Timing is everything when it comes to sending wedding stationery. As a wedding planner, your guidance can help couples give guests enough notice, stay organized, and avoid last-minute chaos. Here’s a complete guide to Save the Dates and wedding invitations.
1. Save the Dates
- When to Send: Typically 6–8 months before the wedding.
- For destination weddings, aim for 8–12 months to give guests extra time to plan travel and accommodations.
- Purpose: Let guests know the wedding date so they can reserve the time.
- Planner Tips:
- Keep the design simple and match your couple’s wedding theme if possible.
- Include essential info: names, wedding date, city/state (venue optional).
- Avoid overwhelming guests with details that belong on the invitation or wedding website.
2. Official Invitations
- When to Send: Usually 6–8 weeks before the wedding.
- For destination weddings, send 10–12 weeks in advance to allow travel planning.
- Details to Include:
- Venue address and directions
- Ceremony and reception times
- RSVP instructions and deadline
- Dress code (optional)
- Wedding website link for additional information, hotel blocks, or registry
- Planner Tips:
- Mail invitations in batches to ensure timely delivery.
- Include RSVP cards or clear online RSVP instructions.
- Track RSVPs as they come in using a spreadsheet or planner system.
3. Pro Planner Advice
- Remind couples to double-check their guest list before sending any stationery.
- If possible, plan a stationery timeline to coordinate Save the Dates, invitations, and follow-ups.
- Consider including QR codes on invitations for online RSVPs — this makes responses easier to track.
- Communicate with vendors (printing, mailing, calligraphy) to account for production and mailing times.
Knowing the right timing for Save the Dates and invitations keeps weddings organized and stress-free. By guiding your couples carefully and tracking RSVPs, you help ensure a smooth planning process and happy guests.
To learn more about handling RSVP’s check out this post HERE.
