Use this timeline to learn when to order and mail Wedding Invitations, Save the Dates, and other timely Wedding Stationery essentials.
1. Save-the-Date Cards
- Typically, save-the-date cards are sent out six to nine months before the wedding date.
- Schedule your engagement photos accordingly, if you plan on sending a photo save-the-date card.
- Save-the-date cards do not have to match your wedding invitation suite! Get creative, mix it up and have fun with the cards!
2. Wedding Invitations
- Wedding invitations are typically mailed around two months before the wedding date.
- It’s recommended to place orders for wedding invitations three to five months before the wedding day.
- Think about how much time you will need to address your invitations, especially if you plan on adding calligraphy.
- It’s very important to know how many guests will be attending your wedding, so make sure to leave enough time to get back those RSVP cards early.
- A standard rule of thumb is to order 10% more extra envelopes than you think you may need. This will come in handy if your calligrapher accidentally makes a mistake while addressing the invitations.
- Save a few extra invitations to keep as mementos for yourself and close relatives.
3. Menus, programs, place cards, and table numbers etc.
- It’s highly recommended to place your order one month prior to the wedding day.
4. Thank You Cards
- Send thank-you cards within two weeks for gifts that are received before the wedding day.
- Send thank-you cards within four weeks of gifts received at the wedding or post-wedding day. Do not go past three months!
5. Engagement party, bridal shower and bachelorette party invitations
- Send out invitations one month before each event.
6. Rehearsal dinner and day-after brunch invitations
- Send one month before the wedding day or along with the wedding invitation.
7. Wedding Announcements
- Send out wedding announcements on the wedding day or the day after.
Featured Cover Image Invitation: Jupiter and Juno
