Invitations and Stationery

Save the Date

So what's up with these reminder notes—and does your wedding need one?

You can send out save-the-date letters for any wedding scenario, but they make the most sense—and are almost a necessity—in these two situations: If you're planning a wedding on or near a major holiday, save-the-dates let your guests know not to make other plans and gives them enough time to arrange travel plans and hotel rooms.

Or, if more than half of your guests will trek in from afar, your missive tells them about the event and gives them accommodation and airport transportation info in advance.

Sound like yet another chore to add to the list? Follow these guidelines for maximum notice with minimal fuss.

Keep it simple. It doesn't have to be a fancy engraved note—go for a handwritten postcard: "We're getting married! Be sure to keep Labor Day weekend open!"

Make it fun. Here's the place to get creative if you're going formal on the invites. Throw in confetti and streamers for a New Year's Eve wedding, create a colorful newsletter in the style of your themed affair, or give event details next to the story of how you met and fell in love.

Get planning in gear. Nail down the date and commit to a guest list. You can't send a save-the-date letter without locking in these two wedding-planning bedrocks.

Play travel agent. It is really important that you help your guests find a place to stay. Arrange to reserve a block of rooms at a conveniently located hotel. Otherwise, your gang may be forced to regret because a convention is in town the same weekend. And always ask about group rates when you're blocking off the rooms-almost every hotel will offer a volume discount. Finally, consider listing three hotel choices, in three price ranges, even if you're only arranging for rooms at one. Some of your guests will take this opportunity to take a vacation, and will splurge; others will choose to scrimp.

Tell them more. Include information about nearby landmarks, golf courses, natural wonders-you name it!-so they can set up some fun side trips.

Share your plans. If you're going to invite everyone to the rehearsal-dinner or a post-wedding brunch, put it in the letter. Your guests will be happy to be included—and will need to book plane tickets and rooms accordingly.

Give them time. Send these babies out early—five to eight months before the wedding is ideal. Now you'll know you've done your best to make sure everyone can be there!