Etiquette for Sending Wedding Invitation Sets
Even after working with countless brides, I sometimes still forget the proper etiquette for sending wedding invitations. Depending on the wedding ceremony location, date and style, different weddings require different types of wedding invitation etiquette procedures. That is why I decided to create a quick reference guide for my brides, so they can know exactly when they are supposed to send what portions of their wedding invitation sets, and when to expect a response.
Ordering Wedding Invitations
The first thing to remember when thinking about your wedding invitation etiquette, is to make sure to plan well in advance. Ordering wedding invitations should happen anywhere from four to six months before the event, to give yourself plenty of time to choose the perfect letterpress wedding invitation design at a price that you can afford.
Save the Date Cards
Save the date cards typically are sent out between six months to a year in advance. However, this requires that you already have picked a date, time and venue for your wedding ceremony. If you are planning on having a destination wedding or many of your guests are from out of town, it is advised that you give your guests at least five months to plan ahead.
Wedding Invitations
Proper wedding etiquette requires that you send out your letterpress wedding invitations in between six to eight weeks in advance. This should give enough time for your guests to RSVP and make arrangements for their wedding outfits and gifts.
Wedding Invitation Responses
Some brides choose to put ‘RSVP by (specific date)’ so that they have enough time to get a final count and make last minute catering and seating arrangements. While this is helpful, most guests understand that they need to RSVP well in advance for wedding ceremonies, so it is not always necessary. When determining your RSVP date, be sure to allow yourself time to call non-responders.
Final Counts
With two to three weeks left until the wedding date, it is customary to call any guests that have not yet returned their RSVP. This date may vary, depending on the needs of your caterer. Oftentimes those that have not yet responded may have simply forgotten, lost the invitation or were running a little behind. Simply explain that you need to get a final count and everything should be fine.
Hopefully this clears up some of the wedding invitation etiquette confusion that you all might be having. Good luck with your plans.
Written by Nick
Invitations by Ajalon
View our letterpress wedding invitation gallery.
