When it comes to save the date cards, most couples have the best of intentions. We hear statements like this from customers all the time:
“I meant to make Save the Dates as soon as we set our wedding date, but it fell off our radar. Now our wedding is just 6 months away. Is it too late to send them?”
There are a few factors that play into how we’ll answer this question but first, let’s talk through a best-case-scenario save the date timeline.
The Best Time to Send Your Save the Dates
Traditionally, we tell couples that your save the date cards should be in the mail 8 – 12 months before your wedding day.
Let’s break it down by season:
- Spring Wedding: Mail the prior summer
- Summer Wedding: Mail the prior fall – early winter
- Fall Wedding: Mail in late winter
- Winter Wedding: Mail the prior spring to early summer
When to Send Your Save the Dates Extra Early
Keep in mind two special instances where you may consider moving the timeline up to as far as 12 months before your wedding date:
- A Destination Wedding: Your guests will want to plan and book travel 9+ months ahead of your wedding, so give them at least 12 months notice. Be sure to include your wedding location and hotel or resort information on your save the date card.
- A Holiday Weekend Wedding: Getting married on a holiday weekend such as the 4th of July or Thanksgiving is a great way to extend your celebration but keep in mind that your guests will want to get your wedding date on their calendars and book travel. Giving them extra notice will keep them happy and your R.S.V.P. list full!
Can We Send Save the Dates Late?
Okay – all that being said, if your wedding date is around 6 months out and you haven’t sent save the dates, you do still have time. Gather your addresses to get a count, decide how you want to word your save the dates and place your order. Our crazy-affordable save the date cards and magnets print and ship in just a couple of days so you’ll have them super quick.
The good news is: sending your save the dates a bit later than normal will give you a little wiggle room when it comes to mailing your wedding invitations. We normally tell couples to have their wedding invitations in the mail 2 – 3 months in advance, but in this case, sending 6 – 10 weeks before your wedding date is a-okay!
We hope you found this helpful! If you have any other wedding stationery questions that stump you as you’re shopping and planning, we’re here to help!
xoxo –the Team at Ann’s
