When is too early or too late to send save the dates for a destination wedding or a wedding with many out of town guests?

The key is giving guests enough time to book travel and accommodation, especially if they need to take time off work or arrange childcare. For a destination wedding, nine to twelve months is ideal. That gives guests time to save money, book flights, and arrange leave. For a wedding with many out of town guests, even if it is not abroad, nine months is a good guide.

Sending them earlier than twelve months can feel premature. Guests may not know their plans that far ahead, and you may not have confirmed your venue or date. Sending them later than six months for a destination wedding is risky. Flights and hotels may be booked up, and guests may have other commitments. For a local wedding with few out of town guests, six to eight months is fine, and three to four months is acceptable for a small wedding.

If you are late, do not panic. Send a quick email or text with the date and location, and follow up with a proper invitation later. The most important thing is that guests know the date as soon as you do. If you are planning a wedding abroad, also remind guests to check passport and visa rules, and to check the GOV.UK page for that country. That is not part of the save the date, but it is helpful to mention on your wedding website.