When is it too soon to send invites,book venues and vendors?


When planning your wedding, timing is everything. It can be a bit daunting to know when to book vendors, throw an engagement party, bridal shower, and decide how early to send out wedding invitations.

I know it can be a lot; I am here to help!


After you have booked your venue, venders, and have a wedding date set, you might now be wondering when to send your invites.

WHEN TO SEND OUT SAVE-THE-DATE


A save the date is different from an invitation. They act as a placeholder for the actual invitation so the guests know how to plan their schedules.


Save-the-dates are typically sent out before invitations, and the rule of thumb is to send them out between 6 and 12 months prior to the wedding. Even if your engagement is on the longer side, it’s typical to send them 12 month out.


Due to COVID-19, many couples are having to reschedule their weddings all across the globe. So many couples are having to deal with rescheduling their venues, vendors, and having to alert their guests a heads-up.


If you are scheduling your wedding because of the global pandemic, it might be wise to send your save-the-dates a little sooner. With so many couples having to reschedule at once, venue dates are becoming less available rather quickly. Also, you might want to let loved ones know your date sooner so they can save it and not miss your special day!

WHEN TO SEND OUT YOUR INVITATIONS


It can be difficult trying to figure out when the right time is to send out the wedding invitations. The rule of thumb, is to send invitations 8 to 12 weeks prior to the wedding date (2 to 3 months out). You should put a an RSVP date on the cards so you can get a headcount. However, be prepared for some guests to miss that deadline. If, for any reason, you’re concerned you might need more time, send the invitations out no sooner than 16 weeks (4 months) before the wedding.


RSVPs are very important for many reasons:

  • To ensure your closest guests attend
  • A headcount for your venue so they can plan the seating arrangements
  • Caterers and other vendors to prepare enough refreshments, etc...

HOW SOON IS TOO SOON?


I know many brides want to send their invitations out early so they confirm the numbers with their vendors.

However, sending wedding invitations out too soon can be a big mistake. Many times, guests put their invitations in their mail pile and end up forgetting to respond, because it's to far in advance for them to commit. Other times, your guests might RSVP with a "yes" and then forget about it because so much time has passed.

As a reminder, my recommendation is to send out your invitations between 8 to 12 weeks prior to your wedding.

If you need a little more time, I would suggest no sooner than 16 weeks.


I hope I was able to help release a little bit of stress. I am so excited to be on this journey with you!