Is 13 Months Too Early to Send Save the Date? Tips for Timing Your Wedding Invitations

ByOMG Hitched Team Reading Time: 6 minutes

When planning your wedding, sending out save the dates can feel like a big decision. You might wonder if sending them 13 months in advance is too early. Most experts advise sending save the dates around 6 to 8 months before your wedding. This timeline helps ensure your guests have enough notice to make arrangements without feeling overwhelmed by a long wait.

A calendar with the date circled in red, surrounded by wedding-related items like rings, flowers, and a venue

Sending save the dates too early can lead to confusion or forgotten dates. Guests might have other plans or need time to adjust their schedules, and waiting too long can leave them rushing to figure everything out. By finding the right balance in your wedding planning, you can keep your loved ones informed and excited about your special day.

Choosing the right time for your save the dates sets a positive tone for your wedding journey. It helps you and your guests stay organized as you both look forward to the big day together.

Determining the Right Timing for Save the Dates

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Choosing when to send save the dates can be tricky. You want to ensure your guests have enough time to prepare while still keeping everything on track for your wedding date. Here are some key details to help you make the best decision.

Average Timeline for Wedding Invitations

Typically, you should send save the dates about 6 to 8 months before your wedding. For a destination wedding, consider sending them 8 to 12 months in advance. This gives your guests a heads-up to mark their calendars.

When it comes to wedding invitations, these are usually sent 6 to 8 weeks before the event. This timeline ensures that your invitees have the latest details, including the venue and schedule.

Sending save the dates too early, like over a year in advance, can lead to guests forgetting the date. Keep the timing in mind to maximize attendance without overwhelming your visitors with information.

Factors Influencing Save the Date Timing

Several factors can affect when you should send save the dates. Consider your wedding date and any venue restrictions. If you’re having a wedding during a busy season or holiday, it’s smart to send them out earlier.

Your engagement length also plays a role. If you have a short engagement, make sure to account for that when planning your timeline.

Additionally, think about your guests’ location. If many will need to travel, giving them ample notice is crucial. You want to ensure they have enough time to arrange accommodations and travel plans, making it easier for them to celebrate with you.

Special Considerations for Destination Weddings

A serene beach with a picturesque sunset, a wedding invitation floating in the breeze, surrounded by tropical flowers and palm trees

When planning a destination wedding, there are unique factors to think about. Proper timing for sending save the dates is crucial, along with making sure your venue can accommodate guests traveling from afar. Here are some important details to consider.

Extended Lead Time for Travel Plans

For destination weddings, sending save the dates 9 to 12 months in advance is recommended. This gives your guests plenty of time to arrange their travel plans. Many will need to book flights and accommodations, which can take time.

Consider creating a simple checklist for guests:

  • Book flights early: Prices can rise as the wedding date nears.
  • Find accommodations: Research nearby hotels or rental options.
  • Plan activities: Encourage guests to explore the destination.

By giving ample notice, you allow them to plan accordingly, enjoy their trip, and celebrate your special day.

Coordinating with a Destination Venue

Choosing a destination venue involves a few extra steps. Ensure you have discussed arrangements with the venue before sending save the dates. Some venues may require a specific number of guests or have booking restrictions that could affect your plans.

Communicate clearly with your chosen venue about:

  • Capacity: Know how many guests they can host.
  • Package details: Understand what services are included.
  • Guest accommodations: Ask for recommendations on local lodging.

Being thorough with these details shows your guests that you care about their experience. A well-organized wedding can create wonderful memories for everyone involved.

Crafting Your Save the Date Cards

A calendar with the date 13 months in the future circled, surrounded by crafting supplies like paper, pens, and decorative elements

Creating save the date cards is an exciting step in your wedding planning. These cards help set the tone for your special day and ensure guests can mark their calendars. Here are some key aspects to consider while crafting your cards.

Incorporating Engagement Photos

Using engagement photos can add a personal touch to your save the date cards. Choose a photo that captures your personality as a couple. This makes it more inviting for your guests.

You can opt for a casual snapshot or a professional photo session. If you choose to go digital, consider sharing the photo on a digital save the date. This option is quick and eco-friendly.

Make sure to maintain high quality in the images. Clear, bright photos will make your cards look polished and appealing. Don’t forget to think about how the photo will work with your card’s overall design.

Information to Include on Your Save the Dates

Your save the date cards should have essential details to inform your guests. Start with your names prominently displayed on the front.

Next, include the wedding date and location. It’s important to give the venue name if you have it. If not, listing the city and state usually suffices.

You might also want to direct guests to your wedding website for more details. This is the perfect place to share registry information, venue specifics, and other important updates.

Remember, save the dates don’t need to be overly detailed. They are primarily about reserving the date, so keep it simple and clear.

Etiquette and Best Practices

A calendar with the date 13 months ahead circled, surrounded by question marks and exclamation points

Sending save-the-dates is an important step in wedding planning. Understanding how to manage your guest list and the relationship between save-the-dates and formal invitations will help you stay organized and keep your guests informed.

Managing the Guest List

Begin by creating a detailed wedding guest list. This list should include everyone you hope to invite, so you can decide who receives a save-the-date. When considering who to send them to, think about family, friends, and anyone essential to your celebration.

Aim for a balance: you want your closest loved ones to know first. Be mindful to avoid sending save-the-dates to anyone you may not invite later. Changes can happen, but it’s best to keep the group steady. Make sure you confirm addresses to ensure your save-the-dates reach the right people.

Following Up with Formal Invitations

Once you send your save-the-dates, you need to follow up with formal invitations later on. Save-the-dates are meant to give your guests a heads-up, letting them know to keep the date free. They usually only include the wedding date and location.

Save-the-dates should ideally go out 6 to 12 months before the wedding, depending on your timeframe. Then, follow up with formal invitations around 6 to 8 weeks before the event. This gives guests enough time to RSVP and plan their travel. When sending invitations, include all the details like the venue, time, and an RSVP date to clarify expectations.