SposiamociWhen to send save the dates and wedding invitations
Felice Caricati · · 1 minute read
In short
Save the dates usually go out 6 to 12 months ahead, earlier if guests are travelling far or the wedding falls in a holiday period. Invitations arrive 2 to 3 months before, with the website link and an RSVP deadline about a month before the wedding. These are customs, so send things earlier for a wedding abroad or on a long weekend.
Save the date: 6 to 12 months before
Its only job is to block the date. Names, date and town are enough, plus the website link even if the site isn’t finished yet. The further guests have to travel, the earlier it should go out.
Invitations: 2 to 3 months before
The invitation announces the wedding with times and places. Keep only the essentials on the card and point to the website for details that might change, such as the schedule or the hotels.
- Your names, and your parents’ if you wish
- Date, time and place of the ceremony
- Reception venue
- Website link or QR code
- RSVP deadline
RSVPs: a month before
The reply deadline depends on when the caterer wants final numbers. Count back from that date and leave yourselves a week to chase anyone who hasn’t replied.
A sample timeline
For a wedding on Saturday 12 June 2027, with a caterer who wants numbers by 22 May:
- October to December 2026: save the dates with the website link
- Early March: invitations with a QR code
- Saturday 15 May: RSVP deadline
- 16 to 21 May: messages to anyone who hasn’t replied
- 22 May: final numbers to the caterer
Frequently asked questions
- How far ahead do you send save the dates?
- Usually 6 to 12 months before. Send them earlier if guests are travelling far or the wedding falls in a holiday period.
- When should wedding invitations be sent?
- Two to three months before, with the website link and the RSVP deadline.