At first glance, “save the date” cards may seem like a simple idea — they’re cards you send to notify guests, you guessed it, to save the date for your upcoming wedding. But, as any bride-to-be knows, once you start planning your wedding, you quickly realize that seemingly simple items can actually be more complicated than expected. When should you send a Save the Date card, what information should you include, is it considered taboo to list your gift registry? Fear not – today, we’ll break down many of the details you need to know about Save the Date cards. Read on for our pro tips!
What is a save the date card?
Wedding Save the Date is a card sent to your guest list before sending your actual wedding invitation. Save the date cards are sent well in advance of your wedding and allow your guests to keep your date on their calendars so they can make work or travel plans. Remember, a wedding save the date is not the same as a wedding announcement. Wedding announcements are sent to uninvited loved ones 1-2 weeks after the wedding.
Why did I need to send save the date card?
It can be tempting to skip save the date to save on a budget. While they’re not required, they’re a great way to set the tone and spread the word about your engagement. Most importantly, though, they are also the main courtesy to guests. If your wedding requires guests to travel, take time off, or arrange for childcare, the sooner you let them know, the better. (Sending them an invitation a month before your Hawaii destination wedding can mean a very expensive flight to Maui and a hectic last-minute schedule.) In general, if you want to make sure your closest and dearest can arrive by your side, they will be very helpful at events.
What information should my Save the Date card contain?
You need to include a range of information, not just appointments so that guests have a good idea of what’s to come. We recommend always including:
- Your name (virgin)
- Your significant other’s name
- Your wedding date
- Location (city and state – not venue name)
- Wedding website
- Notice of Formal Invitation
Who should I send the Wedding Save the Date to?
Only send Save the Date cards to people you plan to invite to your wedding. If you send your guests save the date cards, they should definitely receive wedding invitations.
When should I send my Save the Date card?
For most weddings, you should send your save the date card 6 months before your wedding date. If you are having a destination wedding, we recommend that you send it 8-12 months before your wedding so that guests can fully plan their travel and accommodation.
When should I order my Save the Date card?
Use the schedule we provided above to order your Save the Date card approximately 1 month before you plan to mail it.
Should I include a picture?
There are no mandatory rules that you should include photos, but we think including them is a great way to get some miles out of your engagement photos. It’s also a great way to “introduce” your significant other to family and friends who haven’t had the chance to meet them in person. That said your Save the Date card should align with the overall aesthetic of your wedding (more on that below!) – so if you’re planning a super streamlined, text-only affair, the photos may not Fits perfectly with the aesthetic of wedding invitations and upcoming events.
Should my “save the date” match my invitation style?
We think so! Set a cohesive theme from the start to elevate the wedding from bland to stunning. You don’t have to go overboard, but keeping the overall style clean, simple, and elegant can make a huge difference.
Can I add my gift registration form to my Save the Date card?
It may be tempting to include, but etiquette dictates that gift registrations should not be included in your save the date magnet. Instead, add your wedding website information, and then include a link to your gift registry on your wedding website.
How do I make my Save the Date stand out?
There are many ways to improve your wedding “save the date” game a level or two. We recommend using recipient addresses, envelope liners, or wax seals to enhance your design. Foil stamping, letterpress and white ink options are great ways to elevate your Save the Date card while creating an elegant, timeless design.
