save the date etiquette
YOUR GUEST LIST
Compiling your guest list will take longer than you think…so start there first! First, it’s going to take time to decide who will get invited to your wedding. Second, you’ll need to collect their addresses! We recommend utilizing Paperless Post’s Wedding Address Collection Cards. It’s a classy way to ask for addresses in bulk. If you’d like to make things a bit more personal, individual texts or emails are another great way to reach out to your guests.
Collect your addresses correctly so you don’t have to backtrack later. Stationers require certain formats, and we recommend using this Etiquette Design Guest List Template to collect your addresses.
WHAT TO INCLUDE
Names // For a more formal announcement, you should include your full names, but we often see couples opting for just their first names.
Date & Location // For the location, we recommend listing just the city, state, or country (if destination). No need to list the wedding venue just yet.
Website // This is a must in today’s modern world! Your website will be the place where your guests to go learn more about the festivities. From registry to transportation, your site will have it all so you can keep things brief when it comes to the printed items. If you’re looking for help designing your website, we’re happy to assist in creating a custom-designed wedding website for your special day. Simply contact us to get started.
Formal Invitation to Follow // If you’re opting for a more formal announcement or you know your celebration will be on the formal side, we recommend including this on your Save the Date. It’s a lovely note to remind guests that the invitation with more details will arrive closer to the Wedding Day.
WHEN TO SEND
We are fans of sending correspondence in advance as we believe the most courteous thing you can provide your guests is the ability to let them plan ahead! If you’re having a destination wedding, we recommend sending your Save the Date out 9-12 months before the big day. If the majority of your guests are local, 7-9 months is great!
Tying the knot quickly? If you’re just starting to make plans and your wedding is less than 6 months out, we recommend saving yourself the stress of collecting addresses in a hurry and sending out a digital announcement. We love designing digital announcements and are happy to assist in this process. If you’re skipping the Save the Date, we recommend sending your invitations out further in advance than normal.