When Do You Send Out Wedding Save the Dates? A Complete Guide for UK Brides

One of the first big steps after announcing your engagement is sending out those all-important save the dates. But knowing exactly when do you send out wedding save the dates can feel a bit overwhelming, especially with all the other wedding planning tasks piling up. If you’re feeling unsure about the timing, you’re certainly not alone. Let’s break down the timeline, considerations for destination weddings, tips for collecting your guest list, and more, so you can move forward with confidence.

Why Sending Save the Dates Matters

Save the dates are more than a pretty piece of post through the letterbox. They’re the official heads-up to your wedding guests so they can mark their calendars, request time off, and start planning their travel if needed. Deciding exactly how far out do you send wedding save the dates is crucial, because it impacts your RSVPs, attendance, and, ultimately, the whole feel of your special day.

When Do You Send Save the Dates For Your Wedding?

The general consensus and expert advice consistently recommend sending wedding save the dates 6 to 8 months before your wedding day. For destination weddings or peak season dates (think popular summer weekends), it’s best to give guests even more notice—8 to 12 months ahead if possible.

Standard UK Wedding Timing

• Local, non-peak wedding: Send your save the dates about 6-8 months in advance.
• Peak wedding season: Choose the 8-month mark to ensure guests keep the date free.
• Destination wedding: Give guests at least 8-12 months’ notice for travel and accommodation planning.

If you’re wondering, “When do you send save the dates for your wedding if you’re planning a last-minute event?” — aim for as much notice as you can manage. Even 4 months can work for intimate weddings, but the golden rule is always the earlier, the better.

Why Timing is So Important

Your guests all have busy lives: work commitments, school holidays, family events, or even other weddings to attend. By sending save the dates at the right time, you:

• Help prevent scheduling conflicts
• Increase the chances of guests saying YES
• Give out-of-town guests the best shot at booking flights and hotels
• Start creating excitement about your big day

Common Save the Date Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

With so much to organise, it’s easy to fall into a few traps when thinking about when do you send out wedding save the dates. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Sending too early: If you send save the dates more than a year before your wedding, information can change (venues, dates, even guests). People might also forget to mark their calendar that far out.
• Sending too late: Last-minute save the dates limit your guests’ availability, especially for summer or bank holiday weddings.
• Not finalising your guest list: Only send save the dates to those you are certain you’ll invite—removing names later can get awkward.
• Not including the essentials: At a minimum: couple’s names, the date, the location (even if it’s general), and “formal invitation to follow”.

How to Organise Your Guest List Before Sending Save the Dates

Figuring out your guest list feels daunting, but it’s a vital first step. You don’t want to send a save the date to someone you might not invite to the actual wedding. Before you print or order your save the dates:

• Make a full draft guest list with your other half (and anyone else key to your plans)
• Mark your “definites”—these are your save the date recipients
• Double-check with both families for any must-invites
• Get up-to-date addresses early on to avoid last-minute stress

Having your basic guest list set means you can send your personalised wedding invitations to the right people, with minimal drama or confusion down the track.

Destination Weddings: When to Send Save the Dates

If you’re planning a destination wedding—maybe a sun-soaked beach abroad or a scenic Scottish castle—the answer to when do you send out wedding save the dates leans towards the earlier side.

• Send save the dates 8-12 months before the date
• Include travel tips, nearest airports, and a link to your wedding website (if you have one)
• Mention accommodation options, if you’re booking group rates or blocks

Out-of-town weddings require guests to budget, book transport, and possibly arrange childcare. Maximise their chances of attending by giving them as much heads-up as possible. 

You’ve sorted the guest list and mulled over how far out do you send wedding save the dates. But what should your save the date actually include? Keep it simple but informative:

• Your names
• The date of the wedding
• Location (country, city or venue for destination weddings)
• A short note like, “formal invitation to follow”

You don’t need every detail ironed out just yet. The main goal is to help guests “save the date” in their calendars while you finalise the remaining details—like menus, transport, and the all-important seating plan.

Online or Traditional? Sending Your Save the Dates in Modern Times

Over the years, the approach to save the dates has changed. While traditional printed cards are still the UK favourite (and make a lovely keepsake for family), digital options are gaining popularity for their speed and eco-friendliness.

• Printed Save the Dates: Tangible, personal and perfect if you want them to feel special. Printed cards also suit traditional wedding styles or when involving older guests who appreciate post.
• Digital Save the Dates: Ideal for quick communication and eco-conscious couples. You can still add your personality with custom designs or even video messages.
• Hybrid Approach: Many couples send printed save the dates to close family and digital versions to friends or out-of-country guests. It’s all about what feels right for you.

Whichever you choose, the timing advice for when do you send out wedding save the dates holds true: the earlier, the better (once those main details are firmed up).

Creative Ideas to Make Your Save the Dates Stand Out

Beyond the practical timing, save the dates are a beautiful way to introduce your wedding’s theme and set the mood for what’s to come. If you’re a lover of all things stylish and personal, here are a few tips:

• Choose a design or motif that echoes your venue, colour palette, or season
• Add a photo from your engagement shoot for a more personal touch
• Include an illustrated map if your wedding is off-the-beaten-track
• Seal with a custom wax stamp or add a dried flower for a tactile finish

At Peach & Pear Studio, we know how meaningful those small details are. Our collection of personalised save the date cards and wedding decor brings your story to life, from the very first announcement right through to the big day itself.

Do You Still Need to Send Formal Invitations?

Yes, absolutely. Your save the date is your early-warning for guests—but it’s not a replacement for the full invitation. Your invitation will include:

• The full wedding address and ceremony/reception details
• Exact times
• RSVP information
• Menu choices and extras as needed

Plan to post your invitations about 10 to 12 weeks before your wedding. This gives guests time to respond, confirm menu choices, and arrange travel or childcare if necessary. Our guide on wedding milestones covers more useful tips for organising events of all sizes.

What If You’re Planning Your Wedding Quickly?

Life sometimes gets in the way of the traditional timeline. Whether you’ve secured your venue later in the year, or you just can’t wait to say “I do”, you can still manage a fabulous wedding—just adjust your approach. For late planners, consider these tweaks:

• Send digital save the dates to speed things up
• Keep your guest list smaller for easier communication
• Be honest with guests about the short timeline—most will be flexible
• Include RSVP details in your save the date or do save the date and invitation together

Coordinating with Other Wedding Events

If your wedding celebrations will span several days, involve a welcome dinner, or include a getaway weekend with family and friends, it’s even more important to consider how far out do you send wedding save the dates. These longer or multi-day events usually require extra logistics for your guests, so aim for:

• Sending save the dates at least 8 months ahead
• Informing guests about “weekend of” activities (even if just a general outline)
• Offering accommodation recommendations for out-of-town family and friends

The more information you can give up front, the smoother your celebrations will run. For more inspiration on celebrating those lifelong milestones, see our wedding and anniversary ideas.

Tips for Collecting Addresses and Managing RSVPs

Once you’re ready to send your save the dates, getting everyone’s current address is the next hurdle. Here’s how to make it painless:

• Create a spreadsheet: Keep it all in one place, and update it as people move or change details.
• Send a simple message: Text, email or ask in person—“What’s your current address? We’re updating our records ahead of the wedding.” Most people are happy to help.
• Consider a wedding website: Set one up for digital RSVPs and info collection, especially if you or your guests are spread all over the UK.

These steps will save you last-minute stress and help everything move smoothly, from the moment you mail out your stylish save the dates.

How to Personalise Your Save the Dates

One of the best ways to make your big day feel truly your own is through thoughtful touches, right from the start. 

• Choose colours that match your venue or season
• Include a line about your love story
• Add a map or sketch of your venue for a creative twist
• Finish with a thank-you message or a quote that means something to you both

Your save the date will be one of the first things your guests see about your wedding, so let your personality shine through.

Once you know when do you send out wedding save the dates, the next challenge is getting them out the door without hassle. Here’s a step-by-step approach:

1. Finalize your guest list and double-check spelling of names and addresses
2. Order your save the dates, allowing a few extra for keepsakes or mistakes
3. Handwrite personal notes for extra wow-factor (if you have time!)
4. Add any important travel or accommodation info for destination weddings
5. Post them at the post office, or schedule a digital delivery for e-cards

With a bit of planning and the right support, sending out your save the dates can feel less like a chore and more like the kickoff to your entire wedding adventure.

If Plans Change: What to Do After Sending Save the Dates

Sometimes, life happens—venues change, dates adjust, or an unexpected event means you need to shift your plans. If your save the dates are already out, don’t panic:

• Let guests know changes as soon as possible, via phone, email or post
• Update your wedding website (if you have one) so everyone can see the latest info
• If your new date is more than 6 months away, consider sending an updated save the date

Honest, timely communication is always appreciated, and your loved ones will want to celebrate—regardless of the date.

So, when do you send out wedding save the dates? The sweet spot for most UK weddings is 6 to 8 months ahead, or 8 to 12 months if you’re inviting guests from further afield or planning a destination celebration. Don’t forget to:

• Finalize your guest list before sending
• Include all the key details—names, date, location
• Choose the format (print or digital) that fits your style and timeline
• Keep your personal touch alive with design and wording choices

With the right timing, a bit of organisation, and a few personal details, your save the dates will start your wedding journey on the perfect note. For more unique ways to personalise your event, check out our wedding collection at Peach & Pear Studio—from lovely wedding hangers to custom signage and gifts that capture your day in detail.

Deciding when do you send out wedding save the dates doesn’t need to be stressful. The main thing is to give your loved ones enough time to make arrangements and celebrate this important moment in your life. Remember: start with your guest list, stick to the recommended timeframe, and add plenty of your own personality to every detail.

Every wedding is different, and your perfect timing is the one that causes the least stress and the most excitement for everyone involved. Happy planning!

FAQ: When Do You Send Out Wedding Save the Dates?

How far out do you send wedding save the dates?

For most UK weddings, send save the dates 6 to 8 months before your wedding. For destination weddings, aim for 8 to 12 months in advance to allow time for travel planning.

Do all guests need a save the date?

Send save the dates to everyone on your definite guest list. Don’t send them to people you aren’t sure you’ll invite, as it can create confusion later.

Is it okay to send digital save the dates?

Absolutely. Digital save the dates are fast and eco-friendly. Many couples choose digital for friends and printed cards for family and older guests.

What if our wedding date changes after sending save the dates?

Contact guests as quickly as possible with the new details—by phone, email, or post. Update your wedding website if you have one, and send a follow-up card if there