Creating a memorable save-the-date is not just about informing your guests about your upcoming wedding. It's about setting the tone, creating a sense of anticipation, and giving your guests a glimpse of the magic that awaits. Knowing precisely what to include—and what to leave out—can make all the difference. Here is a complete guide on how to make a save the date card that is both clear and charming. Stick around until the end to discover some unique save the date ideas.
What to Include on a Save the Date?
Names:
Clearly state the names of the couple. If your guests know you well, first Names are sufficient. However, including last names can help avoid confusion, especially if you have a large social circle.
Wedding Date:
Your wedding date is the most critical piece of information. Make sure it's prominently displayed.
Location:
Include the location of your wedding. The city, state, or country are essentials, especially if it's a destination wedding. You don't need to provide the exact venue at this stage.
Notification of a Future Invitation:
Indicate that a formal invitation will follow. This can be a simple statement such as "Invitation to follow" or "More details to come."
Remember to add a personal touch to your save the date. Whether it's a photo of the couple, a favourite quote, or a unique design, this can make your save the date stand out and create a connection with your guests.
What Not to Include on a Save the Date
Venue Details:
While you should include the location (city/state), the specific venue details should be reserved for the formal invitation.
RSVP Information:
Save the dates are not meant for guests to RSVP. Save this for the actual invitation.
Registry Information:
Including registry details on a save the date can appear presumptuous. Save this information for the wedding website or the formal invitation.
Dress Code:
Details like attire can be communicated in the invitation suite.
Detailed Itinerary:
Avoid cluttering your save the date with times and detailed schedules. Keep it simple with just the essential details.
Too Much Text:
Minimizing the text enhances readability and keeps the design elegant and focused on the key message.
Extra Events Surrounding the Main Function:
Skip information about any extra activities surrounding your weddings on save-the-date cards. The sole purpose of save the date cards is to inform guests of the date and location of the big day. Make sure to utilize the card space purposefully.
Design Tips for Save the Dates
Consistency:
The design of your save the date should hint at the theme of your Wedding. This doesn't mean it has to match perfectly, but a cohesive look helps set the expectations.
Readability:
Choose fonts and colours that are easy to read. Beautiful design should never come at the expense of functionality.
Quality Materials:
If you're sending physical save the dates, the quality of the paper and printing can make a significant impact. High-quality materials convey the importance and formality of the event.
Timing and Delivery
Timing:
For local weddings, send save the dates 4 to 6 months in advance. For Destination weddings, send them 8 to 12 months in advance to allow guests ample time to arrange travel.
Digital Options:
Consider digital save the dates for a quicker, more eco-friendly option. They are also ideal for international guests, reducing delays and delivery costs.
Modern Etiquette for Wording Save the date:
When writing save the dates for your wedding, it's important to follow proper etiquette to establish an emotional connection with your guests. This will show them the value and respect they deserve. While these guidelines are not set in stone, they can help you choose the right words that match your wedding theme. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Casual and Conversational language:
When it comes to choosing to save the date wording, modern couples have the freedom to express themselves in a more casual way that conveys the true essence of their relationship. Long gone are the days of following rigid guidelines and strict wording. When it comes to creating a Save the Date message for your wedding, it's best to use casual and conversational language that openly speaks about the wedding theme. You have multiple options to make the message conversational, such as adding a touch of humour, a heartfelt message, or a sprinkle of emotional quotes and short poems.
Avoid Using Abbreviations or Acronyms:
It is tempting to use contractions or acronyms to save space or seem fashionable. However, it is important to consider the possible confusion it may cause your guests. Not everyone is familiar with modern slang or acronyms. The best approach is to use complete words and full names to ensure that there is no confusion while communicating with guests.
Use Bold Typography:
Clear message delivery is crucial when it comes to writing Save the Dates. It is important to highlight the significant details such as the date and location in bold typography to ensure that they are not missed by the guests. While the use of glossy text may seem trendy, it can sometimes obscure the important details, resulting in guests being unable to read the Save the Date. This can lead to a flood of complaints and calls from guests, which can be a nightmare.
For better readability of your save the date cards, use bold typography with dark colors that contrast the background. Keep in mind that easy-to-read details show respect for your guests.
Wedding Invitation vs Save the Date: Key Differences?
Nailing down the key differences helps you avoid crossing over between the two. They appear the same but serve two different purposes.
Understanding the difference between a save the date and a wedding invitation is essential. While a wedding invitation includes complete details on several things like the venue, times, expected time, and preferred attire for guests, a save-the-date card is more concise. Its primary purpose is to convey minimal information about the date and city in which the ceremony is planned.
There are two essential wedding stationery items: the wedding invitation and the save-the-date. These items differ in terms of physical attributes. The wedding invitation is typically heavier as it contains more information than a save-the-date one, which only includes light details.
Wedding invitations come with more elements than a save-the-date. It is important to design each of them in a way that serves its purpose and keeps the guests eagerly anticipating it.
Is it better To Send An Online Save the Date?
The digital age has evolved many things, and Save the Dates is no exception.
Paperless invites have become popular nowadays, and you can go with them, too. Online save the dates holds several advantages over traditional ones; they promote eco-friendliness since paper use is eliminated, they are affordable, and they can quickly be delivered with just a mobile tap. Especially on a tight budget, online save the date is a nifty choice!
In addition, they are highly customizable and do not require high-editing skills to form a professional-looking save-the-date. You can effortlessly tailor save the date to match it wedding them with a user-friendly tool, Corjl.
Despite the upsides of an online save-the-date, you can opt for paper save-the-dates when you have a handsome budget and are willing to rope in VIPs.
Conclusion:
Creating a save-the-date that captures the essence of your upcoming celebration and provides guests with the necessary information is an art. By focusing on what to include, what to leave out, and wording etiquette, you ensure that your save-the-date informs and delights. Remember, this is your guests' first glimpse of your wedding—make it count.
