When to Send Save the Dates and Invitations
Enter your wedding date to see when to send save-the-dates and invitations, when RSVPs should be due, and when your caterer needs a final count.
When to send save the dates and wedding invitations
There is no single correct date, but there are lead times most couples find comfortable. The calculator uses the ranges below, counted back from your wedding date, and lines your RSVP deadline up with the date your caterer needs a final headcount.
| Type of wedding | Save-the-dates | Invitations | RSVP deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local wedding | 6 to 8 months before | 6 to 8 weeks before | 3 weeks before |
| Many guests travel in | 8 to 10 months before | 8 to 10 weeks before | 4 weeks before |
| Holiday weekend | 8 to 10 months before | 10 to 12 weeks before | 4 weeks before |
| Destination wedding | 8 to 12 months before | 10 to 12 weeks before | 6 weeks before |
Make replying easy
The more steps it takes to reply, the more reminders you send. Put your wedding website address on the save-the-date and the invitation so guests can find the schedule, the venue and the RSVP form in one place.
Invitation timing questions
When should I send save-the-dates?
For a local wedding, most couples send save-the-dates 6 to 8 months ahead. If many guests need to travel or book time off, aim for 8 to 10 months. These are common guidelines rather than rules, so earlier is fine when your guest list is spread out.
When should I send save-the-dates for a destination wedding?
Destination weddings usually go out earlier, often 8 to 12 months ahead, because guests need time to arrange flights, lodging and leave. Invitations follow about 10 to 12 weeks before the wedding.
When should wedding invitations go out?
Six to eight weeks before the wedding is typical for a local celebration. For destination weddings and holiday weekends, 10 to 12 weeks gives guests more room to plan.
How long should guests have to RSVP?
Aim for an RSVP deadline three to four weeks before the wedding for a local event, and about six weeks for a destination wedding. Work backwards from the date your caterer needs the final headcount and leave about a week to follow up with anyone who has not replied.
Do digital save-the-dates count?
Yes. A digital save-the-date does the same job as a printed one, and it is quick to send and easy to correct if a detail changes. Some couples send a digital save-the-date and print the invitations.
What if our engagement is short?
Skip the save-the-date if the usual window has already passed and send invitations as soon as they are ready. Digital invitations reach everyone the same day. Choose a firm RSVP date that still leaves time before your caterer's deadline.
Collect RSVPs on your wedding website
Send a digital save-the-date, share your details and collect RSVPs on your own wedding website.