You’ve picked the venue, the dress, and maybe even your cake flavor, now it’s time to send out those gorgeous wedding invitations! But when exactly should you drop them in the mail?
Sending your wedding invitation at just the right time ensures your guests can RSVP, make travel plans, and show up ready to celebrate with you. Here’s everything you need to know.
When to Mail Wedding Invitations – General Rule
The ideal time to mail your wedding invitations is 6 to 8 weeks before your wedding day. This window allows:
Ample time for guests to clear their schedules
Opportunity to book travel or accommodations
Enough notice to RSVP without feeling rushed
When To Send Wedding Invitations vs. Save-the-Dates
Save-the-date cards are usually sent 6–12 months before the wedding, then the wedding invitations are typically sent out 6–8 weeks before the wedding.
For guests, this is a natural second touchpoint to say: “You’re cordially invited!” It reinforces your wedding date while delivering the formal details.
When Do You Send Out Wedding Invitations For Destination Weddings or Traveling Guests
If you’re planning a destination wedding or expecting many out-of-town guests, give them extra time by mailing invitations 10 to 12 weeks in advance.
This gives everyone more time to:
Book flights
Reserve hotels
Arrange childcare
Coordinate travel with others
Pro tip: Include travel recommendations in your wedding invitation suite or on your wedding website.
Why You Don’t Want To Mail Invitations Too Early and When to Send Wedding Invites
You might be tempted to send your invitations well in advance, but mailing earlier than 12 weeks before the wedding can actually backfire.
Why?
Guests might forget to RSVP
Travel plans may change
You’ll likely need to follow up more frequently
Stick to the sweet spot, 6 to 8 weeks, for maximum effectiveness and etiquette.
When to Set the Wedding Invitation RSVP Deadline for Guests
Set your RSVP date for 3 to 4 weeks before the wedding. This gives you time to:
Finalize your guest list
Follow up with non-responders
Share accurate headcounts with your caterer and planner
If you’re working with a professional planner, they’ll likely use this date to help lock in your seating chart, menu selections, and final floral orders.
Final Wedding Invitation Template Summary
Mail wedding invitations: 6–8 weeks ahead
Destination weddings: 10–12 weeks ahead
RSVP deadline: 3–4 weeks before the big day
Planners That Help Design and Send Out Wedding Invitations
Need help designing and managing your wedding invitations? From classic calligraphy to modern minimalism, there are endless ways to reflect your wedding style. Let us help think through the perfect phrases like “You’re cordially invited to celebrate with us” to make your guests feel truly special.
Details to not forget to include:
Ceremony & reception details
RSVP instructions
Dress code, if applicable
Wedding website (if you have one)
Need help choosing and managing your invitation suite?
Final Tips for “When Do You Send Out Your Wedding Invitations?”
The timing of your wedding invitation mailing is a small but powerful detail that can reduce stress, improve RSVP rates, and keep your wedding planning on track. Whether you’re mailing invites across town or across the globe, getting it right helps your guests and your team prepare for a smooth celebration.
Explore our services or reach out today to start planning your best day and your best life together.
