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Save The Date Etiquette: Your Comprehensive Guide

A bride in a white wedding dress holding a Save The Date

Save the date cards are a crucial element in the wedding planning process. They give your guests a heads-up about your upcoming nuptials and set the tone for your big day. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about save the date etiquette to ensure you leave a lasting impression on your guests.

When to Send Save the Dates

As a rule of thumb, send your save the dates six to eight months before your wedding day. This gives your guests ample time to plan their schedules, request time off from work, and make any necessary travel arrangements. If you’re hosting a destination wedding or your wedding falls on a holiday weekend, consider sending the save the dates even earlier – around nine to twelve months in advance – to allow for extra planning time.

Who Should Receive a Save the Date?

Save the dates should be sent to everyone on your guest list, including close family members and friends. Remember, once you send a save the date to someone, it’s a commitment to send them a formal wedding invitation later on. Be cautious about sending save the dates to people you’re unsure about inviting – it’s better to wait until you’ve finalized your guest list.

What to Include on Your Save the Dates

Your save the dates should include the following essential information:

  • Your names
  • The wedding date
  • The city and state where the wedding will take place (you can leave out the specific venue for now)
  • A note that a formal invitation will follow
  • Your wedding website URL, if you have one

Keep the wording on your save the dates simple and clear. You can save the more detailed information and formal language for your wedding invitations.

Choosing the Design and Style

Save the dates set the tone for your wedding, so choose a design that reflects your style and theme. This is your opportunity to get creative and show your personality as a couple. You can opt for a traditional card, a magnet, a postcard, or even a digital save the date. Just make sure the design is cohesive with your wedding invitations and overall theme.

Addressing and Mailing Your Save the Dates

Address your save the dates using the same etiquette you will use for your wedding invitations. Write out full names and avoid using abbreviations for street names and states. For couples and families, use “and family” or list each person’s name on the envelope.

Don’t forget to double-check your guest list and addresses before mailing your save the dates to avoid any errors or missed recipients.

Electronic Save the Dates

If you’re looking for a more eco-friendly or budget-conscious option, consider sending electronic save the dates. Many websites offer customizable designs and easy-to-use templates. Make sure to collect your guests’ email addresses in advance and test the electronic save the date before sending it out to ensure it displays correctly on various devices.

Final Thoughts

Save the dates are an essential part of your wedding planning process. By following proper etiquette and keeping your guests’ needs in mind, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Stay true to your style and personality, and make sure to communicate all the essential information to your guests. With these tips in mind, you’re well on your way to creating memorable and effective save the dates for your big day.

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