From Save-the-Dates to Thank You's: A Bride's Guide for Mailing Invitations in 2025 and beyond
When to mail your Wedding Stationery?
Planning a wedding is an exciting journey, sending the perfect wedding stationery is a big part. From save-the-dates to thank you cards, each piece builds to create a memorable experience for you and your guests. In this guide, we'll walk you through a detailed timeline for mailing wedding stationery to ensure your invites reach your loved ones right on time.
Save-the-Dates
Your wedding is a big event that takes loads of time and money, you want to be sure your guests have the best chance of attending. Typically save the dates will be sent out 6-9 months before the wedding. If you're planning a destination wedding, a bit earlier can be a game-changer for travel arrangements, 9-12 months prior is best.
Invitations
The wedding invitations set the tone for your special day. Factors like a destination wedding or a holiday weekend may influence this timeline. Providing ample time allows your guests to plan & RSVP accordingly.
We recommend mailing wedding invitations 3 months before your big-day (6 months for destination weddings). Many industry vendors recommend 6-8 weeks before the wedding- I highly disagree as a professional stationer. Extra time will only help you avoid undue stress. You will need time to order any day-of stationery, give final head counts etc. Getting your invitations mailed 3 months before your wedding gives you the insurance in case something goes wrong.
RSVP Deadline
Setting an RSVP deadline is crucial for finalizing your guest list and making necessary arrangements.Check with your venue to find out when they need your final headcount. Ideally, the RSVP deadline is 3-4 weeks before the wedding giving enough time to finalize details. Be prepared to follow up with any non-responders.
Thank You Cards
Expressing gratitude is a must, and wedding thank you cards should be sent out within 1-3 months after the wedding. Personalize each note by mentioning the specific gift and how much their presence meant to you. It's a small gesture that goes a long way.
Rehearsal Dinner
If you plan on hosting a rehearsal dinner, those invitations should be mailed out 4-6 weeks before the wedding.
Post Wedding Breakfast/Brunch
Most clients include an insert that has the brunch details, you can put in with your wedding invitation inviting guests to the brunch. Or if you opt for a separate brunch invitation that should be sent 3-4 weeks before the wedding, with an RSVP date 1 week before.
Download our wedding stationery guide that includes all the checklists & to ensure you've covered all your stationery needs.
Double-check addresses, postage, and any last-minute details. For your invitations: Bring them to the post office to be weighed & mailed (do not put them into the mail drop boxes). Wait online - I know, I know, it's annoying but it's important. This ensures a stress-free experience leading up to your wedding.
Mailing wedding stationery is a pivotal part of the wedding planning process. By following this comprehensive timeline, you'll not only ensure that your guests are well-informed but also create a sense of anticipation and excitement for the celebration ahead. If you’re looking to have someone assist you with all things wedding stationery , we’ve got you covered. Click here to reach out to us — we’d love to help you with all of your stationery needs!