Save the Date Etiquette: Eight do’s and don’ts to follow!
Did you recently become engaged and getting a head start on wedding planning? Yay!! I’m so proud of you for being on your A-game! Once you secured a date and venue, it’s time to officially share the good news and ask loved ones to clear their calendars with save the dates. But before you share the details on paper, here are a few do’s and don’ts when it comes to announcing your wedding in a fun and thoughtful way.
DO keep the details simple and straight to the point. Save the dates should include your names, wedding date, location (typically the city where the ceremony will be held), as well as the phrases ‘Save our/the Date’ and ‘[formal] invitation to follow’. You can also include a wedding if you have one. Refer to the five W’s – who, what, where, when, website.
DON’T overthink the design. Save the dates are informal and allow you to have fun. It’s also a chance to show off your favorite engagement photo(s) or even showcase your personalities by choosing a save the date that’s a bit more unique, such as coasters or even magnets.
DO send one save the date per household. Make it clear who you are inviting by writing out the names of every guest on the front of the envelope. If you address the envelope to ‘The Smith Family’, for example, one might assume the entire family–yes, including their children–is invited. Be upfront about who is invited right from the start to avoid confusion or awkward conversations.
DON’T send one to anyone on your maybe or B-list. There is no going back once a save the date is sent. If you’re unsure of any guest, don’t send a save the date. You can always extend a formal invitation later down the road, but it’s extremely poor etiquette to send a save the date and then decide you’ve changed your mind.
DO include your wedding website for guests to visit for more information. Just be sure to add as much information and keep the details updated throughout the planning process.
DON’T include registry information or an RSVP card. Save the dates serve as a wedding announcement, and their purpose is to give guests an early heads up to save your date.
DO send them out about nine to twelve months in advance. This will allow your family and friends to begin making the necessary arrangements, such as requesting time off from work and obtaining a passport, if necessary.
DON’T send the save the dates in place of formal wedding invitations! Save the dates only provide the basic info. Wedding invitations will communicate the specifics and detailed information including how guests will respond.
Did any of these save the date do’s and don’ts surprise you? Do you still have questions? Let me help you through the pretty paper process by becoming a Lace and Belle couple. I can’t wait to bring your vision to life! Xo
featured image | Styling & Photography by Peterson Design and Photography
