Save the Date Cards

The Knot recommends sending your save the dates 6 to 9 months ahead of your wedding festivities to secure your date and location on your guests’ calendars. For destination weddings,  you should extend this timeline and send them even earlier, ideally 9 to 12 months in advance. This essential buffer gives your loved ones plenty of time to arrange travel and accommodations, manage their budget, request time off from work, and organize childcare or pet sitters if required. However, you should avoid sending them more than a year before your event, as guests may easily misplace the details or forget them entirely. Keeping your announcement within the recommended time window ensures your big day stays fresh in their minds.

Yes, save the dates are always sent before wedding invitations. Save the dates serve as an early notification for loved ones with busy schedules, while wedding invitations are mailed closer to the event and act as a formal request to RSVP. Early save the dates are particularly essential for destination weddings or out-of-town guests who may need to secure travel arrangements, renew passports, or request time off from work.