Save the Dates vs Wedding Invitations: What’s the Difference?

As you start planning your wedding, you’ll come across the need to send both save the dates and wedding invitations. While they might seem similar, these two types of cards serve different purposes and are sent out at different times. Understanding the differences will help ensure your guests have all the information they need for your special day and make your wedding planning process smoother.

Let’s explore when and why to send each, what information to include, and how to make both your save the dates and wedding invitations personal to you.

What Are Save the Dates?

Save the dates are your first official wedding announcement, sent months in advance to notify guests about your upcoming celebration. Typically, save the dates are sent 6 to 12 months before your wedding. This allows your guests to mark the date on their calendars, arrange travel, and make any necessary accommodations well in advance.

What to Include on a Save the Date

Save the date cards are meant to give just enough information so your guests can plan ahead. Here’s what to include:

Your names: Be clear about who’s getting married!
The wedding date: The most important detail, so your guests can plan around it.
The location: You don’t need to provide the venue at this point, but include the city or general area where the wedding will take place.
A note to follow up with an invitation: Let your guests know that more details will follow in your formal wedding invitation.

Save the dates can be as simple or creative as you like. From photo cards featuring engagement pictures to minimalist designs, this card is an exciting way to kick off your wedding festivities.

Shop Save the Date Cards

What Are Wedding Invitations?

Wedding invitations are the official request for your guests to attend your wedding. They’re usually sent out 6 to 8 weeks before the wedding date, giving your guests enough time to RSVP and finalize their plans. Unlike save the dates, wedding invitations provide all the specific details about the big day.

What to Include on a Wedding Invitation

Your wedding invitation will provide everything your guests need to know about your event, including:

The names of the couple: Traditionally, the names of the hosts (usually the couple or their families) are also included.
The wedding date and time: Be specific about when and where the ceremony will take place.
The venue: Include the exact address of the ceremony and reception venues, as well as any additional directions if necessary.
RSVP details: Let your guests know how and when to RSVP, whether online or by mail.
Additional information: You can include details about the dress code, accommodations, or a wedding website with more info.

Wedding invitations are often more formal than save the dates and can feature unique designs that reflect the theme of your wedding. Whether you opt for foil accents, intricate fonts, or custom colors, your invitation sets the tone for your special day.

Shop Wedding Invitations

When to Send Save the Dates vs. Wedding Invitations

Save the Dates:

Ideal timing: 6 to 12 months before your wedding.
Perfect for: Giving guests plenty of notice, especially for destination weddings or holidays.

Wedding Invitations:

Ideal timing: 6 to 8 weeks before the wedding.
Perfect for: Providing final, detailed information and gathering RSVPs.

Both cards serve as essential parts of your wedding stationery suite, ensuring your guests have all the information they need. Together, they help build excitement for your big day while making the planning process easier for both you and your guests.

Shop Wedding Invitation Suites

Personalizing Your Wedding Stationery

Your save the date cards and wedding invitations are the first glimpses your guests get of your wedding’s style. Shutterfly offers a wide range of customizable options so you can create wedding stationery that reflects your unique personality and wedding theme. Whether you prefer a modern, minimalist look or something more classic and elegant, our design templates allow you to bring your vision to life. Choose from a variety of premium paper options, colors, and fonts to make both your save the dates and invitations truly special.

Related Resources on Save the Dates vs. Wedding Invitations

By understanding the roles of save the dates and wedding invitations, you can ensure your guests feel well-informed and ready to celebrate with you. With Shutterfly’s easy-to-use design tools, creating personalized wedding stationery has never been easier.

Additional Resources: