Save the dates and invitations serve different purposes, but the timing and content of each can feel confusing. Here is a clear breakdown of when to send what and what to put on each.
What is a save the date?
A save the date is a heads up. It tells people when and roughly where your wedding will be so they can keep the date free. It is not an invitation and does not require an RSVP. Think of it as a friendly notice that a formal invitation is coming.
When to send save the dates
Send save the dates 6 to 12 months before the wedding. Earlier is better if your wedding falls on a bank holiday weekend, during peak summer, or if many guests will be travelling from abroad. For shorter engagements under six months, you can skip save the dates entirely and go straight to invitations.
What to include on a save the date
- Your names
- The date
- The general location (city or region is enough)
- A note that a formal invitation will follow
- A wedding website URL if you have one
Do not include gift registry details, meal choices, or RSVP instructions on save the dates. Those belong on the invitation.
When to send invitations
Send formal invitations 8 to 12 weeks before the wedding. This gives guests enough time to plan without being so far in advance that they forget to respond. Set your RSVP deadline for 3 to 4 weeks before the wedding so you have time to finalise numbers with your venue and caterer.
What to include on invitations
- Your names and the names of the invited guests
- Date, time, and full venue address
- Ceremony and reception details
- RSVP deadline and how to respond
- Meal choice options if applicable
- Dress code if you have one
- Transport or accommodation details
- Any dietary or accessibility information you need from guests
Digital or physical?
Both work. Digital save the dates are faster, cheaper, and easier to track. Physical ones feel more personal. Many couples send digital save the dates and physical invitations, which gives you the best of both. If you use online RSVPs, you can include the link on either format.
Common mistakes
- Sending save the dates to people you later decide not to invite
- Forgetting to include evening only guests on the invitation
- Setting an RSVP deadline too close to the wedding
- Not following up with guests who do not respond
For tips on managing responses once they start coming in, read our guide on how to chase wedding RSVPs politely.
Wedli lets you manage your guest list, send RSVP links, and track responses in one place so you always know where you stand.
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