Save the Dates: When, Who & How to Send Them Right

Saving a date might feel like just another item on your wedding checklist, but it actually sets the tone for the whole planning process. Getting it right helps guests mark their calendars early and reduces last‑minute surprises. Below you’ll find the basics you need to know, plus a few shortcuts that make the job painless.

Who Needs a Save the Date?

Not everyone on your invitation list needs a save‑the‑date card. Think about who has to travel far, who has a busy schedule, or who might be juggling multiple events. Typically you’ll send them to out‑of‑town guests, destination‑wedding attendees, and anyone you know will need extra time to arrange travel.

If most of your guests are local and you’re holding the wedding in a few weeks, a save the date isn’t essential. In that case, you can skip the extra postage and focus on the formal invitation. The rule of thumb is: if you’re giving people less than three months to plan, a save the date is a good idea.

Our post “Who Gets a Save the Date? Guide to Wedding Invitation Etiquette in 2025” dives deeper into the who‑list, but the short version is: anyone who needs more than a quick heads‑up gets one.

Tips for Designing and Sending Your Save the Dates

First, pick a format that matches your wedding vibe. A photo card, digital email, or simple paper card all work as long as the key details are clear: names, date, city, and a short note that a formal invite follows.

Keep the wording short. Something like, “We’re tying the knot! Save the date: 12 June 2025, London. Formal invitation to follow.” Avoid long paragraphs; people skim these cards.

Timing is everything. Aim to send them 8–12 months before a destination wedding and 6–8 months before a local one. This gives guests enough runway to book flights and accommodations without feeling rushed.

Set a reminder for yourself to follow up. A quick email a month before the big day can confirm that everyone received the card and is still planning to attend.

If you’re on a tight budget, digital save‑the‑dates are a great alternative. Platforms like Canva let you create a polished design for free, and you can email the file directly to guests. Just make sure the file size isn’t huge – nobody wants a slow‑loading attachment.

Finally, double‑check the spelling of names, dates, and venues. A typo can cause confusion and extra work later. Have a friend or two proofread before you print or hit send.

With these steps, your save‑the‑dates will be clear, timely, and a helpful head start for everyone involved. Now you can move on to the fun part – choosing the dress, tasting the cake, and dreaming about the big day.