Photo by Love and Light Wedding Planning

Let’s talk save the dates! Most people don’t plan years in advance. Hell, my boyfriend can’t even plan a weekend in advance half the time! That’s why save the dates are so crucial; they ensure your favorite people can attend your special day.

First, get creative with your design! Start with a fun design! If you have already decided on a wedding theme, you can align your save the dates with it. Pick colors that match your theme and consider design elements that reflect the overall vibe of your wedding. When sending them out, decide whether you want to go the traditional paper route or opt for a digital version. Digital save the dates are budget-friendly, but they can get lost in spam folders. If you stick with the paper route, explore and research all your options. Do you prefer textured cardstock or a bold-colored paper? There are so many ways to make your design stand out!

As far as addressing the save the date, be clear and intentional about who is invited. These cards are a preview of the formal invitation. If you are not offering plus ones or inviting entire families, make sure that’s clear by listing each person’s name on the envelope. This gives parents plenty of time to arrange childcare if their kids are not invited. It’s always better to avoid misunderstandings from the start.

Now what to include on the card. Here are some must haves!

• Your names. Both your first and last name go on the card. While your closest friend and family may know both of your, more distant relatives might not be familiar with your partner’s full name.
• The wedding date. Include the full month, date and year. It’s best to spell out the month to avoid confusion since different countries use different date formats. If your celebration spans multiple days, include all the dates or date range on the card.
• The location. Ideally, you’ve already booked your venue before sending out your save the date. You can list the venue name or add the full address.
• Your wedding website. Put a link to your site on your save the dates. This is where your guests can find more detailed information like your registry, dress code, accommodations and other important details. It’s considered poor etiquette to include a gift registry directly on your save the date. If your website isn’t ready yet, don’t worry! You can add it later when you send your formal invitations.

Your save the dates are the first glimpse of what your guests will see of your wedding day; it sets the tone for your big day! Make sure your save the date reflects your style as a couple. Keep it simple, fun, and personal. Most importantly, don’t stress! This part of the process should be exciting and creative. Follow these guidelines, and you’ll have a save the date that not only provides essential information but also builds excitement for your celebration.