Wedding planning can be a whirlwind, but here’s something that can be fun, personal, and beautifully memorable: your save the dates. These cards aren’t just practical (though they absolutely are); they’re the first impression your guests will get of your wedding. That means they set the tone, tease your aesthetic, and offer a peek into the kind of experience you’re creating.
As a custom wedding invitation designer, I guide couples through every piece of their wedding stationery (from save the dates to day-of details) and the most common questions I get start right here. Curious what your save the dates could look like? Take a peek at my portfolio for inspiration or reach out here to start your custom design. I’d love to help you bring your vision to life.
So let’s walk through what save the date card etiquette looks like, and how to make this part of your paper suite feel personal, polished, and seamless.
Why Save The Dates Matter
While save the dates aren’t technically required, they’ve become a thoughtful standard for good reason. A beautifully designed save the date gives your guests time to plan (and something pretty to pin to their fridge or add to their travel calendar). They’re especially helpful if:
- Your wedding is during a busy season or holiday weekend
- Guests are traveling from out of town
- You’re hosting a destination celebration
Even beyond the logistics, your save the dates introduce your event’s tone. They help build anticipation and in some cases, they become treasured keepsakes (yes, really!). And when designed intentionally, they tie right into your larger custom wedding invitation suite.
When to Send Save the Dates
Let’s start with timing. So many couples ask, “When are save the dates sent?” and here’s my go-to guidance:
- Local weddings or smaller guest counts: 6–8 months in advance
- Destination weddings or holiday weekends: 8–12 months in advance
You want to give guests enough time to plan without sending them so early they forget. I recommend not mailing save the dates more than 14 months ahead. Any earlier, and the date might get lost in the shuffle.
What to Include: Save the Date Card Etiquette Basics
Your save the date should be simple but informative. Here’s what to include:
- Your names
- The wedding date
- The city + state (or destination)
- A note that the formal invitation will follow
From there, you can customize with:
- A favorite photo (from your engagement session or even a casual portrait)
- Your wedding website link
- Additional details if guests will need to travel, book lodging, or plan for multiple events
Remember, save the date card etiquette leans toward light and minimal. This isn’t the full rundown, just a gentle “heads up” and a beautiful preview of what’s to come.
Save the Date Formats: What Style Should You Choose?
You have options, and they all depend on the kind of statement you want to make. Popular choices include:
- Flat cards with printed details
- Save the date magnets (great for visibility and longevity)
- Booklet or tri-fold designs for multi-day events
As your custom wedding invitation designer, I guide you through formats that reflect your style and function beautifully. For example, if you’re dreaming of letter press wedding invitations or foil accents, we might echo those details here. We can also carry through your wedding color palette, fonts or lettering styles. Or if you are wanting a distinct motif (like a venue illustration, floral crest, or monogram), we can introduce it on your save the date and carry it through your suite.
This isn’t about being flashy. It’s about being cohesive.
Who Should Receive a Save the Date
Short answer? Only guests who will absolutely be invited. This might sound obvious, but it’s one of the biggest missteps I see. Sending a save the date implies an invitation is on the way—so be sure your guest list is finalized before mailing.
That said, not everyone needs one. Local friends or people you see regularly may not need the heads-up (although I’m sure they’d still want one!). Prioritize guests who need to book travel, take time off work, or make early arrangements.
Planning your guest list and not sure where to start? This step-by-step guide walks you through how to create a meaningful wedding guest list with ease and intention.
Save the Date Examples for Inspiration
Looking for ideas? Some of my favorite save the date styles include:
- Classic & Romantic: Deckled edges, soft script, neutral tones
- Playful & Modern: Bold typography, color blocking, unexpected formats
- Elegant Destination: Custom map motifs, watercolor scenes, passport-style booklets
- Fine Art-Inspired: Monograms, layered textures, letterpress on cotton stock
Each piece I design is fully custom, so your save the dates will feel like you, not like a template. And yes, I can design match thank you cards, too.
The Ultimate Guide to Save the Date Card Etiquette
Your save the dates are more than a formality. They’re an early expression of your story—and your first opportunity to create an experience for your guests. With the right designer, even this early step can feel elevated, intentional, and fun.
If you’re dreaming of a wedding that feels timeless, tailored, and beautifully personal, I’d love to bring that vision to life on paper. You can explore more of my custom work on my portfolio or on Instagram. Then get in touch here to start the process.
I’ll walk you through every detail (from save the date card etiquette to delivery day) and help you craft a suite that sets the tone for something unforgettable.
