When to send your wedding invitations
Wedding invitations usually go out two to three months before the day, with more notice if many guests have to travel. The RSVP deadline is usually set three or four weeks before the wedding, to leave time to confirm numbers with the caterer.
First, the save-the-date
If the wedding is in high season, in another city or abroad, let people know well before the formal invitation. A short message with the date and place is enough for guests to book time off and find flights or accommodation at a good price.
You don't need every detail yet: the schedule, menu or gift registry can follow with the invitation.
The invitation: two or three months ahead
This is the most common timing. It gives people time to plan without the wedding being so far off that they forget. If many guests are travelling, or the wedding is in August or on a bank holiday, send it a little earlier.
With a wedding website you can send the invitation by email or WhatsApp and keep everything that changes or needs more detail on the website: the schedule, getting there, accommodation or dress code. That way the invitation itself can be short.
The RSVP deadline
Ask your caterer when they need the final head count and special menus, and set the deadline a week or two before that. In practice it usually falls three or four weeks before the wedding.
That margin gives you time to chase anyone who hasn't replied and to finish the seating plan.
- Put the deadline on the invitation and on the website.
- A week before, remind anyone who hasn't replied.
- When it closes, send the head count and allergies to the caterer.
If someone doesn't reply
There's always someone who doesn't answer. A personal message is usually enough. With online RSVPs you'll see at a glance who's missing and can send them their link again.