Save the Date Formats
Save the dates come in various formats to suit your style and budget.
Photo Cards
The most popular option, photo save the dates feature engagement photos or professional shots. They introduce guests to your couple aesthetic. Single photos or collages both work beautifully. Photo cards feel personal and make excellent keepsakes.
Magnets
Save the date magnets stick to refrigerators, keeping your date visible until the wedding. They are practical and harder to misplace. Photo magnets are most common, though design-only options exist. Magnets cost slightly more but have higher display rates.
Postcards
Cost-effective postcards eliminate envelope expense. They feel casual and suit relaxed celebrations. Postcards travel well through mail. Design options range from photo-focused to illustration-based.
Digital Save the Dates
Electronic save the dates eliminate printing and mailing costs entirely. They reach guests instantly and suit tech-savvy crowds. Digital options work well for casual celebrations. Some couples send digital followed by printed invitations.
What to Include
Keep save the dates simple with just essential information.
Essential Elements
Include both names, wedding date, city or general location, and invitation to follow mention. Wedding website URL helps guests access additional information. Keep design clean and information prominent.
What to Skip
Do not include ceremony time, exact venue address, RSVP information, or registry details. These come with formal invitations. Save the dates simply hold the date - details follow later.
Design Considerations
Save the dates should coordinate with but not match invitations exactly. They set expectations for wedding style. Ensure date is prominently displayed and easy to read. Consider how they will look on refrigerators or bulletin boards.
Save the Date Etiquette
Follow etiquette guidelines for save the date distribution.
Who Receives Them
Send save the dates to everyone on your final guest list. Once someone receives a save the date, they must receive an invitation. Do not send to anyone you might cut from the list. Out-of-town guests particularly appreciate early notice.
Addressing
Address save the dates to specific invited guests, not "and family." This communicates exactly who is invited. Plus-ones should be named if known or indicated clearly.
Timing
Send immediately after securing your venue and date. Earlier is better for destination weddings or holiday weekends. Do not wait until invitations are designed - save the dates can differ in style.