Do you need to know when to sent out save the date and invitations for your wedding day? And are you wondering what a save the date is versus what is an invitation? Wedding planning comes with so many things to consider and it is overwhelming. Lavender on the Lake is here to offer you some help; plus I get to share some of the lovely invitations from our Orlando brides. You will see just how each set of stationary pieces are unique to the couple who sends them out in style and vibe.
Look here! Save the date and invitations: your easy guide
What exactly is a Save the Date?
You have likely been planning your wedding for a really long time. What is a save the date versus what is an invitation and when do u send them out?
A Save the Date is sort of like a pre-invitation to let your family and friends know the date and location of your wedding, well in advance. This allows for your people to put the date in their calendars and to plan for travel if necessary. Sending the save the date around 6-12 months prior to the wedding is typical.
You may be asking, “Do I have to wait until 6-12 months to send my save the date?” The answer is no! You can send your save the date out as early as you would like. Post pandemic couples are planning their weddings much further out than before. Some couples are sending them 18 months to 2 years before their wedding. Send that save the date out once you have selected your venue and have made your date official! The more time you give your loved ones, the more they can make their plans to be there to celebrate you.
When do I send out my invitation?
On the other hand, an invitation is more detailed by providing the date, location, time for ceremony, dress code, and RSVP instructions such as number of guests and perhaps food choice. Traditionally, invitations are sent within 2-3 months before the wedding.
Finalize your details and send those invitations out about 2–3 months before your wedding date. This is pretty typical. However, if you are not planning to send out a save the date, you may consider sending your invitations further out in advance. The main difference is that the invitation provides your family and friends with more information regarding your wedding details. It is super helpful for you to provide your guests with a simple timeline of your day so that they know what to expect. I mean, for us girls, isn’t it also always nice to know what attire is expected? The sooner I get my invitation, the sooner I am looking for a fun dress to wear!
By providing a link to your wedding website, your family and friends can follow along with the details. Don’t have a website, not a problem! Creating a website is not a necessity, but it sure is helpful to keep all of your planning in one place. It also provides your guests with do’s and don’ts. I find it helpful to offer some information about us to your wedding guests due to the fact that we are a farm venue. Here is an excellent read on how to be prepared for a wedding here at Lavender on the Lake.
Here is a quick timeline for your wedding stationary needs! Please reach out if you would like for me to send you a pdf for you to print out for your planning!
All in all, there is not an absolute right or wrong way regarding save the dates and invitations. Take things one step at a time, and don’t forget to enjoy the process! Reach out to me with any and all questions!
Thanks for following my blog and/or stopping by if this is your first read! I really appreciate you taking the time to read this. Lavender on the Lake is a locally owned and operated business. We sincerely hope to encourage couples to learn more about the value and importance of choosing a locally owned business when it’s time to book your wedding venue & vendors. With locally owned venues you will often see a higher level of hospitality, better communication and a greater desire to truly ensure your wedding exceeds expectations. We are thrilled to support wedding venue owners from around the country with a weekly shout out in our blog. You can find locally owned wedding venues featured on this wedding venue map.
The Glade Venue
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Shelley