To save the date or not save the date that is the question...

All the details of save the dates, what to include, think about and consider when planning your wedding stationery.

Save the Dates – Your Wedding Stationery Guide

 So, you have shared the happy news of your engagement, wedding planning is well underway behind the scenes, and now it’s time to take the next step. Letting your guests know to expect an invitation and clear their diaries, now that you’ve set the date.

The save-the-date is essentially a teaser of what’s to come without any firm need for commitment yet. Ideally, they are sent 8-12 months in advance. And they are your first official opportunity to let your guests know you would love to share your celebrations with them. While it also allows your guests time to start planning, ensuring you have all your favourite people with you on your big day.

There is sound logic behind the tradition of sending a save the date, but like all wedding traditions or must-haves, they are best taken as a guide or suggestion. It’s always a good idea to carefully select those traditions that will best serve you as a couple and will help you achieve your dream celebration.

To save the date or not save the date, that is the question…

Pros of sending a save-the-date:

·      Welcoming – it’s a friendly gesture to let your guests know you’re thinking of them.

·      Reserve a spot in your guests’ diaries, avoiding disappointment all around.

·      They are especially helpful for a destination wedding when your guests will need to free up more time.

·      Budgeting – weddings can be expensive to attend; therefore, your guests may appreciate the extra time to plan financially and spread out costs.

·      Giving your guests the opportunity to book accommodation and travel in advance can be a great cost-saving for all.

·      Allows you to gauge numbers; though you’re not asking for RSVPs at this point, you will be able to get a better idea of who can or can’t make it. This could open up spots for people who were not able to be included on the first list.

·      Start building excitement for your big day by giving people something to look forward to.

·      Introduce your wedding theme – this is a great opportunity to show your wedding stationery theme and set the tone for the event itself.

Cons of sending a save-the-date:

·      Limits flexibility – if you don’t want to be tied down too early to a date and location, then the save the date may not be for you.

·      You may not have time! If you’re planning to hold your wedding in the next 6 months or so, I would skip straight to the full invitation. 

·      Additional time and cost – this is an extra step in the planning process that may not suit your budget or schedule.

·      Requires a firm guest list very early on. This can be a challenge as a lot can change in family and friendship groups if you’re thinking a year ahead. Bear in mind, it’s never easy to take back an invitation, even a loose one.

·      More time to be pressured into inviting your third cousin, six times removed! If you anticipate a lot of opinions on your guest list, keep it close to the chest for as long as possible.

There are sound arguments on both sides, and I’m always happy to explore all the options with my couples to create the best solution for them. Whether you are looking for a bespoke design or one of my house collections, I've got your save-the-dates and/or invitations covered.

If you're still with me reading this, I can assume you’re on the pro’s side, so here’s what you need for your save-the-dates. In terms of content, you don’t need to go overboard on details at this stage; your names, the date, and the location of the wedding are more than enough. Unless you're having a destination wedding or planning additional events around the day, then you may want to include more particulars.

The best part is how you present your save the date, and this is where I love to include a bespoke illustration for my couples, whether it’s of the venue, your favourite flowers or animals. This is a perfect opportunity to give a first glimpse of what your guests have in store and the tone you're hoping to achieve for the day.

I have done many different styles of save the dates, from the traditional card with envelopes to printed magnets. They don’t need to be large, A6 or A7, square, rectangular or bespoke shaped – whatever best suits you. If you’re looking for further inspiration, my house collections can be found here, all of which come with a save-the-date design ready to go. If you have any questions about my house collections or bespoke services, my enquiry form can be found here, and I look forward to hearing all about your plans.

 Love Fran xxx