So you’ve found the perfect location for your wedding and set a date for the big day – congratulations! Once the date is set, you’ll want to ensure that your friends and family are available. Here’s where save the date and RSVP cards can keep everyone organized and help you stay sane.
The 411 On Save The Date Cards
Most wedding planners suggest wedding invitations and RSVP cards be sent six to eight weeks before the wedding. But, for some guests who have to travel, that may be too short of notice to adjust their schedule or make travel arrangements, which is where save the date cards come in.
When you send the save the date card depends on how many of your guests will need to make long-distance travel to attend. The more guests that do have to travel by air, the sooner the save the date cards should be sent. Many wedding planners suggest at least four to six months ahead of the wedding date.
Your save the date card should include:
- The basic information including the date and location. The exact venue is not necessary on the save the date card, but you should include the city and state of the wedding.
- Save the date cards for destination weddings should also include any travel information or discounts that are available to guests.
- The save the date card should, if possible, match the tone or theme of the wedding invitation. However, some brides send out save the date cards before they’ve settled on these details, so they may choose to send an engagement photo with the date and location imprinted on the photo.
- Contact information in case guests have questions about travel or accommodations. This could be you, your wedding planner or even a travel agent.
RSVP Cards Are Vital To Wedding Planning
Your wedding planner and caterer will need a final count of wedding guests at least one or two weeks prior to the big day. But what should you do if you don’t receive RSVP’s? Don’t assume the non-response means not attending, and certainly don’t let it stress you out.
Most wedding planners say that, RSVP etiquette aside, it’s actually up to the bride, bride’s mother or wedding planner to follow up with guests that don’t respond by the deadline. Having a head-count is vital to making sure you have a seat for everyone, especially if the reception is a table service dinner. So don’t hesitate to reach out to anyone who didn’t respond – a quick phone call is a lot less stressful than unplanned guests showing up!
By sending save the date cards and following up on missing RSVP’s, both you and your guests can enjoy a stress-free event. Hiring a wedding planner to help handle these details is also a great way to delegate so that you can focus on your big day.
