When to Send Your Save the Date Invitations

So, you’ve locked in a venue, popped a bottle (or two), and finally started wrapping your head around planning the big day. But before you go down the rabbit hole of color palettes or argue over the seating chart, there’s one key detail that kicks off your guest communication: the save the date.

These early-bird announcements are your guests’ official heads-up to block off your wedding date (and maybe even book a flight). If you're wondering when are save the dates sent, what to include, and whether to go digital or printed, we’ve got you covered with everything you need to know. Oh, and if you really want to wow guests early on, consider pairing your save the date with a sneak peek at something fun and unexpected, like an audio guestbook that’ll be featured at your celebration. Yes, it’s a thing — and yes, people are obsessed.

Let’s break it all down!

Timeline

So, when to send save the dates? The answer depends on your guest list and wedding style, but here’s the general rule:

• Destination Weddings: Send 8–12 months in advance
  If you're asking guests to travel, take time off work, or renew their passports, give them as much notice as possible. A year ahead isn’t too early; it’s thoughtful.
  
  
• Local or Regional Weddings: Send 6–8 months in advance
  Even if most guests are nearby, it’s still helpful to give them a heads-up well before formal invitations go out (typically 8–10 weeks before the wedding).
  
  
• Holiday Weekends or Peak Seasons: Lean toward the 8–12 month window
  These dates book up fast, so early notice can help you avoid “Sorry, we’re already committed” replies.
  
  

Still planning the rest of your big day timeline? Head over to this wedding reception planning guide for expert tips on when everything from first dances to cake cutting should go down.

What to Include

Whether you go full-glam with foil-pressed paper or keep it casual with a digital card, your save-the-date invitations should cover the basics:

• Your names
  
  
• The wedding date (surprise!)
  
  
• The city and state, or general location
  
  
• A note that a formal invite will follow
  
  
• Optional: wedding website URL, dress code hints, or travel info teaser
  
  

Remember, it’s not an invitation yet, so no need to list the ceremony venue, hotel blocks, or meal choices. You’ve got time for that! If you want to get guests buzzing, hint at special features (like an audio guestbook for heartfelt messages!) or link to your wedding website if you’ve already got one live.

And when it is time to get those invites out, be sure to check out this guide to wedding invitation must-haves.

Digital vs Printed

Torn between hitting “send” or sealing an envelope? You're not alone. Choosing between digital and printed save-the-date invitations is one of the first style decisions you'll make for your wedding, and it sets the tone for everything that follows. Some couples love the ease and speed of a digital delivery, while others dream of thick cardstock and custom calligraphy. Whether you're planning a luxe affair or a laid-back celebration, the format you choose can say a lot about the kind of experience guests can expect. Let’s weigh the pros and cons to help you decide what fits your wedding (and your guest list) best.

Digital Save the Dates

Pros

• Quick and convenient
  
  
• Budget-friendly
  
  
• Easy to track RSVPs or clicks (if using a wedding website)
  
  

Cons

• Might get lost in inboxes
  
  
• Not all guests are tech-savvy
  
  
• Less of a keepsake

Printed Save the Dates

Pros

• Tangible and memorable
  
  
• Doubles as a fridge-worthy reminder
  
  
• Sets a tone for your wedding aesthetic
  
  

Cons

• Slightly pricier
  
  
• Requires more lead time for printing and mailing
  
  
• You'll need to track down accurate mailing addresses

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A hybrid approach works too! You can send paper versions to older guests or VIPs, and digital versions to friends or coworkers. Either way, make sure your save the date aligns with the vibe of your day — if you’re planning something elegant, playful, or completely unconventional, let it shine through here.

Make the First Impression Count

Your save-the-date invitations are your wedding’s opening act, so make it count! By giving guests plenty of notice, sharing the key details, and choosing a format that fits your style, you’re setting the stage for an unforgettable celebration.

Want to give guests a hint at how unique your big day will be? Mention your plans to include an After The Tone audio guestbook. It’s the modern-day version of a memory book — except way more fun and way more personal.

Still piecing your wedding together? Don’t miss our essential planning checklist to keep everything on track and your stress levels low.

Save the date, friends. It’s happening!