The Ultimate Guide to Wedding Invitation Timing and Etiquette

Last Updated on March 2, 2025 by Tanya Janse van Rensburg

Planning a wedding involves numerous details, but one of the most important steps is sending out your wedding invitations.

Knowing when to send your invitations ensures guests have enough time to RSVP, make travel plans, and arrange their schedules.

This guide will help you master wedding invitation etiquette and answer all your questions about timing, wording, and more.

Why Timing Matters

Timing plays a critical role in wedding planning. Sending invitations too early can lead to forgotten RSVPs, while sending them too late may inconvenience your guests.

Striking the right balance ensures a smooth planning process and maximizes attendance.

When to Send Save-the-Dates

Save-the-dates are the first official announcement of your wedding. They give your guests an early heads-up so they can mark their calendars.

• Domestic Weddings: Send save-the-dates 6-8 months before the wedding.

• Destination Weddings: Send them 8-12 months in advance to allow guests more time for travel arrangements.

Save-the-dates should include your names, wedding date, and location.

A simple note like “Formal invitation to follow” lets guests know to expect further details.

When to Send Wedding Invitations

Wedding invitations are typically sent out 6-8 weeks before the wedding. This timeframe allows guests to RSVP and finalize their plans without feeling rushed.

• Destination Weddings: Send invitations 3-4 months in advance to accommodate travel logistics.

• Holiday Weekend Weddings: Send invitations 3 months in advance to ensure your date stands out during a busy time.

Consider including detailed itineraries or links to wedding websites for weddings with complex travel requirements or multiple events.

RSVP Deadline

Set your RSVP deadline 2-3 weeks before the wedding. This ensures you have time to finalize the guest count for catering, seating arrangements, and other logistical details.

How to Encourage Timely RSVPs

• Provide Multiple Options: Include an RSVP card with pre-paid postage or offer an online RSVP option through your wedding website.

• Follow Up: Gently remind guests who haven’t responded as the deadline approaches. A polite email or phone call can make all the difference.

Wedding Invitation Wording Etiquette

Your wedding invitation sets the tone for your big day. The wording should reflect your wedding style, whether formal, casual, or somewhere in between.

Formal Wording

For traditional weddings, use formal phrasing:

• “The honor of your presence is requested at the marriage of…”
• Include full names, formal titles, and the event’s date, time, and location.

Casual Wording

For a more relaxed tone:

• “Please join us to celebrate the wedding of…”
• Use first names and keep the language conversational.

Essential Details

Regardless of style, include the following:

• Names of the couple
• Date, time, and venue address
• Dress code (optional but helpful)
• RSVP instructions

What to Include in Wedding Invitations

In addition to the main invitation, consider including the following:

• Details Card: Provide information on accommodation, transportation, and any pre-wedding events.

• RSVP Card: Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope for convenience.

• Map or Directions: Help guests navigate to the venue.

If you’re hosting a multi-day celebration, include an itinerary to keep guests informed.

Sending Digital vs. Printed Invitations

While traditional paper invitations remain popular, digital options are gaining traction. Each has its benefits:

• Printed Invitations: Offer a timeless, tangible keepsake and are ideal for formal weddings.

• Digital Invitations: Eco-friendly and cost-effective, they suit casual or tech-savvy couples.

You can combine the two by sending printed invitations and providing digital RSVPs through your wedding website.

Addressing Wedding Invitations

Properly addressing invitations adds a personal touch and shows respect for your guests.

• Married Couples: “Mr. and Mrs. John Smith” or “Mr. John and Mrs. Jane Smith” for more contemporary wording.

• Unmarried Couples: List both names on separate lines, such as:
  Mr. John Doe
  Ms. Jane Doe

• Families: Address to “The Smith Family” or list parents’ names with “and Family.”

Double-check spelling and titles to ensure accuracy.

When to Send Additional Wedding Stationery

Rehearsal Dinner Invitations

Send rehearsal dinner invitations 3-4 weeks before the event. A digital invite or casual email works well if most attendees are local or invited to the wedding.

Thank-You Cards

Thank-you cards should be sent within three months after the wedding. Personalize each note to reflect your gratitude for specific gifts or the guest’s attendance.

Tips for Mailing Wedding Invitations

Order Extra Invitations

Order 10-15 extra invitations to account for last-minute additions or mistakes.

Double-Check Postage

Weigh your invitations to determine proper postage, especially if they include multiple inserts. Consider adding decorative stamps for a polished touch.

Mail Invitations Early

Take your invitations to the post office for hand-canceling, which prevents damage from sorting machines. This step ensures your envelopes arrive in pristine condition.

Conclusion

Sending wedding invitations at the right time is key to a well-planned celebration.

Every detail matters in keeping your guests informed and excited about your big day, from save-the-dates to RSVPs.

Following these wedding invitation etiquette tips ensures a seamless process and a memorable event for all.

Start planning today, and let your invitations set the perfect tone for your wedding!