How Far Out Do You Send Wedding Save the Dates, Invitations, and RSVP Requests?

Planning a wedding is no easy task. With so many wedding-related events and festivities, it’s important to stay on track and keep your guests in the loop. Whether you’re planning an intimate wedding or a grand celebration, knowing how far out you send a wedding save the date and wedding invitations or when to expect RSVPs can significantly impact how smoothly your wedding planning progresses. 

Wondering how far in advance you should send out your wedding invitations? We’ve got all the answers to help you stay organized and ahead of the game!

@wildandroam.co of Loretta 122249 by Calla Blanche

How Far Out Do You Send Wedding Save-the-Dates?

Save-the-dates are your first formal communication with your guests about your wedding. While they are not as detailed as invitations, they inform guests about your wedding date and location, ensuring they have enough time to plan and make necessary travel arrangements. These cards typically serve as a pre-invitation, alerting your guests about the date well in advance so they can plan accordingly and block off the date.

Ideal Timeframe: 6 to 12 Months Before the Wedding

The general rule of thumb is to send save-the-dates 6 to 12 months before your wedding. Here’s why:

• Destination Weddings: If you’re planning a destination wedding, it’s important to give guests as much notice as possible, ideally 9 to 12 months before the wedding. This gives your guests plenty of time to plan travel, book hotels, and take time off work.
• Local Weddings: For weddings happening closer to home, sending save-the-dates 6 to 8 months before the big day gives your guests enough time to mark their calendars and make any necessary arrangements.

What to Include on Save-the-Dates:

• The date and location of your wedding.
• The official wedding website (if you have one) for guests to find more details.
• A note to “save the date,” rather than requesting a formal RSVP.
• The wording on save-the-dates is typically casual, and they don’t require a reply.

@Alauracreative of Crishell 122244 by Calla Blanche

When To Send Out Wedding Invitations?

Wedding invitations are the formal request for guests to join you on your special day. These invitations should include all the key details your guests need to know, such as the date, time, location, dress code, and other essential information. Wedding invitations are typically sent out once the big day is getting closer, but when is the best time to send them out?

Ideal Timeframe: 8 to 12 Weeks Before the Wedding

The best time to send out wedding invitations is 8 to 12 weeks before your wedding date. This gives your guests ample time to plan, RSVP, and book travel or accommodation if needed.

What to Include in Your Wedding Invitations:

• The date, time, and location of both the ceremony and reception.
• Dress code, if you have one.
• RSVP instructions (whether by mail, online, or through your wedding website) with a clear deadline.
• Accommodation information for out-of-town guests (if necessary).
• A wedding website for easy access to details like registry information and event schedules.

@kadeydidd of Tessa LA22236 from L'Amour by Calla Blanche

How Far Out Do You Send Wedding RSVPs? 

The RSVP is an essential part of your wedding planning process. It provides you with the final guest count, which helps with catering, seating arrangements, and overall event coordination. But when should you request RSVPs from your guests to ensure you have all the information in time?

Ideal Timeframe: 3 to 4 Weeks Before the Wedding

You should request RSVPs at least 3 to 4 weeks before your wedding day. This gives guests enough time to check their schedules and confirm their attendance while ensuring you have enough time to make final arrangements or adjustments. Some guests may forget to RSVP, and this gives you enough time to follow up and confirm any last-minute changes to the guest list.

What to Include on Your RSVP:

• A clear request for attendance (yes/no) and meal choices (if applicable).
• A deadline for submitting the RSVP.
• A place to enter the names of those attending (if applicable).
• Instructions for how to submit the RSVP – whether by mail, via email, or through your wedding website.

@evansandevansphotography of Coreena 121234 by Calla Blanche

Pro Tips for a Stress-Free Wedding Invitation Timeline

Plan Ahead

Wedding planning can get overwhelming, so it’s essential to stay on top of the timelines for save-the-dates, RSVPs, and invitations. Make a checklist or calendar to keep track of when each step is due.

Use a Wedding Website

Include a link to your wedding website on both your save-the-dates and invitations. A wedding website serves as a hub for all the event details, including registry information, guest accommodations, and more.

Consider Mail Time

Don’t forget that mailing invitations and save-the-dates can take time. If you’re sending physical invites, plan accordingly to account for postage delays, especially for international guests.

@kulturedphotography of Sabah LA23122 from L'Amour by Calla Blanche

Go Digital

If you’re short on time or looking for a more budget and eco friendly option, consider sending digital invitations or save-the-dates.

Follow Up Politely

Not everyone will RSVP on time, so don’t hesitate to send a polite follow-up email or message to guests who haven’t responded by the deadline.

 

Planning early and staying on top of these timelines will help ensure your wedding day is everything you’ve dreamed of and more! For more inspiration and tips, don’t forget to explore our blog and follow us on social media!