Your wedding day is upcoming, and you may be wondering if there is a ‘perfect’ time on when to send wedding invitations. In this information pack, on top of including a timeline for sending out wedding invitations, we have also covered whether you can send wedding invitations out too late, what to do if you send them out too late, and, as mentioned, if there is a ‘perfect’ time to send out wedding invitations (including save the dates and RSVPs).
Establishing Your Wedding Date
First things first: you should have a locked-in wedding date, venue, and time before even thinking about wedding invitations. This ensures your guests have accurate information to plan accordingly. Once your date is set in stone, you can start working backward to establish your invitation timeline.
When to Send Wedding Invitations
Now, the question: when to send out wedding invitations? It can all depend on factors like your wedding location, whether it’s a destination event, and cultural or religious considerations. Here’s a description:
Six to Eight Weeks Before the Wedding:
– For local weddings, sending invitations six to eight weeks in advance is standard. This gives guests enough time to RSVP and make necessary arrangements.
Ten to Twelve Weeks Before the Wedding:
– For destination weddings or lots of out-of-town guests, aim for ten to twelve weeks before the big day. This extended timeframe gives guests extra time to plan travel and accommodations.
What Happens If You Send Invitations Out Too Late?
Sending out wedding invitations too late can be trouble for your big day. However, make sure you send save the date cards beforehand, and if the guests have it noted down, there shouldn’t be any problems. Whereas, people who were on the fence might not go… it is what it is!! There may be some complications with people having trouble taking the day off work (if your wedding is during the week), however if your wedding is on the weekend, you should be just fine.
Finding the Perfect Balance
Balancing timing is key to ensuring a successful turnout for your wedding day. Unfortunately, there is not a perfect time for when to send wedding invitations. Simply, acknowledge that people will need time to plan for the wedding, make travel arrangements, and take days off work. Luckily, there is no ‘early’ time to send out wedding invitations either. This means… lean more onto the early side of things, rather than the late side of things.
By following these guidelines and considering your unique circumstances, hopefully you can plan ahead with confidence.
Announcing Your Wedding in Advance: Save the Dates
For destination weddings or events during peak wedding season, sending save the date cards is a thoughtful gesture. These are typically sent 6-12 months before the wedding, giving your guests a heads-up about your upcoming celebration (below, we have included a ‘summary’ timeline of when to send out your wedding invitations, save the dates, and RSVP cards).
Timeline Summary
When to send out wedding invitations?
– For local weddings: 4-6 months before.
– For destination weddings or out-of-town guests: 8 months – 1 year before.
When to send out save the dates?
– 6-12 months – give your guests a heads up.
Still searching for invitations, save the dates, and RSVPs?
How Emma Farwell Designs Can Help
I have over 20 years of experience in crafting bespoke, handmade stationery! From elegant pocketfold designs to beautiful watercolour creations, my collections offer something for every couple. Contact me today and get a complimentary sample wedding invitation… and let me help you make your wedding day truly unforgettable.
