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Wedding Save the Date Cards

Wedding Stationery Guide

Wedding Save the Date Cards: What They Are and When to Send Them

The very first piece of wedding mail most guests receive is your save the date. While it may seem simple, it plays an important role in setting the tone for your entire celebration. Before you dive into fonts and foil, let’s start with the basics.

If you’ve been wondering whether you even need to send one (or what it’s supposed to say), you’re not alone. Here’s everything you need to know to make an informed, etiquette-approved decision.

wedding save the date card

In this guide, we’ll walk through:

  • What a wedding save the date card is (and what it’s not)

  • When save the dates should be sent out

  • Who needs to receive one

  • And a few save the date card ideas to inspire you

If you’re not sure whether you even need one, or you’re worried about wording it correctly, don’t worry! I’ve got you.

 

SAVE THE DATE BASICS

What is a Save the Date Card?

A wedding save the date card is a heads-up to your guests. It’s not the formal invitation, but it is a way to say: “We’re getting married—here’s when and where—more details coming soon!”

Your save the date card should include:

  • Your names

  • Your wedding date

  • The city and state (venue name is optional)

  • A note that says “formal invitation to follow”

You don’t need RSVP information or hotel blocks just yet—those come later. The save the date is all about early notice, not all the details.

Need help deciding how to word yours? Check out my save the date wording guide for examples that work for both formal and casual weddings.

 

 

SAVE THE DATE TIMING

When Are Save the Dates Sent Out?

A common question I get: when should you send out save the date cards?

The short answer:

Send your wedding save the date cards 6 to 12 months before your wedding.

Here’s a breakdown by event type:

  • Destination weddings → 9–12 months in advance

  • Holiday weekends or peak seasons → 8–10 months in advance

  • Local weddings → 6–8 months in advance

If you’re having a shorter engagement or a more intimate celebration, you may be able to skip them. But if guests are traveling or need time to plan, send them as early as you can.

 

destination wedding save the date

SAVE THE DATE RECIPIENTS

Who Should Get a Save the Date?

Only guests you’re absolutely certain you’re inviting should receive a save the date. That includes:

  • Your wedding party

  • Close family

  • Out-of-town guests

  • Anyone needing to plan travel or take time off work

And yes, if someone is getting a plus-one on the wedding invitation, they should be included on the save the date envelope too.

Still finalizing your guest list? It’s better to wait until you’re sure before putting anything in the mail.

 

photo save the date card

SAVE THE DATE ARE OPTIONAL

Do You Have to Send Save the Date Cards?

Not necessarily. Save the dates aren’t required, but they are really helpful in a few key situations:

  • You’re planning a destination wedding

  • Your wedding falls on a holiday weekend or during peak travel times

  • You have guests coming from out of state or abroad

  • You want to give loved ones plenty of notice to plan ahead

In those cases, skipping the save the date can cause stress or confusion later, especially when it comes to booking flights, hotels, or planning for time off work.

If your wedding is local, small, or happening soon, you could skip them and send your invitations earlier than usual instead.

traditional save the date cards

SAVE THE DATE INSPO

Save the Date Card Ideas to Inspire You

The design of your save the date doesn’t need to match your invitation suite exactly, but it’s a great way to hint at the tone of your wedding.

A few save the date card ideas to consider:

  • A classic text-only layout with elegant typography

  • A favorite engagement photo as the background

  • A monogram or custom crest for a formal look

  • A venue sketch or custom illustration for a personal touch

Whether you’re going traditional or keeping it fun and informal, your save the date should feel like you and give your guests something they’ll be excited to pin on the fridge.

wedding save the date wording layouts

Next up: How to Word Your Save the Date

Now that you know what a wedding save the date card is and when to send it, you’re ready for the next step: what to say.

Check out my save the date wording guide for examples, tips, and etiquette do’s and don’ts.

 

Want to see how your save the date could look in print? Order a sample pack to feel the paper, see the colors, and preview the options in person.

Have questions or want to talk through ideas? Schedule a free call and I’ll help you figure out the best fit for your wedding.