Save Our Date

So, you’ve popped the question and the answer was a resounding “YES!” Now comes the exciting part: planning your wedding. And what better way to kick things off than with some adorable Save Our Date cards?

These little gems are your first official announcement to friends and family, giving them a heads-up about your big day and ensuring they mark their calendars. But with so many options out there, where do you even begin? Fear not, future newlyweds! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Save Our Date cards, from choosing the right style to crafting the perfect message.

When to Send Save Our Date Cards

Timing is everything, especially when it comes to wedding planning. Here’s a general guideline:

For destination weddings or holiday weekends: Send Save Our Dates 6-8 months in advance. This gives guests ample time to book travel and make arrangements.

For local weddings: 4-6 months in advance is usually sufficient.

Who to Send Save Our Date Cards To

Traditionally, Save Our Dates are sent to your immediate family and wedding party. However, you can also include close friends, colleagues, and anyone else you’d like to attend your celebration.

Choosing the Right Style

Save Our Date cards come in as many styles as there are couples. Here are a few popular options:

Formal: Classic and elegant, perfect for black-tie affairs. Think engraved invitations, calligraphy, and luxurious paper.

Casual: Relaxed and fun, ideal for beach weddings or backyard celebrations. Consider using playful fonts, bright colors, and informal wording.

Themed: Match your Save Our Dates to your wedding theme. If you’re having a rustic wedding, opt for burlap and twine. For a whimsical affair, consider using watercolor illustrations.

Interactive: Get creative with your Save Our Dates! Include a small puzzle, a scratch-off card, or even a personalized video message.

Design Inspiration

Need some inspiration? Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

Photos: Use a favorite photo of the two of you as your Save Our Date.

Illustrations: Commission a custom illustration of the two of you or incorporate a design that reflects your personalities.

Local Flair: If you’re having a destination wedding, incorporate elements of your wedding location, such as local flora or landmarks.

Seasonal Touches: Embrace the season of your wedding. For a winter wedding, consider using snowflakes or winter scenes.

Crafting the Perfect Message

Keep your Save Our Date message concise and to the point. Here’s a simple template:

> “Save the Date! [Your Names]
> Request the honor of your presence as we celebrate our marriage on
> [Date of Wedding] at [Time of Wedding]
> [Wedding Location]
> [Optional: Website or Social Media Handle]”

You can also add a personal touch to your message. For example:

> “We can’t wait to celebrate our love with you!”
> “Get ready to dance the night away!”
> “Love is in the air!”

Tips for Writing Engaging Save Our Date Messages

Keep it short and sweet: Avoid lengthy paragraphs.

Use a friendly and informal tone.

Proofread carefully!

Consider adding a touch of humor.

Where to Order Save Our Date Cards

Stationery Stores: Many local and national stationery stores offer a wide selection of Save Our Date cards.

Online Retailers: Etsy, Minted, and Shutterfly are great resources for unique and personalized Save Our Date cards.

DIY: If you’re feeling crafty, consider creating your own Save Our Date cards.

Budgeting for Save Our Date Cards

Save Our Date cards can vary in price depending on the style, materials, and quantity.

Set a budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend on Save Our Date cards.

Consider your guest list: The number of guests will significantly impact your overall cost.

Explore different options: Compare prices from different vendors to find the best deal.

Addressing Save Our Date Cards

Use formal addressing: Mr. and Mrs. John Smith, Dr. Jane Doe, etc.

Include titles: If you’re unsure of a guest’s marital status, use “Ms.” or “Mr.”

Double-check all addresses: Ensure all addresses are correct to avoid wasted postage.

Mailing Save Our Date Cards

Use proper postage: Make sure your Save Our Date cards are properly stamped.

Consider using a return address label: This will help ensure that any undeliverable cards are returned to you.

Mail your Save Our Date cards early: Allow ample time for delivery, especially if you’re sending them to out-of-town guests.

Tracking RSVPs

Create a wedding website: This is a great way to track RSVPs and provide guests with important information.

Use a dedicated email address: Create a separate email address for wedding-related inquiries.

Consider using a wedding planning app: Many wedding planning apps have built-in RSVP tracking features.

Conclusion

Save Our Date cards are a crucial first step in your wedding planning journey. By carefully selecting the right style, crafting a thoughtful message, and sending them out in a timely manner, you can ensure that your loved ones are excited and ready to celebrate your special day. So, get creative, have fun, and enjoy this exciting milestone!