How to Address Wedding Save the Dates

A wedding save the date is a pre-invitation that is sent out to your guests to alert them to mark their calendars for your upcoming nuptials. It is typically sent out 6-8 months before the wedding, and is a way for you to give your guests a heads up about the big day so they can plan accordingly. Save the dates are especially important if you are having a destination wedding or if you have a lot of out-of-town guests.

Here is a step-by-step guide by the creative wedding photographer Essex – Chris Woodman, on how to address your wedding save the dates:

Step 1: Determine the mailing list for your save the dates

The first thing you will need to do is create a list of all the people you plan on inviting to your wedding. This list should include everyone from your immediate family and close friends, to your extended family and colleagues. If you are planning a destination wedding, you may want to consider sending a save the date to anyone who you think may be interested in attending, even if you are not sure if they will be able to make it.

Step 2: Choose a style for your save the dates

There are many different styles of save the dates to choose from, including postcards, magnets, and traditional cards. You can also choose a style that reflects your wedding theme or personal style. Whatever you choose, make sure it is something that you love and that will stand out to your guests.

Step 3: Add the necessary information to your save the dates

Once you have chosen a style for your save the dates, you will need to add the necessary information to them. This should include:

  • Your names: Make sure to include both your first and last names on the save the date.
  • The date of the wedding: This should be the date of the ceremony, not the reception.
  • The location of the wedding: Be sure to include the name of the venue and the city and state it is located in. If you are having a destination wedding, you may want to include some additional information about the location, such as fun things to do or nearby accommodations.
  • Any other important details: If you have any other important details that you want your guests to know, such as the dress code or any pre- or post-wedding events, you should include them on the save the date as well.

Step 4: Addressing the envelopes

Now that you have all the necessary information on your save the dates, it is time to address the envelopes. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when addressing your envelopes:

  • Use formal titles: If you are inviting guests who you do not know well, or who you do not know the preferred form of address for, it is best to use formal titles such as “Mr.” or “Mrs.”
  • Address single guests with their full names: If you are inviting a single guest, make sure to address the envelope with their full name. For example, “Miss Jane Smith.”
  • Address married couples with both names: If you are inviting a married couple, make sure to include both names on the envelope. For example, “Mr. and Mrs. John Smith.”
  • Address families with children: If you are inviting a family with children, you can either address the envelope to the parents and list the children’s names on the invitation, or you can address the envelope to the whole family. For example, “The Smith Family.”

Step 5: Mailing your save the dates

Once you have addressed all of your envelopes, it is time to mail your save the dates. Make sure to mail them out at least 6-8 months before the wedding to give your guests plenty of time to plan and RSVP. It is also a good idea to include a self-addressed, stamped envelope with the save the date so that your guests can easily return their RSVPs to you.

And there you have it! With these steps, you should be well on your way to addressing your wedding save the dates and getting one step closer to your big day. Don’t forget to have fun with it and make it a reflection of your unique style and personality as a couple. Good luck!