Image by Dawn Photo
Save-the-dates are optional, but many couples, especially those planning destination weddings, send them out before the formal invitations. These cards give your guests a heads-up about your wedding date and placement, helping them start planning travel and accommodations. Sending them just a few months after your engagement helps ensure your family members can mark their calendars and avoid scheduling conflicts.
Since these cards are sometimes the primary glimpse your guests will get of your wedding, you would possibly wonder methods to word them. Here’s what you could find out about save-the-date wording and a few examples to spark your creativity.
What Are Save the Dates?
Save-the-dates are announcements—either physical cards or digital versions—that tell your guests the date and placement of your wedding. Unlike formal invitations, they’re temporary and to the purpose.
There are some key differences between save-the-dates and invitations. Invitations are more detailed and formal, while save-the-dates are easy and concise. The timing can be different. Local weddings typically send save-the-dates six to eight months upfront, while destination weddings might send them out a yr ahead. Invitations are sent closer to the event, normally six to eight weeks before the marriage.
What to Include in Your Save-the-Date Message
Your save-the-date wording must convey essential information to your guests clearly. Here’s what to incorporate and what to miss:
Essential Information
- Names: Traditionally, the bride’s name goes first, followed by the groom’s name. For same-sex couples or those with different last names, you’ll be able to list names alphabetically or nevertheless you favor.
- Wedding Date: Make sure that you have got a firm wedding date before sending save-the-dates. You may spell the complete date for a proper feel or abbreviate to suit your design.
- Location: Include town and state where the marriage will happen. The precise venue details can wait for the formal invitation. For destination weddings, a touch of what to anticipate (like “Join us for a weekend of sun and fun in paradise!”) is usually a nice touch.
- Wedding Website URL: If you have got a wedding website, include the URL. This is a superb way for guests to seek out all the main points about your wedding. Consider adding a QR code for quick access on mobile devices.
- “Invitation to Follow” Wording: Let guests know they’ll receive a proper invitation with more details later.
Details That Can Be Included With Your Invitations
- Venue Details: There’s no need to incorporate the venue name or address in your save-the-date. Town and state are enough for now. You may provide full venue details along with your formal invitations.
- Accommodation Information: Hold off on sending hotel and accommodation details with the save-the-date. Include this information within the invitation or in your wedding website.
- Ceremony and Reception Times: Save the specifics about ceremony and reception start times for the formal invitation.
- Dress Code: Details in regards to the dress code can wait until you send the invitations, or you’ll be able to add them to your wedding website.
- RSVP Requests: It’s too early to ask for RSVPs with the save-the-date. Guests will respond once they receive the formal invitation.
Image by Caitlin Steuben Photography
Save the Date Wording Samples
Formal
In the event you’re planning a black-tie affair, set the tone with formal wedding save-the-date wording. Keep it polite and concise.
Mary Josie Watson and Peter Harker
are getting married!
Save the date: Saturday, the fourteenth of February
Two thousand twenty-four
Queens, Latest York
Invitation to follow.
Mary Josie Watson and Peter Harker
request the pleasure of your organization
at their wedding celebration
on Saturday, the fourteenth of February
Two thousand twenty-four
Queens, Latest York
Invitation to follow.
Please save the date
for the marriage of
Mary Josie Watson and Peter Harker
Saturday, the fourteenth of February
Two thousand twenty-four
Queens, Latest York
Invitation to follow.
Casual
For a more laid-back vibe, your save-the-dates might be fun and informal.
Mary and Peter are tying the knot!
Save the date: 02/14/2024
Queens, NY
More details to return.
We’re getting hitched!
Mary & Peter
02.14.2024
Queens, NY
Invitation to follow.
Guess what?
Mary and Peter are getting married!
Save the date: 02/14/24
Queens, NY
Details to follow.
Destination
For a destination wedding, ensure that your save-the-dates reflect the multi-day celebration and wish for advance planning.
Pack your bags!
Mary and Peter are getting married
on February 14, 2024
within the Amalfi Coast, Italy
Join us for a weekend of celebration!
Invitation to follow.
Escape with us!
Mary & Peter
are getting married in Marrakech, Morocco
February 14, 2024
Save the date for a weekend of fun!
Details to follow.
Join us for a destination wedding!
Mary and Peter
are getting married on 02.14.2024
Phuket, Thailand
Invitation and travel info to follow.
Unique
Add a private touch or theme for unique save-the-dates to make them stand out.
Paws up! Our humans are getting married!
Mary & Peter
Save the date: 02/14/2024
Brooklyn, NY
Invitation to follow.
Passport ready?
Mary and Peter’s adventure begins
on 02/14/2024
in Brooklyn, NY
Invitation to follow.
A recent chapter begins!
Mary & Peter
Save the date: 02/14/2024
Brooklyn, NY
Invitation to follow.
Quotes
Use quotes from movies, TV shows, or song lyrics to make your save-the-dates “aww”-worthy:
“You complete me.” – Jerry Maguire
Mary and Peter
are getting married!
Save the date: 02/14/2024
Brooklyn, NY
Invitation to follow.
“Love is all you wish.” – The Beatles
Mary and Peter
are getting married!
Save the date: 02/14/2024
Brooklyn, NY
Invitation to follow.
“I actually have crossed oceans of time to seek out you.” – Bram Stoker’s Dracula
Mary & Peter
are tying the knot!
Save the date: 02/14/24
Brooklyn, NY
More details to return.
“You’re my end and my starting.” – John Legend, “All of Me”
Save the date for the marriage of
Mary & Peter
February 14, 2024
Brooklyn, Latest York
Invitation to follow.
“Take my hand, take my whole life too.” – Elvis Presley, “Can’t Help Falling in Love”
Save the date for the marriage of
Mary & Peter
February 14, 2024
Brooklyn, Latest York
Invitation to follow.
Image by Dall’k Photography
Now that the save-the-dates are out of the way in which, it’s time to dive into the remaining of your wedding planning. Try our wedding planning checklist to start. We’ve got thoughtful advice and tricks to help make the method as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
Image by Beatrice Howell
