Your Wedding’s First Impression: The Magic of Save the Dates

Sending your Save the Dates is the exciting moment when your wedding day officially goes on everyone’s calendar! While it feels like a small step, it sets the tone for your celebration and helps your guests plan ahead with ease. Here’s what you need to know:

When to Send

• Local Wedding: Typically 6–8 months before the big day.

• Destination Wedding: Give guests more notice—9–12 months in advance—so they can plan travel and accommodations.

• Holiday Weekends: Err on the earlier side since schedules fill quickly.

What to Say

Keep it simple! Include:

• Your names

• Wedding date

• City and state (venue details come later)

• A note that a formal invitation will follow

Optional additions: wedding website link (for early details on accommodations or registry).

What Kind of Photos to Use

Your Save the Dates are often your guests’ first glimpse into your wedding style. Think about the vibe you want:

• Romantic & Classic: Soft, posed engagement photos

• Fun & Playful: Candid shots — laughing, dancing, even clinking glasses together

• Seasonal: Photos that match your wedding season (fall leaves, beach backdrop, cozy winter vibes)

• Themed: If you’re planning a rustic barn wedding, a casual outdoorsy shot makes it cohesive (you could always call the Horseshoe Tavern and use our trailer as a backdrop)

Pro Tip

If you’re on the fence about professional engagement photos, this is the perfect excuse to book a mini session with your wedding photographer. The photos will not only look amazing on your Save the Dates but also double as keepsakes.

Final Thoughts

Whether you send them digitally or by mail, remember: your Save the Dates are a preview of the celebration ahead. Make them feel like you — your personalities, your style, your story.