports and visas, and budget for expenses.
- Holiday Weekends: Weddings held on holiday weekends, such as Memorial Day, Labor Day, or New Year’s Eve, require early notice. Sending save the dates 12 months in advance allows guests to book flights and accommodations before prices increase and availability becomes limited.
- Out-of-Town Guests: If a significant portion of your guest list consists of out-of-town guests, sending save the dates 10-12 months in advance is a thoughtful gesture. This gives them time to plan travel arrangements and request time off from work.
- Peak Wedding Season: During peak wedding season (typically late spring, summer, and early fall), guests may receive multiple wedding invitations. Sending save the dates early helps your wedding stand out and ensures it’s on their radar.
- Guest Demographics: Consider the demographics of your guest list. If many of your guests are professionals with busy schedules or families with young children, early notice is especially important.
2.3. Save-the-Date Timing Checklist
| Factor | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Destination Wedding | Send 12 months in advance |
| Holiday Weekend | Send 12 months in advance |
| Many Out-of-Town Guests | Send 10-12 months in advance |
| Peak Wedding Season | Send 9-11 months in advance |
| Local Wedding | Send 8-10 months in advance |
2.4. Examples of Timing Scenarios
- Scenario 1: Local Wedding in Off-Peak Season: Sarah and John are planning a local wedding in their hometown in February. Most of their guests live nearby, and travel is minimal. They decide to send their save the dates 8 months in advance, in June.
- Scenario 2: Destination Wedding on New Year’s Eve: Emily and David are planning a destination wedding in Mexico on New Year’s Eve. They have many out-of-town guests, and flights and accommodations are likely to be expensive. They send their save the dates 12 months in advance, in January.
- Scenario 3: Wedding During Peak Season with Many Out-of-Town Guests: Jessica and Michael are planning a wedding in June, during peak wedding season. They have many out-of-town guests who need to make travel arrangements. They send their save the dates 10 months in advance, in August.
2.5. Savewhere.net Resources for Timing
Savewhere.net offers a variety of resources to help you determine the best time to send your wedding save the dates.
- Customizable Timeline Tool: Use Savewhere.net’s customizable timeline tool to input your wedding details and receive a personalized save-the-date timeline.
- Expert Advice: Consult Savewhere.net’s wedding planning experts for personalized advice on timing your save the dates.
- Guest Communication Templates: Access Savewhere.net’s guest communication templates for tips on how to inform your guests about travel and accommodation options.
Visit Savewhere.net today for expert advice and resources on planning your wedding.
3. Key Elements to Include in Your Save The Dates
Your save the dates are the first glimpse your guests get of your wedding, so it’s important to include all the essential information while also setting the tone for your special day. Here’s a breakdown of the key elements to include:
3.1. Names of the Couple
Clearly state both of your names on the save the date. This helps guests immediately identify who is getting married.
- Full Names: Use your full first names to avoid confusion, especially if you have common names.
- Preferred Order: Decide on the order in which you want your names to appear and maintain consistency throughout all wedding-related communications.
3.2. Wedding Date
Include the full date of your wedding, including the month, day, and year.
- Clarity: Write out the month to avoid any potential confusion, especially when sending to guests in different countries where date formats may vary.
- Day of the Week: Consider including the day of the week as well, as this can help guests with their travel plans.
3.3. Location (City and State)
Provide the city and state where your wedding will be held. You don’t need to include the specific venue at this stage, but giving guests a general location helps them start planning.
- Destination Weddings: For destination weddings, be as specific as possible, including the country and any relevant region or island.
- Multiple Events: If you’re planning multiple events in different locations, consider including information about the main wedding location.
3.4. Wedding Website (Optional)
Including your wedding website on the save the date is a great way to provide guests with additional information and updates.
- Central Hub: Your wedding website can serve as a central hub for all wedding-related details, including travel information, accommodation options, and registry information.
- RSVP Option: If you plan to collect RSVPs online, include a link to your RSVP page on the website.
3.5. “Formal Invitation to Follow”
Add a line indicating that a formal invitation will follow. This assures guests that they will receive more detailed information about the wedding in the future.
- Wording: Common phrases include “Formal invitation to follow,” “Invitation to follow,” or “Details to follow.”
- Expectation Setting: This also helps set expectations that they are indeed invited to the wedding.
3.6. Save-the-Date Examples Checklist
| Element | Example |
|---|---|
| Names of the Couple | Emily and David |
| Wedding Date | Saturday, June 15, 2025 |
| Location (City and State) | Atlanta, Georgia |
| Wedding Website (Optional) | www.emilyanddavidwedding.com |
| “Formal Invitation to Follow” | Formal invitation to follow |
3.7. Design and Style
Your save the date is an opportunity to showcase your personal style and wedding theme.
- Theme Consistency: Choose a design that aligns with your overall wedding theme and aesthetic.
- Engagement Photos: Consider incorporating engagement photos to add a personal touch and make your save the dates more visually appealing.
- Font and Colors: Select fonts and colors that are easy to read and complement your wedding theme.
3.8. Additional Tips
- Proofread: Always proofread your save the dates carefully to ensure there are no spelling errors or typos.
- Order Extras: Order extra save the dates to account for any last-minute additions to your guest list or any that may get lost in the mail.
- Mailing Envelopes: Address your mailing envelopes clearly and accurately to ensure your save the dates reach their intended recipients.
3.9. Savewhere.net Resources for Design
Savewhere.net offers resources to help you design the perfect save the dates.
- Design Templates: Access Savewhere.net’s library of customizable save-the-date design templates.
- Printing Services: Use Savewhere.net’s printing services to create high-quality save the dates at an affordable price.
- Budgeting Tools: Utilize Savewhere.net’s budgeting tools to track your save-the-date expenses and stay within budget. Visit Savewhere.net today for design tips and resources to create beautiful and affordable save the dates.
4. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Sending Save The Dates
Sending save the dates is an exciting step in wedding planning, but it’s important to avoid common mistakes that can cause confusion or frustration for your guests. Here are some key pitfalls to steer clear of:
4.1. Sending Them Too Late
One of the biggest mistakes is sending save the dates too late. As mentioned earlier, aim to send them 8 to 12 months before your wedding date.
- Inconvenience to Guests: Sending them late can inconvenience guests who need to make travel arrangements or request time off from work.
- Higher Costs: Guests may face higher costs for flights and accommodations if they book closer to the wedding date.
- Conflicts: Guests may already have other commitments if they don’t receive enough notice.
4.2. Not Being Clear About Who Is Invited
It’s essential to be clear about who is invited to the wedding, even at the save-the-date stage.
- Addressing Envelopes: Address the save the dates to the specific individuals who are invited, rather than using generic terms like “The Smith Family.”
- Plus Ones: If you are allowing guests to bring a plus one, clearly indicate this on the save the date.
- Children: If children are invited, include their names on the save the date. If not, it’s important to make this clear to avoid confusion.
4.3. Sending a Save The Date Card but Not an Invitation
Only send save the dates to people you are definitely inviting to the wedding.
- No Second Guessing: Once your save the dates are in the mail, there’s no second-guessing.
- Potential Offense: It can be offensive to send a save the date to someone and then not invite them to the wedding.
- Guest List Finalization: Finalize your guest list before sending save the dates to avoid any awkward situations.
4.4. Not Including All of the Details
Make sure to include all the essential details on your save the dates.
- Minimum Information: At a minimum, this should include your names, wedding date, and location (city and state).
- Wedding Website: Consider including your wedding website to provide guests with additional information.
- Clarity: Ensure that all the information is clear and easy to read.
4.5. Incorrect Spelling and Grammar
Always proofread your save the dates carefully to ensure there are no spelling errors or grammatical mistakes.
- Professional Proofreading: Consider having a professional proofreader review your save the dates before sending them out.
- Multiple Reviews: Review the save the dates yourself and ask a friend or family member to review them as well.
- Attention to Detail: Pay attention to detail, including names, dates, and locations.
4.6. Ignoring Budget Constraints
It’s easy to get carried away with fancy designs and expensive printing options, but it’s important to stay within your budget.
- Affordable Options: Explore affordable save-the-date options, such as DIY designs or online printing services.
- Prioritize Essentials: Prioritize the essential information and opt for a simple, elegant design.
- Savewhere.net Resources: Utilize Savewhere.net’s budgeting tools to track your expenses and stay within budget.
4.7. Mailing Issues
Ensure that your save the dates are properly addressed and mailed to avoid any delivery issues.
- Accurate Addresses: Double-check all addresses to ensure they are accurate and up-to-date.
- Sufficient Postage: Use sufficient postage to ensure your save the dates are delivered without any issues.
- Tracking: Consider using tracking services for larger mailings to monitor delivery progress.
4.8. Addressing Mistakes Checklist
| Mistake | Solution |
|---|---|
| Sending Them Too Late | Send 8-12 months in advance |
| Not Being Clear About Who Is Invited | Address envelopes specifically; indicate plus ones and children |
| Sending a Save The Date but Not an Invite | Only send to those definitely invited |
| Not Including All of the Details | Include names, date, location; consider wedding website |
| Incorrect Spelling and Grammar | Proofread carefully; have a professional review |
| Ignoring Budget Constraints | Explore affordable options; prioritize essentials |
| Mailing Issues | Double-check addresses; use sufficient postage; consider tracking |
4.9. Savewhere.net for Flawless Execution
Savewhere.net offers a variety of resources to help you avoid these common mistakes and ensure a smooth save-the-date process.
- Checklists: Use Savewhere.net’s checklists to ensure you include all the essential details and avoid common errors.
- Budgeting Tools: Utilize Savewhere.net’s budgeting tools to track your expenses and stay within budget.
- Expert Advice: Consult Savewhere.net’s wedding planning experts for personalized advice on all aspects of wedding planning.
Visit Savewhere.net today for checklists, budgeting tools, and expert advice to help you plan your wedding flawlessly.
5. Etiquette Tips for Sending Save The Dates
Navigating the etiquette surrounding wedding save the dates can ensure you maintain good relationships with your guests and avoid any unintentional faux pas. Here are some key etiquette tips to keep in mind:
5.1. Guest List Considerations
Before sending out save the dates, finalize your guest list to the best of your ability.
- Definite Invites Only: Only send save the dates to those you are certain you want to invite to your wedding. It’s better to err on the side of caution and send a save the date later than to send one and then have to cut someone from the guest list.
- Plus-Ones and Children: Decide on your policy regarding plus-ones and children early in the planning process and stick to it. Be clear about who is invited on the save the date to avoid confusion.
- Family Dynamics: Be mindful of family dynamics and potential sensitivities when creating your guest list. If there are any strained relationships, consider how your decisions might impact those involved.
5.2. Addressing Save The Dates
Properly addressing your save the dates is a sign of respect and consideration for your guests.
- Formal Titles: Use formal titles (e.g., Mr., Ms., Dr.) when addressing save the dates, unless you are close to the recipients and know they prefer otherwise.
- Correct Names: Double-check the spelling of each guest’s name to avoid any errors.
- Household Addressing: If you are inviting a couple who live together, address the save the date to both of them on the same line (e.g., Mr. John Smith and Ms. Jane Doe).
- Children’s Names: If children are invited, include their names on the save the date, either on the same line as their parents or on a separate line below.
5.3. Wording and Tone
Choose wording and a tone that reflects your personality and the style of your wedding.
- Formal vs. Informal: If you are planning a formal wedding, use more formal language on your save the dates. If you are planning a casual wedding, you can use more relaxed and informal language.
- Clarity: Ensure that your wording is clear and easy to understand. Avoid using jargon or overly complicated language.
- Personal Touch: Add a personal touch to your save the dates, such as a handwritten note or a special photo.
5.4. Digital vs. Paper Save The Dates
Decide whether you want to send digital or paper save the dates, and consider the preferences of your guests.
- Digital Save The Dates: Digital save the dates are a convenient and eco-friendly option. They can be sent via email or text message and are often more affordable than paper save the dates.
- Paper Save The Dates: Paper save the dates are a more traditional option and can be a nice keepsake for your guests. They can be more expensive than digital save the dates, but they can also be more personal and visually appealing.
- Guest Preferences: Consider the preferences of your guests when deciding whether to send digital or paper save the dates. If many of your guests are older or less tech-savvy, they may prefer to receive a paper save the date.
5.5. Handling Changes and Updates
Be prepared to handle any changes or updates that may arise after you send out your save the dates.
- Change of Date: If you need to change your wedding date, inform your guests as soon as possible. Send out a new save the date or an email with the updated information.
- Change of Location: If you need to change your wedding location, inform your guests as soon as possible. Provide them with the new location details and any relevant travel information.
- Cancellation: If you need to cancel your wedding, inform your guests as soon as possible. Express your apologies and explain the reasons for the cancellation.
5.6. Etiquette Checklist
| Etiquette Tip | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Guest List Considerations | Finalize the list; decide on plus-ones and children; consider family dynamics |
| Addressing Save The Dates | Use formal titles; double-check names; address households correctly; include children’s names |
| Wording and Tone | Reflect personality and wedding style; ensure clarity; add a personal touch |
| Digital vs. Paper Save The Dates | Consider guest preferences; weigh cost, convenience, and environmental impact |
| Handling Changes and Updates | Inform guests ASAP of any changes; provide updated information; express apologies for cancellations |
5.7. Savewhere.net: Your Etiquette Guide
Savewhere.net offers a variety of resources to help you navigate the etiquette surrounding wedding save the dates.
- Etiquette Guides: Access Savewhere.net’s etiquette guides for tips on guest list considerations, addressing save the dates, wording and tone, and handling changes and updates.
- Expert Advice: Consult Savewhere.net’s wedding planning experts for personalized advice on all aspects of wedding etiquette.
Visit Savewhere.net today for etiquette guides and expert advice to help you plan your wedding with grace and consideration.
6. Creative and Budget-Friendly Save The Date Ideas
Planning a wedding can be expensive, but your save the dates don’t have to break the bank. Here are some creative and budget-friendly ideas to inspire you:
6.1. DIY Save The Dates
Creating your own save the dates can save you money and add a personal touch to your wedding.
- Handmade Cards: Design and create your own save-the-date cards using cardstock, stamps, and other craft supplies.
- Photo Booth Strips: Use photo booth strips from your engagement shoot as save the dates.
- Personalized Magnets: Create personalized magnets with your names, wedding date, and a photo.
6.2. Digital Save The Dates
Digital save the dates are a cost-effective and eco-friendly option.
- Email Save The Dates: Design and send your save the dates via email.
- E-cards: Create e-cards using online design tools like Canva or Smilebox.
- Wedding Website Announcements: Announce your wedding date on your wedding website and encourage guests to save the date.
6.3. Upcycled and Recycled Materials
Use upcycled and recycled materials to create unique and eco-friendly save the dates.
- Seed Paper: Create save the dates using seed paper, which guests can plant after the wedding.
- Recycled Cardboard: Use recycled cardboard to create rustic and eco-friendly save the dates.
- Vintage Postcards: Use vintage postcards as save the dates, adding your wedding details on the back.
6.4. Photo-Based Save The Dates
Incorporate your engagement photos into your save the dates for a personal and visually appealing touch.
- Engagement Photo Prints: Print your engagement photos and add your wedding details on the back.
- Photo Collages: Create photo collages with your engagement photos and wedding details.
- Personalized Photo Calendars: Create personalized photo calendars with your engagement photos and wedding date highlighted.
6.5. Themed Save The Dates
Choose a theme that reflects your personality and wedding style.
- Travel-Themed Save The Dates: If you are planning a destination wedding, create travel-themed save the dates with maps, postcards, and passport stamps.
- Vintage-Themed Save The Dates: Create vintage-themed save the dates with antique fonts, sepia-toned photos, and vintage-inspired designs.
- Rustic-Themed Save The Dates: Create rustic-themed save the dates with burlap, twine, and natural elements.
6.6. Save-the-Date Checklist
| Creative Idea | Description |
|---|---|
| DIY Save The Dates | Handmade cards, photo booth strips, personalized magnets |
| Digital Save The Dates | Email save the dates, e-cards, wedding website announcements |
| Upcycled Materials | Seed paper, recycled cardboard, vintage postcards |
| Photo-Based Save The Dates | Engagement photo prints, photo collages, personalized photo calendars |
| Themed Save The Dates | Travel-themed, vintage-themed, rustic-themed |
6.7. Savewhere.net: Your Creative Partner
Savewhere.net offers a variety of resources to help you create creative and budget-friendly save the dates.
- Design Templates: Access Savewhere.net’s library of customizable save-the-date design templates.
- DIY Tutorials: Find DIY tutorials and inspiration on Savewhere.net’s blog.
- Budgeting Tools: Utilize Savewhere.net’s budgeting tools to track your save-the-date expenses and stay within budget.
Visit Savewhere.net today for design templates, DIY tutorials, and budgeting tools to help you create beautiful and affordable save the dates.
7. How to Handle Save The Dates for Destination Weddings
Destination weddings require extra planning and consideration, especially when it comes to save the dates. Here’s how to handle save the dates for destination weddings to ensure your guests have ample time to prepare:
7.1. Send Save The Dates Earlier
For destination weddings, it’s crucial to send save the dates earlier than you would for a local wedding.
- 12 Months in Advance: Aim to send save the dates at least 12 months before your wedding date. This gives guests ample time to plan international travel, secure passports and visas, and budget for expenses.
- Early Notification: Early notification is especially important for guests who may need to take extended time off from work or arrange for childcare.
7.2. Include Essential Travel Information
Provide your guests with essential travel information on your save the dates or on your wedding website.
- Location Details: Include the specific location of your wedding, including the country, city, and any relevant region or island.
- Travel Recommendations: Provide recommendations for flights, accommodations, and transportation options.
- Visa and Passport Information: Inform your guests about any visa or passport requirements they may need to meet.
7.3. Create a Wedding Website
A wedding website is an essential tool for destination weddings.
- Central Hub: Your wedding website can serve as a central hub for all wedding-related details, including travel information, accommodation options, and registry information.
- RSVP Option: If you plan to collect RSVPs online, include a link to your RSVP page on the website.
- Updates and Announcements: Use your wedding website to provide guests with updates and announcements about the wedding.
7.4. Consider a Destination Wedding Checklist
Create a destination wedding checklist to ensure you don’t overlook any important details.
- Travel Arrangements: Book flights and accommodations early to secure the best deals.
- Legal Requirements: Research any legal requirements for getting married in your chosen destination.
- Vendor Coordination: Coordinate with local vendors, such as photographers, florists, and caterers.
7.5. Destination Wedding Checklist
| Planning Task | Description |
|---|---|
| Send Save The Dates Early | At least 12 months in advance |
| Include Travel Information | Location details, travel recommendations, visa and passport information |
| Create a Wedding Website | Central hub for all wedding-related details, RSVP option, updates and announcements |
| Destination Wedding Checklist | Travel arrangements, legal requirements, vendor coordination |
7.6. Savewhere.net: Your Destination Wedding Guide
Savewhere.net offers a variety of resources to help you plan your destination wedding.
- Destination Wedding Guides: Access Savewhere.net’s destination wedding guides for tips on choosing a destination, planning travel arrangements, and coordinating with local vendors.
- Budgeting Tools: Utilize Savewhere.net’s budgeting tools to track your destination wedding expenses and stay within budget.
- Expert Advice: Consult Savewhere.net’s wedding planning experts for personalized advice on all aspects of destination wedding planning.
Visit Savewhere.net today for destination wedding guides, budgeting tools, and expert advice to help you plan your dream destination wedding.
8. The Importance of Following Up After Sending Save The Dates
Following up after sending your wedding save the dates is crucial for ensuring your guests have all the information they need and for managing your wedding plans effectively. Here’s why it’s important and how to do it:
8.1. Confirming Receipt
Ensure your save the dates have reached your guests by confirming receipt.
- Follow-Up Emails or Texts: Send a follow-up email or text to your guests to confirm they received the save the date.
- Wedding Website Updates: Encourage guests to visit your wedding website for updates and additional information.
8.2. Providing Additional Information
Use follow-up communications to provide your guests with additional information about the wedding.
- Travel and Accommodation Details: Share more detailed information about travel and accommodation options, including hotel recommendations and transportation tips.
- Wedding Events Schedule: Provide a tentative schedule of wedding events, including the ceremony, reception, and any pre- or post-wedding activities.
8.3. Managing RSVPs
Start managing RSVPs early to get an accurate headcount for your wedding.
- Online RSVP System: Set up an online RSVP system on your wedding website.
- RSVP Deadline: Set a clear RSVP deadline to give guests ample time to respond.
- Follow-Up with Non-Responders: Follow up with guests who haven’t responded by the RSVP deadline.
8.4. Handling Dietary Restrictions and Special Needs
Use follow-up communications to gather information about dietary restrictions and special needs.
- Dietary Restrictions Form: Include a dietary restrictions form on your wedding website or in your RSVP system.
- Special Needs Accommodation: Ask guests to inform you of any special needs they may have, such as wheelchair access or assistance with transportation.
8.5. Follow-Up Checklist
| Follow-Up Task | Description |
|---|---|
| Confirm Receipt | Send follow-up emails or texts; update wedding website |
| Provide Additional Information | Travel and accommodation details; wedding events schedule |
| Manage RSVPs | Set up online RSVP system; set RSVP deadline; follow up with non-responders |
| Handle Dietary Restrictions/Needs | Include dietary restrictions form; ask about special needs accommodation |
8.6. Savewhere.net: Your Follow-Up Partner
Savewhere.net offers a variety of resources to help you follow up after sending your wedding save the dates.
- Communication Templates: Access Savewhere.net’s communication templates for follow-up emails and texts.
- RSVP Management Tools: Utilize Savewhere.net’s RSVP management tools to track responses and manage your guest list.
- Expert Advice: Consult Savewhere.net’s wedding planning experts for personalized advice on all aspects of wedding planning.
Visit savewhere.net today for communication templates, RSVP management tools, and expert advice to help you plan your wedding effectively.
9. FAQs About Wedding Save The Dates
Navigating the world of wedding save the dates can bring up many questions. Here are some frequently asked questions to help clarify any uncertainties:
9.1. What is a Save The Date?
A save the date is a preliminary announcement of your wedding date, sent to guests well in advance of the formal invitation. It informs them of the date and location, allowing them to make necessary arrangements.
9.2. Why are Save The Dates Important?
Save the dates are important because they give guests ample time to plan, especially for destination weddings or weddings during peak seasons. They also help guests budget and request time off from work.
9.3. When Should I Send Save The Dates?
Generally, send save the dates 8 to 12 months before your wedding. Send them earlier for destination weddings or weddings on holiday weekends.
9.4. What Information Should I Include on Save The Dates?
Include your names, wedding date, and location (city and state). You can also include your wedding website.
9.5. Do I Need to Send Formal Invitations if I Send Save The Dates?
Yes, you still need to send formal invitations, even if you send save the dates. The invitation provides more detailed information about the wedding.
9.6. What is The Difference Between a Save The Date and a Wedding Invitation?
A save the date is a preliminary announcement, while a wedding invitation is a formal request to attend the wedding. Invitations include more details, such as the venue, time, dress code, and RSVP information.
9.7. Can I Send Save The Dates Electronically?
Yes, you can send save the dates electronically via email or e-cards. This is a cost-effective and eco-friendly option.
9.8. How Much Do Save The Dates Cost?
The cost of save the dates varies depending on the design, printing method, and quantity. DIY save the dates and electronic save the dates are the most budget-friendly options.
9.9. Do I Send Save The Dates to Everyone on My Potential Guest List?
No, only send save the dates to people you are definitely inviting to the wedding.
9.10. What Should I Do if I Have to Change My Wedding Date After Sending Save The Dates?
Inform your guests as soon as possible. Send out a new save the date or an email with the
