Save the Date Invitations

Save the date invitations are a newer concept that is quickly becoming an essential wedding tradition.

The Complete Wedding Planner Printables E-Book

The Wedding Planner is designed to help you get ready for the big day!

All the forms are available for you to fill in - either directly on your laptop or by pen on the printed version - to help you plan your wedding, week by week;


Find out more about the Printable Wedding Planner

The Complete Wedding Planner Printables E-Book

The Wedding Planner is designed to help you get ready for the big day!

All the forms are available for you to fill in - either directly on your laptop or by pen on the printed version - to help you plan your wedding, week by week;


Find out more about the Printable Wedding Planner

This is especially true if your wedding falls near a special event or time of the year - for example, close to Christmas. With seasonal festivities and holidays being planned, it is important to announce your wedding date early by sending these invitations.

Each invited guest should be notified however one card per household is sufficient.

What Are Save the Date Invitations?

These invitations are a simple courtesy notice to your guests that you have set your wedding date and that you would like them to attend.

They are not sent instead of a formal invitation, they are in addition and in advance of the formal invitation.

When to Use?

It is becoming more common for all bridal couples to use these invites but they are considered necessary if:

  • Your wedding is at Christmas, near New Year’s or on Valentine’s Day (or any holiday)
  • You have out-of-town guests that will require travel and/or accommodations
  • You live in a tourist town
  • You are planning a destination wedding

Save the date invitations should be sent 6 months to a year prior to the wedding date.

Style of Save the Date Invitations

Generally the style you choose should be in keeping with your overall wedding theme and in similar colors. If you are having invitations printed, check to see if they have matching save the date cards.

Other options are postcards, bookmarks and increasingly popular – fridge magnets. I love the magnet idea because it will serve as a constant reminder for your guests and you don’t have to worry about them misplacing a card.

Information to Include

  • Names of the bride and groom
  • Date of the wedding
  • General location – the town or city name is sufficient

Depending on the style of your notice you may also want to include where the bride and groom are each from and possibly a hobby or special interest that they share.

Including a photo is a nice touch and is especially appreciated by those who have never met the soon to be bride or groom.

Be sure to include a line informing your guests that formal invitations will follow. This way you will avoid people calling you looking for more details.

Do not include an RSVP or any registry information. It is too early and not the purpose of the save the date card. Leave them both for the formal invitation.

Sample Save the Date Invitation Wording

Simple wording is all that is required here. It can be as whimsical and fun or elegant and sophisticated.

Save the Date ~ It's Time to Celebrate!

Lillian Bint & Robert Wolfe

Are getting married

December 31, 2014

Vancouver, British Columbia

Formal Invitation to Follow

The pleasure of your company is requested at the wedding of Bella Forrest and William Lee on February 14, 2014 Portland, Oregon Invitation will follow

Please Save the Date! We will be getting married on December 20, 2014 Invitation and details to follow Elsie Higgins and Lyle Jones

There are so many expenses to consider when planning your wedding; it's natural to want to contain costs. Save the date invitations are not necessary but you risk being extremely saddened if must-have guests book a vacation to the sunny south and miss your special day. Include this item in your budget, remember the postage and don’t be disappointed!