Save the Date Wording for 2026: Examples & Etiquette

Setting a wedding date is an exhilarating milestone in any couple’s journey. Once the date is secured and the guest list is complete, the next step is to inform your loved ones by sending out save the dates. If crafting the perfect save the date card is daunting, worry not—we’ve assembled all the best ideas in one place as a helpful guide to save the date wording. Read on for valuable insights and tips on designing custom save the dates that reflect your style and effectively convey the necessary information. Then, when you’re done, make sure to order gorgeous wedding invitations—even ones that match your save the date theme or design.

What to Include on Your Save the Date Wording

The save the date wording is more than just a notice; it’s the first taste of the magic and love that’s to come. Your card should capture the tone of your wedding while sharing the essential details with your guests. Here’s what to include:

The couple’s names: It’s all about you two! Make sure to include your names in a way that reflects your style.
Wedding date: The most important part! Let your guests know the date they need to mark on their calendars.
Location: Whether it’s a dreamy ballroom or a quaint beachside ceremony, let your loved ones know where the big day will unfold.
Wedding website: If you have a wedding website, be sure to include the URL so guests can find all the details they need in one place. This can include information like accommodations, dress codes, registry info, and any updates you want to share. Plus, a website can be a great way to keep your guests connected and engaged leading up to your big day.
A lighthearted request to save the date: Think of this as a fun prelude to your full invitation that will follow.
Invitation to follow: You don’t need to provide all the details just yet, but it’s helpful to let your guests know that an official wedding invitation will be coming soon, especially if there are important details they’ll need to know later.

What Not to Include on Your Save the Date Wording

While save the date cards are a casual and exciting prelude to your wedding invitations, there are a few things you’ll want to leave off:

Too many details: The save the date is not the place to list all the ceremony details or your wedding registry. Keep it simple and save the specifics for the official invitation.
RSVP requests: Unless you’re sending a destination wedding save the date with details that require early travel plans, there’s no need to include an RSVP request at this stage.
Gift registry information: It’s considered tacky to include your wedding registry details on the save the date. Wait until the formal invitation or wedding website to share this info.
Unnecessary information: These announcement cards are meant to be brief and exciting, only include the essential details—don’t bog it down with extra content like your bridal party or lengthy messages.

Save the Date Wording & Examples

The words on your save the date card are your chance to set the mood for the big day. Here are some examples of save the date wording that will make your guests smile:

1. Sweet and Simple

Save the Date!
[Your Name] & [Partner’s Name]
Are tying the knot!
[Wedding Date]
[Location]

This option is simple, to the point, and filled with joy!

2. Whimsical and Fun

Mark your calendars!
We’re getting married!
[Your Name] & [Partner’s Name]
[Wedding Date]
[Location]

This playful wording brings a smile and a bit of excitement for what’s to come!

3. Formal Elegance

Together with their families,
[Your Name] & [Partner’s Name]
Request the honor of your presence
At their wedding
On [Wedding Date]
[Location]

For couples who love a traditional, formal vibe, this wording exudes grace.

4. Destination Wedding

Pack your bags and get ready to celebrate!
[Your Name] & [Partner’s Name]
Are saying “I Do” in [Destination]
On [Wedding Date]
Save the Date!

For couples planning a destination wedding, this is a fun and simple way to share the excitement!

5. Casual and Fun

We’re getting hitched!
Join us for a casual celebration of love!
[Your Name] & [Partner’s Name]
On [Wedding Date]
[Location]
Save the Date!

Perfect for laid-back couples who want a relaxed vibe for their wedding!

6. Religious Wedding

With blessings and joy,
[Your Name] & [Partner’s Name]
Request the honor of your presence
At their holy matrimony
On [Wedding Date]
[Location]
Save the Date!

For those incorporating faith into their ceremony, this wording adds a touch of reverence and love.

Save the Date Etiquette and Timing: A Few Things to Keep in Mind

The save the date is an exciting, informal way to get your guests excited for the big day, but there are still a few key things to remember when sending them out:

When to send save the date cards:

A good rule of thumb is to send your save the dates 6 to 12 months before your wedding day. This gives your loved ones enough time to arrange travel and accommodations, especially if you have guests coming from out of town.

Who gets a save the date:

Send save the dates cards to everyone you plan to invite. This includes distant relatives, friends you haven’t seen in a while, and any important people who should be there. Be mindful of your guest list—if someone’s not going to get an official invite later, they shouldn’t receive a save the date.

Keep it personal:

Don’t be afraid to add your personal touch! Consider including a photo of the two of you, your wedding logo, or any design elements that reflect your wedding theme.

The details:

Include the important information like the date and the location. But don’t feel the need to go overboard—save the dates are just a preview for your guests.

Related Resources to Save the Date Wording

Sending your save the date cards marks the beginning of your wedding journey. It’s the first of many ways you’ll share your love and excitement with the world. Whether you’re writing a sentimental message or something lighthearted and fun, your wording should reflect your personalities and set the tone for your big day.

Remember, a save the date is all about getting your loved ones excited and ready to celebrate with you. Take your time, get creative, and most importantly, enjoy the process of sharing your joy with those you love. With the right save the date wording, your guests will be counting down the days until your wedding!

And when you’re ready to design, Shutterfly has a variety of beautiful, customizable save the date card templates that can perfectly capture your unique style—whether you want a simple design, a photo card, or something full of whimsy!

Additional Resources: