When to send save the dates and wedding invitations
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The short answer
| Piece | Local wedding | Destination or holiday weekend |
|---|---|---|
| Save the dates mailed | 6 to 8 months before | 8 to 12 months before |
| Invitations mailed | 6 to 8 weeks before | 3 months before |
| RSVP deadline | 3 to 4 weeks before | 6 to 8 weeks before |
| Thank-you notes sent | Within about 3 months after the wedding | |
Work backward from the RSVP deadline
Your caterer and venue will ask for a final head count, usually two to three weeks before the wedding. Set the RSVP deadline one week before that date, so you have time to chase the late replies.
Example for a June 13 wedding with a final count due May 23:
- RSVP deadline: May 16
- Invitations mailed: April 11 to 18
- Invitations ordered: late February (allow printing, shipping, addressing and a proof round)
- Save the dates mailed: November to December
What to order and from where
Online stationers let you see a digital proof, order samples and add addressing in one place. Order a printed sample of the paper before the full run; colors on screen and on paper are not the same.
See save the dates at Minted See invitations at The Knot
Common mistakes
- Mailing invitations before the guest list is final.
- Forgetting a stamp on the RSVP card envelope.
- Weighing only one envelope: square envelopes and thick card stock can cost extra postage. Take a fully assembled invitation to the post office first.
- Printing the registry on the invitation. Put it on your wedding website instead.