Save-the-dates are sent to all guests invited to the wedding, including evening guests. This ensures that evening guests have ample notice and can plan accordingly.
Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, but sending out save-the-dates is one step that can make the process smoother for both you and your guests.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the purpose of save-the-date cards, who should receive them, and how they can set the tone for your big day. We’ll also address common questions and provide helpful tips for crafting the perfect save-the-date.
What Are Save-the-Dates?
Save-the-date cards are pre-invitations that notify your potential guests about the date and location of your wedding.
They serve as a heads-up before the formal invitation arrives, allowing guests to mark their calendars and make necessary arrangements.
Who Are Evening Guests?
Evening guests are those who are invited to the later part of the wedding celebration, typically the reception.
They might not attend the ceremony but join the festivities in the evening. Including evening guests in your save-the-date mailing list can make them feel valued and part of your special day.
Understanding Save-the-Dates
Definition and Importance
Save-the-dates are essential for giving your guests ample notice to plan for your wedding. They typically contain minimal information, such as the date, location, and a note that a formal invitation will follow.
This early notice helps guests arrange travel, take time off work, and make other necessary preparations.
Timing
The general rule of thumb is to send save-the-dates six to eight months before the wedding. For destination weddings or weddings during peak seasons, consider sending them even earlier to ensure your guests have enough time to make travel and accommodation arrangements.
The Case for Sending Save-the-Dates to Evening Guests
Inclusivity and Consideration
Sending save-the-dates to evening guests ensures they feel included and appreciated. It shows that you value their presence and helps them plan accordingly.
Planning and Scheduling
Receiving a save-the-date allows evening guests to plan their schedules, arrange travel, and prepare for the event. This can be particularly important for guests who need to travel long distances or have busy lives.
Consistency
Treating all guests equally by sending save-the-dates helps avoid potential misunderstandings or feelings of exclusion. It sets a positive tone and reinforces the importance of each guest’s participation in your celebration.
Potential Exceptions and Alternatives
Budget Considerations
If budget constraints make it difficult to send save-the-dates to all guests, consider alternative ways to notify evening guests. Email, phone calls, or digital invitations can be cost-effective options.
Alternative Notifications
For those who cannot send physical save-the-dates to evening guests, digital invitations or a dedicated wedding website can serve as effective alternatives. These methods can still provide all necessary information while saving on costs.
Cultural and Regional Practices
In some cultures or regions, save-the-dates might not be a common practice. It’s essential to consider these cultural and regional differences when deciding whether to send save-the-dates to evening guests.
Crafting the Save-the-Date for Evening Guests
Content Specificity
When crafting save-the-dates for evening guests, ensure clarity about their specific invitation. Include details about the reception time and location, and mention that a formal invitation will follow.
Design and Presentation
Design your save-the-date to be inclusive but distinguish between day and evening invitations. Using different colors or designs can help clarify the nature of the invitation without causing confusion.
Sample Wording
To avoid misunderstandings, use clear and concise wording. For example:
“Join us for the evening celebration of our wedding on [date] at [location]. Formal invitation to follow.”
Addressing Common Concerns
Do Evening Guests Need a Save-the-Date?
While it’s not mandatory, sending save-the-dates to evening guests is considerate and helps them plan their schedules.
Do Evening Guests Need to RSVP?
Yes, it’s essential to request RSVPs from evening guests to ensure accurate planning and catering.
Is it Rude Not to Send a Save-the-Date?
Not sending save-the-dates can be perceived as rude, especially if other guests receive them. Consistency is key to avoiding hurt feelings.
Can You Skip Sending Save-the-Dates?
Skipping save-the-dates is an option, but it may lead to logistical challenges and lower attendance rates. If you choose to skip them, ensure timely and clear communication through other means.
Proper Etiquette and Best Practices
Who Should the Save-the-Dates Come From?
Save-the-dates should come from the couple, addressing each guest by name to create a personal touch.
What is the Proper Etiquette for Addressing Save-the-Dates?
Address save-the-dates formally, using full names and titles. This sets the tone for a formal event and ensures clarity.
RSVP and Save-the-Date
It’s not necessary to include RSVP information on save-the-dates. Instead, include it in the formal invitation to avoid confusion.
Related Questions and Answers
Do You List Guests on Save-the-Dates?
No, save-the-dates should not list individual guests. They are meant to provide general information about the wedding.
Do You Send Save-the-Dates to People Not Invited to the Wedding?
No, only send save-the-dates to those you intend to invite to the wedding.
When Should Evening Guests Arrive?
Include arrival times in the formal invitation to ensure evening guests know when to join the celebration.
When to Send Save-the-Date and RSVP?
Send save-the-dates six to eight months before the wedding and request RSVPs with the formal invitation.
Are Save-the-Dates Wedding invitations?
Yes, receiving a save-the-date indicates that a formal invitation will follow.
Conclusion
Sending save-the-dates to evening guests is a considerate gesture that helps them plan and feel included. It sets the tone for a well-organised and inclusive celebration.
Consider your specific circumstances and guest list when making decisions about save-the-dates. Whether you opt for physical or digital notifications, clear communication is key.
