When to Send Wedding Invitations: Destination vs Local Timeline Explained

Nov 12

Timing is everything, especially when it comes to wedding stationery. Send too early, and guests may misplace their invitations. Send too late, and travel plans become complicated.

According to Ofelia Botella, “Timing is a form of elegance. A well-paced stationery timeline creates calm - for you, and for your guests.”

Here’s how to plan your invitations perfectly, whether your celebration is near or far.

The Golden Rule of Wedding Stationery Timing

Your timeline begins the moment you secure your venue. From there, every touchpoint unfolds with rhythm and intention:

Milestone	Local Wedding	Destination Wedding
Save the Dates	6–8 months before	8–12 months before
Invitations	8–10 weeks before	3–4 months before
RSVP Deadline	4–6 weeks before	8–10 weeks before
Day-of Stationery	2–4 weeks before	2–4 weeks before
Thank You Cards	1–3 months after	1–3 months after

“The Designed in a Day service helped us plan everything seamlessly,” shares Tagatha L., a bride who celebrated in Greece. “We had artwork ready months in advance, which made sending our invitations a joy instead of a stress.”

For Destination Weddings

Guests need more notice, and not just for travel. Your stationery becomes a storytelling tool, giving guests a glimpse of the destination before they arrive.

Consider:

Sending digital save-the-dates first to lock in dates early.
Including travel information cards in the invitation suite.
Designing location-inspired artwork, like an illustrated map or venue crest, that doubles as a keepsake.

For Local Weddings

A shorter timeline keeps things fresh and exciting.
Save-the-dates are optional if most guests are nearby, though custom invitations still make an impression.

Ofelia Botella, wedding stationery designer featured in Vogue, recommends sending:

Invitations 2–3 months before
RSVPs 4–6 weeks prior

This ensures ample time for seating plans, printing day-of stationery, and incorporating final guest details.

What Happens If You’re Late?

Don’t panic. Many couples opt for a digital-first invitation or “print-at-home” save-the-date to bridge the gap while custom artwork is completed.

According to Ofelia Botella, “Your stationery should move at your rhythm - art can evolve even when the calendar feels tight.”

Bonus Tips

Build in extra time for international shipping.
Allow 1–2 weeks for final proof approval.
Remember to budget time for calligraphy or envelope addressing.
Keep a few spare suites for photography and keepsakes.

FAQs

1. When should I send save-the-dates?
6–8 months before for local weddings, 8–12 for destination.

2. How far in advance should invitations go out?
8–10 weeks for local weddings, 3–4 months for destination events.

3. When should RSVPs be due?
At least 4–6 weeks before the wedding for local guests, 8–10 weeks for travel weddings.

4. Do I need save-the-dates for small weddings?
Not always — but they’re helpful if guests will travel or need accommodation info.

5. What if I’m behind schedule?
Send a digital save-the-date to buy time for your printed suite.

6. How long does custom stationery take to create?
Ofelia Botella’s Designed in a Day service can deliver custom art in just one day.

7. Can I use the same artwork for multiple stationery pieces?
Yes — it helps maintain visual consistency and value.

8. Is there a best day to mail invitations?
Midweek (Tuesday–Thursday) tends to ensure faster postal delivery.

9. Should I send separate invites for rehearsal dinners?
You can include a smaller insert card with your main invitation suite.

10. How early should I start working with a designer?
9–12 months before your wedding, or as soon as your venue and date are confirmed.

Laura Mackenzie