Invitation Timing: How to Nail the Perfect Schedule for Your Wedding Invites

Getting the invitation timing right can feel like a juggling act, but it doesn’t have to be. Send the right card at the right moment, and you’ll keep guests happy while keeping your budget in check. Below are the key dates you should mark on your calendar, plus a few shortcuts that save you stress.

Save‑the‑Date: The First Heads‑Up

Most couples send a save‑the‑date 8‑12 months before the big day. If you’re booking a popular venue or a holiday weekend, lean toward the earlier side. This gives out‑of‑town guests plenty of time to book flights and hotels. A simple postcard or e‑card works fine – no need for a full‑blown design here.

Formal Invitations: When the Details Matter

The formal invite should arrive 6‑8 weeks before the wedding. This window lets guests RSVP, arrange travel, and request any special accommodations. If your wedding is on a weekend in June, aim for late April to early May. For smaller gatherings (under 100 guests), you can stretch the window to 10 weeks, which gives you a bit more breathing room for addressing envelopes.

Make sure the invitation includes a clear RSVP deadline – usually 2‑3 weeks before the wedding. That gives you enough time to confirm numbers with the caterer and the venue. If you’re using an online RSVP system, add a reminder email a week before the cutoff.

Another tip: include a “plus‑one” policy on the invite itself. “Please RSVP by [date] and let us know if you’ll bring a guest.” This cuts down on back‑and‑forth phone calls and helps you tally headcounts accurately.

Don’t forget the post‑cards for travel and accommodation details. Send them out with the formal invitation or a week later, especially if many guests are coming from outside Bristol. A short note with hotel codes and a link to a local transport guide keeps everything tidy.

Now, let’s talk about mailing. If you’re using a traditional post service, allow 5‑7 days for delivery plus a buffer for holidays. For international guests, add an extra week. Many couples print and hand‑mail their invites, but a reliable online printing service can ship directly to your guests and track delivery – a real time‑saver.

Finally, keep an eye on your RSVP list. Update it nightly and send a quick reminder to anyone who hasn’t responded by the deadline. A friendly “We’re excited to see you! Please let us know if you can make it” usually does the trick.

By following this timeline – save‑the‑date at 10 months, formal invites at 7 months, RSVP deadline at 5 months, and travel info a few weeks later – you’ll avoid last‑minute panic and keep your wedding planning on track. Ready to set those dates? Grab a calendar, mark the milestones, and start sending those invites with confidence.