When to Order Wedding Invitations (Your Complete Timeline)
If you're newly engaged and diving into wedding planning, one of the big questions that comes up early is: "When should I order my invitations?" You’re not alone! Timing your paper goods just right ensures a smooth process and gives your guests ample notice—especially if you're planning a destination wedding or including custom artwork.
Below is your go-to guide for when to order both Save the Dates and Invitations, including a downloadable timeline chart to keep handy.
Timeline
Save the Dates are typically mailed 6–8 months before the wedding, or 8–12 months in advance if you're hosting a destination event. This gives guests time to mark their calendars, make travel arrangements, and start planning.
Ordering Tip: If you're planning on including custom artwork (like a venue watercolor), plan to order 4–6 weeks earlier to allow for creation time.
Wedding invitations are traditionally mailed 8–10 weeks before the big day, or up to 12 weeks in advance if you’re planning a destination wedding. To allow time for design, revisions, printing, assembly, and postage, you'll want to place your order at least 3–4 months ahead of your wedding date.
Here’s a month-by-month guide for to help you plan:
Want to See and Feel Before You Commit?
Paper is tactile—something you really need to experience in person. That’s why I always recommend ordering a sample kit first. You’ll get to see various print methods, paper weights, and embellishment options up close.
You can browse our semi-custom collections or inquire about custom artwork here.
Final Thoughts
Ordering your wedding stationery isn’t just about checking a box—it sets the tone for your day and creates your guests' very first impression. When in doubt, start earlier than you think, especially if your dream suite includes hand-torn edges, specialty printing, or original artwork.
Still unsure what’s right for your timeline? I’m happy to chat—reach out anytime!
