Wedding planning comes with a lot of moving parts, and your invitations are one of the first big milestones. They don’t just tell your guests when and where to show up – they set the tone for your whole day. Whether you’re dreaming of custom letterpress or going digital with a wedding website, here’s everything you need to know about save the dates, invites, timelines, and what to include.
Save the Dates
What they are:
Save the dates are a simple way to let your guests know your wedding date and general location ahead of time. They’re especially helpful if you're planning a destination wedding or a celebration that falls on a long weekend or during peak holiday seasons.
What to include:
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Your names
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Wedding date
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Location (city or region is enough for now)
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A note that a formal invite will follow
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Wedding website (if you have it ready)
When to send:
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6 to 12 months before the wedding
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For destination weddings, aim for 9 to 12 months to give guests time to plan
The Formal Invitation
What they are:
The formal wedding invitation gives your guests all the essential details to attend your big day. It’s also a chance to showcase your wedding style, from fonts and colours to the envelope and stamps.
What to include:
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Your names (or whoever is hosting, e.g., families or parents)
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The date and time of the ceremony
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Ceremony and reception locations with full addresses
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RSVP instructions (with deadline)
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Dress code (optional, but helpful)
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Any extra cards, like a details card, map, accommodation info or wishing well
When to send:
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2 to 4 months before the wedding
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If you're having lots of interstate or overseas guests, closer to 4 months is ideal
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Set the RSVP date about 4 to 6 weeks before the wedding
Wedding Websites
What they are:
Wedding websites are a brilliant companion to your invitations. They let you include extra details without crowding your stationery – and they’re easy to update if things change.
What to include:
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Event schedule
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Travel and accommodation tips
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FAQs (think: dress code, plus ones, transport)
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Your story or photos (if you’re feeling sentimental)
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RSVP functionality
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Registry or wishing well information
Make sure your website URL is included on your save the date or details card.
Digital Invitations
If you’re skipping printed invites altogether or want to complement them, digital invitations and websites are a great option. They’re eco-friendly, often more budget-friendly, and can be just as beautiful and custom as traditional stationery.
Bonus Tips
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Double-check guest names and addresses before anything goes to print or gets sent
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Order extra invites (at least 10–15 more than you think you'll need) in case of mistakes or last-minute additions
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Work backwards from your wedding date to create your invitation timeline and avoid any rush fees
- I love knowing what colour the bridesmaids are wearing - with so many dresses being the same high street shops guests shop from, I love knowing I avoid a faux par of having the same outfit as a bridesmaid!
Final Thoughts
Invitations are more than just paper or pixels – they’re the first glimpse your guests get into your wedding day. Whether you're keeping it classic with printed invites or going modern with a sleek site, make sure your communication is clear, timely, and true to your vibe.
