Save the Dates & Invitations: When to Send and How to Make Them Shine
One of the most exciting parts of planning your wedding or event is sharing the news with your guests. Save the dates and invitations set the tone for your celebration and give guests everything they need to be part of your big day.
At Stardust Celebrations, we guide clients through not only when to send these pieces, but also how to make them feel intentional, beautiful, and aligned with the overall event design.
Here’s everything you need to know.
When to Send Save the Dates
Save the dates are your first official announcement, and timing matters.
Recommended timing:
• 6–8 months before the event for local weddings
• 8–12 months before for destination weddings or holiday weekends
This gives guests plenty of time to plan travel, request time off, and mark their calendars.
What to Include on Save the Dates
Keep it simple and informative.
Typically, save the dates include:
• Names of the couple or hosts
• Event date
• City and state (venue details can come later)
• A note that a formal invitation will follow
Optional additions:
• Wedding website link
• Travel or hotel information
Save the Date Options
Classic Printed Cards
Timeless and elegant, printed save the dates can reflect your wedding aesthetic from the very beginning.
Photo Save the Dates
A favorite for many couples, these feature engagement photos and add a personal touch.
Digital Save the Dates
Perfect for convenience and speed. Digital options are great for tech-savvy couples or large guest lists.
Unique Formats
Think magnets, postcards, or even custom illustrations that hint at your wedding style.
When to Send Invitations
Invitations are more detailed and require a bit more planning.
Recommended timing:
• 8–12 weeks before the wedding for local events
• 12–16 weeks before for destination weddings
This ensures guests have enough time to RSVP while keeping details fresh in their minds.
What to Include in Invitations
Your invitation suite provides all the essential details.
Standard components include:
• Formal invitation with date, time, and location
• RSVP card or digital RSVP instructions
• Reception details
Optional inserts:
• Accommodation information
• Transportation details
• Dress code guidance
• Weekend itinerary
Invitation Style Options
Traditional & Formal
Letterpress, calligraphy, and classic layouts for timeless elegance.
Modern & Minimal
Clean lines, simple fonts, and understated design for a contemporary feel.
Luxe & Layered
Multiple cards, textures, and embellishments like wax seals or ribbons for a high-end experience.
Digital Invitations
A streamlined option that can still feel elevated with thoughtful design.
Coordinating with Your Overall Design
Your save the dates and invitations are the first glimpse guests have into your event style.
We recommend aligning them with:
• Your color palette
• Overall aesthetic (romantic, modern, classic, etc.)
• Venue and setting
This creates a cohesive experience from the moment guests receive their first piece of mail.
Tips for a Smooth Process
To keep everything on track:
• Finalize your guest list early
• Collect accurate mailing addresses
• Order extra invitations for keepsakes and last-minute additions
• Build in time for printing and assembly
• Coordinate RSVP deadlines with your planning timeline
Setting the Tone for Your Celebration
Save the dates and invitations do more than share information, they build excitement. They give your guests a preview of what’s to come and help create anticipation for your event.
At Stardust Celebrations, we help ensure every detail, from the first announcement to the final send-off, feels intentional and beautifully executed.
Because when your event begins with a stunning first impression, everything that follows feels even more special.
