A Guide to Save the Dates

As wedding stationery designers, Heather and I (Emily) understand the excitement and anticipation that comes with planning your dream day. One of the first steps in setting the tone for your celebration is sending out save the dates. To make this process seamless and stress-free, we’ve created a comprehensive guide packed with everything you need to know—from why they matter to how they can beautifully reflect your wedding vision. Let’s dive into the essentials and help you start this exciting journey with confidence!

Why Save the Dates Are Important

Save the dates let your guests know the most critical detail: when your wedding will happen. In today’s busy world, giving your friends and family plenty of time to plan is a thoughtful way to ensure they’ll be there to celebrate with you. Save the dates are also the first glimpse into your wedding style. Whether you’re hosting a formal event or a casual destination wedding, your these cards give your guests a sneak peek of what to expect.

Custom vs. Pre-Made Designs

While pre-made options from websites like Minted or Zola may seem convenient, custom save the dates offer something truly unique. At Heather Paperie, we work closely with couples to design save the dates that align with your wedding’s overall aesthetic. We take inspiration from your venue, color palette, and style to create something that feels like you. From elegant watercolor illustrations to luxurious textured paper and specialty printing techniques, your designs will be as special as the day they represent.

Custom save the dates also make it easy to carry a consistent design throughout your wedding stationery. By opting for custom stationery, you’re laying the foundation for a seamless wedding branding experience—from your invitation suite to your day-of details.

We created cohesion between this couple’s save the dates and invitations by carrying over design elements such as an elegant monogram and luxurious script font for their Cairnwood Estate wedding.

When Should You Send Save the Dates?

When it comes to your wedding stationery, timing is everything. Local weddings and destination weddings have slightly different timelines. Guests who are attending a destination wedding need a little extra time to plan their travel and accommodations.

• Local wedding: 6-8 months before your wedding
• Destination wedding: 8-12 months before your wedding

Sending your save the dates on time helps ensure your loved ones can prioritize your celebration and make the necessary arrangements.

What to Include

Essential Information

• Your names: First and/or last names so guests know who’s getting married
• Wedding date: Include the year to avoid confusion
• Location: City and state only — no venue address yet
• A line like “Formal invitation to follow” so guests know more details are coming

Do you know what to include on your wedding invitations? If not check out our guide!

Optional Information

• Wedding website: Great for sharing travel tips, hotel blocks, and registry info
• Tagline or short message: A simple “We can’t wait to celebrate with you” adds a warm touch

What Not to Include

• Venue address: Just list the city and state — full venue details come later
• RSVP info: Guests aren’t expected to respond yet
• Dress code: Save that for the invitation or website
• Weekend schedule: Don’t share event timelines this early
• Registry links: You don’t need to include registry details on your save the date
• Too much text: Keep the design simple and easy to read

Save the dates are also a wonderful opportunity to showcase your personality. Whether you opt for a classic letterpress design or a unique photo card, the format should reflect your style. At Heather Paperie, we’ll help you incorporate thoughtful details that make your design stand out. Love your dog? We can add a whimsical illustration of your pup. Hosting a destination wedding? Let’s highlight the location with a custom map or watercolor artwork.

Who Receives a Save the Date?

Send save the dates to everyone on your guest list, including close family members, friends, and anyone you’re confident you’ll invite. Remember, once a save the date is sent, it’s expected that the recipient will also receive a formal invitation. If you’re still finalizing your guest list, check out our post on how to make a wedding guest list for our best tips!

Start Designing Today

Your save the dates are the first step in your wedding stationery journey, and they deserve to be memorable. That’s why we take the time to get to know you and your vision before we start designing. Whether you’re looking for custom designs or need help bringing your ideas to life, Heather Paperie is here to make the process seamless and enjoyable. Let us create save the dates that set the tone for your wedding while making a lasting impression on your guests.

Ready to get started? Contact us today to begin designing your dream save the dates!

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