5 Things to Know Before You Send Your Save-the-Dates

For many guests and engaged couples, a Save-the-Date announcement makes upcoming nuptials seem “real” as it’s the first time your guests see the info, date and place. It’s the first notification where family and friends can start making plans to attend, booking hotels and vacation dates. Along with sharing need-to-know details, it’s a great way to get people excited. Here are some tips to keep in mind as you start spreading the news!

1. Is a Save-the-Date Necessary?

It is-especially if you’re planning a destination wedding, a summer wedding, or a wedding that falls on a three-day weekend. Part of what makes your wedding day magical is having so many of your family and friends together in one place. Scheduling conflicts occur, but if you give your guests a decent heads-up, more of them will attend, and you will be merrier!

2. When Do I Send?

Aim to mail save-the-date six to nine months before your wedding if you’re tying the knot in a far-flung destination. Any longer and your wedding date might go on the backburner and be inadvertently forgotten when a conflict does arise. It is important to reach out of towners who are invited to your wedding so they aren’t scrambling to make arrangements as the time ticks toward the wedding!

3. The Recipients.

Everyone on your guest list…even your wedding party… should receive a Save-the-Date. If plus-ones and kids are invited, remember to specify “and guest” or “and family” when addressing save-the-dates envelopes.

4. The Details.

 Your Save-the-Date should include your first and last names, the date, and the city where the event will take place.  Important:  Add the line, ‘Invitation to follow’ or folks might think this is the wedding invitation! Last but not Least: include your wedding website and make sure to launch it in time for the Save-the-Date mailing.

5. Match the Wedding Invitation?

 Your Save-the-Date can be created in many ways.  Some couples like to have a theme and want to match the wedding invitations. Then there are couples will choose an engagement photo that includes all the pertinent information on the announcement.  I have often suggested a digital photo of the venue especially if it is a destination wedding to create the excitement of what is to come

All in all Save-the -Date should be informative and get the word out that you are GETTING MARRIED!