What Is a Save the Date?
A save the date is an advance notice that your wedding is happening. It gives guests a heads-up so they can block the date in their calendar, especially important for destination weddings or peak holiday seasons. It is not a formal invitation and does not require an RSVP.
What Is a Wedding Invitation?
The wedding invitation is the formal request for someone to attend your wedding. It includes all the details guests need: exact venue, ceremony time, reception details, dress code, RSVP deadline, and accommodation information.
Timeline and Sending Order
- Save the Date: 6-12 months before the wedding
- Wedding Invitation: 6-8 weeks before the wedding (3 months for destination)
- RSVP Deadline: 3-4 weeks before the wedding
What to Include in Each
Save the dates need only the couple's names, wedding date, city or region, and a note that a formal invitation will follow. Wedding invitations need the full details: venue address, ceremony and reception times, dress code, RSVP method, registry information, and accommodation suggestions.
Do You Need Both?
If your wedding is less than four months away, you can skip the save the date and send invitations earlier instead. Save the dates are most useful when guests need significant advance notice for travel planning or when the wedding falls during a busy holiday period.