Save the date: what it is, when to send it, examples

Published 5 June 2026

The save the date is the first announcement of your wedding: it “locks” the date in your guests' calendars, well before the invitation itself. Here's how and when to use it.

What it is and what it's for

The save the date is a short message that announces the wedding date in advance. It doesn't replace the invitation: it only makes sure your most important guests don't make other plans.

It's especially useful for peak-season weddings, destination weddings or those with many guests travelling from afar.

How it differs from the invitation

The save the date contains the bare minimum: your names, the date and the city. The invitation, which comes later, adds times, exact venues, RSVP and all the details.

Save the date: names + date + place (city).
Invitation: everything else, with attendance confirmation.

When to send it

The general rule: 6 to 12 months ahead. For a destination wedding or during a holiday weekend, send it even earlier, so guests can arrange travel and time off.

The invitation itself goes out about 2–3 months before, with an RSVP deadline a few weeks before the date.

Ready examples

“Save the date — Laura & Marco, June 19th 2027, Lake Como. Invitation to follow.”
“Mark your calendars: on June 19th 2027 we're getting married. All the details coming soon.”
“It's happening! 19.06.2027 — we want you there. Invitation coming shortly.”

Digital save the date

A digital version is sent in an instant and can later be linked to the full invitation. That way your guests have a single point of reference, from the announcement all the way to the RSVP.