When to send save-the-dates, invitations and RSVP reminders

Enter your wedding date to get the dates for save-the-dates, invitations, the RSVP deadline, reminders and final numbers for your caterer.

When should wedding invitations be sent?

Six to eight weeks before the wedding is the standard etiquette guidance. When many guests travel, send them eight to twelve weeks ahead so there is time to book.

When should save-the-dates go out?

The Emily Post Institute places them three to six months before the wedding, or earlier. For a destination wedding or many travelling guests, we suggest eight to twelve months so guests can book time off and travel.

When should RSVPs be due?

The Emily Post Institute suggests a reply-by date two to three weeks before the wedding. The date that really decides it is when your caterer needs final numbers: set the deadline about ten days before that, so there is time to chase late replies.

Do you need to send save-the-dates?

They are optional for a local wedding, but worth sending for a destination wedding, a holiday weekend, or whenever many guests need to arrange travel or time off.

What if our invitations are already late?

Send them now, give guests at least two weeks to reply, and follow up by text or phone rather than waiting for replies by post.