You’ve locked in a date to marry your person—and now you need to let your nearest and dearest know. Enter: a save-the-date.
This is exactly what it sounds like: a note to politely remind your guests to make sure they’re free for your wedding. It lets them know that they should expect an official invitation soon.
But how far in advance should you send one, and what should you put on it? There’s no set rules here, but there is etiquette around how things are done. Here’s what you need to know.
Contents
When should I send my save-the-dates?
Do you send save-the-dates to evening guests, too?
If you’re having a destination wedding
What should I include on my save the date invite?
Should I ask for an RSVP on the save-the-date?
Do I have to send a save-the-date?
Can I send a digital save-the-date?
When should I send my wedding invites?
When should I send my save-the-dates?
First, let’s tackle the big question: when should I send my save-the-dates? Usually, the happy couple will send them around 6-12 months before the wedding.
Send them earlier and it’s too far in advance for your guests to make plans. On the other hand, if you post them less than 6 months before the day, it might make more sense to just hold out for the actual wedding invite instead (more on this below).
For clarity: your save-the-date is not the wedding invitation. It’s just a polite note asking guests to keep the day free. This way, your guests have all the time they need to make arrangements, take time off work, and book any necessary travel.
If you’re having your save-the-dates printed, we recommend ordering a few extra you can save as a keepsake.
Do you send save-the-dates to evening guests, too?
The etiquette here is that if your guests are invited to your wedding (the day part; the actual ceremony) then they should receive a save-the-date. They aren’t usually sent to evening guests.
But if you do want to give your evening guests some advance notice of the festivities, it’s fine to send something more informal, like a text, email, or card. Do make it clear that it’s an invite to the party only—otherwise they may feel disappointed when they receive their evening guest invite.
If you’re having a destination wedding
Should your guests need to travel abroad for your wedding, it’s best to send the save-the-dates in good time. Around 8-12 months in advance is a safe bet.
Of course, this can depend on how far they need to travel: if you’re asking them to go to Australia from the UK, 12 months’ notice is totally appropriate. Whereas 6-8 months is generally enough time to plan a trip to France.
What should I include on my save the date invite?
Save-the-dates are pretty simple. The aim is to let your guests know that you’re getting married, the day they should keep free, and the location. For example:
Save the date
Nina and Eleanor are getting married!
8th May 2026
Kindred
Bradmore House, London
Invitation to follow
You can add as much—or as little—personality as you like. For instance, a more relaxed save-the-date might read:
Pop the champers!
Sachin and Jess are tying the knot
8th May 2026
Kindred
Bradmore House, London
Invite to follow
As long as it contains all the key information, you’re free to jazz it up as you please.
Should I ask for an RSVP on the save-the-date?
No. This is something you include on the wedding invitation itself. The save-the-date is more of a notice than an actual invite (though, as a reminder, all guests who receive a save-the-date should receive an invite as well).
Do I have to send a save-the-date?
You don’t have to, no. But it is recommended. It’s a great way to make sure all the most important people in your life will definitely be available for your wedding. Especially if you’re having a destination wedding—it gives your guests a comfortable amount of time to get organised.
Some couples opt to skip them, because they’re an extra expense and another thing to do while planning. They also force you to sort out your guest list in good time (remember: everyone who receives a save-the-date will generally expect to receive a wedding invite). But it’s completely up to you and your partner.
Can I send a digital save-the-date?
Yes, you can. In fact, it’s a popular option: there’s dedicated email platforms specifically for this purpose.
Digital save-the-dates are a more informal, relaxed alternative to sending something in the post. Neither is better than the other: again, it’s down to what you prefer.
When should I send my wedding invites?
The rule of thumb here is 6-8 weeks ahead of the big day, but many couples choose to give 12 weeks (3 months) notice—especially if there’s any travelling involved or if you decide not to send save-the-dates.
Using a wedding website can be a big help in keeping track of RSVPs. You can send digital invites with a link to your website, or if you prefer the romance of a printed invite: you can list the web address on there.
Your wedding venue
One thing most couples have pinned down before sending their save-the-dates is their wedding venue.
It’s one of the most important decisions you’ll make about the day.
Kindred is a much-loved West London wedding venue, right in the heart of Hammersmith. We’re a heritage building designed with a modern touch. Couples that choose us say that our warm service and stylish interiors made their day unforgettable: our team takes the stress out of planning so you can enjoy every moment.
Our chefs at Cellar, Kindred’s in-house Hammersmith restaurant, will take care of the food. Your guests will also enjoy a private bar on each floor of our building.
Take a look at our wedding brochure to learn more about how we could bring your dream day to life. You are also most welcome to come and see the space for yourself, at no obligation. Get in touch with our team to arrange it.
