Planning a wedding is an exciting milestone, and one of the very first moments you get to share that excitement with your guests is when you send out your save the date cards.
These early announcements help “lock in” your wedding date and give loved ones time to start planning—especially if travel or time off is involved.
In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about save the date etiquette, including what they are, when to send them, and the essential dos and don’ts to keep in mind.
What is a Save the Date?
A save the date is a pre-invitation announcement that lets guests know your wedding date and general location before the formal invitation is sent.
The main purpose of a save the date is to give guests advance notice so they can mark their calendars, make travel arrangements, and plan ahead. While it doesn’t include all the details of the wedding day, it should cover the basics like who’s getting married, when it’s happening, and where it will take place.
If you’re ready to start exploring styles and formats, take a look at our Save the Date Cards to find a design that fits your wedding vision.
Do I Need to Send a Save the Date?
In short—yes. Save the dates are considered an essential part of modern wedding planning.
They’re especially important if you’re hosting a destination wedding, getting married during a busy season, or inviting guests who may need to travel or request time off work. Sending save the dates early shows consideration for your guests and helps ensure your closest friends and family can be there to celebrate with you.
If you’re unsure how save the dates differ from formal invitations, our save the date vs invitations guide breaks it all down in more detail.
When to Send Save the Date Cards
Save the date cards should be sent once your guest list is finalized and your wedding date is firmly set.
Generally, save the dates are mailed 6–8 months before the wedding. This gives guests ample notice without being so early that details may change.
For destination weddings or celebrations that span multiple days, it’s best to send save the dates even earlier—around 12 months in advance—so guests can plan travel, accommodations, and time away. For more guidance, check out our destination wedding tips.
Can Save the Dates Be Sent via Email?
Yes—sending save the dates via email is perfectly acceptable and increasingly common. Digital save the dates can be quicker, more budget-friendly, and easier for some couples to manage.
That said, emails do come with a downside: they can easily end up in spam folders or get lost in crowded inboxes.
While email save the dates are modern and convenient, there’s still something special about sending and receiving a physical card. Many guests love displaying them on the fridge or keeping them as a small keepsake leading up to the big day.
Save the Date Etiquette: Dos and Don’ts
Following a few simple etiquette guidelines can help ensure your save the dates are clear, thoughtful, and well-received.
Do’s
- Do include the couple’s names, date, and location: The location can remain general (city and state) if you want to keep the venue a surprise or haven’t finalized it yet.
- Do send one save the date per household: There’s no need to send one per person—this helps keep initial wedding costs down.
- Do add a wedding website URL: This allows guests to find more details as they become available.
- Do keep it casual: Save the dates are a fun, celebratory announcement and don’t need to be overly formal.
Don’ts
- Don’t send them too early or too late: Stick to the recommended timeline for the perfect notice period.
- Don’t include reply cards: RSVPs aren’t required until the formal invitation is sent.
- Don’t include registry details: This is often considered poor etiquette. Registry information is best shared on your wedding website or with the formal invitation.
- Don’t send save the dates to people you’re unsure about inviting: Ideally, your guest list should be finalized before sending them. Sending a save the date and then not following up with an invitation can be awkward and hurtful.
- Don’t be afraid to change the date: Life happens, and plans can shift. If needed, Change the Date Cards are available to keep guests informed. Conclusion:
Save the date cards are an important first step in your wedding stationery journey. They set expectations, help guests plan ahead, and build excitement for your celebration.
By sending them at the right time and following proper etiquette, you’ll ensure your guests feel informed and appreciated from the very beginning. And once the big day arrives, don’t forget to preserve those memories—start by choosing to print wedding photos you’ll cherish for years to come.