Part of the joy of getting married is celebrating with your loved ones. Whether you're organizing a destination wedding or one closer to home, figuring out when to send wedding invitations ensures your family and friends can be there with you.
Typically, you should mail wedding invitations about 6-8 weeks before a local wedding and 3 months before an out-of-town event. This varies depending on the particulars of your big day. Read on to learn:
When to send save-the-dates
When to send wedding invitations for local weddings
When to send wedding invitations for destination weddings
How to address wedding invitations correctly
Tips for mailing wedding invitations
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When to Send Save-the-Dates
A save-the-date lets guests know when you're getting married and whether you're tying the knot locally or at another location. Send save-the-dates about 6 to 8 months in advance so family and friends can mark the date on their calendars.
If you're getting married out of town, or your wedding falls during a holiday when people may make other plans, consider sending your save-the-date 12 months in advance. Guests will be grateful for extra time to clear their schedules.
When to Send Wedding Invitations for Local Weddings
Once your guests have saved the date, follow up with a formal invitation. Aim to mail these 6-8 weeks before your wedding day to give friends and family time to RSVP and arrange childcare or work schedules.
The timing of when to mail wedding invitations also depends on the size of your guest list and the events you have planned. You may want more time to receive RSVPs and finalize head count for a large wedding. Your guests will also appreciate extra notice to plan logistics if they're invited to multiple events.
When to Send Wedding Invitations for Destination Weddings
Send invitations 3 months in advance for weddings that require travel to another location. Guests need lead time to arrange details such as transportation and accommodation.
Consider sending invitations even sooner if guests are traveling outside of the country. This gives them more leeway to find flight deals, secure travel documents, and plan extra days for vacation.
How to Address Wedding Invitations Correctly
When you're ready to mail your beautifully designed invitations, address them with care so they make a good first impression. Whether handwritten or printed, a meticulously addressed envelope reflects the occasion's significance before it's even opened.
Here are some etiquette tips for how to address wedding invitations:
Write the names of guests in full, using titles such as Mr., Mrs., and Dr. Proper titles show respect and add a touch of formality.
Name guests' plus-ones if known. Listing a plus-one by name ensures people feel welcome.
Avoid abbreviating street names and states. Spelling words in full helps maintain an elegant presentation.
Ensure names are spelled correctly. A spelling mistake can feel impersonal. Get the details right and show guests they're valued.
Tips for Mailing Wedding Invitations
Once you've determined when to mail wedding invitations, ensure your guests receive them promptly and in pristine condition.
Use correct postage to avoid returns. Heavy cardstock and decorative details increase weight, so ask the post office to weigh a fully assembled invitation before you buy stamps.
Request that the USPS hand-cancel invitations instead of running them through sorting machines. This helps prevent damage to delicate embellishments and ensures invitations arrive intact.
Make it easy for guests to RSVP. Provide pre-addressed, stamped envelopes that they can pop in the mail.
Confirm mailing addresses are current and complete, so invitations arrive without delays.
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