Planning a wedding involves many moving parts, and one of the most common questions couples face is: When do you send out wedding invitations? Whether you’re hosting a local affair or a destination wedding, getting your invitations out on time is crucial to ensuring your guests can plan accordingly.
This guide will break down the key timelines for sending out wedding invitations, save the dates, and other event invitations, including engagement parties, bridal showers, bachelorette and rehearsal dinners. We’ll also explore common mistakes to avoid and tips for navigating digital and printed invitations.
Wedding Invitations
Here’s when to send out wedding invitations to give your guests plenty of time to respond.
- When to Send: Traditionally, wedding invitations are sent 6 to 8 weeks before the big day. This timeline gives your guests enough time to RSVP while keeping your wedding fresh in their minds.
- Destination Weddings: For destination weddings, you’ll want to send invitations 3 to 4 months in advance. Your guests will need more time to arrange travel, book accommodations, and secure necessary documentation like passports or visas if required.
- Online Invitations: If you’re using online invitations, the timeline can be slightly more flexible. Because online RSVPs can shorten response times, you might be able to send invitations closer to the 6-week mark. However, always consider whether your guests are tech-savvy and comfortable with digital formats.
Save the Dates
Save the dates are typically the first official communication your guests will receive about your wedding, so it’s essential to send them out at the right time.
- When to Send: The general rule is to send your save the dates 6 to 8 months before the wedding. If you’re hosting a destination wedding, it’s a good idea to give guests even more time by sending them out 8 to 12 months in advance. This allows your guests ample time to request time off from work, book travel, and make accommodation arrangements.
- Why It’s Important: Save the dates aren’t just a courtesy; they help ensure more of your guests can attend. Early notice is especially critical for weddings held during peak seasons or holidays when travel and accommodation costs rise.
- Mistake to Avoid: Don’t include too much information. A save the date should be concise, providing the date, location, and the notice that a formal invitation will follow. Avoid overwhelming your guests with details at this stage.
Engagement Party
The engagement party is often the first celebration leading up to the wedding, and it’s an exciting way to kick off your wedding festivities. Most people host an engagement party 2 to 4 months after the proposal.
- When to Send: Send engagement party invitations 4 to 6 weeks before the event. This gives guests ample time to prepare while keeping the event on their radar, especially if some will be traveling from out of town.
- Mistake to Avoid: Over-inviting is a common issue with engagement parties. Typically, only close friends and family should be invited, and it’s good etiquette to invite those who will also be on the wedding guest list.
Bachelor/Bachelorette
These events are typically less formal but require careful coordination with the bride and groom’s closest friends. These celebrations tend to take place around 2 to 3 months before the wedding.
- When to Send: For local bachelor or bachelorette parties, invitations can be sent 6 to 8 weeks in advance. If the event involves travel, send invites 4 to 6 months before to give guests enough time to make travel arrangements.
- Mistake to Avoid: Planning these parties too close to the wedding can create unnecessary stress for the couple. Schedule these celebrations at least a month before the wedding to give everyone time to recover and prepare for the big day.
Rehearsal Dinner
The rehearsal dinner is typically held the night before the wedding and is an intimate gathering of family and the wedding party.
- When to Send: Send rehearsal dinner invitations 4 to 6 weeks in advance. While most guests will have already made plans to attend the wedding, it’s a courtesy to give them formal notice of the dinner.
- Mistake to Avoid: Don’t send these invitations too late. Guests may need to adjust their travel plans to ensure they arrive in time for the rehearsal dinner.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure everything runs smoothly, here are a few common mistakes people make when sending wedding invitations—and how to avoid them:
- Sending Invitations Too Late: Waiting until the last minute to send your wedding invitations can cause stress for both you and your guests. Stick to the recommended timeline to avoid any last-minute issues.
- Not Including RSVP Details: Failing to provide clear RSVP instructions can lead to confusion. Make sure your RSVP deadline is visible and easy for guests to understand.
- Skipping the “Plus One” Clarification: Always clarify whether guests are allowed a plus one. This prevents awkward situations and helps you manage your guest list effectively.
- Forgetting to Include Important Details: Be sure to include key information such as the dress code, directions, and accommodation options.
Online Invitations vs. Print Invitations
With the rise of digital communication, many couples are opting for online wedding invitations. Let’s compare both options and their timelines:
- Physical Invitations: These traditional invites offer a tangible keepsake for guests and are considered more formal. Stick to the 6 to 8 weeks timeline for sending these out, allowing extra time for postal delays.
- Online Invitations: Digital invites have become a popular choice, offering flexibility and speed. Since there’s no postage involved, you can send digital invites 6 weeks before the wedding. Online RSVP systems allow guests to respond quickly, which may shorten the overall timeline for tracking guest counts.
- Mistake to Avoid: Some guests, particularly older family members, may struggle with digital formats. Be sure to follow up with guests who may need extra help with online invitations.
Considerations for International Guests
Inviting international guests requires special attention to timelines, as these guests will likely need more time to prepare for your wedding.
- When to Send: For international guests, send wedding invitations 12 to 16 weeks in advance. This gives them ample time to book flights, secure visas, and arrange for accommodations.
- Shipping and Customs: Consider the time it takes for invitations to be shipped internationally. If you’re sending physical invitations, research shipping times to various countries and factor in potential customs delays.
- Mistake to Avoid: Failing to account for international logistics is a common error. Always plan for extra time to ensure invitations reach your international guests in plenty of time.
Free Digital Wedding Invitations and Physical Prints with Joy
Understanding when to send out wedding invitations is key to ensuring that your big day goes smoothly. By following the proper timelines for save the dates, engagement party invitations, bridal showers, and other wedding-related events, you can help ensure that your guests have enough time to plan. Avoid common mistakes, consider digital invitations for efficiency, and give extra thought to international guests who may need more time to attend your wedding.
Planning ahead and sending invitations at the right time will make a world of difference in the success of your wedding.
