So, you’re staring at your wedding invitation stack and thinking: “When exactly should I send these out without annoying anyone or looking like a procrastinator?” Relax. You’ve got this. Here’s your ultimate guide to when to send wedding invitations so they land perfectly.
Wedding Invitation Timeline at a Glance
- Save the Date: 6–12 months before (especially for destination weddings)
- Formal Invitation: 6–8 weeks before the wedding
- RSVP Deadline: 3–4 weeks before the wedding
- Local Guests: 6–8 weeks notice
- Out-of-Town Guests: 8–12 weeks notice
- VIPs / Wedding Party: Send extra early, 12+ months if needed
PRO TIP: Add a 1-week postal buffer and consider digital reminders for tech-savvy guests.
Standard Wedding Invitation Timeline
For most weddings, aim for the sweet spot: 6 to 8 weeks before the big day. This gives your guests enough time to check calendars, book travel if needed, and figure out what to wear without panicking at 11 PM the night before.
Why 6–8 weeks? It balances courtesy with practicality. Too early and guests forget. Too late and they may already have plans or miss the RSVP deadline.
When to Send Invitations for Destination Wedding
If you’re planning a wedding far away, like a tropical getaway or a holiday weekend event, give your guests 8 to 12 weeks notice or even up to 4-6 months in advance. Early heads-up = happier RSVPs + less frantic packing.
Save the Dates vs. Invitations
Don’t forget the trusty save the date! Send these 6 to 12 months ahead (especially for destination weddings) so everyone can pencil in your big day. Then follow up with the actual invitation closer to the 6–8 week mark.
Who Gets What Notice?
- Local friends & family: 6–8 weeks is usually fine.
- Out-of-town guests: 8–12 weeks to allow travel planning.
- VIPs or wedding party: Send extra early—sometimes even save the date 12+ months ahead.
► Need invitation inspiration? Check out our Wedding Invitation Ideas.
Wedding Invitation Timeline Graphic
PRO TIP: Use example RSVP wording: “Please respond by June 15 so we can finalize our guest list!”
Wedding Invitation Timing Checklist
- Save the date: 6–12 months before (especially for destination weddings)
- Formal invitation: 6–8 weeks before
- RSVP deadline: 3–4 weeks before
- Confirm postal timing: 1 week buffer
- Send digital reminders if needed
Always double-check USPS for postal timing and postage accuracy.
Helpful Pro Tips for Stress-Free Timing
- Double-check postal times—no one likes late invites.
- RSVP deadlines should be 3–4 weeks before the wedding.
- Consider digital reminders for tech-savvy guests.
Common Wedding Invitation Timing Mistakes
- Sending invites too early → guests forget or misplace them.
- Sending invites too late → stress, low RSVP rate, and annoyed guests.
- Ignoring postal delays → always add a few extra days, especially during holidays.
► Don’t forget a thing! Check out this Wedding Checklist to stay on-track.
FAQ About Sending Wedding Invitations
Can I send wedding invitations earlier than 6 weeks?
Yes, but sending more than 10 weeks in advance can lead to confusion and forgotten RSVPs. Stick to 6–8 weeks for standard weddings.
What if my wedding is last-minute?
Send invitations as soon as possible, but allow at least 3–4 weeks for RSVPs. Consider digital invites for faster delivery.
Do destination weddings need special timing?
Guests may need 8–12 weeks to book flights, accommodations, and plan travel. Save the date early, then follow up with formal invites.
Last-Minute Invites
Running out of time? Send last-minute wedding invites digitally through Greenvelope—animations make it feel like a real invitation and save postage!
Final Tips & Call to Action
Follow these tips and your invites will arrive on time, your guests will RSVP happily, and you’ll look like a wedding planning genius. Take a deep breath, pour a glass of champagne, and enjoy checking this off your list!
Grab your free printable wedding invitation checklist to stay organized!
Happy planning!
xo
Emma
