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.

| Terrica McKee is a seasoned wedding planner, florist, and educator with over 14 years of experience helping new and aspiring wedding planners build confidence and run professional, stress-free weddings. As the founder of Southern Productions, Meridian’s first full-service wedding planning and florist company, Terrica provides step-by-step systems, done-for-you templates, and expert guidance so planners can show up like pros from day one. |