How far in advance do people usually send wedding invitations?

The usual window for sending wedding invitations in the UK is 4 to 6 months before the big day. That is enough time for guests to sort out their diaries without forgetting about it. For weddings in summer, bank holidays or popular dates, send them closer to 6 months so guests can book hotels before they sell out.

If you have many guests travelling from abroad or across the country, send invites 6 to 8 months ahead. That helps them find flights and accommodation at reasonable prices. For local guests, 4 months is plenty.

Before the invitations go out, you should have already sent save the dates, usually 6 to 12 months ahead. That gives everyone a heads up. The invitation is the formal confirmation with all the details.

Set your RSVP deadline at least 3 to 4 weeks before the wedding. That gives you time to chase late replies, confirm numbers with your venue and caterer, and create a seating plan. If your venue needs final numbers earlier, work backwards from that date.

Remember that giving notice for your legal ceremony must happen at least 28 days before, so your invitation timeline should not clash with that.