Discover the surprising difference between save the dates and invitations and when to send them in this must-read guide.
| Step | Action | Novel Insight | Risk Factors |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Determine the event date | The event date is the most important factor in deciding when to send save the dates and invitations | Not allowing enough time for guests to plan and RSVP |
| 2 | Create guest list | The guest list should be finalized before sending save the dates to ensure all necessary guests are included | Accidentally leaving out important guests |
| 3 | Decide on formality level | The formality level of the event should be reflected in the design and wording of the save the dates and invitations | Confusing guests with mixed formality levels |
| 4 | Choose design elements | The design elements of the save the dates and invitations should reflect the theme and style of the event | Choosing design elements that do not accurately represent the event |
| 5 | Determine mailing logistics | Save the dates should be sent 6-8 months before the event, while invitations should be sent 6-8 weeks before the event | Not allowing enough time for guests to plan and RSVP |
| 6 | Include event reminders | Save the dates should include basic event information, while invitations should include more detailed information and event reminders | Forgetting to include important event information |
| 7 | Set RSVP deadline | The RSVP deadline should be set at least 2-3 weeks before the event to allow for final headcount and seating arrangements | Not allowing enough time for guests to RSVP |
| 8 | Include response cards | Response cards should be included with invitations to make it easy for guests to RSVP | Not including response cards can make it difficult for guests to RSVP |
| 9 | Follow etiquette guidelines | Following proper etiquette guidelines for save the dates and invitations can ensure a smooth and respectful planning process | Not following etiquette guidelines can lead to confusion and misunderstandings |
Overall, it is important to carefully consider the timing and details of both save the dates and invitations to ensure a successful and enjoyable event for all guests. By following these steps and taking into account the novel insights and risk factors, hosts can create beautiful and effective save the dates and invitations that accurately reflect the event and make it easy for guests to plan and RSVP.
Contents
- What are the Timing Differences between Save the Dates and Invitations?
- What is Guest List Prep for Save the Dates Vs Invitations?
- How to Determine Formality Level of Save the Dates Vs Invitations?
- What Mailing Logistics Do You Need to Know Before Sending Out Your Save the Dates or Invitations?
- Etiquette Guidelines: Dos and Don’ts of Sending Out Your Wedding Stationery
- Common Mistakes And Misconceptions
What are the Timing Differences between Save the Dates and Invitations?
| Step | Action | Novel Insight | Risk Factors |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Determine the event date and guest list | Save the Dates should be sent 6-8 months before the event, while Invitations should be sent 6-8 weeks before the event | Not having a finalized guest list may delay the mailing process |
| 2 | Design and print Save the Dates | Save the Dates should include basic event information such as the date and location, but do not need to include RSVP or dress code information | Overdesigning or overcomplicating the Save the Dates may increase printing costs |
| 3 | Compile mailing list and send Save the Dates | Save the Dates should be sent to all guests on the mailing list, including those who may not be able to attend the event | Sending Save the Dates too early may result in guests forgetting about the event |
| 4 | Finalize event details and design and print Invitations | Invitations should include all event details, including RSVP and dress code information | Overdesigning or overcomplicating the Invitations may increase printing costs |
| 5 | Compile mailing list and send Invitations | Invitations should be sent to all guests on the mailing list who received a Save the Date, as well as any additional guests who may have been added to the guest list | Sending Invitations too late may result in guests not being able to attend due to prior commitments or travel arrangements |
| 6 | Include gift registry information and accommodation options in Invitations | Including this information in Invitations allows guests to plan accordingly and purchase gifts in advance | Not including this information may result in guests being unsure of what to bring or where to stay |
| 7 | Arrange transportation and catering | These details should be finalized before sending Invitations to ensure guests have all necessary information | Not finalizing these details may result in confusion or inconvenience for guests |
| 8 | Determine formality level and include in Invitations | This information allows guests to dress appropriately for the event | Not including this information may result in guests feeling uncomfortable or out of place |
| 9 | Book venue and accommodations | These details should be finalized before sending Save the Dates to ensure guests have accurate information | Not finalizing these details may result in changes to the event location or accommodations, causing confusion for guests |
| 10 | Collect RSVPs and finalize guest list | RSVPs should be collected by the RSVP deadline included in the Invitations to ensure an accurate guest count | Not collecting RSVPs may result in not having enough or having too many guests at the event |
What is Guest List Prep for Save the Dates Vs Invitations?
| Step | Action | Novel Insight | Risk Factors |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Create an address book | An address book is a centralized location for all guest contact information, including mailing addresses | Risk of missing important guests if contact information is not up-to-date |
| 2 | Determine guest count | Knowing the guest count is crucial for both save the dates and invitations to ensure proper planning and budgeting | Risk of over or underestimating guest count, leading to logistical issues |
| 3 | Decide on plus ones | Determine if guests are allowed to bring a plus one and communicate this clearly on both save the dates and invitations | Risk of confusion or frustration if plus one policy is not clearly communicated |
| 4 | Gather event details | Collect all necessary event details, such as date, time, location, dress code, and any special instructions | Risk of guests being uninformed or unprepared for the event |
| 5 | Consider seating arrangements | For formal events, consider seating arrangements and communicate this on the invitation | Risk of guests feeling uncomfortable or out of place if seating is not properly planned |
| 6 | Note dietary restrictions | Ask guests for any dietary restrictions and accommodate them as necessary | Risk of guests feeling excluded or uncomfortable if their dietary needs are not met |
| 7 | Provide accommodation information | For out-of-town guests, provide information on nearby accommodations and transportation options | Risk of guests being unable to attend due to lack of information or planning |
| 8 | Set response deadline | Set a clear response deadline for both save the dates and invitations to ensure proper planning and organization | Risk of not having an accurate guest count or not having enough time to make necessary arrangements |
| 9 | Follow-up communication | Follow up with guests who have not responded to ensure an accurate guest count | Risk of not having an accurate guest count or not having enough time to make necessary arrangements |
| 10 | Communicate guest etiquette | Communicate any specific guest etiquette, such as dress code or gift expectations, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable event for all guests | Risk of guests feeling uncomfortable or out of place if they are not aware of the expected etiquette |
| 11 | Consider event theme | Consider the event theme and incorporate it into both save the dates and invitations for a cohesive and memorable event | Risk of guests feeling confused or unprepared if the event theme is not properly communicated |
How to Determine Formality Level of Save the Dates Vs Invitations?
| Step | Action | Novel Insight | Risk Factors |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Consider the venue and time of day for the event. | The formality level of the save the dates and invitations should match the formality level of the event. | None. |
| 2 | Determine the dress code and color scheme for the event. | The design elements, typography, and color scheme of the save the dates and invitations should reflect the dress code and color scheme of the event. | None. |
| 3 | Decide on a theme or motif for the event. | The design elements and typography of the save the dates and invitations should reflect the theme or motif of the event. | None. |
| 4 | Consider any cultural or religious traditions that will be incorporated into the event. | The design elements and typography of the save the dates and invitations should reflect any cultural or religious traditions that will be incorporated into the event. | None. |
| 5 | Determine the guest list size and budget constraints. | The paper quality, envelope style and color, and RSVP format of the save the dates and invitations should be chosen based on the guest list size and budget constraints. | The risk of overspending on the save the dates and invitations. |
| 6 | Take into account the personal preferences of the couple. | The design elements, typography, and paper quality of the save the dates and invitations should reflect the personal preferences of the couple. | None. |
What Mailing Logistics Do You Need to Know Before Sending Out Your Save the Dates or Invitations?
| Step | Action | Novel Insight | Risk Factors |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Determine the mailing addresses | It is important to ensure that the mailing addresses are accurate and up-to-date to avoid any delays or returned mail. | Incorrect or outdated addresses may result in undelivered invitations or save the dates. |
| 2 | Choose printing options | Consider the paper weight and thickness, paper quality and texture, color schemes, and design elements to create a cohesive and visually appealing invitation or save the date. | Poor printing quality or design may result in unattractive invitations or save the dates. |
| 3 | Select customization options | Decide on the sealant options for envelopes, return address labels, and RSVP cards to add a personal touch to the invitations or save the dates. | Overly complicated customization options may result in additional costs or errors. |
| 4 | Determine delivery times | Consider the delivery times for both domestic and international mail to ensure that the invitations or save the dates arrive in a timely manner. | Late delivery may result in guests not being able to attend the event. |
| 5 | Calculate postage rates | Determine the international postage rates and any additional fees for bulk mailing discounts to avoid unexpected costs. | Insufficient postage may result in undelivered invitations or save the dates. |
| 6 | Check post office regulations | Ensure that the invitations or save the dates meet the post office regulations for size, weight, and shape to avoid any issues with delivery. | Non-compliance with post office regulations may result in undelivered invitations or save the dates. |
| 7 | Consider tracking services | Consider using tracking services for mailed items to ensure that the invitations or save the dates are delivered and received by the guests. | Additional costs may be incurred for tracking services. |
Etiquette Guidelines: Dos and Don’ts of Sending Out Your Wedding Stationery
| Step | Action | Novel Insight | Risk Factors |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Determine your guest list and budget | It’s important to have a clear idea of how many guests you will be inviting and how much you can afford to spend on stationery | Not having a clear guest list or budget can lead to overspending or underestimating the number of invitations needed |
| 2 | Send save the dates | Save the dates should be sent 6-8 months before the wedding to give guests ample time to make travel arrangements | Sending save the dates too early or too late can cause confusion or inconvenience for guests |
| 3 | Include important details on save the dates | Save the dates should include the date, location, and a note that an invitation will follow | Failing to include important details can lead to confusion or guests making incorrect assumptions |
| 4 | Send invitations 6-8 weeks before the wedding | Invitations should be sent with enough time for guests to RSVP and make arrangements, but not so early that they forget about the event | Sending invitations too early or too late can cause confusion or inconvenience for guests |
| 5 | Include RSVP cards with a response deadline | RSVP cards should include a response deadline to ensure that guests respond in a timely manner | Failing to include a response deadline can lead to guests forgetting to respond or responding too late |
| 6 | Address envelopes properly | Envelopes should be addressed formally, using proper titles and full names | Failing to address envelopes properly can be seen as disrespectful or unprofessional |
| 7 | Follow guest list etiquette | Guests should be invited by name, and plus-ones should only be given to those in serious relationships or who are married | Failing to follow guest list etiquette can lead to hurt feelings or confusion |
| 8 | Include dress code instructions | Dress code instructions should be included on the invitation to ensure that guests dress appropriately for the event | Failing to include dress code instructions can lead to guests feeling uncomfortable or out of place |
| 9 | Include gift registry information | Gift registry information should be included on the invitation or on a separate card to make it easy for guests to find and purchase gifts | Failing to include gift registry information can lead to guests giving inappropriate or unwanted gifts |
| 10 | Send thank-you notes promptly | Thank-you notes should be sent within 2-3 weeks of receiving a gift or attending the wedding | Failing to send thank-you notes promptly can be seen as disrespectful or ungrateful |
| 11 | Follow a mailing timeline | Invitations and save the dates should be mailed according to a timeline to ensure that they arrive in a timely manner | Failing to follow a mailing timeline can lead to invitations or save the dates arriving too early or too late |
| 12 | Include wedding website details | Wedding website details should be included on the invitation or on a separate card to make it easy for guests to find important information about the wedding | Failing to include wedding website details can lead to guests missing important information |
| 13 | Follow envelope stuffing guidelines | Invitations and save the dates should be stuffed in envelopes according to proper guidelines to ensure that they arrive in good condition | Failing to follow envelope stuffing guidelines can lead to invitations or save the dates arriving damaged or in poor condition |
| 14 | Check postage requirements | Invitations and save the dates should be weighed and checked for postage requirements to ensure that they arrive with the correct postage | Failing to check postage requirements can lead to invitations or save the dates being returned or delayed in delivery |
Common Mistakes And Misconceptions
| Mistake/Misconception | Correct Viewpoint |
|---|---|
| Save the Dates and Invitations are the same thing. | Save the Dates and Invitations serve different purposes, with different timing requirements. Save the Dates are sent out months in advance to give guests a heads up about an upcoming event, while invitations are sent closer to the event date with specific details on time, location, dress code etc. |
| Sending out Save the Dates is not necessary. | Sending out Save the Dates is important for giving guests ample notice of an upcoming event so they can plan accordingly and make travel arrangements if needed. It also helps ensure that more people will be able to attend as they have enough time to clear their schedules or request time off work if necessary. |
| Invitations should be sent out as soon as possible after sending save-the-dates. | While it’s important not to wait too long between sending save-the-dates and invitations (usually 6-8 weeks), it’s also important not to send them too early since guests may forget about them or lose track of them over time. A good rule of thumb is to send invitations around 2-3 months before the event date so that guests have enough notice but won’t forget about it either. |
| Only formal events require both a save-the-date and invitation. | Both save-the-dates and invitations can be used for any type of event – from casual backyard barbecues to black-tie weddings – depending on how much notice you want your guests to have beforehand. |
| Guests don’t need reminders once they’ve received a save-the-date or invitation. | It’s always helpful (and polite) to send reminders closer to the actual event date – especially if there has been a change in plans or venue since originally sending out invites/save-the-dates. |