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When to send save the dates: a simple timeline

When to send save the dates for weddings, birthdays and parties, plus wording to copy and a step-by-step plan for sending them online.

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Send too early and people lose the date. Too late and they have made other plans. Here is a practical timeline, with wording for each stage.

The timeline

  1. Weddings: 6 to 12 months before. A year ahead for destination weddings, peak season or holiday weekends.
  2. Milestone birthdays and anniversaries: 2 to 3 months before.
  3. Reunions and big parties: 6 to 8 weeks before.
  4. Formal invitation: 6 to 8 weeks before a wedding, 3 to 4 weeks before a party.
  5. RSVP deadline: 3 to 4 weeks before the event.

If your guest list has two stages, A-list first and a wait-list for replacements, send save the dates only to people you are sure to invite.

Save the date wording to copy

WeddingSave the date! We’re getting married on [date] in [town]. Formal invitation to follow.
DestinationPack your passports! We’re marrying in [place] on [date]. Please book flights early; details to follow.
Milestone birthdaySave the date for [Name]’s [age]th! Dinner and dancing on [date] in [town]. Invitation to follow.
ReunionThe [name] reunion is on [date] at [place]. Mark your calendar, and spread the word!
Anniversary[Name] and [Name] are celebrating [number] years together on [date]. Please keep the day free for a party.
RetirementAfter [number] years, [Name] is retiring! Save [date] for a celebration at [place].
PlayfulDust off your dancing shoes: [date] is going to be a night to remember. More details soon!
ShortSave the date: [date], [town]. Details to follow.

Sending yours online

A digital save the date is quick to make and easy to share by WhatsApp, text or email. Guests reply with one tap, so you know early who is likely to come. Creating, previewing and sending by link are free up to 7 visible replies. After that, pay once: Essential €14.90 (20 replies), Complete €49 (60 replies), Grand €89 (150 replies) or Wedding €129 (unlimited replies), all including VAT. The optional keepsake MP4 film is €9.

Create yours for free

Creating, previewing and sending by link are free up to 7 visible replies. After that, pay once: Essential €14.90 (20 replies), Complete €49 (60 replies), Grand €89 (150 replies) or Wedding €129 (unlimited replies), all including VAT. The optional keepsake MP4 film is €9.

Create my invitationSee a real example

Frequently asked questions

Is a save the date necessary?

It is optional but very helpful for weddings and when guests need to travel or book time off.

Can I send a save the date by text?

Yes, as a link by WhatsApp, text or email.

Should it include the venue?

A town or region is enough. Keep the exact address for the invitation.

See also

Save the date onlineMake yours freeWedding invitation and save the date wordingMore textsWedding invitationsLive example
Create my invitation