When to Send Wedding Invitations

When to Send Wedding Invitations (And What to Know Before You Do)

If there’s one question nearly every couple asks me, it’s this:“Nikita, when should we send our wedding invitations?”

It’s such a good question—and the answer depends on a few things, like your wedding venue, your guest list, and whether you’re using a digital wedding invitation or printed ones.

After planning weddings for such a long time, I’ve seen what works beautifully and what causes last-minute chaos (spoiler: don’t wait too long).

Let me walk you through everything you need to know—from timing to tips—and share how using a platform like My Wedding Online can make the entire process seamless, stress-free, and honestly, kind of fun.

 

1. First Things First: Book Your Wedding Venue

Before you send out anything—even a save-the-date—you absolutely need your wedding venue confirmed. Your date, location, and general timeline all depend on this. Without it, there’s too much guesswork.

I always tell my couples: “Your venue locks your date. Your invitations tell your story.” Once your venue is booked, you’re ready to plan your communication timeline.

2. Save-the-Dates: 6 to 12 Months Before

If you're having a destination wedding or expect guests to travel far, send save-the-date cards or emails at least 8 to 12 months before the big day. For local weddings, 6 to 8 months is usually perfect.

Save-the-dates are your way of saying, "Hey, we’re getting married—here’s the date, so hold it for us!" No need for full details yet. Just the basics: your names, the wedding date, and the city or region.

Digital wedding invitations are perfect for this stage. On My Wedding Online, you can create a stunning pre-invitation website that captures your style and gives guests a sneak peek.

3. Formal Wedding Invitations: 8 to 10 Weeks Before (Traditionally)

Traditionally, wedding invitations are sent 6 to 10 weeks before the wedding. That gives guests enough time to RSVP and make plans—without feeling rushed.

However, in my experience, 8 to 10 weeks is the sweet spot, especially if:

• You have lots of out-of-town guests

• You're planning a weekend wedding with multiple events

• You're not doing printed RSVP cards and relying on online tracking

  
  

This is also the time when many couples feel overwhelmed—because printed invitations come with a lot of moving parts: envelopes, inserts, postage, tracking RSVPs, updating spreadsheets...

Which brings me to one of my favorite modern wedding tools.

4. The Power of a Digital Wedding Invitation

If you want to simplify everything—while still keeping things elegant and beautifully designed—I cannot recommend digital wedding invitations enough. And My Wedding Online makes it all effortless.

Here’s what I love about it (and what my couples love too):

1. You can design a full wedding website that looks stunning and personal.

2. Include all event details: times, dress code, Google Maps links to your weddingvenue.

3. Guests can RSVP directly online—you’ll never chase responses again.

4. You can send gentle reminders via email or SMS.

5. It includes a guest list manager, which saves hours of manual admin.

6. It’s eco-friendly, fast, and doesn’t get lost in the post.

7. And the best part? You can still make it feel as formal or casual as you like. Elegant design, soft floral layouts, playful animations—whatever suits your style.

5. When to Send Digital Invitations

For digital wedding invitations, I recommend sending them a little earlier than printed ones—usually around 10 to 12 weeks before your wedding.

Because guests don’t need to wait for the post, many will RSVP immediately. You can also keep updating your page with any new info (like transport details or a weather update) right up until the day of the wedding.

For couples using My Wedding Online, I often help them launch their invitation site at the 12-week mark. We then follow up with gentle reminders at 8 weeks, 4 weeks, and 1 week out. It keeps communication flowing without feeling intrusive.

 

6. Final RSVPs: 3 to 4 Weeks Before

You’ll want your final headcount about 3 to 4 weeks before the wedding so you can confirm catering numbers, seating plans, and finalize your venue arrangements.

Using a digital invitation platform makes this part so much easier. You’ll know at a glance who’s attending, who hasn’t responded, and who might need a follow-up.

Gone are the days of awkward phone calls asking Aunt Norma if she’s coming.

7. A Bonus Tip

If you’re planning multiple events—like a welcome dinner, cultural ceremony, or post-wedding brunch—send out one master digital invitation that includes everything. Keep it all in one place, and let your guests choose which events they’re attending with one click.

It’s efficient, organized, and avoids confusion.

Final Thoughts From the Heart

Whether you’re sending beautiful letterpress invitations by post or embracing the convenience of digital wedding invitations, what matters most is clarity and timing. Don’t wait too long. Give your guests time to plan, and give yourself space to breathe.

Your wedding invitation isn’t just an announcement—it’s the first glimpse into your day. It sets the tone, shares your style, and welcomes your loved ones into your celebration.

And if you’re looking for a simple, stunning, and stress-free way to invite your guests, I wholeheartedly recommend trying My Wedding Online. It’s not just a tool—it’s a lifesaver (and trust me, your future self will thank you).

With love and a well-timed RSVP,

Nikita Nel, Wedding director, Flower Whisperer & Believer in Thoughtful Timing