Is 2 Months Too Late to Send Wedding Invitations?

You’ve been planning your wedding for months. The venue is booked, the caterer is confirmed, and your dress is hanging in the closet. Then it hits you-wedding invitations haven’t gone out yet. It’s been two months since you picked your date, and now you’re wondering: is it too late?

The short answer? No, it’s not too late. Two months before your wedding is still perfectly acceptable-even in Australia, where guests often need time to plan travel or time off work. Many couples send invites 6 to 8 weeks out. Some even wait until 6 weeks. You’re not behind. You’re normal.

Why 2 Months Is Actually On Time

Traditionally, wedding invitations were sent 8 to 12 weeks ahead. That was back when RSVPs came by mail, guests needed months to save up for gifts, and international travel meant booking flights six months in advance. Today? Things have changed.

Most guests now respond within days of receiving an email or digital invite. Online RSVP systems, mobile alerts, and group chats mean people don’t need months to decide. A 2023 survey by Australian Wedding Network found that 68% of couples sent invitations 5 to 7 weeks before their wedding, and 89% of guests responded within 10 days. That’s the new normal.

If your wedding is in April, sending invites in late February gives guests six weeks to plan. That’s enough time to book flights, request leave from work, and arrange childcare. It’s not rushed-it’s realistic.

What Happens If You Wait Longer?

Let’s say you wait until 4 weeks out. That’s when things start getting tricky. Some guests may already have travel plans locked in. Others might assume you’ve forgotten them. And if you’re hosting out-of-town guests-say, from Queensland or New Zealand-they’ll need at least 3 weeks to book affordable flights.

Two months gives you breathing room. You can still send physical invites with elegant paper, include a map or accommodation guide, and even slip in a little note: “We know this is short notice-we’re so glad you’re here.” Most people will appreciate the honesty.

How to Send Invitations at the Last Minute (Without Panic)

Here’s how to do it smoothly:

1. Start with your guest list. Double-check names, addresses, and email contacts. Use a spreadsheet. Don’t guess.
2. Choose digital or hybrid invites. Digital invites (via platforms like Greenvelope, Paperless Post, or even Canva) can be sent instantly. They’re cheaper, eco-friendly, and track responses automatically. If you want physical invites, order them online with express shipping-many Australian companies offer 5-day turnaround.
3. Send them all at once. Don’t stagger them. Sending invites in batches confuses guests and makes tracking harder.
4. Include clear deadlines. Write: “Please RSVP by [date] so we can finalize catering.” Most guests will respond if they know there’s a firm cut-off.
5. Call your closest family and friends. A quick text or call to your parents, siblings, and wedding party says: “We’re sending invites soon-can’t wait to celebrate with you.” It personalizes the process.

Common Myths About Late Invitations

Let’s bust a few myths you might’ve heard:

• Myth: “People will be offended if we send invites late.”
  Truth: Most guests understand weddings are stressful. They’ve probably been invited to two other weddings this year. They’ll be thrilled to be included.
• Myth: “You need 3 months to plan seating.”
  Truth: With digital RSVPs, you can finalize seating just 10 days before. Many venues now use digital floor plans.
• Myth: “Physical invites are required for formality.”
  Truth: A beautifully designed digital invite with a custom illustration or photo is just as meaningful. In fact, 42% of couples in Melbourne now use digital invites as their primary method.

What to Avoid When Sending Late Invites

Don’t make these mistakes:

• Don’t send invites without a clear RSVP date. That’s how you end up with 17 people saying “maybe” and no one knowing how many chairs to set.
• Don’t forget to include contact info. If guests have questions, they need a phone number or email. Don’t make them hunt for it.
• Don’t assume everyone will respond online. Some older guests prefer calling. Have someone ready to take calls or answer texts.
• Don’t panic and send invites to everyone you’ve ever met. Stick to your list. Adding extra people last minute messes up catering, parking, and seating.

Real-Life Example: A Melbourne Wedding That Worked

Last year, a couple in Fitzroy got engaged in October. They spent November planning, December traveling, and January dealing with family drama. By February 10, they hadn’t sent invites. Their wedding was March 28-just six weeks away.

They used a digital invite with a custom map of the venue, a link to nearby hotels, and a simple RSVP button. They called their parents, sent a group message to close friends, and ordered 30 physical invites for older relatives. By February 20, 92% of guests had responded. They had their final headcount by March 1.

No one complained. No one felt slighted. Everyone showed up happy.

Final Thought: It’s Not About Timing-It’s About Clarity

Wedding invitations aren’t about perfection. They’re about connection. If you send them with care, honesty, and clear details, guests will feel included-not rushed.

Two months out? You’re not late. You’re right on track. Now go hit send. Your guests are waiting to celebrate with you.