When should you send save-the-dates?
A save-the-date is most useful when it gives guests enough time to protect the date and plan travel. The farther guests need to travel, the more useful earlier notice becomes.
Methodology
| Situation | Planning lead time |
|---|---|
| Local | 6 months |
| Domestic destination | 8 months |
| International destination | 10 months |
| Peak travel season | +1 month |
| High travel complexity | +1 month |
| Latest comfortable timing | Target date +1 month |
Examples
Local
For a June 12 wedding, the six-month target is December 12 of the previous year.
Domestic destination
The eight-month starting point gives traveling guests more preparation time.
International
The ten-month starting point provides additional room for flights, passports, and accommodation planning.
Common mistakes
- Waiting for the formal invitations before telling travelers the date.
- Ignoring peak travel periods.
- Treating the estimate as a hard etiquette rule.
FAQs
When should I send save-the-dates?
Several months before the wedding is a useful planning window, with earlier notice for destination events.
How early should I send save-the-dates for a destination wedding?
Earlier notice is helpful because guests may need to arrange transportation and accommodation.
Are save-the-dates necessary for a local wedding?
They are optional, but they can help guests plan busy schedules.
Is it possible to send save-the-dates too early?
Yes. Send once the core wedding date and location are stable enough that guests can reasonably plan around them.
When should the formal invitation be sent?
Use your save-the-date as the early notice, then send the formal invitation according to your final event logistics.