How early should I send save the date?

Short answer

Send save the dates 6 to 12 months before the wedding. For destination weddings or weddings over a holiday weekend, send them 12 months ahead. For local weddings, 6 months is plenty.

Save the dates should go out 6 to 12 months before the wedding. The exact timing depends on your guests and your plans. If many guests will travel, or if you are marrying abroad, send them a full year ahead. That gives people time to book time off work and arrange travel. For a local wedding with mostly local guests, 6 months is usually enough.

If you are marrying on a bank holiday or during school holidays, send them earlier. Guests will appreciate the extra notice, especially if they have children or busy schedules. The same applies if you have guests coming from overseas. They may need to arrange visas or save for flights.

Remember that a save the date is not an invitation. It simply tells people the date and location, so they can keep it free. The formal invitation should follow about 6 to 8 weeks before the wedding, with a clear RSVP deadline. That gives you time to confirm numbers with your venue and caterer.

If you are unsure, ask your venue or planner for advice. They know how far ahead their couples usually send them. The key is to be considerate. Give people enough notice to say yes, and enough time to plan.