The question has been popped, you’ve said YES and there’s a ring on your finger. So, what’s next on your to-do list as a bride-to-be?

Besides looking for venues, sourcing decor specialists, and expert bakers, you might want to think about letting those nearest and dearest to you know there’s going to be a wedding, and that they’re invited to the celebration. One way to do this is by sending out save-the-dates!

First off, though, let’s quickly answer the all-important question – what’s the difference between a save-the-date and a wedding invitation?

Well, a save-the-date basically lets your guests know to put the date in their diaries and is usually sent six months to a year before the wedding.

An invitation contains more information about your big day, including the venue, time, dress code, and menu, and can be sent six weeks in advance. 

Another difference is that guests are obliged to reply to an invitation, unlike a save-the-date, which doesn’t require a response.

Not sure what to include in your save-the-date and wedding invitation? Here’s a list that’ll come in handy!  

Save-the-Date Details:

• The couples’ full names
• Date of the wedding and any other events around the occasion, including pre-and post-wedding get-togethers
• The city, state, or country (if it’s a destination wedding)
• The URL for your wedding website (if you have one)

Wedding Invitation Details:

• The details of who’s hosting the wedding (take note, if you and your partner are covering the costs, then this can be left out)
• The couples’ names
• Date and time of the ceremony
• Address of where the ceremony will take place
• Details of the reception, including the time, address, and theme
• If there is one, a dress code
• RSVP card
• Menu details (this is optional, depending on how formal the event is)

Now that you know the difference, let’s take a look at some reasons why we think sending save-the-dates is well worth the time and money.

6 Reasons Why We Think Save-the-Dates Are a Good Idea

Of course, it’s not a have-to-do – there’s no such thing as far as we’re concerned – but a save-the-date is definitely a nice-to-do!

Here are six reasons why we think save-the-dates are a good idea.

They Make Your Engagement Official

While posting an engagement announcement on social media makes your wedding feel official, sending a save-the-date lets friends and family know it is official.

Getting married is HUGE and letting your family and friends know there’s a celebration in the not-too-distant future is a great way for you to share your exciting news.

They Confirm a Wedding Invitation Is on the Way

While you may want to tell everyone you know you’re getting married, you’re certainly not going to be inviting them all to the wedding day.

Sending a save-the-date is confirmation that the recipient is invited to the main event and that a formal invitation is on the way.

Keep your guest list in mind when sending out a save-the-date… once you’ve posted it or sent it electronically, there’s no going back!

They’re a Good Way to Use Your Engagement Photos

Most couples opt for an engagement shoot to celebrate the momentous occasion, and a save-the-date is the perfect opportunity to show off those photos.

Make a collage or use your favorite pic to announce your impending nuptials to those closest to you.

They Give You More Time to Send Out Wedding Invitations

Because you’ve given your guests a date to put in their calendar, you’ve got more time to sort out and send the invitations.

Planning all the details around a wedding can be stressful, and a save-the-date is a simple way to take away some of the pressure.

They Show Off Your Personality and Let Your Guests Know What to Expect

Whether you include a little humor, the color scheme, or the theme of your big day, a save-the-date is a great way to show off your personality and let your guests know what to expect from the day.

Don’t stress though, nothing’s cast in stone, which means the invitation doesn’t have to match the save-the-date design exactly. It’s ok if you change your mind about the overall look and feel of your wedding; you’ve still got options! 

They Give Your Guests Time to Make Arrangements

Post-Covid, a lot has changed, and wedding guests may need extra time to make travel arrangements, especially if plane tickets and hotel stays are necessary.

Sending a save-the-date gives plenty of notice for everyone to get their schedules and travel plans in order.