If you’re wondering when do save the dates go out, we have all the answers! Read on to find out what you need to know so you don’t make a mistake. Be sure to subscribe for the latest to your inbox!

The months preparing for your wedding is an exciting time, but figuring out when to get things done and in which order can be confusing, which is why following a wedding timeline is crucial. And while you may want to shout it from the rooftops and start sending out save the dates ASAP, there’s a certain timeline to follow so you don’t make a mistake. So, when exactly do save the dates go out?

As a rule of thumb, save the date cards should go out no earlier or later than six to nine months before the wedding.

To find out why — and to see an updated timeline for destination weddings — read on for the ultimate guide to sending save the dates. We’ll also show you a calculator with the EXACT dates to mail them out by month, according to proper wedding etiquette.

First things first: what is a save the date?

What is a Save the Date Card?

A save the date is an informal announcement mailed to guests letting them know you have set a wedding date (yay!) and you have a location (double yay!)

Who Gets a Save the Date?

Before you hit ‘send all’ on any wedding announcement, it is a good idea to know proper etiquette about who receives — or doesn’t receive — a save the date card.

You should ONLY send a save the date to a guest who is 100% on the guest list.

Who Should NEVER Receive One?

Since you can’t un-send a save the date once it’s in the mail, be cautious about who you send it to. When a guest receives a save the date, he or she will assume they are on the invite list for your wedding.

If you’re unsure about inviting a particular guest, omitting them from the save the date mailing list is okay. However, make sure it is someone who probably won’t also see other guests receiving them in the mail or they are likely to feel snubbed.

Many couples, in an effort to save time and prevent any errors, will send theirs to a very small group of guests such as immediate family and very close friends. This is one option if you plan to cut your guest list later on.

Does a Save the Date Mean You’re Invited?

Not “officially”, but yes. If you receive a save-the-date, it means you are on the guest list and a formal invitation will follow in the months ahead.

When Should Save the Dates Be Sent Out?

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Ah, here’s the big question you’ve been wondering: when exactly do you send out save the dates? The answer is: send save the date cards six to nine months before the wedding for local weddings where most guests will not be traveling.

For a destination wedding, mail out save the date cards up to one year before the wedding date to allow guests ample time for travel arrangements.

Here’s a calculator so you know when to send out invitations based on the date of the shower.

When to Mail Save-the-Date Cards By Date

What Goes On A Save the Date?

You shouldn’t include too many things on a card, since this is an informal announcement to your guests. Here’s what to put on save-the-dates.

• Names
• Wedding Date
• Location (no venue just yet: a city or location is sufficient for now)

Optional, but a good idea:

• Wedding Website
• The words, “Formal invitation to follow” or “Invitation to follow” depending on your preference

What Are Some Unique Save the Date Ideas?

Since save-the-date cards aren’t as formal as an invitation, it is OK and encouraged to have fun with them. Get creative! Consider unique save the dates when you announce the happy news to your favorite people.

After all, it’s a big deal: you’ve finally set the date and you’re getting married! There’s no reason why your cards have to be boring. :)

Here are some creative cards we spotted at Minted. You can edit text, include gold foil, photos, a QR code for your wedding website, and so much more!

As illustrated in this blog post, knowing the timeline for when save the dates should be sent out is an important tip to know. With these guidelines in place, you can set up a proper wedding timeline using our calculator and you’ll know exactly when to let your guests know to save the date for your wedding with plenty of advance notice.

For more advice and ideas on save the dates, check out the new collection at Minted! They have tons of styles, designs, and inspiration for all of your wedding stationery needs.

Happy Planning!

xo
Emma

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