Wedding Invitation Timing: Expert Reveals Perfect Moment to Send

Last Updated on January 28, 2025 by Ruby And The Wolf

Planning a wedding involves countless details, but one crucial aspect often overlooked is the timing of wedding invitations. Getting this right can make a significant difference in guest attendance and overall wedding success. Let’s dive into the expert-recommended timeline for sending out those all-important invites.

The Golden Rule: 6-8 Weeks Before the Wedding

According to wedding etiquette experts, the sweet spot for sending wedding invitations is 6-8 weeks before the wedding date. This timeframe gives guests ample opportunity to clear their schedules, make travel arrangements, and respond to your RSVP request.

Diane Gottsman, an etiquette expert, emphasizes, “The proper timeline is between six and eight weeks. When it is around a major holiday, like Christmas, I suggest more time because people need to plan in advance.”

Save-the-Dates: Your First Line of Communication

Before formal invitations, many couples opt to send save-the-dates. These should be sent out 6-12 months before the wedding. This early notice is especially crucial for:

Destination weddings

Holiday weekend weddings
Weddings with many out-of-town guests

Special Considerations

Destination Weddings

For weddings requiring significant travel, consider sending invitations 12 weeks before the wedding date. This extra time allows guests to make necessary travel arrangements and potentially plan extended trips.

International Guests

If you’re inviting guests from abroad, aim to send their invitations 9-10 weeks in advance. This accounts for longer shipping times and gives international guests more time to plan their trip.

No Save-the-Dates

If you’ve opted to skip save-the-dates, send your wedding invitations earlier – around 4-6 months before the wedding. This ensures guests have sufficient notice, especially if travel is involved.

The RSVP Timeline

Set your RSVP deadline for 3-4 weeks before the wedding. This gives you time to follow up with non-respondents and finalize details with vendors who need a headcount.

Digital vs. Traditional Invitations

While digital invitations reach guests instantly, etiquette expert Diane Gottsman advises sticking to the 6-8 week timeline regardless of the medium. This maintains the formal nature of the invitation and ensures it doesn’t get lost in the shuffle of daily digital communications.

Conclusion

Timing your wedding invitations correctly sets the tone for your entire celebration. By following these guidelines, you’ll give your guests the perfect amount of time to prepare, increasing the likelihood of their attendance and reducing your stress in the process.

Remember, while these timelines are general guidelines, you know your guests best. Consider their needs and circumstances when planning your invitation strategy, and don’t hesitate to send them out earlier if it feels right for your situation.