How Far in Advance Should I Send Save the Dates?
Jan 14th 2025
How Far in Advance Should I Send Save the Dates?
Planning a wedding can be a daunting task, and one of the initial, yet critical, steps in the process is sending out your save the dates. So, how far in advance should you send save the dates to ensure your loved ones can plan accordingly? Let's dive into the details to help you navigate this important question.
Understanding Save the Dates
Save the dates are a pre-invitation notification to your guests, letting them know that your wedding is on the horizon. While formal invitations will follow later, sending a save the date gives your guest a heads-up and allows them to keep that date open in their calendars. It’s especially important for weddings that fall around holidays or in popular venues, as accommodations can fill up quickly.
Typical Timeline for Sending Save the Dates
The general consensus among wedding planners is that save the dates should be sent out approximately six to eight months in advance of your wedding date. This timeframe allows your guests ample time to plan travel and accommodations, particularly for those who might be coming from out of town. Here’s a breakdown by various situations:
1. Local Weddings
For weddings that are being held locally, a notice period of around six months is typically sufficient. Guests who live nearby are less likely to need to book accommodations far in advance, which makes this timeframe adequate for them to rearrange their schedules.
2. Destination Weddings
Destination weddings often require guests to arrange travel and accommodations, making it essential to send save the dates much earlier—around eight to twelve months in advance. This longer notice period will give your guests the opportunity to make travel arrangements and take advantage of potentially lower airfare or hotel rates.
3. Holiday Periods
If your wedding falls during a holiday period, such as Thanksgiving or Christmas, consider sending save the dates even earlier. Allotting ten months to a full year is recommended in this case. Guests are likely to have other commitments during holiday seasons, and they may need to adjust their plans to attend your special day. The earlier you inform them, the better prepared they will be.
Things to Include in Your Save the Dates
When crafting your save the dates, make sure to include crucial information that will help your guests. Here’s what to include:
- Wedding Date: Clearly state the date of the wedding.
- Location: If you have a venue confirmed, include it; if not, mention the city or area.
- A Note to Save the Date: A simple phrase like "Save the Date!" prominently featured will suffice.
- Your Names: Make sure you include both your names.
- Wedding Website: If you have a wedding website (which is increasingly popular), include the link so guests can check back for updates.
Timing for Sending Save the Dates
While the six to twelve-month rule is a solid guideline, timing might vary based on your unique circumstances. Here are some additional considerations:
- Engagement Announcements: If you announce your engagement far in advance, you might consider sending your save the dates sooner, especially if your wedding is less than a year away.
- Guest List: If your guest list includes many people who are likely to need time to book travel, sending save the dates earlier can help ease the planning process for everyone involved.
Final Thoughts
Sending save the dates is a vital step in the wedding planning process. By sending them six to twelve months in advance—depending on the specifics of your wedding—you ensure your guests have plenty of time to make arrangements. No matter the type of wedding you are planning, the key is clear communication. Make it easy for your loved ones to celebrate this special day with you. So, set your timeline and get those save the dates out, and get ready for an amazing journey towards your wedding day!
