So, you’re planning your wedding, and you’ve likely heard about both Save the Dates and Invitations. You might be wondering: Do we really need to send both? What's the difference? And how will our guests feel if they only receive one?
At Moonfairi Paperie, we believe, both serve unique purposes and can add a sense of excitement and anticipation for your big day. Here’s a breakdown of why each has its own special place in wedding planning and why having both can make a world of difference!
What Are Save the Dates?
Save the Dates are a little heads-up for your guests, sent out as early as 6-12 months before the wedding. They’re a way to say, “Mark your calendar because we’re getting married!” without going into too much detail just yet. This early notice is especially helpful if your wedding is during peak season, involves travel, or if you just want to give your guests plenty of time to prepare.
Key Points of a Save the Date:
- When to Send: 6-12 months in advance, depending on the nature of your wedding (destination weddings might require more notice).
- Details to Include: Your names, the wedding date, and general location (city or venue if known). You can also include your wedding website if you have one.
- Style and Tone: This is a great opportunity to start introducing your wedding’s vibe, whether it’s elegant, playful, boho, or formal. At Moonfairi Paperie, our Save the Date designs often give a little preview of what’s to come with your wedding invitations!
Why They’re Important:
Save the Dates allow guests to plan ahead, book travel or accommodation if needed, and simply get excited! In our fast-paced world, a bit of extra time can go a long way in helping friends and family set aside the date.
What Are Wedding Invitations?
Your wedding invitation is where the real detail comes in – it’s the official announcement that your wedding is happening, complete with all the essential logistics. Invitations typically go out 6-8 weeks before the wedding date, once everything is planned, from the ceremony timing to the reception location. It’s also when guests will formally RSVP, letting you know if they’ll be celebrating with you on the big day.
Key Points of an Invitation:
- When to Send: 6-8 weeks before the wedding.
- Details to Include: Names, date, time, venue location, dress code (if any), and RSVP details. You can also include information on the reception if it’s separate from the ceremony, and any specific instructions for guests.
- Tone and Formality: Invitations set the tone for the event. They give guests a clear sense of the day’s style, whether it’s formal, relaxed, vintage, or rustic. If your Save the Dates hinted at your wedding’s theme, the invitations reinforce it and add those extra details that make it all feel official.
Why They’re Important:
Invitations give your guests everything they need to know, creating a sense of excitement and clarity. With an invitation in hand, guests can finalise travel plans, arrange their schedule for the day, and feel truly welcomed to celebrate with you.
Why You Need Both (Yes, Really!)
Sending both Save the Dates and Invitations isn’t just a traditional formality; it’s actually a courtesy that makes your guests’ lives a lot easier. Here’s why:
-
Save the Dates Allow Early Planning: If you’re inviting guests who live far away or who need to arrange time off, Save the Dates give them the heads-up they need to start making arrangements without stressing about the details just yet.
-
Invitations Give Essential Details: While Save the Dates provide an early announcement, invitations are the final say. They’re a tangible piece that guests can refer back to, with everything from the venue address to the RSVP deadline.
-
Creates Excitement & Anticipation: There’s something magical about receiving both – the Save the Date gets everyone looking forward to the day, while the invitation brings it to life with all the details. It’s like building anticipation for a movie premiere!
-
Minimises Guest Confusion: By sending both, you reduce the chance of confusion. Save the Dates make it clear that more information is coming, and when the invitation arrives, guests will have everything they need to prepare properly.
What Happens if You Only Send Invitations?
If you’re thinking about skipping Save the Dates to keep things simple, that’s perfectly okay! For smaller weddings or local events where all guests live nearby, you might be able to get by with just sending an invitation closer to the date. However, for weddings with guests coming from afar or during busy times of the year, a Save the Date really helps to set expectations and lets guests know they’re a priority.
Make It Your Own
Remember, this is your wedding journey, and the stationery you send should reflect you. Whether you want a minimalist Save the Date and a detailed invitation or matching suites that showcase your unique wedding style, we’re here to help bring your vision to life. Feel free to browse our Save the Date options, and explore how they can complement our invitation suites. Adding a personal touch to both pieces creates a memorable experience that your guests will cherish.
Wrapping Up
Save the Dates and Invitations each play their own important role in your wedding journey. Together, they help you share the news with the people you care about most in a thoughtful and organised way. Think of them as little glimpses of what’s to come – each with its own charm, building excitement along the way.
Ready to start planning your dream wedding stationery? Explore our collections on Moonfairi Paperie, where every piece is crafted with love to make your wedding journey even more unforgettable.