Image of a sweet z-fold save the date with the couples photo on the front panel, wedding details and monogram on the 2nd panel, and a calendar and website on the 3rd panel.

Sending out Save the Dates is still an optional, but exciting, step in your wedding planning journey. Not only do they mark the beginning of your celebrations, but they also set the tone for your big day. Here are some tips to ensure your Save the Dates make a lasting impression:

Timing is Key: Send out your Save the Dates at least six to eight months before your wedding date, even earlier if you're planning a destination wedding or have guests traveling from afar.
Keep it Simple: Your Save the Dates should include essential details like your names, wedding date, and location. If you have a wedding website, I always suggest including it for guests to find information for their travel plans.
Reflect Your Style: Choose a design that reflects your wedding theme or personal style. Whether it's classic and elegant or fun and whimsical, let your personalities shine through. The save the dates don’t have to match your invitations exactly, but should at least have a similar style to give guests a glimpse into the type of wedding they will be attending.
Consider Your Guest List: Before finalizing your guest list, make sure you have a rough idea of who you'll be inviting. Your Save the Dates should only be sent to guests you're certain will be on the final list. It is always easy to add an invitation and you never want to put yourself in the position of rescinding an invitation because you sent a save the date. Along this same thought, don’t add “and Guest” to your save the dates addresses; keep this flexible.

Image of a save the date for a New York City wedding. The save the date includes letterpress printed text and a watercolor of the Bowery Hotel. — Your save the date design should showcase your style and indicate the type of event your guests will be attending. Most often, I design save the dates around an engagement photo. For understated elegance, an illustration and letterpress printed text is the perfect touch.

By following these tips, you'll ensure that your Save the Dates not only grab your guests' attention but also set the stage for a memorable wedding day. Happy planning!

Are you looking to work with a stationery designer? I’d love to create a wonderful design experience for you. Fill out this short & sweet inquiry form here, and I’ll be in touch!