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

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. For the full timing across all communications, read when to send wedding invitations.

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. Find out how to create your digital invitation in a few steps.