When Are Wedding Invitations Sent Out? + Invite Etiquette Questions

You know what, I love that you’re here it means you are organised and really care about getting everything just right for your wedding.

So if you’re looking for details on when to send your wedding invitations, I will be sharing all. Plus I am going to be answering other wedding invitation etiquette questions to keep you in the know.

Photo: Charlotte Claricoat Photography via Blue Pigeons Wedding

 

When Are Wedding Invitations Sent?

So the golden question is, when do you send out your wedding invitations? It may come as a surprise that I share with you, there are no rules when it comes to weddings. Invites included.

I’ve said it once and I’ll say it again, there is no wedding etiquette enforcer keeping an eye out on your wedding plans. Unless you’re having a super formal and traditional wedding, no one will question when you sent your invites.

In fact, I dare say if anything, guests will be asking for them, if you have yet to send them. Am I right or am I right?

Photo: Megan Duffield Photography via Fun Fusion Wedding

 

It’s a good idea to send your wedding invitations out to give ample time for RSVPs to come back and for you to chase them if they don’t in a timely manner. So that being said, as a rule of thumb, be sure to send your invites with at least two months to go until the big day.

That is of course unless you’re planning a speedy wedding. Then get those invites sent ASAP.

Even if you have sent save the dates, your guests will be eager for all the details for example:

• Times
• Accommodation
• Directions
• Dress Code
• Gift List

This is info that is unlikely to be on the save the dates and ensures your guests have plenty of time to plan for your day.

Wedding Invitation FAQ

So we’ve answered your most pressing question of when to send out your invites. But let’s cover some other things you may be wondering about.

Photo: Terri & Lori Fine Art Photography and Film Studio via Chiltern Open Air Museum Wedding

 

How are wedding invitations sent?

Wedding invitations can be sent however you wish. You can send them by:

• Post
• Hand
• Delegate To Someone Else
• Email
• Text/Whatsapp
• Social Media

Again, there is no right or wrong, it’s all about what suits you and your wedding best. If you’re going digital, then email/text/social media groups is an option.

Alternatively for paper invites you can pop them in the post box, deliver through letterboxes yourself, hand them out when you see the invitee or delegate a willing helper to send them for you.

Who are wedding invitations sent from?

In my wedding invitation wording guide, I cover more on who sends the invitations in detail. However, it really is up to you and your family/friends network. If your wedding is being ‘hosted’ by someone else, they can send the invites.

But if you want to send them, then you can totally do that no problem.

Photo by Caitlin & Jones

 

What should be sent with wedding invitations?

It’s a good idea to include key details with your invites, whether that be via a link to your wedding website or in the paper envelope itself. Here are some ideas:

• Directions/Map
• RSVP Card & Envelope
• Dietary Options
• Itinerary
• Accommodation/Travel Options
• Gift List Details
• Dress Code

When should destination wedding invitations be sent?

For a long weekend wedding or a long-distance destination wedding, do send invites out as soon as you have the plans in place.

There is more for guests to arrange and they will need ample time to prepare.

Photo: Wyldbee Photography Invites: Bride Designed

 

When should you send save the dates?

You can send your save the dates as soon as you have your wedding date confirmed and your venue booked. If it’s set in stone and you’re not going to move your date for any reason, then send those save the dates out.

It means your guests will reserve that spot in their diary and will be able to book annual leave in time too.

When should your wedding RSVPs be due?

When it comes to choosing a deadline for RSVPs to be due, liaise with your venue or caterers as they may have deadlines for final guest numbers. Then you can work out a good date to ensure plenty of time to chase any non-replies.

Photo: Emilie May Photography via Holmes Mill Wedding

 

How early is too early for wedding invitations?

If a wedding invitation was sent out more than a year in advance (not for a destination wedding) guests may feel overwhelmed at the info being so far in advance.

The other risk is that guests may forget about the invite and what they need to do if it’s too far in advance. Under a year is a good idea, even if you are super eager.

Is it rude to send wedding invitations early?

It isn’t rude if invitations are sent early, however you know your family and friends. So it’s best to consider what their expectations are. But, you should do what makes you happy and is right for your day.

Try not to send invites too early, in case it proves harder for you to get those RSVP replies. Or in case guests misplace the invitations and ask for another one.

Whatever you can do to make the process simple, easy and stress-free for you, is the main thing when it comes to sending out invitations.

Photo: Emily + Katy Photography via Creative Village Hall Wedding

 

Do you send wedding invitations to the wedding party?

Yes! You should send invitations to your wedding party. You may feel like those closest to you, parents, bridesmaids, groomsmen and so forth know all the info. They may be missing little details and are likely to forget.

Not only is it a lovely experience for them to get an invite, it’s also helpful for them to plan for the day. Make sure they formally RSVP too, with any details you may need from them.

 

 

Further Reading

• Wedding Invitation Etiquette Tips
• 30 Wedding Invitation Ideas